Author: Stephanie Bedard-Chateauneuf

CME Group (NASDAQ:CME) is making another bold move in the cryptocurrency space by introducing XRP futures trading, a strategic addition to its growing suite of digital asset derivatives. Set to launch on May 19, pending regulatory approval, this new offering aligns with rising institutional demand for regulated crypto products.

Already a major player in the crypto futures market—with established contracts for bitcoin and ether—CME is now turning its attention to XRP. This new launch is designed to provide more flexibility and risk management options for both institutional and retail traders seeking diversified exposure to the cryptocurrency market.

Details of CME’s XRP Futures Trading Launch

The new XRP futures trading contracts will come in two sizes to accommodate different trading needs. One is a micro contract representing 2,500 XRP, while the larger contract covers 50,000 XRP. Both will be cash-settled and based on the CME CF XRP-Dollar reference rate, ensuring transparency and price integrity.

Giovanni Vicioso, Global Head of Cryptocurrency Products at CME Group, emphasized the motivation behind the move: “Interest in XRP has steadily increased as institutional and retail adoption for the network grows. We are pleased to launch these new futures contracts to support clients’ investment and hedging strategies.”

This latest product follows closely on the heels of CME’s successful launch of Solana (SOL) futures in March, which surpassed 43,000 contracts traded within weeks.

Why XRP Futures Trading Matters Now

The decision to introduce XRP futures trading couldn’t be more timely. The first quarter of the year saw CME’s crypto futures and options business thrive. Average daily volumes reached 198,000 contracts, translating to a notional value of $11.3 billion. Open interest surged to $21.8 billion, reflecting a growing appetite for regulated and transparent digital asset investment options.

With institutional investors increasingly looking to diversify their crypto portfolios, the addition of XRP offers another on-ramp into the regulated derivatives ecosystem. XRP, the native token of the XRP Ledger developed by Ripple Labs, has long been viewed as a fast, cost-effective option for cross-border payments, making it a compelling asset for serious investors.

Moreover, as the crypto industry matures, many large investors are demanding compliance-friendly products. CME’s role as a trusted and regulated financial marketplace gives traders the confidence to participate in cryptocurrency markets without exposure to unregulated exchanges.

XRP Futures vs. Spot Market: The Benefits for Traders

XRP futures trading offers distinct advantages over spot trading. Firstly, futures enable leverage, allowing traders to take larger positions with a fraction of the capital. Secondly, they allow for hedging strategies that can mitigate risk in volatile markets. Finally, CME’s robust margin and clearing systems provide greater safety for counterparties.

Unlike unregulated exchanges, CME ensures every trade is backed by financial safeguards, including daily settlement and margin requirements, reducing counterparty risk.

With the addition of XRP to its crypto lineup, CME now offers a well-rounded suite that includes futures for Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC), Ether (CRYPTO:ETH), and Solana (CRYPTO:SOL), further cementing its position as the premier hub for institutional-grade crypto derivatives.

Looking Ahead: Institutional Crypto Integration

The launch of XRP futures trading marks yet another milestone in the mainstreaming of crypto finance. As more asset managers and financial institutions allocate funds to digital assets, tools like CME’s regulated futures contracts become essential for long-term portfolio strategies.

Whether for speculation, hedging, or gaining diversified exposure, these products represent a new era of professional-grade crypto investing.

In a world where digital assets are increasingly influencing global finance, CME’s move to introduce XRP futures is both strategic and symbolic. It not only meets today’s demand but also sets the stage for a more mature and secure crypto marketplace.

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President Donald Trump’s crypto strategy is turning heads again, as he invites top meme coin holders to a private dinner and pushes forward with a broader digital asset plan. This move blends political influence, market speculation, and direct financial interest—uncharted territory for a sitting U.S. president.

On May 22, Trump will host a gala dinner at Trump National Golf Club in Sterling, Virginia. The dinner is exclusively for the 220 biggest holders of his meme coin, $TRUMP, launched just before his return to office in January. The top 25 holders will also enjoy a private tour and VIP reception. The event follows a surge of 30% in the $TRUMP coin’s price after the announcement, signaling confidence in the president’s crypto ambitions.

