CFTC Seeks Dismissal of CME Challenge to Crypto Perpetual Futures Order

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission has asked a judge to dismiss CME Group’s lawsuit concerning crypto perpetual futures. The regulator characterized the dispute as “much ado about nothing,” arguing that the underlying order does not prevent CME from offering the products. According to the CFTC, the order permits any designated contract market to list crypto perpetual futures, and CME is included among the eligible venues. The filing places the focus on the scope of the regulator’s order rather than on an exclusive authorization for a particular exchange. The case could affect how designated contract markets interpret their ability to list these crypto derivatives, but the supplied information does not indicate that the judge has ruled on the dismissal request. CoinDesk reported the CFTC’s position on Sept. 3, 2026.