Singapore Exchange Plan Open-Ended Bitcoin Futures, Restricting Retail Investors

• SGX plans to launch Bitcoin perpetual futures in 2025, with the hope of targeting institutional and professional investors while excluding retail traders. 
• The move by Singapore exchange aligns with a global trend of institutional crypto adoption

Singapore Exchange Ltd. (SGX) plans to launch Bitcoin perpetual futures in late 2025, with more focus on institutional clients and professional investors.

 This move aims to improve access to the crypto derivatives market, though retail traders will be excluded. A company spokesperson stated that the new product would greatly enhance institutional participation.

SGX to Launch Regulated Bitcoin Perpetual Futures1

Singapore Exchange (SGX), the region’s main asset exchange, plans to introduce Bitcoin perpetual futures in late 2025 as part of its expansion into crypto derivatives. A spokesperson told Bloomberg on March 10 that the product will be available only to institutional and professional investors, excluding retail traders.

 Although no exact launch date was given, the company emphasized that this move was put in place to improve institutional access to cryptocurrency markets. SGX stated that its platform regulation  aims to build trust and credibility, with feedback from different DeFi and TradFi participants being positive, pending regulatory approval.

The planned Bitcoin perpetual futures still require approval from the Monetary Authority of Singapore. Unlike traditional futures, these contracts do not have an expiration date,this would allow traders speculate on price movements without actually holding the asset. They are already used on offshore crypto platforms, and Securities-backed ventures are also looking to introduce them in Singapore.

By offering perpetual futures, SGX aims to provide a secure and regulated alternative to existing crypto trading options. With its strong Aa2 credit rating from Moody’s, the exchange seeks to attract institutional investors while addressing risks linked to unregulated platforms like Binance and OKX. If approved, this initiative could boost institutional participation in cryptocurrency markets.

Japan’s Osaka Dojima Exchange Inc. is also seeking approval to list Bitcoin futures, highlighting increasing institutional interest in digital assets. This shift comes as the U.S. government continues to support pro-crypto policies.

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