Cryptocurrency Derivatives
Cryptocurrency derivatives are fast becoming some of the most popular financial products. They allow investors to hedge spot trades, utilise leverage and speculate on market shifts. It’s perhaps unsurprising then that trading volumes have soared. In this article, we provide definitions and examples of the top cryptocurrency derivatives on the market. We also list the best exchanges and platforms alongside a guide to getting started for beginners.
Crypto Brokers
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Interactive Brokers -
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Plus500USTrading in futures and options involves the risk of loss and is not suitable for everyone. -
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NinjaTrader -
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eToro USAeToro USA LLC and eToro USA Securities Inc.; Investing involves risk, including loss of principal; Not a recommendation -
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OANDA USCFDs are not available to residents in the United States. -
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Focus Markets
Here is a summary of why we recommend these brokers in January 2026:
- Interactive Brokers - IBKR lets you purchase and hold Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Ethereum, and Litecoin at competitive commission rates and without needing a crypto wallet. Additionally, there is a range of other diverse assets to explore, such as crypto indices like the NYSE Bitcoin Index, as well as futures contracts like the BAKKT Bitcoin Futures.
- Plus500US - Plus500’s Micro-Bitcoin and Micro-Ethereum futures only allow traders to scratch the surface of crypto trading with bets on the two most popular digital assets. Importantly, you cannot buy and own the cryptos with these derivative contracts - you are speculating on their price.
- NinjaTrader - You can get exposure to micro Bitcoin futures through the CME Group’s centralized exchange, which is highly regulated by the US CFTC. Micro contracts allow you to trade a fractional size of one Bitcoin, giving you more risk control and order flexibility.
- eToro USA - eToro US offers 24 tradeable cryptoassets, with just a 1% buying/selling fee added to the spread. Additionally, there are 80 different coins available through the broker’s proprietary wallet service. You can also practice your crypto strategies easily by switching between live and demo mode. Crypto asset investing is highly volatile and unregulated. No consumer protection. Tax on profits may apply.
- OANDA US - Cryptocurrency trading is offered via Paxos, a separate entity from Oanda. You can speculate on the world’s biggest cryptos by market cap. Commissions are lower than many peers starting at 0.25%. Through the broker’s partnership with Paxos, clients can spot trade cryptocurrencies on the itBit exchange through the OANDA native platform.
- Focus Markets - Focus Markets has clearly been built for crypto traders, offering an impressive 90+ derivatives, including major tokens like Bitcoin, Ethereum and Ripple. With high leverage, a commission-free trading account and fast execution on MT5, it delivers a reliable environment for active crypto traders.
Interactive Brokers
"Interactive Brokers is one of the best brokers for advanced day traders, providing powerful charting platforms, real-time data, and customizable layouts, notably through the new IBKR Desktop application. Its superb pricing and advanced order options also make it highly attractive for day traders, while its diverse range of equities is still among the best in the industry."
Christian Harris, Reviewer
Interactive Brokers Quick Facts
| Coins | BTC, LTC, ETH, XRP |
|---|---|
| Crypto Mining | No |
| Auto Market Maker | No |
| Crypto Spread | 0.12%-0.18% |
| Crypto Lending | No |
| Crypto Staking | No |
| Platforms | Trader Workstation (TWS), IBKR Desktop, GlobalTrader, Mobile, Client Portal, AlgoTrader, OmniTrader, TradingView, eSignal, TradingCentral, ProRealTime, Quantower |
| Minimum Deposit | $0 |
| Regulator | FCA, SEC, FINRA, CFTC, CBI, CIRO, SFC, MAS, MNB, FINMA, AFM |
| Account Currencies | USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, INR, JPY, SEK, NOK, DKK, CHF, AED, HUF |
Pros
- IBKR is one of the most respected and trusted brokerages and is regulated by top-tier authorities, so you can have confidence in the integrity and security of your trading account.
- With low commissions, tight spreads and a transparent fee structure, IBKR delivers a cost-effective environment for short-term traders.
- There's a vast library of free or paid third-party research subscriptions catering to all types of traders, plus you can enjoy commission reimbursements from IBKR if you subscribe to Toggle AI.
Cons
- IBKR provides a wide range of research tools, but their distribution across trading platforms and the web-based 'Account Management' page lacks consistency, leading to a confusing user experience.
- You can only have one active session per account, so you can’t have your desktop program and mobile app running simultaneously, making for a sometimes frustrating trading experience.
- TWS’s learning curve is steep, and beginners may find it challenging to navigate the platform and understand all the features. Plus500's web platform is much better suited to new traders.
