On July 21, 2025, Coinbase launched its CFTC-regulated perpetual futures contracts for US traders, including nano Bitcoin and Ethereum contracts, marking a significant step in offering regulated crypto derivatives.

These futures are accessible through Coinbase Financial Markets, rather than the Bermuda-based Coinbase International Exchange, which opened in 2024, and feature 10x leverage with no monthly expirations.

The new trading platform aims to improve portfolio diversification and risk management for U.S. traders, aligning Coinbase with global market standards amid increasing regulatory oversight.

This development is part of a broader trend toward regulated crypto trading, which is essential for industry sustainability and attracting institutional investors wary of unregulated markets.

The introduction of these contracts is expected to foster trust among institutional investors and expand access to advanced derivatives, previously limited to offshore platforms.

Coinbase's move to offer regulated derivatives aims to attract a wider range of investors, with derivatives accounting for about 75% of global crypto turnover, according to Coinbase's head of consumer products.

The initiative is designed to provide safer, regulated alternatives to offshore exchanges, with leverage caps to maintain market integrity, as Coinbase considers expanding listings based on demand.

Traders can utilize up to 10x leverage, with trading fees as low as 0.02%, making these contracts accessible and cost-effective.

Perpetual futures, which have no expiry and allow higher leverage, dominate the global crypto derivatives market, representing around 90% of trading volume, highlighting their importance.

Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong expressed enthusiasm about the launch, emphasizing its compliance with U.S. regulations while mirroring global futures functionality.

This launch responds to recent regulatory developments, including a resolution between the SEC and CFTC, aiming to create a more regulated and transparent trading environment.

Coinbase's entry into regulated futures trading is seen as a major step toward integrating crypto markets with traditional finance, potentially boosting liquidity and stability.