Futures regulation
What is the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and what is its primary legal mandate over derivatives markets?
By Easy Money Scanner · Educational reference · Not investment advice
The short answer
The CFTC is the US federal agency regulating futures, options, and swaps markets, with a mandate to protect market integrity and prevent fraud and manipulation.
How it works
Established in 1974 under the Commodity Exchange Act, the CFTC oversees exchanges, clearinghouses, and intermediaries in derivatives markets nationwide.
An example
The CFTC investigates alleged futures market manipulation cases.
Risk & limitations
CFTC jurisdiction does not cover equity securities, regulated by the SEC.
Examples are hypothetical, not trade recommendations. US contract and regulatory references do not automatically apply in Canada. Rules, margin requirements and broker policies can change; confirm them with the relevant authority and your broker.