Coinbase Follows Kraken's Lead, Opens Perpetuals Trading for US Customers
Coinbase launched CFTC-regulated perpetual futures for U.S. customers, following Kraken's similar initiative, as exchanges seek to capture derivatives trading amid regulatory uncertainty. Coinbase claims its derivatives account for 90% of global crypto trading volumes but were previously inaccessible to U.S. traders due to regulatory complexities. U.S. customers can currently trade nano Bitcoin and nano Ether Perpetual Futures contracts, which do not expire for five years, allowing continuous position holding. Trading fees start at 0.02% per contract. The launch aligns with regulatory clarity from the recently signed GENIUS Act, aimed at positioning the U.S. as a leader in the crypto space. Experts note that Coinbase's centralized custody can address historical challenges in perpetual trading. Coinbase stock is currently priced at $413.63, down from an opening of $425.91, having reached a high of $444.65 on July 18.
