Ethereum Futures

Definition ∞ Ethereum futures are financial agreements to buy or sell a specified amount of Ethereum at a predetermined price on a future date. These derivative contracts allow investors to speculate on the future price movements of Ethereum without directly owning the underlying asset. They are traded on regulated exchanges and provide opportunities for hedging existing Ethereum holdings or taking directional bets on its price. Ethereum futures offer market participants leverage and price discovery mechanisms within a structured trading environment.
Context ∞ The availability and increasing trading volume of Ethereum futures reflect the growing institutional interest and maturation of the digital asset derivatives market. Regulatory bodies continue to oversee these products to ensure market integrity and investor protection. Price action in Ethereum futures often influences spot market sentiment and broader cryptocurrency market trends.