Coinbase has introduced perpetual futures contracts to U.S. users, ending a long period during which American traders were excluded from one of crypto’s most favored tools. According to Coinbase, the platform now supports two contracts: nano Bitcoin and nano Ethereum perpetual futures, both available with up to 10x leverage.
Previously restricted due to regulatory uncertainty, perpetual futures have remained a key feature on global exchanges but inaccessible to domestic users. Coinbase noted that the new offerings address that gap, providing traders in the U.S. with access to the same leveraged trading opportunities enjoyed internationally.
The newly launched contracts offer five-year expiration periods, diverging from the standard monthly or quarterly expirations seen in traditional futures markets. This longer duration allows traders to pursue extended strategies with more flexibility. Fees begin at 0.02% per contract, making the entry point attractive for active users.
Launch Follows Key U.S. Crypto Legislation and Market Momentum
Coinbase’s move comes as the U.S. market begins to benefit from a more transparent regulatory framework. The GENIUS Act, which recently passed into law, establishes comprehensive guidelines for stablecoins. Alongside it, the Clarity Act passed by the House outlines how the SEC and CFTC will share oversight of digital assets.
These legal advances have helped drive strong momentum across the crypto market. Bitcoin and Ethereum posted significant gains, while major altcoins followed suit. Coinbase’s stock responded positively, hitting an all-time high above $437 and securing a $100 billion market valuation last week. Despite a slight decline to $413.63 on Monday, the stock remains on an upward trend.
The timing of the perpetual futures launch positions Coinbase to capitalize on renewed investor interest and stronger institutional participation. The product expansion reinforces the exchange’s aim to serve advanced traders in a market that is maturing both structurally and legally.
Besides offering new tools, Coinbase’s move signals a broader shift in how crypto trading will function in the U.S., with more parity between domestic and international markets.
Conclusion
With perpetual futures now available to U.S. users, Coinbase has opened the door to a more competitive trading environment. The rollout aligns with recent legislative clarity and growing demand for sophisticated crypto products in the American market.
