Spot

Definition ∞ Spot refers to the immediate or near-immediate delivery and settlement of a financial asset. In cryptocurrency markets, a spot transaction involves the direct exchange of one digital asset for another at the prevailing market price, with settlement occurring shortly after the trade. This contrasts with futures or derivatives, which are based on agreements for future delivery.
Context ∞ The expansion of regulated spot cryptocurrency exchange-traded products (ETPs), such as Bitcoin spot ETFs, represents a significant development impacting market accessibility and institutional adoption. Current discussions address the implications of these products for price discovery, market liquidity, and the broader integration of digital assets into traditional financial systems, alongside ongoing regulatory considerations for similar products in other jurisdictions.