CME Group Touts Record Futures Volume Amid Global Uncertainty

Derivatives exchange sees growth in retail participation and international markets

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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CME Group executive Derek Sammann told investors that the derivatives exchange is benefiting from heightened global uncertainty, rising participation outside the U.S., and increasing demand from newer retail traders. Sammann highlighted CME's vertically integrated clearing model, growing non-transactional revenue streams, and strategic partnership with Google as key drivers of the company's recent performance.

Why it matters

As a major global derivatives exchange, CME Group's performance is seen as a bellwether for broader market conditions and trading activity. The company's ability to capitalize on volatility, expand its international footprint, and attract new retail participants suggests the derivatives market remains robust despite economic uncertainty.

The details

Sammann described CME's 'dual mandate' of providing price transparency through benchmark futures and options markets, as well as risk management through its clearinghouse. He pointed to the company's Globex platform, which distributes liquidity to 180,000 customers globally, and a strategic partnership with Google aimed at building cloud capabilities. Sammann highlighted CME's vertically integrated model, which he said provides both offensive and defensive advantages, high barriers to entry, and high switching costs for customers. He also noted CME's ability to grow in a range of environments, including periods of high volatility and low interest rates.

  • Over the last 12 months, CME grew volumes and revenues by 6%.
  • In the fourth quarter of the prior year, roughly 47% of CME's foreign exchange and metals business came from outside the U.S.

The players

Derek Sammann

Head of Commodities Markets at CME Group, with 35 years of experience in financial services.

CME Group

A global markets company that operates some of the world's largest and most liquid derivatives exchanges, including the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME), the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT), the New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) and COMEX.

Google

A technology company that has a strategic partnership with CME Group, including a billion-dollar stake, aimed at building cloud capabilities and supporting migration efforts.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

CME Group's ability to capitalize on global uncertainty, expand its international footprint, and attract new retail participants highlights the resilience and adaptability of the derivatives market. The company's vertically integrated model, strategic partnerships, and diversified revenue streams position it well to navigate a range of economic conditions.