Federal Reserve Cuts Rates 25bps to 4%–4.25% as CME Plans Solana and XRP Options Launch October 13

CME Group to Launch Options on Solana and XRP Futures October 13 Pending Regulatory Approval

CME Group announced it will launch options on Solana and XRP futures on October 13, 2025, pending regulatory approval. The new products will include both standard and micro contracts with daily, monthly, and quarterly expiries, expanding beyond Bitcoin and Ethereum offerings. CME highlighted strong demand, noting over 540,000 Solana futures ($22.3 billion notional) and 370,000 XRP futures ($16.2 billion notional) have traded since their launches earlier this year, with record volumes in August. Cumberland and FalconX will support the rollout, citing institutional demand for broader hedging tools and liquidity in crypto derivatives.

FCA Proposes Full Oversight of UK Crypto Firms With Final Rules Expected in 2026

The UK’s Financial Conduct Authority has proposed adapting existing financial standards to bring crypto firms fully under its oversight, with the final framework set for 2026. The regulator’s principle of “same risk, same regulatory outcome” means crypto firms will face requirements on resilience, governance, and financial crime prevention, but tailored to reflect the sector’s risks and business models. The FCA is also consulting on applying its Consumer Duty to crypto markets and extending access to the Financial Ombudsman Service. Feedback runs through October and November, with further consultations before the rules are finalized. The initiative follows UK-US discussions on deepening cooperation in crypto regulation.

Forward Industries Files $4 Billion ATM Equity Offering to Expand Solana Treasury Strategy

Forward Industries, the leading Solana treasury company, has filed an automatic shelf registration statement with the SEC, including an at-the-market equity offering of up to $4 billion. The company plans to use proceeds for working capital, Solana token purchases, and other growth initiatives. Chairman Kyle Samani said the program provides flexibility to expand their 6.8 million SOL position and strengthen the balance sheet. Cantor Fitzgerald will act as sales agent for the offering.

Federal Reserve Cuts Rates 25bps to 4%–4.25% Signals Two More Cuts in 2025 as Crypto Eyes End-of-Year Rally

The Federal Reserve cut its benchmark federal funds rate by 25 basis points to 4%–4.25%, marking its fourth consecutive reduction since September 2024. The FOMC signaled two more cuts by year end, with President Trump pressuring the Fed to move faster. Analysts highlighted that the next 100bps of cuts could have an outsized impact on asset prices, potentially fueling a crypto rally. Bitcoin traded near $116,000 and Ethereum at $4,491 after the decision. The Fed also confirmed Stephen Miran, a crypto-friendly governor, and will hold a conference next month on stablecoins and tokenization. Lower rates are expected to boost demand for risk assets and stablecoin yields, with DeFi participants continuing to use stablecoins as a savings and gateway vehicle.