Cryptocurrency Futures.
We’ve built in even more cryptocurrency futures trading opportunities with Bitcoin futures, Micro Bitcoin futures, Ether futures, and Micro Ether futures. You can now trade and get quotes on cryptocurrency futures products on our powerful thinkorswim trading platforms.
Get exposure to popular cryptocurrencies.
What is bitcoin?
Bitcoin is a digital currency, also known as a cryptocurrency, and is created or mined when people solve complex math puzzles online. These bitcoins are then stored in a digital wallet that exists on the cloud or the user’s computer. Because bitcoins are not housed in bank accounts, brokerage, or futures accounts, they are not insured by the FDIC or protected by SIPC.
What is ether?
Either is the coin or cryptocurrency that is used inside the ethereum network. Unlike bitcoin, the ethereum network's blockchain platform not only stores text but also stores code. This means ethereum isn't just a cryptocurrency, but a platform that other cryptocurrencies and even applications can be built on—where ether can be used.
About cryptocurrency futures trading.
If you're wondering how to get exposure to crypto, the answer may be cryptocurrency futures. The crypto market can be very volatile, offering many potential benefits—but also many risks. As with any investment, people should be cautious and carefully monitor their positions.
Virtual currencies, including bitcoin, experience significant price volatility. Fluctuations in the underlying virtual currency's value between the time you place a trade for a virtual currency futures contract and the time you attempt to liquidate it will affect the value of your futures contract and the potential profit and losses related to it. Investors must be very cautious and monitor any investment that they make.
Introducing micro crypto futures.
At a fraction of the size of a standard futures contract, micro cryptocurrency futures may provide an efficient, cost-effective way to fine-tune your crypto exposure and potentially enhance your trading strategies.
CME Micro Bitcoin Futures.
CME Bitcoin Futures.
CME Micro Ether Futures.
CME Ether Futures.
CME Micro Bitcoin Futures.
CME Bitcoin Futures.
CME Micro Ether Futures.
CME Ether Futures.
CME Micro Bitcoin Futures.
0.1 bitcoin.
CME Bitcoin Futures.
CME Micro Ether Futures.
CME Ether Futures.
CME Micro Bitcoin Futures.
CME Bitcoin Futures.
CME Micro Ether Futures.
CME Ether Futures.
Minimum value of one tick.
CME Micro Bitcoin Futures.
CME Bitcoin Futures.
CME Micro Ether Futures.
CME Ether Futures.
CME Micro Bitcoin Futures.
CME Bitcoin Futures.
CME Micro Ether Futures.
CME Ether Futures.
CME Micro Bitcoin Futures.
CME Bitcoin Futures.
CME Micro Ether Futures.
CME Ether Futures.
*Margin and Notional Value based on prices from 04/23/2022. Prices are subject to daily fluctuations.
Trading hours are Sunday, 6 p.m. to Friday, 5 p.m. ET.
How can I trade cryptocurrency futures with Charles Schwab Futures and Forex LLC*?
To get started, you first need to open a TD Ameritrade account. From there, you will be prompted to open a futures account with TD Ameritrade's affiliate, Charles Schwab Futures and Forex. There are certain qualifications and restrictions: you must be futures approved and use a non-retirement account to trade cryptocurrencies. Please note that the Charles Schwab Futures and Forex LLC margin requirement for bitcoin futures products is 1.5 times higher than the exchange margin requirements, and is subject to change without notice.
Funds must be fully cleared in your account before they can be used to trade any futures contracts, including cryptocurrency futures. ACH and Express Funding methods require up to four business days for deposits to clear. Wire transfers are cleared the same business day.
Futures products carry unique and often significant risks. You should carefully consider whether trading in cryptocurrency futures is appropriate for you in light of your experience, objectives, financial resources, and other relevant circumstances.
Please note that virtual currency is a digital representation of value that functions as a medium of exchange, a unit of account, or a store of value, but it does not have legal tender status. Virtual currencies are sometimes exchanged for U.S. dollars or other currencies around the world, but they are not currently backed nor supported by any government or central bank. Their value is completely derived by market forces of supply and demand, and they are more volatile than traditional fiat currencies. Profits and losses related to this volatility are amplified in margined futures contracts.
FAQs.
I want to trade bitcoin futures and other cryptocurrency futures. Can I be enabled right now?
As with any futures product, there are certain qualifications and restrictions before you begin trading crypto futures and micro crypto futures: You must be futures-approved and use a non-retirement account. In addition, clients must receive the CFTC and NFA advisories on virtual currencies provided below.