Plus500US
"Plus500US stands out as an excellent choice for beginners, offering a very user-friendly platform, low day trading margins, and access to the Futures Academy to enhance trading skills. Its powerful tools and reliable service helped it scoop second place in DayTrading.com's annual 'Best US Broker' award."
Michael MacKenzie, Reviewer
Plus500US Quick Facts
| Coins | MicroBitcoin, MicroEthereum |
|---|---|
| Crypto Mining | No |
| Auto Market Maker | No |
| Crypto Lending | No |
| Crypto Staking | No |
| Platforms | WebTrader, App |
| Minimum Deposit | $100 |
| Regulator | CFTC, NFA |
| Account Currencies | USD |
Pros
- The straightforward account structure, pricing model and web platform offer an easier route into futures trading than rivals like NinjaTrader
- Plus500US excels for its low fees with very competitive day trading margins and no inactivity fees, live data fees, routing fees, or platform fees
- The Futures Academy is an excellent resource for new traders with engaging videos and easy-to-follow articles, while the unlimited demo account is great for testing strategies
Cons
- Although support response times were fast during tests, there is no telephone assistance
- While Plus500US continues to broaden its investment offering, it's currently restricted to around 50+ futures with no stocks
- The proprietary platform is user-friendly but lacks advanced technical analysis tools found in third-party solutions like MetaTrader 4
NinjaTrader
"NinjaTrader continues to meet the demands of active futures traders looking for low fees and premium analysis tools. The platform hosts top-rate charting features including hundreds of indicators and 10+ chart types."
NinjaTrader Quick Facts
| Coins | BTC |
|---|---|
| Crypto Mining | No |
| Auto Market Maker | No |
| Crypto Spread | Floating |
| Crypto Lending | No |
| Crypto Staking | No |
| Platforms | NinjaTrader Desktop, Web & Mobile, eSignal |
| Minimum Deposit | $0 |
| Regulator | NFA, CFTC |
| Account Currencies | USD |
Pros
- Traders can get free platform access and trade simulation capabilities in the unlimited demo
- NinjaTrader is a widely respected and award-winning futures broker and is heavily authorized by the NFA and CFTC
- NinjaTrader continues to deliver comprehensive charting software for active day traders with bespoke technical indicators and widgets
Cons
- There is a withdrawal fee on some funding methods
- Non forex and futures trading requires signing up with partner brokers
- The premium platform tools come with an extra charge
eToro USA
"eToro remains a top pick for traders looking for leading social investing and copy trading services. With a low deposit, zero commissions and an intuitive platform, the broker will meet the needs of newer day traders."
eToro USA Quick Facts
| Coins | BTC, ETH, BCH, DASH, LTC, ETC, MIOTA, XLM, EOS, NEO, ZEC, XTZ, MKR, COMP, LINK, UNI, YFI, DOGE, AAVE, ALGO, MANA, ENJ, BAT, MATIC, FLR, SHIBxM |
|---|---|
| Crypto Mining | No |
| Auto Market Maker | No |
| Crypto Spread | BTC 0.75% |
| Crypto Lending | No |
| Crypto Staking | No |
| Platforms | eToro Trading Platform & CopyTrader |
| Minimum Deposit | $100 |
| Regulator | SEC, FINRA |
| Account Currencies | USD |
Pros
- The low minimum deposit and straightforward account opening process means beginners can get started quickly
- Investors can access Smart Portfolios for a more hands-off approach, covering a range of sectors and markets such as renewable energy and artificial intelligence
- The online broker offers an intuitive social investment network with straightforward copy trading on cryptos
Cons
- Average fees may cut into the profit margins of day traders
- The proprietary terminal doesn't support trading bots and there are no additional stock market analysis tools
- There's a narrower range of day trading instruments available compared to competitors, with only stocks, ETFs and cryptos
OANDA US
"OANDA remains an excellent broker for US day traders seeking a user-friendly platform with premium analysis tools and a straightforward joining process. OANDA is also heavily regulated with a very high trust score."
OANDA US Quick Facts
| Coins | BTC, ETH, LTC, BCH, PAXG, LINK, UNI, AAVE |
|---|---|
| Crypto Mining | No |
| Auto Market Maker | No |
| Crypto Spread | $100 |
| Crypto Lending | No |
| Crypto Staking | No |
| Platforms | OANDA Trade, MT4, TradingView, AutoChartist |
| Minimum Deposit | $0 |
| Regulator | NFA, CFTC |
| Account Currencies | USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, JPY, CHF, HKD, SGD |
Pros
- OANDA is a reliable, trustworthy and secure brand with authorization from tier-one regulators including the CFTC
- The broker's API facilitates access to 25 years of deep historical data and rates from 200+ currencies
- The broker offers a transparent pricing structure with no hidden charges
Cons
- There's only a small range of payment methods available, with no e-wallets supported
- The range of day trading markets is limited to forex and cryptos only
- It's a shame that customer support is not available on weekends
Focus Markets
"Focus Markets is perfect for experienced traders familiar with MetaTrader 5, offering flexible crypto transactions (USDT and BTC) and access to over 90 cryptocurrencies for seamless speculation, deposits, and withdrawals."
