US Spot Market

Definition ∞ The US spot market refers to the American financial venue for immediate delivery trades of assets. In this market, digital assets are bought and sold at their current market price for instant settlement, meaning ownership is transferred almost immediately upon transaction completion. It contrasts with derivatives markets, where contracts are based on future prices. The US spot market for cryptocurrencies operates through various exchanges and trading platforms, facilitating direct ownership of digital assets.
Context ∞ The regulation and development of the US spot market for cryptocurrencies, particularly for Bitcoin and Ethereum, are major drivers of crypto news. Regulatory decisions, such as the approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs, significantly impact market structure and institutional participation. Observing legislative and enforcement actions concerning these markets provides critical insight into the future trajectory of digital asset adoption in the United States.