Truth.Fi and Trump Media Make Crypto ETFs Mainstream

This gala comes on the heels of another major step in Trump’s crypto strategy—a collaboration between Trump Media & Technology Group (NASDAQ:DJT) and crypto exchange Crypto.com. The duo plans to launch a suite of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) under the “Truth.Fi” label. These ETFs aim to invest in what the campaign calls “Made in America” crypto assets and domestic blockchain-focused companies.

The ETFs mark a significant milestone, not only for Trump but for the mainstream acceptance of digital assets in U.S. markets. While traditional investors have been wary of volatility in the crypto space, ETF wrappers could help temper risk and expand access to these speculative assets.

White House Crypto Policies Back Trump’s Strategy

President Trump’s crypto strategy is also legislative. In January, he signed an executive order that encouraged collaboration between federal agencies and Congress to lay the groundwork for updated digital asset regulation. This order also eliminated prospects of a U.S. central bank digital currency (CBDC), aligning with privacy-focused crypto supporters.

A second executive order, signed in March, established a U.S. strategic bitcoin reserve. This move echoed gold-reserve era thinking and reflected a belief in Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC) as a hedge against economic instability. Alongside that reserve, a broader digital asset stockpile is being developed to protect the nation’s crypto interests.

Trump’s support for crypto has prompted regulatory shifts too. Since his return to the Oval Office, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has paused high-profile lawsuits, including actions against Binance, a global exchange previously targeted under President Biden’s administration.

Stablecoins: The Next Frontier in Trump’s Crypto Strategy

In a further expansion of his crypto strategy, Trump and his sons are backing a stablecoin project under the World Liberty Financial umbrella. The stablecoin will be backed by U.S. Treasurys and other highly liquid assets, and launched on Ethereum (CRYPTO:ETH) and Binance Smart Chain.

The project arrives at a pivotal moment, as Congress debates a bill that could provide a legal framework for stablecoin issuers. If passed, the legislation could fast-track stablecoins into mainstream financial use—a prospect Trump appears eager to leverage.

The Risks and Rewards of Trump’s Direct Involvement

Critics have pointed to potential conflicts of interest as Trump simultaneously crafts policy and profits from crypto projects. The May 22 gala includes rules requiring participants to hold as much $TRUMP as possible until May 12, echoing campaign-style loyalty incentives.

Though the event could be rescheduled, and Trump’s attendance is not guaranteed, attendees will be compensated with a limited-edition Trump NFT if the president is absent.

As the 2024 election cycle heats up and digital assets remain volatile, Trump’s crypto strategy is as much a political statement as it is a financial bet. Whether this approach reshapes the regulatory landscape—or simply markets Trump-branded tokens—remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the White House is now fully crypto-aware, and the president himself is leading the charge.

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A bold new chapter in institutional crypto investment has begun. Cantor Fitzgerald, a titan of Wall Street, is joining forces with Tether and Japanese tech conglomerate SoftBank Group (TYO:9984) to launch a $3.6 billion crypto venture — a move that underscores the accelerating mainstream adoption of Bitcoin and digital assets.

The new venture, named Twenty One Capital, will be listed on the Nasdaq under the ticker (NASDAQ:XXI). It’s poised to become the third-largest corporate holder of Bitcoin globally, with more than 42,000 BTC already committed at launch.

Institutional Crypto Investment Hits a Milestone

For years, crypto has lived on the edge of the financial system — alternately embraced and dismissed. But this new venture suggests the tide is turning decisively in favor of institutional crypto investment.

Cantor Fitzgerald’s involvement, particularly through its special-purpose acquisition company (SPAC), Cantor Equity Partners (NASDAQ:CEP.O), signals strong Wall Street confidence in Bitcoin’s long-term value. And the collaboration with Tether — the issuer of the world’s largest stablecoin — along with SoftBank’s minority investment, creates a powerful alliance aimed at reshaping the crypto investing landscape.

Twenty One’s CEO, Jack Mallers, put it simply: “We’re not here to beat the market. We’re here to build a new one.”

A Strategic Bitcoin Treasury

Unlike many firms that cautiously add digital assets to their balance sheets, Twenty One Capital is going all in. With more than $1.6 billion in Bitcoin contributed by Tether alone, plus additional contributions from Bitfinex ($600 million) and SoftBank ($900 million), the venture is taking a page out of the playbook used by MicroStrategy (NASDAQ:MSTR).

