CFTC authorizes Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDC as collateral for derivatives trading
The United States Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has launched a pilot program permitting the use of cryptocurrencies Bitcoin, Ethereum, and the stablecoin USDC as collateral in derivatives trading. This marks a notable departure from traditional practices, where only securities and fiat currencies have been accepted as collateral.
Source CFTC
Market participants will be able to store and transfer such collateral directly on the blockchain, enhancing transparency and security of transactions. Brokers are required to maintain separate records of digital assets and provide weekly reports to the regulator.
This initiative could signal the start of broader integration of cryptocurrencies into financial and trading platforms, opening new opportunities for investors and improving the regulatory framework.