Definition ∞ CME Group is a major global derivatives marketplace offering a wide array of financial products, including futures and options. It provides platforms for trading various asset classes, such as equities, interest rates, foreign exchange, and commodities. Crucially for digital assets, CME Group was among the first regulated exchanges to launch Bitcoin futures contracts.
Context ∞ CME Group holds significant relevance in cryptocurrency news due to its role in legitimizing digital assets for institutional investors. Its introduction of Bitcoin and Ether futures contracts offers regulated avenues for price discovery and hedging strategies, influencing market sentiment and liquidity. Reports often analyze CME’s trading volumes and open interest as indicators of institutional interest in crypto markets.