MicroStrategy currently holds over 538,000 Bitcoin and saw its valuation surge in 2024 as institutional demand for crypto soared, especially following pro-crypto political rhetoric during the U.S. presidential election. Similarly, Twenty One Capital appears set to position itself as a vehicle for Bitcoin-centric growth — both as a hedge against economic uncertainty and a foundation for new financial infrastructure.

Bitcoin, now trading above $94,000, has climbed over 40% in the past six months. While retail investors have driven much of the past decade’s momentum, the current rally is being led by institutions, analysts say.

Matt Mena, a strategist at crypto investment firm 21Shares, explains: “What sets this rally apart is the growing conviction around Bitcoin’s function as a macro hedge. More investors are turning to it not just as a speculative asset, but also as a flight to safety amid rising uncertainty across traditional markets.”

This narrative plays directly into the goals of Cantor’s new venture. With macroeconomic concerns like inflation, geopolitical instability, and fiat currency devaluation lingering, institutional crypto investment is no longer just an alternative — it’s becoming a necessity.

The Tether-Cantor Nexus

The deal also sheds light on the long-standing relationship between Cantor Fitzgerald and Tether. According to Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino, 99% of Tether’s U.S. Treasury bill reserves — used to back its USDT stablecoin — are held with Cantor. That deep trust is now being extended to this ambitious new venture.

“Bitcoin is one of the only truly decentralized, immutable, and censorship-resistant assets,” Ardoino said. “Its role as the foundation of a new financial system is inevitable.”

The formation of Twenty One Capital could very well mark the beginning of that new financial system — one led not just by tech visionaries, but by established financial powerhouses embracing institutional crypto investment on a global scale.

Final Thoughts

Twenty One Capital is more than just a bold bet on Bitcoin — it’s a clear sign that institutional crypto investment is entering a new phase. With the backing of Cantor Fitzgerald, Tether, Bitfinex, and SoftBank, the venture is uniquely positioned to redefine how traditional finance approaches crypto.

If successful, it won’t just be another crypto company on the Nasdaq — it will be a blueprint for future digital asset investment at scale.

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As digital assets go mainstream, crypto tax mistakes are becoming more common—and more costly. With increased scrutiny from the IRS and local tax authorities, 2025 is shaping up to be a year when crypto investors can’t afford to be sloppy with their filings.

Whether you’re holding Bitcoin, trading meme coins, or staking Ethereum, your tax obligations are real. Here are three of the most common crypto tax mistakes to avoid if you want to stay compliant and keep Uncle Sam happy.

1. Ignoring State-Level Crypto Tax Rules

The IRS isn’t the only one watching your crypto wallet. Many investors make the mistake of assuming that paying federal crypto taxes is enough. Unfortunately, crypto tax mistakes often begin with overlooking state-level obligations.

Tax rules for cryptocurrencies vary significantly from one state to another. For example, New York, California, and even some local jurisdictions have introduced specific reporting requirements or capital gains treatments for crypto earnings. If you’re filing your taxes thinking it’s a federal-only concern, think again.

Failing to report income or capital gains at the state level can trigger audits or penalties, even if your federal filings are perfect. Always check your local tax laws or consult a professional familiar with cryptocurrency taxation in your jurisdiction.

2. Miscalculating Capital Gains on Crypto

Of all crypto tax mistakes, this one causes the most confusion—and it can hit your wallet hard. Calculating capital gains on crypto isn’t as simple as subtracting the buy price from the sell price. There’s a lot more to track:

• Incorrect acquisition dates: If you confuse the date of a crypto transfer with its original purchase date, your gains or losses may be misreported. 
• Improper lot accounting: You can’t just lump all your Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC) together. You must identify which specific coins were sold, especially if you acquired them at different times and prices. 
• Omitting transaction fees: When calculating cost basis, always include the fees paid when buying or selling crypto. Otherwise, your profit (and tax owed) could be overstated. 
• Forgetting forks and airdrops: Any free coins received from forks or airdrops have a cost basis too, often based on fair market value at the time you received them. 

Miscalculating capital gains could lead to either overpaying or underpaying your taxes. Either way, it’s a costly mistake you don’t want to make.

3. Failing To Report All Taxable Events

This is the most common and the most serious of all crypto tax mistakes. Many investors believe that only converting crypto to fiat (e.g., U.S. dollars) is taxable. But that’s far from the full picture.