Focus Markets Quick Facts
| Coins | BTC, ETH, XRP, LTC |
|---|---|
| Crypto Mining | No |
| Auto Market Maker | No |
| Crypto Spread | Variable |
| Crypto Lending | No |
| Crypto Staking | No |
| Platforms | MT5 |
| Minimum Deposit | $100 |
| Regulator | ASIC, SVGFSA |
| Account Currencies | USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, AUD, NZD, JPY, SGD |
Pros
- Focus Markets is regulated by ASIC – one of the most respected regulatory bodies in the financial industry with robust safeguards like negative balance protection, ensuring you can’t lose more than your balance in volatile markets.
- While its meagre four commodities won’t meet the needs of some serious traders interested in softs and metals, Focus Markets offers a huge suite of 90+ cryptos, providing short-term opportunities on high-reward, high-risk assets.
- Focus Markets’ MT5 platform delivered fast, seamless trade execution during testing with advanced charting, multiple timeframes, and useful tools like Depth of Market (DOM). Its clean interface made navigation easy, while clear risk/reward ratios ensures precise trading.
Cons
- Regulatory protection is a location lottery at Focus Markets – Australian traders benefit from strong ASIC oversight, but those using the SVGFSA-registered entity face limited recourse options in disputes.
- Focus Markets’ 24/5 support lacks direct phone help and unresponsive live chat, while email replies took a full business day during our latest tests. This slow support is a major drawback for active traders who need quick resolutions.
- A significant drawback of Focus Markets is the lack of platform variety. It only support MT5, excluding popular platforms like MT4, cTrader, and TradingView, plus it hasn't developed its own software that could better meet the needs of beginners.
Cryptocurrency Derivatives Explained
The term ‘cryptocurrency derivative’ is an umbrella for a collection of different financial contracts that derive their value from the crypto they are based upon. A crucial characteristic of a derivative contract is that investors don’t own the underlying crypto, meaning an investor can speculate on the future value of Bitcoin, for example, without actually buying BTC and holding it in a wallet. The terms of a contract vary depending on the type of derivative.
Cryptocurrency-Related Derivatives
Futures & Options
Futures and options are contracts that allow a party to purchase an asset at a set price in the future. In a futures contract, there is an obligation to purchase at the agreed price, whereas an options contract gives the holder the choice.
Futures and options can be valuable cryptocurrency derivatives securities since the price agreed in the contract might not match the market price at the time. For example, if I enter into a futures contract to buy Bitcoin (BTC) at $40,000 in one month’s time, yet when the contract expires the market price is now $50,000, I can make a profit by reselling the Bitcoin at the new market price.
CFDs
CFDs are contracts for the difference in price between the buy and sell points.
For example, if I open a long position on Bitcoin with the price of $20,000 and the price rises, I will profit from any rise – but if the value falls to below $20,000 I would begin to make a loss on the trade.
They enable cryptocurrency derivatives traders to speculate on movements in price without purchasing the underlying asset.
In the world of cryptos, this is a useful advantage since there is no requirement to hold tokens in e-wallets.
High-profile crypto exchange hacks have meant that protecting your tokens from theft is vital. With CFDs, traders can benefit from the same market movements, but with reduced security issues. CFDs also allow traders to short the crypto market and speculate on decreases in the value of tokens, unlike the spot market.
Perpetual Swaps
Perpetual swap markets cover cryptocurrency derivatives that are similar to futures contracts, but with no expiry date. They are perpetual, in that they can be held indefinitely without an obligation to buy/sell.
The lack of an expiry date means that a contract price could easily diverge from the spot market price. The funding rate prevents this from happening by introducing a fee or rebate for holding a position, depending on whether they’re long or short. For example, if the perpetual swap contract is trading above the price of spot currency, the funding rate would be positive.
This means long position holders would have to pay short position holders, which encourages the opening of short positions and discourages long positions. When more short positions are opened, this will drive the price down to become more in line with the spot price. The same works in the opposite direction if the perpetual swap is below the spot value. Short traders would pay long, and the price of the swap would rise.
