"The crypto futures market is three times bigger than spot and by offering access to deep institutional liquidity, we are providing a significant market entry opportunity as crypto and blockchain finance evolves," David Mercer, CEO of London-based LMAX, said in the statement. "This pioneering solution will close the gap, enabling round-the-clock crypto futures trading, seven days a week, meeting the needs of a rapidly growing number of institutional participants.”

The launch follows several other key players in the crypto sector making moves into derivative markets. Earlier this week, Coinbase outlined its pathway to offering a derivative product after announcing its acquisition of FairX. Crypto exchange FTX.US is also moving forward with its plan for a crypto futures product.