Blockchain.com Seeks CFTC Approval for Prediction Markets and Crypto Derivatives

Blockchain.com is seeking regulatory approval in the United States to expand into prediction markets and cryptocurrency derivatives trading, marking a significant step in the company's efforts to broaden its digital asset services.

According to a CNBC report on October 9, the crypto infrastructure provider has submitted two applications to the US Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). The registrations would allow Blockchain.com to offer regulated event contracts and crypto derivatives to retail and institutional investors.

The company is pursuing a Designated Contract Market (DCM) license, which would authorize it to operate a regulated futures exchange. It has also applied for registration as a Futures Commission Merchant (FCM), allowing it to facilitate derivatives transactions for customers.

Blockchain.com CEO and co-founder Peter Smith said the initiative aims to create a unified platform where users can manage cryptocurrencies, trade derivatives, and participate in prediction markets.

The move comes as prediction markets gain popularity and cryptocurrency companies increasingly explore regulated financial products to attract broader investor participation.

However, Blockchain.com's proposed US expansion remains dependent on CFTC approval, and the applications do not guarantee authorization to launch these services.

The regulatory initiative builds on the company's existing international operations. Earlier in 2026, Blockchain.com partnered with Polymarket to introduce prediction market services. It also launched perpetual futures trading powered by Hyperliquid for selected customers outside the United States.

Beyond derivatives, Blockchain.com is pursuing additional opportunities in traditional finance and digital asset markets.

The company confidentially filed for an initial public offering (IPO) with the US Securities and Exchange Commission in May, according to a Bloomberg report published in September.

Blockchain.com also partnered with the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) in September to explore expanding international access to tokenized US equities and exchange-traded funds.

Meanwhile, the company secured admission to Nigeria's Securities and Exchange Commission regulatory incubation programme in August, supporting its efforts to develop compliant financial services in emerging markets.

If approved, Blockchain.com's CFTC applications could strengthen its position in the competitive US crypto derivatives market while providing investors with integrated access to digital assets, futures trading, and prediction markets.