Market Analysis
The market for cryptocurrency derivatives is booming. A recent report by the Carnegie Mellon University of Bitmex, one of the largest exchanges in the industry, found that on average, volumes traded in the cryptocurrency derivatives market exceed that of the spot market by a factor of five.
It’s easy to see why they’re so popular. Cryptocurrency derivatives can be used to hedge against price movements in the spot market. So for every spot trade, there’s a multitude of derivatives that can complement and decrease the risk of downside. But, this is true of fiat derivatives too, so what makes crypto so special? The Carnegie Mellon study revealed that crypto traders tend to be active 24 hours a day, regardless of the timezone they’re in. Wall Street tends to trade between 9:30 am and 4:00 pm EST while crypto derivatives are being traded long into the night.
There are also fewer hoops to jump through when you’re looking to trade crypto. Many exchanges do not require identity checks (Know Your Customer or KYC checks). This means anyone with an email address and cash can trade, opening the market up to a larger customer base.
The 24-hour, unrestricted nature of blockchain has created a billowing derivatives market – and the action is unlikely to stop anytime soon.
Regulation
In the UK, the FCA has banned cryptocurrency derivatives, stating the volatility of the underlying asset as the reason. Despite this, buying and selling the underlying asset, the crypto tokens themselves, is still legal.
Many of the top cryptocurrency exchanges restrict derivatives trading for US citizens, in particular, Bitmex and Binance. Many of the top brokers have cited regulation as the reason for restrictions.
In Europe, there’s a lack of clarity about where cryptocurrencies sit in the current MiFID II regulation. However, it’s understood that trading on derivatives is acceptable and many of the biggest exchanges do accept European traders. The same is true of Canada, Australia, and beyond.
How To Start Trading Cryptocurrency Derivatives
To start trading cryptocurrency derivatives, you’ll first need to select a platform. Some of the top Bitcoin exchanges that offer derivatives include Bitmex and Binance. Kraken also has a separate platform that offers futures and options trading on cryptos.
When looking for the best exchanges, it’s important to consider the following factors:
- Leverage – In the case of Bitcoin, some of the exchanges above offer leverage up to 100x your initial deposit. For tokens with a lower market cap, leverage is usually less. Consider how much leverage you’ll require for your trading strategy. Remember that trading on margin increases the risk involved, which can result in losses beyond your deposit amount.
- Simulated trading – Many of the top exchanges offer the option to practice with a simulator or demo account. This can be a useful starting point for those new to trading cryptos.
- Security – When trading anything crypto related, it’s always important to consider the security of your investments. Look for an exchange that has never been hacked or prioritises the safety of client funds. Always ensure you have 2FA enabled on any account you hold, where possible.
- Regulation – Crypto derivative exchanges are not always held to the same standard of regulation as fiat currency brokers and they may not be registered with the same licensing bodies. Despite this, there are some indications that an exchange is legitimate. Look for those registered with the AUSTRAC in Australia, FINTRAC in Canada, or the FSA in Japan, for example.
Final Word
Trading crypto derivatives is increasingly popular – and it’s easy to see why. The ability to hedge, utilise leverage and trade 24/7 can be beneficial to a trading strategy. But globally, regulation is tightening due to the volatility of the crypto market itself. The next few years will be crucial for understanding the longevity of these financial assets.
FAQ
What Are Cryptocurrency Derivatives?
Cryptocurrency derivatives are financial contracts that derive their value from the cryptocurrency they are based on, such as Bitcoin. They allow traders to profit from price movements without owning the underlying asset. Examples of cryptocurrency derivatives include CFDs, futures and options.
Why Have The FCA Banned Cryptocurrency Derivatives?
The FCA has banned cryptocurrency derivatives for UK retail traders, due to the volatility of the market and the fact that a reliable valuation of a token’s price cannot easily be determined. Despite this, crypto trading on the spot market is still permitted.
Where Can I Trade Cryptocurrency Derivatives?
There are many brokers and exchanges globally that offer cryptocurrency derivatives trading. Some of the top brokers include Bitmex, Binance, FTX and Bybit.
Why Would I Want To Trade Cryptocurrency Derivatives?
There are lots of reasons why crypto derivatives can be beneficial to your trading strategy. In particular, derivatives allow you to go long or short on a trade. In the spot market, you can only profit if the price goes up. However, when you open a short position using a derivative, you’ll profit from a decrease in price, allowing you to hedge your bets and manage risk.
Do I Need An E-Wallet For Cryptocurrency Derivatives Trading?
No – you don’t need to store your crypto derivatives in an e-wallet, unlike spot cryptocurrency. This is because a derivative is a contract with the exchange and there is no underlying asset to store.