Perpetual Exchanges

Definition ∞ Perpetual exchanges are trading platforms that allow users to trade perpetual futures contracts, which have no expiration date. These platforms enable traders to speculate on the future price movements of digital assets with leverage, without the need for periodic rollovers associated with traditional futures contracts. A funding rate mechanism is typically employed to keep the contract price closely pegged to the underlying spot price of the asset. Perpetual exchanges are a significant component of the digital asset derivatives market, offering continuous trading opportunities and high liquidity. They provide flexibility for long-term speculative positions.
Context ∞ Perpetual exchanges are a dominant force in the digital asset derivatives market, providing substantial liquidity and leverage for traders globally. Discussions often center on the inherent risks of high leverage, the impact of funding rates on market dynamics, and the regulatory oversight required for these complex financial products. News frequently reports on trading volumes, open interest, and significant liquidations occurring on perpetual exchanges, which can heavily influence spot market prices. The growth of decentralized perpetual exchanges is also a key trend, aiming to offer similar functionality without centralized control. These platforms are crucial for price discovery and risk management in the crypto space.