Coinbase is working on expanding its derivatives portfolio by seeking regulatory approval to launch futures contracts for Cardano (ADA) and Natural Gas (NGS). If sanctioned, these offerings would represent a significant step toward integrating traditional commodities with the cryptocurrency market.
**Regulatory Filing and Expected Launch Date**
On Friday, Coinbase Derivatives, the company’s futures trading division, confirmed that it has submitted documents to the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to self-certify ADA and NGS futures contracts. Self-certification means Coinbase is declaring regulatory compliance, which can expedite the approval process unless the CFTC raises concerns. If there are no objections, the futures contracts could go live as soon as March 31. This development follows the recent introduction of Solana (SOL) and Hedera (HBAR) futures contracts by Coinbase, continuing their strategy to offer trading options for both crypto and traditional assets within a regulated setting.
Cardano (ADA) is a well-established blockchain platform, known for its scalability, sustainability, and security. With its growing role in DeFi, NFTs, and enterprise blockchain applications, ADA futures provide traders an opportunity to engage in price speculation without the need to own the asset itself.
Following this announcement, ADA’s price rose by 2%, reaching $0.75 as per CoinGecko data. The introduction of Natural Gas (NGS) futures marks Coinbase’s first entry into traditional energy commodities, positioning it as a challenger to existing futures exchanges in the sector. Given the importance of natural gas in global markets, this move could broaden Coinbase’s appeal beyond just crypto traders. The SEC has traditionally been wary of crypto-related ETFs, but regulated futures contracts could promote price stability and enhance market transparency. Some analysts suggest that success in futures trading could make the SEC more amenable to approving spot ETFs in the future.
Twitter: “We’re excited to announce that Coinbase Derivatives has filed with the CFTC to self-certify Natural Gas (NGS) futures and Cardano ($ADA) futures—expanding our offerings in both energy and crypto derivatives markets. We anticipate going live with these products on Monday…” — Coinbase Institutional (@CoinbaseInsto), March 14, 2025.
