TL;DR
- SGX is launching regulated Bitcoin and Ethereum perpetual futures tailored for institutional desks seeking deeper access to digital asset derivatives.
- The contracts follow global benchmark indices and integrate professional-grade risk controls to support large-scale trading.
- The move expands the connection between traditional markets and crypto by offering regulated tools for institutional investors that match the operational standards required by asset managers and trading firms.
Singapore Exchange is expanding its digital asset offering by introducing crypto perpetual futures for Bitcoin and Ethereum. This development strengthens the city-state’s institutional market for regulated derivatives at a moment when professional investors are increasing their exposure to digital assets.
SGX Crypto Perpetual Futures Gain Institutional Momentum
Trading begins on 24 November 2025, bringing to market a structure designed for professional investors who prefer contracts without expiry. SGX noted that the products include dynamic margins, volatility checks and contingency mechanisms intended to manage sharp swings. The platform aims to accommodate high-volume execution with predictable risk parameters, offering an alternative to offshore venues that continue to dominate the perpetual futures landscape.
The contracts track the iEdge CoinDesk Crypto Indices, allowing portfolio managers to use familiar benchmarks for hedging, spread strategies and directional trades. Industry sources indicated that several institutional desks across Asia are already evaluating the integration of these futures to replace part of the order flow that currently moves through non-regulated platforms.
The timing aligns with renewed institutional interest in derivatives that enable leveraged exposure without requiring on-chain movements, a preference that fits compliance frameworks used by banks and investment firms. Local traders added that Asia remains a central hub for perpetual futures liquidity, and SGX’s entrance provides an additional regulated gateway that meets standards typical of traditional financial products.
Asian Derivatives Activity Strengthens Singapore’s Position
Asia continues to lead global perpetual futures activity with more than $187 billion traded daily. Much of this volume still occurs on offshore exchanges, so SGX’s initiative offers a pathway for institutions needing audit-ready environments. Market executives said that shifting activity onshore reduces operational uncertainty and allows these positions to fit into established governance and reporting structures.
Access will remain restricted for retail participants. Authorities keep limitations in place due to the sector’s volatility, directing individuals to products like Hong Kong’s crypto-tracking ETFs if they prefer traditional-market exposure. Analysts noted that Bitcoin recently dipped to a six-month low below $93,000, highlighting that the pullback reflects not only retail flows but also adjustments from institutional players responding to macroeconomic signals.
The rollout of SGX’s crypto perpetual futures reinforces Singapore’s role as an institutional hub for regulated digital-asset derivatives.
