Blockchain.com Applies for CFTC Licenses for US Derivatives Trading

Crypto exchange Blockchain.com has filed applications with the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to operate regulated derivatives and prediction markets, according to a report.

The firm is seeking licenses to become a designated contract market (DCM) and a futures commission merchant (FCM). This would allow it to offer crypto derivatives trading to U.S. customers under federal oversight.

The move comes as Blockchain.com prepares for a potential initial public offering, which the report suggests could be valued at around $500 million. Expanding into regulated derivatives is seen as a key step for exchanges aiming to attract institutional investors and broaden their product offerings in a competitive market.

If approved, Blockchain.com would join a small group of crypto-native firms, like Bitnomial, that have secured similar CFTC licenses. The application process is typically lengthy, involving rigorous reviews of a firm’s compliance and risk management systems.