CME создает новый индекс волатильности для биткоина и расширяет криптоинструменты Translation: CME creates a new volatility index for Bitcoin and expands crypto instruments

The largest regulated derivatives exchange, CME, has introduced a range of new cryptocurrency benchmarks, including a volatility index for the original cryptocurrency.

This tool will monitor the implied volatility of Bitcoin futures options, reflecting traders’ expectations regarding price fluctuations of the asset over the next 30 days.

Similar to the VIX index in the stock market, this metric will serve as a crucial reference point for assessing uncertainty, pricing, and hedging risks. The release notes that the index itself is not a tradable contract but acts as a «standardized benchmark.»

The set also features benchmarks for Ethereum, Solana, and XRP.

Institutional interest has emerged as a significant driver in the current crypto market cycle. This has been fueled not only by the buzz surrounding exchange-traded funds but also by the active development of futures and options.

Crypto derivatives have existed long before ETFs, but this segment often received less attention amid substantial capital inflows into spot investment products based on digital assets.

The third quarter saw a surge in institutional activity on CME, with the total trading volume of cryptocurrency futures and options surpassing a record $900 billion.

By the end of September, the average daily open interest reached $31.3 billion. This increase indicates strong market liquidity and confidence among large players.

Investors have particularly focused on Ethereum-based instruments. In September, the trading volume for futures linked to this asset set a daily record with 543,900 contracts worth $13.1 billion. Meanwhile, open interest soared to $10.6 billion.

«Record numbers of 118 large holders opened futures positions in August; the overall rise in activity demonstrates how institutional investors are increasingly engaging with Ethereum,» experts added.

In the third quarter, there was also a notable increase in demand for futures on Solana and XRP, with their volumes reaching all-time highs.

Since March, the number of contracts for Solana has exceeded 730,000, totaling $34 billion, while XRP reached 476,000 contracts worth $23.7 billion.

It’s worth reminding that in October, CME launched 24/7 trading for options and futures on cryptocurrency-based instruments.