Coinbase Unleashes Bitcoin, Ethereum Futures in US

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Jul 21, 2025

Coinbase just launched Bitcoin and Ethereum perpetual futures in the US, with 10x leverage. How will this reshape crypto trading? Click to find out...

Financial market analysis from 21/07/2025. Market conditions may have changed since publication.

Have you ever wondered what it feels like to ride the wild waves of the crypto market with a bit more firepower? For years, traders in the US have watched global markets dabble in high-leverage crypto derivatives, itching for a chance to join the action. Well, the wait is over. A major US-based platform has just flipped the switch, launching Bitcoin and Ethereum perpetual futures for American traders, and it’s shaking up the game. This isn’t just another trading product—it’s a bold step into a new era of crypto investing that could redefine how we approach digital assets.

Why Perpetual Futures Are a Big Deal

The introduction of perpetual futures in the US is like opening a new chapter in a book you thought you knew by heart. Unlike traditional futures, which come with pesky expiration dates, perpetual futures let traders hold positions indefinitely, as long as they can manage the margin requirements. It’s a game-changer for those looking to amplify their market exposure with up to 10x leverage. But what does this mean for the average crypto enthusiast? Let’s break it down.

The Power of Perpetual Futures

Perpetual futures aren’t your grandpa’s stock options. These contracts allow traders to bet on the price movements of Bitcoin and Ethereum without worrying about monthly or quarterly expirations. The ability to hold positions for up to five years gives traders flexibility that traditional futures can’t match. Plus, with fees as low as 0.02%, it’s no wonder why these instruments account for nearly 90% of crypto trading volume globally.

Perpetual futures give traders the freedom to ride market trends without the ticking clock of expiration dates.

– Crypto market analyst

But here’s the kicker: leverage. With 10x leverage, a trader can control a position worth $100,000 with just $10,000 in their account. It’s like strapping a rocket to your portfolio, but as any seasoned trader will tell you, rockets can crash too. The potential for massive gains comes with equally massive risks, and that’s something we’ll dive into later.

A Shifting Regulatory Landscape

The launch of these futures in the US didn’t happen in a vacuum. Recent shifts in the regulatory environment have made this possible. A major stablecoin bill passed recently, signaling a more crypto-friendly stance from US regulators. This isn’t just about one platform’s bold move—it’s a sign that the US is warming up to crypto in ways we haven’t seen before. For years, international traders had access to these high-octane products, while US traders were stuck on the sidelines. Now, the playing field is leveling out.

I’ve always thought the US was a bit late to the crypto party, but this feels like a turning point. The fact that a regulated platform can now offer Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC)-approved products speaks volumes about where the market is headed. It’s like the government finally decided to stop fighting the tide and start swimming with it.


What’s on Offer: Nano Bitcoin and Ethereum Futures

So, what exactly are traders getting their hands on? The platform is rolling out two specific contracts: nano Bitcoin perpetual futures (BTC-PERP) and nano Ether perpetual futures (ETH-PERP). These aren’t your run-of-the-mill trading products. They’re designed to be accessible, with low fees and high leverage, making them appealing to both seasoned traders and newcomers looking to dip their toes into derivatives.

  • Nano Bitcoin Perpetual Futures (BTC-PERP): Tracks Bitcoin’s price movements with up to 10x leverage.
  • Nano Ether Perpetual Futures (ETH-PERP): Follows Ethereum’s market with the same leverage options.
  • Low Fees: Starting at just 0.02%, keeping costs minimal.
  • Long-Dated Contracts: No expiration for up to five years, offering unmatched flexibility.

These contracts are available through a dedicated financial markets account, which traders need to set up to access the products. It’s a straightforward process, but it’s worth noting that not everyone will qualify—eligibility depends on meeting certain regulatory requirements. If you’re thinking about jumping in, make sure you’ve got your account ready to go.

