Release: 5368-07

For Release: August 2, 2007

CFTC Announces September Hearing to Examine Trading on Regulated Exchanges and Exempt Commercial Markets

Washington, D.C. – The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) announced today it will hold a hearing on September 18, 2007, at its headquarters in Washington, D.C., to examine the oversight of trading on regulated futures exchanges and Exempt Commercial Markets (ECMs).  The CFTC will present findings and recommendations based on this public proceeding to help inform the debate when Congress considers CFTC reauthorization.  Witnesses will include members of the energy trading community, financial services trade associations and energy consumer groups. 

“The evolution of these energy markets in recent years requires our agency to address whether the level of regulatory oversight is proper given the importance of energy prices to all Americans,” said CFTC Acting Chairman Walt Lukken.  “Through our regulatory and enforcement efforts, the Commission must continue its zero tolerance policy toward manipulative behavior.  This oversight hearing will provide a better understanding of the inter-relationship of these trading venues so policymakers can make informed decisions to protect these vital markets.”

The CFTC hearing will focus on a number of issues, including:

• the tiered regulatory approach of the Commodity Futures Modernization Act of 2000 and whether this risk-based model is beneficial;
• the similarities and differences between ECMs and regulated exchanges;
• the associated regulatory risks of each market category;
• the types of regulatory or legislative changes that might be appropriate to address such identified risks; and
• the impact that regulatory or legislative changes might have on the U.S. futures industry and the global competitiveness of the U.S. financial industry in general.

Further details on the hearing and witnesses will be made available in early September.

Media Contacts
Ianthe Zabel
202-418-5080

R. David Gary
202-418-5085

Last Updated: September 10, 2007