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Crypto Trading Takes Off Despite Market Slump

AmericasMonday, January 5, 2026
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In 2025, the world of crypto trading witnessed a fascinating trend. Despite a downturn in the prices of major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, trading activity for derivatives on CME Group skyrocketed.

Key Highlights

  • Average daily contracts: 278,000
  • Daily trading value: $12 billion (highest since 2017)
  • Micro Bitcoin futures: 144,000 contracts/day
  • Micro Ethereum futures: 75,000 contracts/day
  • Full-size Ethereum futures: 19,000 contracts/day

Market Performance

Despite the crypto market's struggles:

  • Bitcoin dropped by 6.3%
  • Ethereum fell by 11%
  • CoinDesk 20 index declined by 17%

CME Group's Overall Success

  • Record-breaking year across all asset classes
  • Average daily volume: 28.1 million contracts (all-time high)

Key Takeaways

The surge in crypto derivatives trading suggests:

  • Increased risk management and speculation
  • A maturing crypto market with diverse trading strategies

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