CFTC Tests Waters for Spot Crypto Trading in Regulatory Overhaul

In a significant policy shift, the CFTC is considering allowing spot cryptocurrency trading on futures exchanges (DCMs), marking a potential convergence of crypto spot and derivatives markets.

The initiative, announced by Acting Chair Caroline Pham, seeks industry feedback by August 18 on regulatory pathways for listing spot crypto contracts. It follows the launch of “Crypto Sprint,” the CFTC’s plan to implement White House digital asset reforms.

This move signals growing regulatory flexibility as US agencies work to define crypto’s legal status—a key hurdle for institutional adoption.