HONG KONG: The sudden resurgence in bitcoin prices this month is also providing a boost for the futures market, with CME Group Inc contract trading volumes for the largest cryptocurrency hitting a record high.

CME bitcoin futures hit a record 22,542 contracts traded on April 4, equivalent to 112,710 bitcoin with a notional value of US$546 million, according to a release from the derivatives exchange operator. A majority of the trading volume on that day came in Asia hours with 12,634 contracts traded, CME said, report agencies.