Here are just some of the events that the IRS considers taxable:

• Trading one cryptocurrency for another: Swapping Ethereum (CRYPTO:ETH) for Solana (CRYPTO:SOL)? That’s a taxable event. 
• Spending crypto: Buying a latte or a Lamborghini with Bitcoin? That’s taxable too. 
• Receiving crypto as income: Whether you’re a freelancer paid in Dogecoin or getting a salary in USDC, it’s income—and must be reported. 
• Mining and staking rewards: Mined coins or staking rewards are considered taxable income at the time you receive them, based on market value. 

Even if you didn’t receive fiat currency, the IRS still considers these events taxable. Failing to report them can result in significant penalties or even an audit.

Final Thoughts: Be Proactive, Not Reactive

The IRS and state tax agencies are getting smarter at tracking digital asset activity. As exchanges implement stricter reporting requirements and blockchain analytics improve, your chances of flying under the radar are slim.

To stay ahead, avoid these three crypto tax mistakes: know your local tax laws, get your capital gains math right, and report every taxable event. If you’re unsure, now’s the time to work with a tax professional experienced in crypto.

Don’t wait for a tax notice or penalty letter to remind you—get proactive with your crypto tax strategy in 2025.

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As traditional stock markets in the U.S. and Europe close their doors for Good Friday on April 18, the crypto markets remain open 24/7, highlighting one of the key advantages of digital asset trading. While exchanges like the New York Stock Exchange and the London Stock Exchange observe public holidays, cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC) and Ethereum (CRYPTO:ETH) continue trading around the clock—without exception.

This uninterrupted trading access has become a defining feature of the crypto economy, providing investors with continuous flexibility, instant liquidity, and the ability to respond to real-time global events even when traditional markets are paused.

Why Crypto Markets Stay Open 24/7

The crypto markets’ 24/7 accessibility is made possible by blockchain technology, which is decentralized and doesn’t rely on a central authority to function. Unlike stock markets that operate during set trading hours and close on weekends and holidays, crypto assets are powered by networks of global computers running nonstop.

This infrastructure allows crypto exchanges like Coinbase (NASDAQ:COIN) and Binance to facilitate trades at any time—day or night—regardless of local business hours. For many investors, this round-the-clock operation is more aligned with today’s fast-moving global economy.

Benefits of 24/7 Crypto Markets

The ability to trade anytime gives crypto investors several advantages:

• Real-time market reactions: Crypto traders can instantly respond to breaking news, earnings announcements, or geopolitical events—even outside regular trading hours. 
• Inflation hedging: In times of economic uncertainty, like during recent inflationary cycles or the ongoing U.S.-China tariff tensions, crypto offers a way to reallocate capital quickly. 
• Global access: With no centralized closing bell, investors from any country can participate without being restricted by time zones or holiday schedules. 

For example, when traditional markets are closed for Good Friday, traders may still adjust their positions in Bitcoin (CRYPTO:BTC) or Solana (CRYPTO:SOL), reacting to global developments without missing a beat.

Crypto’s Appeal During Market Closures

Market closures like Good Friday offer a stark reminder of how different the traditional and crypto worlds operate. On holidays, while major indices like the NASDAQ Composite (NASDAQ:IXIC) and the S&P 500 (INDEXSP:.INX) remain static, the crypto markets keep moving, often becoming more volatile due to lighter trading volumes and higher retail activity.

For active traders, this presents unique opportunities. Price swings during holidays can lead to profitable trades or strategic entries and exits that wouldn’t be possible in the stock market until after the holiday.

Additionally, for long-term investors, the open nature of crypto means they can rebalance portfolios or initiate positions at their convenience—not just during preset hours.

Risks of 24/7 Crypto Trading

While crypto markets open 24/7 provide unmatched flexibility, this constant access comes with risks. The lack of downtime can lead to investor burnout, and round-the-clock volatility may trigger emotional trading decisions. Furthermore, scams and hacks can happen at any time, making it crucial for traders to use secure platforms and follow best practices for protecting digital assets.

Still, for those who understand the landscape and manage their risk, the benefits often outweigh the downsides.

A Glimpse Into the Financial Future

The idea of financial markets that never sleep may seem futuristic, but it’s already a reality in the crypto world. The model of crypto markets open 24/7 reflects the growing demand for seamless, borderless financial participation.

As traditional finance continues to evolve, it’s possible we’ll see greater integration between these two worlds. Until then, cryptocurrency offers a unique advantage: staying open when others close—offering global financial opportunities, even on holidays.

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