What is Coinbase Derivatives Exchange?
Coinbase Derivatives Exchange, launched in June 2021 (formerly known as FairX), is a U.S.-based derivatives platform registered with the CFTC as a Designated Contract Market (DCM). Specializing in micro and nano futures, this exchange was designed with retail traders in mind, offering:
- Affordable trading opportunities
- Simplified futures instruments
- Low margin requirements (starting at $10 for nano contracts)
👉 Discover how Coinbase Derivatives compares to traditional futures exchanges
Why Trade Coinbase Derivatives Instruments?
Zero-Cost Trading Advantage
Bookmap's partnership with Tradovate enables commission-free trading on all Coinbase Derivatives products, including:
- No broker commissions
- Waived data/Exchange/NFA fees
- Free Bookmap access
Market Accessibility
- 23-hour trading sessions (5 days/week)
7 correlated instruments including:
- Stock index futures (B5/LB5)
- Tech sector derivatives (TEC/LTEC)
- Commodities (OIL)
- Crypto contracts (BIT/ET)
Low Barrier to Entry
- Nano futures margin: $10
- Micro futures margin: $50
Getting Started with Coinbase Derivatives Trading
Step 1: Tradovate Account Setup
Register through Bookmap's dedicated Tradovate link - no deposit required.
Step 2: Bookmap Installation
For New Users:
- Complete Bookmap's registration form
- Download the latest version (Windows | Mac)
Existing Users:
Update to the latest Bookmap version for full compatibility.
Step 3: Platform Integration
- Enable Tradovate connection in Bookmap
- Authenticate with your credentials
- Subscribe to desired Coinbase Derivatives instruments
Available Coinbase Derivatives Instruments
| Instrument | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| B5 | Nano | Bloomberg US Large Cap Index |
| LB5 | Micro | Bloomberg US Large Cap Index |
| TEC | Nano | SuperTech Index |
| LTEC | Micro | SuperTech Index |
| OIL | Micro | Crude Oil Futures |
| ET | Nano | Ether Futures |
| BIT | Nano | Bitcoin Futures |
👉 Full specifications on Coinbase Derivatives products
Symbol Naming Convention
Coinbase Derivatives futures require month/year codes in symbols:
- B5Z1 = December 2021 B5 contract
- Month Codes: F(Jan) through Z(Dec)
- Year Digits: 1(2021) to 9(2029)
Bookmap Package Requirements
| Package | CME Access | Coinbase Derivatives Access |
|---|---|---|
| Digital+ | Limited (ES,YM,NQ,RTY) | All 7 instruments |
| Global | Full | Full trading capabilities |
| Global+ | Unlimited | No restrictions |
Subscription Process
- Click "Add Instrument" in Bookmap
- Select "Tradovate" platform
- Enter symbol with expiration (e.g., B5Z5)
- Click "Subscribe"
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't I see Tradovate in Bookmap?
- Check Plugin Manager for "tradovate-adapter"
- Install if available
- Restart Bookmap and configure connection
What are the trading hours?
23 hours daily from Sunday 6PM ET to Friday 5PM ET.
Are there position limits?
Yes, please consult Coinbase Derivatives' spec sheets for current limits.
How are margins calculated?
Based on instrument type:
- Nano: $10-$25
- Micro: $50-$100
Can I trade CME micro products?
Yes, through the same Tradovate connection.
Key Advantages of Coinbase Derivatives
- Cost Efficiency: Eliminates multiple fee layers
- Precision Sizing: Nano contracts allow granular position management
- Extended Access: Nearly round-the-clock trading
- Retail Focus: Designed for individual trader needs
- Seamless Integration: Works with Bookmap's visualization tools
For the most current product listings and contract specifications, always refer to the official Coinbase Derivatives Exchange website.