CME Launches Ripple XRP Futures Today, Whale Movement Rekindles Expectations

• XRP Futures Debut on Regulated CME Platform
• Whale movement indicates institutional interest in XRP
• Ripple Expands XRP Ledger Usage in Colombia

The Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) has confirmed the launch of XRP futures contracts on Monday, expanding its offering of cryptocurrency derivatives. The move marks an important step for Ripple’s token, especially as the asset struggles to regain momentum following recent regulatory tensions in the US.

BREAKING: 🇺🇸 CME $ Xrp FUTURES GO LIVE TOMORROW! 💥📈 pic.twitter.com/1Hc4BMEIo7

— Good Morning Crypto (@AbsGMCrypto) May 18, 2025

CME futures contracts will be cash-settled based on the CME CF XRP-Dollar reference rate. Two types of contracts will be available: a standard contract equivalent to 50.000 XRP and a micro contract of 2.500 XRP, tradable via CME Globex and cleared on CME ClearPort.

This launch comes after CME’s recent expansion into altcoin futures such as Solana, highlighting the growth of institutional interest in diversified cryptocurrencies. The expected impact for XRP involves increased liquidity and a more efficient price discovery process, which could have a direct impact on the asset’s price.

However, XRP remains under pressure. Following a ruling by Judge Analisa Torres, who upheld the ban on institutional sales of the token and rejected Ripple’s request to reduce the $125 million fine, the price fell from $2,65 to $2,30, now trying to hold close to $2,40.

Despite this, significant movements have been observed. Data shows more than US$350 million in XRP transferred by whales, with a focus on transactions between Ripple and exchanges such as Crypto.com. The movement raises speculation about institutional operations via the over-the-counter (OTC) market.

In parallel with the legal battle, Ripple continues its expansion efforts. In partnership with Mercy Corps and WËIA, it launched a pilot in Colombia focused on traceability and microfinance in the agricultural sector, using the XRP Ledger as technological infrastructure.

With Polymarket betting an 83% chance of an XRP spot ETF being approved by December, the community remains vigilant. The expectation is that a favorable resolution on the token’s classification by the SEC could completely change the course of the narrative.