CFTC Launches Pilot Program Allowing Bitcoin (BTC), Ether (ETH), and USDC as Collateral for Derivatives

The U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) has officially launched a landmark pilot program for digital asset derivatives. This initiative permits registered futures commission merchants (FCMs) to accept Bitcoin (BTC), Ether (ETH), and the stablecoin USDC as collateral for cleared derivatives transactions. The move, approved by a 3-2 vote, aims to explore the integration of digital assets into the regulated financial system while managing associated risks. The pilot is designed to gather data on the efficacy and stability of using cryptocurrencies as margin, potentially paving the way for broader regulatory acceptance and institutional adoption in the crypto market.