The Risks of Leveraged Trading

Let’s get real for a second. Leverage is a double-edged sword. Sure, it can amplify your profits, but it can also wipe out your account faster than you can say “market crash.” With 10x leverage, a 10% move against your position could mean a total loss of your initial investment. I’ve seen traders get burned chasing the high of leveraged trades without fully understanding the risks. It’s not for the faint of heart.

Trading AspectBenefitRisk
LeverageAmplifies potential gainsAmplifies potential losses
No ExpirationFlexibility to hold long-termProlonged exposure to market volatility
Low FeesCost-effective tradingEncourages overtrading

The key to success here is risk management. Seasoned traders often set strict stop-loss orders and only risk a small percentage of their portfolio on any single trade. If you’re new to this, it might be worth starting small and getting a feel for how these contracts work before going all-in.

How This Fits Into the Bigger Crypto Picture

The launch of perpetual futures in the US isn’t just about giving traders new toys to play with. It’s a signal that the crypto market is maturing. With Bitcoin hovering around $116,856 and Ethereum at $3,733.73 as of July 21, 2025, the market is showing resilience despite recent volatility. The fact that a major platform can now offer these products under CFTC oversight suggests that regulators are starting to see crypto as a legitimate asset class.

The integration of regulated derivatives is a milestone for crypto’s mainstream adoption.

– Financial markets expert

But it’s not just about regulation. The crypto market is evolving in other ways too. The recent stablecoin bill has paved the way for more institutional involvement, and platforms are stepping up to meet the demand for sophisticated trading tools. I can’t help but think we’re on the cusp of something big—maybe a new wave of investors jumping into crypto with both feet.


Comparing to Other Markets

If you’re wondering how this stacks up against other trading options, let’s put it in perspective. Traditional stock and commodity futures have been around forever, but they often come with higher fees and less flexibility. Crypto perpetual futures, on the other hand, are built for speed and efficiency. Here’s a quick comparison:

  1. Crypto Perpetual Futures: No expiration, up to 10x leverage, fees as low as 0.02%.
  2. Traditional Futures: Monthly or quarterly expirations, varying leverage, higher fees.
  3. Spot Trading: No leverage, direct asset ownership, limited to market price movements.

The lack of expiration dates makes perpetual futures particularly appealing for long-term strategies, but the leverage is what draws in the thrill-seekers. It’s like choosing between a steady bike ride and a high-speed motorcycle chase—both get you there, but one’s a lot more intense.

What’s Next for Crypto Trading?

So, where do we go from here? The introduction of Bitcoin and Ethereum perpetual futures is just the beginning. As more platforms follow suit, we could see a surge in trading volume and market liquidity. This could also attract institutional investors who’ve been waiting for regulated products to enter the space. But there’s a flip side— increased leverage means increased volatility, and that could lead to some wild price swings.

Personally, I’m excited to see how this plays out. The crypto market has always been a bit of a rollercoaster, but tools like these give traders more control over their ride. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, the key is to stay informed and trade smart.

The future of crypto trading lies in balancing innovation with responsibility.

– Trading strategist

If you’re thinking about diving into perpetual futures, take the time to do your homework. Understand the risks, set clear goals, and don’t let the allure of leverage cloud your judgment. The crypto market is full of opportunities, but it rewards those who approach it with caution and strategy.


Final Thoughts: A New Era for US Traders

The launch of Bitcoin and Ethereum perpetual futures in the US is more than just a new product—it’s a signal that crypto is here to stay. With low fees, high leverage, and no expiration dates, these contracts offer a powerful tool for traders looking to capitalize on the market’s ups and downs. But with great power comes great responsibility. As the market evolves, staying educated and disciplined will be the key to success.

Perhaps the most exciting part is what this means for the future. As regulatory barriers continue to fall, we could see more innovative products hitting the market, drawing in a new wave of investors. For now, though, it’s time to buckle up and see where this ride takes us. Are you ready to jump in?

If we do well, the stock eventually follows.
— Warren Buffett
Author

Steven Soarez passionately shares his financial expertise to help everyone better understand and master investing. Contact us for collaboration opportunities or sponsored article inquiries.

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