CME Group Launches 24/7 10-Barrel WTI Futures on Aug 30 and Gold Trading July 26
CME•CME Group will launch a cash-settled 10-barrel WTI Crude Oil futures contract on August 30 with 24/7 trading for the new smaller size. It will also enable round-the-clock trading for its 1-Ounce Gold futures starting July 26 after record Q1 oil options and a 317% jump in Micro WTI volumes.
1. Introduction of 10-Barrel WTI Contract
CME Group will list a cash-settled 10-barrel WTI Crude Oil futures contract on NYMEX starting August 30. The contract is one-tenth the size of its existing Micro WTI futures, offering more precise hedging for smaller positions. It will trade 24 hours a day, seven days a week once live.
2. Expansion of Gold Futures Trading
The exchange will open 24/7 trading for its 1-Ounce Gold futures on COMEX beginning July 26. This always-on access aims to provide continuous price discovery and risk management for gold market participants. The 1-Ounce contract has averaged 90,000 contracts in daily volume so far this year.
3. Volume and Activity Trends
WTI Crude Oil options reached a record average daily volume of 320,000 contracts in Q1 2026, reflecting heightened trader activity. In May, Micro WTI futures averaged 272,000 contracts per day, a 317% increase year-over-year. Gold futures trading also saw over $100 billion in notional daily turnover during 2025.
4. Potential Market Impact
The move to 24/7 trading is expected to boost liquidity and fee-based revenue by capturing global trading flows outside standard hours. Smaller contract sizes and continuous access may attract retail and institutional participants seeking flexible risk management. Enhanced around-the-clock markets could also sharpen price signals during geopolitical events.