If you have an account with us but are not approved to trade futures, you first need to request futures trading privileges. Be sure to check that you have the right permissions and meet funding requirements on your account before you apply. Please note that the approval process may take 1-2 business days. If you don’t have an account, you need to open an account here. Please keep in mind that the full process may take 5-6 business days. Customer Advisory: Understand the Risks of Virtual Currency Trading. This advisory from the CFTC is meant to inform the public of possible risks associated with investing or speculating in virtual currencies or bitcoin futures and options. NFA Investor Advisory—Futures on Virtual Currencies Including Bitcoin. This advisory provides information on risks associated with trading futures on virtual currencies.
How can I check my account for qualifications and permissions?
You can view your account settings to see if you meet the requirements to trade futures under Client Services >General >Elections & Routing, or by contacting us at 866-839-1100 .
Am why can't i copy trade on etoro (http://cryptocurrency.copy-trade.online/?qa=1083/latest-cryptocurrency-market-updates-page-binance-binance) able to trade bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies?
At this time, Charles Schwab Futures and Forex LLC* does not provide the ability to trade bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies directly and does not provide access to cryptocurrency exchange networks. Charles Schwab Futures and Forex LLC* offers the ability to trade cryptocurrency futures contracts, much like we offer futures contracts for gold, corn, crude oil, etc. For additional information on crypotcurrency, we recommend visiting the CFTC virtual currency resource center.
*Prior to a name change in September 2021, Charles Schwab Futures and Forex LLC was known as TD Ameritrade Futures & Forex LLC.
Check out other crypto products.
Although TD Ameritrade doesn't offer cryptocurrencies directly, we do allow indirect ways to invest in them like OTC trusts and mutual funds.
Three reasons to trade futures through us.
Advanced Technology.
Our thinkorswim platform is a premier derivatives trading platform for serious futures traders.
24/7 Support.
Get live help from traders with hundreds of years of combined experience.
Straightforward Pricing.
Fair pricing with no hidden fees or complicated pricing structures.
Learn more.
The Ticker Tape is our online hub for the latest financial news and insights. Here are a few suggested articles about bitcoin:
For additional information on cryptocurrency, we recommend visiting the CFTC virtual currency resource center.
Get in touch Call or visit a branch.
Call us: 800-454-9272.
175+ Branches Nationwide.
Check the background of TD Ameritrade on FINRA's BrokerCheck.
open and close button.
Where Smart Investors Get Smarter SM.
Call Us 800-454-9272.
#1 Platforms & Tools.
Careers Newsroom Site Map Minimum Requirements Accessibility Privacy Security Financial Statement Reg BI & Form CRS Disclosures Incentive Compensation TD Ameritrade Institutional Workplace & Employer Solutions Charles Schwab Corporation Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information.
Futures and futures options trading involves substantial risk and is not suitable for all investors. Please read the Risk Disclosure Statement prior to trading futures products.
Futures accounts are not protected by the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC).
Futures and futures options trading services provided by Charles Schwab Futures and Forex LLC. Trading privileges subject to review and approval. Not all clients will qualify. Prior to a name change in September 2021, Charles Schwab Futures and Forex LLC was known as TD Ameritrade Futures & Forex LLC.
Charles Schwab Futures and Forex LLC, a CFTC-registered Futures Commission Merchant and NFA Forex Dealer Member. Charles Schwab Futures and Forex LLC is a subsidiary of The Charles Schwab Corporation.
Taxes related to TD Ameritrade offers are your responsibility. All Promotional items and cash received during the calendar year will be included on your consolidated Form 1099. Please consult a legal or tax advisor for copy trading does it work the most recent changes to the U.S. tax code and for rollover eligibility rules.
Futures trades do not qualify for commission-free trade offer.
TD Ameritrade was evaluated against 14 other online brokers in the 2022 StockBrokers.com Online Broker Review. The firm was rated #1 in the categories "Platforms & Tools" (11 years in a row), "Desktop Trading Platform: thinkorswim®" (10 years in a row), "Active Trading" (2 years in a row), "Options Trading," "Customer Service," and "Phone Support." TD Ameritrade was also rated Best in Class (within the top 5) for "Overall Broker" (12 years in a row), "Education" (11 years in a row), "Commissions & Fees" (2 years in a row), "Offering of Investments" (8 years in a row), "Beginners" (10 years in a row), "Mobile Trading Apps" (10 years in a row), "Ease of Use" (6 years in a row), "IRA Accounts" (3 years in a row), "Futures Trading" (3 years in a row), and "Research" (11 years in a row). Read the full article.
This is not an offer or solicitation in any jurisdiction where we are not authorized to do business or where such offer or solicitation would be contrary to the local laws and regulations of that jurisdiction, including, but not limited to persons residing in Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, UK, and top 5 traded cryptocurrency the countries of the European Union.
TD Ameritrade, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC, a subsidiary of The Charles Schwab Corporation. TD Ameritrade is a trademark jointly owned by TD Ameritrade IP Company, Inc. and The Toronto-Dominion Bank. © 2023 Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. All rights reserved.