CFTC Weighs Blocking CME 24/7 Micro WTI Oil Futures Launch

The CFTC is considering blocking CME Group’s planned 24/7 10-barrel WTI crude oil futures contract scheduled for August 30, citing risks of heightened volatility during geopolitical stress. CME first announced the expansion on June 11, including round-the-clock trading for its existing 1-ounce gold futures starting July 26. Both products target retail and institutional traders seeking smaller, capital-efficient exposure amid record volumes. Micro WTI futures averaged 272,000 contracts daily in May, up 317 percent year-over-year, while WTI options set a Q1 2026 record of 320,000 contracts per day. The latest regulatory scrutiny introduces uncertainty after initial announcements highlighted strong demand for continuous trading.