Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse has acknowledged a key institutional milestone following the official launch of XRP and Micro XRP futures on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME). The trading debut was marked by Hidden Road clearing the first block trade on the platform at market open.
According to CME Active Trader, the launch now allows investors to manage exposure to XRP through regulated futures products. As a result, XRP will stand alongside Bitcoin and Ethereum, as they all have futures contracts currently trading on CME.
Garlinghouse took to social media to express enthusiasm about the achievement. He referred to the success of the Hidden Road block trade as a sign that more institutions are joining the XRP trading market.
With these futures, there are new choices for professional and institutional investors in the market. The exchange also allows XRP investors to discover prices, have hedging options, and manage risk.
The launch of regulated XRP Futures on @CMEGroup marks a key institutional milestone for XRP…and very excited to report that Hidden Road cleared the first block trade on CME at the opening! https://t.co/Njj8AUSY5K
— Brad Garlinghouse (@bgarlinghouse) May 19, 2025
Also Read: Why is XRP Price Stagnant After CME Futures Breakthrough Launch?
New Futures Listing Signals Institutional Growth for XRP
The decision by CME to list XRP and Micro XRP futures is seen as a significant expansion of its crypto offerings. It responds to the demand from institutions seeking safe and regulated access to digital assets.
Hidden Road’s role in clearing the first block trade further reflects the increasing presence of major financial entities in the crypto derivatives space. As a result, more regulators might embrace cryptos, leading to higher trade numbers on approved platforms.
Furthermore, CME’s futures contracts are structured, making transactions more open and straightforward. Institutions need these features when dealing with strict rules and risks.
It will also positively affect how XRP is traded by bringing in new buyers and reducing XRP’s exposure to less-regulated exchanges. Institutions can incorporate arbitrage and long-term planning into their strategies.
XRP’s presence on the CME Group’s trading platform is adding momentum to its influence in the financial sector. The presence of respected companies like Hidden Road gives more credence to institutional investments in this asset.
Ripple’s leadership has welcomed the launch of XRP futures on CME as a meaningful step forward. Hidden Road’s successful block trade clearing reinforces confidence in XRP’s growing institutional acceptance within regulated markets.
Also Read: Secondary Tokens Explode in Value as Bitcoin, Ethereum Show Modest Gains
