Shiba Inu Enters US Regulated Derivatives Market via Coinbase

Coinbase has announced the launch of regulated futures linked to Shiba Inu, allowing for trading on a US derivatives platform. This initiative offers new products, including perpetual contracts and monthly futures, associated with what Coinbase calls the 1k SHIB index (representing 1,000 tokens), with trading available 24/7.

Key Takeaways

Coinbase has introduced regulated futures for Shiba Inu, marking its entry into US derivatives trading.
The new trading products include perpetual contracts and monthly futures tied to a specific indice (1k SHIB).
Institutional interest may increase due to the regulated nature of these futures, potentially affecting trading behavior and volume.
Access to futures could increase volatility by allowing positions against the token.
Shiba Inu qualifies for potential spot ETF consideration due to its new futures offerings, joining a list of other cryptocurrencies.

Shiba Inu

The rollout commenced on December 5, 2025, as Coinbase aims to expand its offerings of altcoin derivatives in compliance with US regulations.

Regulated Futures Now Available

Recent reports indicate that these perpetual contracts function similarly to offshore swaps, although they are available on Coinbase’s regulated platform. They include a funding-rate mechanism intended to keep prices closely aligned with market values.

Now live: Trade US Perpetual-Style Futures for all altcoins on Coinbase Derivatives, available 24/7.
→ Shiba Inu $SHIB
→ Avalanche $AVAX
→ Bitcoin Cash $BCH
→ Cardano $ADA
→ Chainlink $LINK
→ Dogecoin $DOGE
→ Hedera $HBAR
→ Litecoin $LTC
→ Polkadot $DOT
→ SUI $SUI
→… pic.twitter.com/yjS2XsQ2jN
— Coinbase Markets 🛡️ (@CoinbaseMarkets) December 15, 2025

These monthly contracts are part of the first phase of offerings. They are processed within systems that comply with US regulatory oversight and are designed to meet the standards set by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission.

Implications for Traders and Institutions

Market experts suggest that the introduction of regulated futures could significantly alter trading behavior surrounding Shiba Inu. Institutional investors and major funds often require regulated venues and clearer custody processes before they commit to increasing their investment.

The accessibility of round-the-clock pricing and increased liquidity may entice more active traders, potentially increasing trading volume. However, it’s important to note that having access to futures also enables investors to bet against the token, which could heighten market volatility. Initial reactions in spot markets have shown varied results, indicating that access to derivatives does not automatically guarantee price increases for the token.

Because SHIB has regulated futures on Coinbase (“1k Shib Index”), it qualifies for spot ETF consideration, similar to the pathways followed by Bitcoin and Ethereum.
The broader view for SHIB:
•SHIB is now part of the “ETF-watchlist club” alongside other futures-backed cryptocurrencies.
•If and when… pic.twitter.com/cZPxUWWhBn
— 𝐋𝐔𝐂𝐈𝐄 (@LucieSHIB) September 18, 2025

The recent initiatives by Coinbase are part of a strategic effort to expand its derivatives offerings. The company’s filings and public communications in 2025 have emphasized growth in the derivatives sector as a priority, supported by partnerships and new product launches.

SHIB's market cap currently stands at $4.69 billion. Chart: TradingView

Earlier disclosures revealed a significant agreement, valued at nearly $3 billion, aimed at enhancing knowledge and infrastructure in derivatives. This context helps explain why Coinbase is now offering continuously trading altcoin futures within a regulated framework.

Featured image from Gemini, chart from TradingView