Imagine having the power to trade cryptocurrencies with greater flexibility and efficiency, all within a secure, regulated environment. For U.S. traders, this dream is now a reality. On July 21, 2025, Coinbase launched its groundbreaking perpetual futures trading for U.S. investors, marking a significant milestone in the crypto world. This article breaks down what perpetual futures are, why they matter, and how you can get started—all in plain English for everyday readers.
What Are Perpetual Futures, and Why Should You Care?
Perpetual futures are a type of financial derivative that lets traders bet on the future price of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum without an expiration date. Unlike traditional futures, which have set end dates, perpetual futures allow you to hold your position for as long as you want, making them ideal for long-term strategies or quick market moves.
Why is this a big deal? For years, U.S. traders were left out of this popular trading tool, which dominates about 90% of global crypto trading volume. Previously, many had to use unregulated offshore platforms, which came with risks like unreliable custody or regulatory uncertainty. Now, Coinbase’s CFTC-regulated platform offers a safer, legal way to trade with up to 10x leverage, meaning you can control larger positions with less money upfront. This opens up new opportunities for both beginners and seasoned traders to amplify their strategies.
How Coinbase’s Perpetual Futures Work
Coinbase Financial Markets (CFM) has introduced two main contracts: nano Bitcoin (BTC-PERP) and nano Ethereum (ETH-PERP). These contracts are designed to track spot prices closely, so the futures price moves in sync with the actual market price of Bitcoin or Ethereum. Here’s what makes them stand out:
- No Expiration Dates: Hold your position as long as you like without worrying about contract rollovers.
- Up to 10x Leverage: For every $1,000 you invest, you can control a $10,000 position, amplifying potential gains (and risks).
- Low Fees: Trading fees start at just 0.02% per contract, making it affordable for retail traders.
- 24/7 Trading: Trade anytime, day or night, aligning with the always-on crypto market.
A funding rate mechanism ensures the futures price stays close to the spot price. This rate, which adjusts hourly and settles twice daily, balances the market by charging a small fee to either long or short traders, depending on market conditions. This keeps trading fair and aligned with real-time prices.
Why This Launch Matters for U.S. Traders
For years, U.S. traders faced a tough choice: miss out on perpetual futures or take risks with offshore platforms. Coinbase’s launch changes the game by offering a regulated alternative. The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) oversees these contracts, ensuring transparency and protection against fraud or manipulation. This is a huge step toward making the U.S. crypto market more competitive with global standards.
Plus, Coinbase’s platform is user-friendly. Whether you’re a newbie or a pro, you can trade with confidence knowing your funds are on a trusted, secure exchange. The addition of 20x leverage for metals like gold and silver also means you can diversify your portfolio beyond crypto, all in one place.
How to Get Started with Coinbase Perpetual Futures
Ready to dive in? Here’s a simple guide to start trading perpetual futures on Coinbase:
- Sign Up for a Coinbase Account: If you don’t already have one, visit Coinbase and create an account.
- Apply for a Futures Account: Existing Coinbase users can fill out a quick application for Coinbase Financial Markets. Approval is typically fast.
- Fund Your Account: Deposit funds to start trading. You’ll need collateral to cover leveraged positions.
- Start Trading: Choose nano Bitcoin or nano Ethereum contracts, set your leverage, and trade 24/7.
New to trading? Coinbase offers tutorials and support to help you understand leverage, funding rates, and risk management. Always start small and only invest what you can afford to lose, as leverage can magnify both profits and losses.
The Bigger Picture: A New Era for Crypto Trading
Coinbase’s launch isn’t just about new contracts—it’s a sign of growing regulatory clarity in the U.S. crypto market. As the industry matures, exchanges like Coinbase are bridging the gap between global trading tools and U.S. regulations. This move follows their earlier expansion of 24/7 Bitcoin and Ethereum futures in May 2025, which also included contracts for Solana, XRP, and others. The addition of perpetual futures shows Coinbase’s commitment to giving traders more tools to succeed.
The timing is perfect, too. With Bitcoin’s market dominance climbing past 60% in 2025 and institutional interest growing, perpetual futures offer a way for retail traders to stay competitive. Whether you’re hedging risk or chasing gains, these contracts provide flexibility that traditional markets can’t match.
Tips for Safe and Smart Trading
Perpetual futures are exciting, but they come with risks. Here are some tips to trade wisely:
- Understand Leverage: Higher leverage means higher risk. Start with low leverage to get a feel for the market.
- Monitor Funding Rates: These small fees can add up, so keep an eye on them to avoid surprises.
- Stay Informed: Follow market news and Coinbase updates to make informed decisions.
- Manage Risk: Set stop-loss orders and only trade with money you can afford to lose.
Why Coinbase’s Perpetual Futures Are a Game-Changer
Coinbase’s perpetual futures launch is more than just a new product—it’s a turning point for U.S. crypto traders. By offering a regulated, accessible way to trade with leverage, Coinbase is empowering everyday investors to take part in a market once reserved for international or institutional players. With low fees, 24/7 trading, and a trusted platform, this is your chance to explore new strategies and seize opportunities in the fast-moving crypto world.
Ready to get started? Head to Coinbase Financial Markets and take your trading to the next level. Stay curious, trade smart, and welcome to the future of crypto!
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always conduct your own research before trading.
