Brazil Stock Exchange Debuts DeFi to TradFi With USD-Based Ethereum and Solana Futures

• Ethereum and Solana futures are now live on Brazil’s B3, priced in USD to expand their adoption.
• B3 cut its Bitcoin futures size to 0.01 BTC to make it more accessible for local retail investors.

Brazil’s largest stock exchange, B3, has launched new futures contracts tied to Ethereum and Solana. The move brings two of the biggest names in decentralized finance (DeFi) into Brazil’s traditional finance system. This will create an avenue to make the services available for domestic and international investors.

B3 Launched Ethereum and Solana Futures 

It is worth noting that B3’s introduction of Ethereum and Solana futures marks a new direction for the Brazilian market. This is the exchange’s first time offering futures contracts based on altcoins. 

According to the update, each Ethereum contract is tied to 0.25% of the asset, while each Solana futures contract covers five SOL. These contracts are settled monthly, on the last Friday, and are priced in US dollars. This dollar-based pricing model was chosen to attract foreign participation.

Other countries, such as the United States, have already introduced similar futures offerings. As mentioned in our previous news brief, the Solana futures ETF began trading recently on the CME in the United States. 

Additionally, CNF reported that CME Group announced the launch of an XRP futures ETF, marking a pivotal step for the community. B3’s move is still seen as necessary. It signals Brazil’s growing interest in hosting digital asset products on regulated platforms.

The exchange previously drew attention after launching the world’s first XRP ETF. This development builds on Brazil’s broader strategy to become a hub for regulated crypto investment. Depending on market demand, B3 also announced plans to introduce more altcoin futures soon.

B3 Adjusts Bitcoin Futures, Eyes Broader Retail Reach

In addition to launching Ethereum and Solana futures, B3 has revised its existing Bitcoin futures contract. Previously, each unit was based on 0.1 BTC. Now, the size has been reduced to 0.01 BTC, making it more affordable for everyday investors in Brazil.

This change aims to boost local involvement, especially from small-scale traders who may have been priced out of earlier offerings. B3 hopes to appeal to Brazil’s domestic retail market by making Bitcoin futures ten times cheaper. This contrasts with the new altcoin products aimed more at international investors.

However, a recent tax policy shift in Brazil may influence participation. Small crypto holders are now subject to higher tax rates, which apply to both direct and indirect investments. Although futures contracts differ from owning tokens, the tax could still impact investor interest.

B3’s latest actions continue to position Brazil as an active player in bringing DeFi assets into the structure of regulated finance. It is worth noting that speculation continues to grow around the possibility of adding Bitcoin to Brazil’s Treasury. 

As highlighted in our previous article, Pedro Giocondo Guerra, Chief of Staff to Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, emphasized that creating a national strategic Bitcoin reserve is becoming crucial. He said it is crucial for the country’s economic stability and long-term public interest.