Grain Group Opposes 24-7 Agricultural Market Trading
The National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) has submitted formal comments to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), firmly opposing any move to expand agricultural futures trading to a 24/7 schedule. This response comes as part of the CFTC’s request for public input on the potential effects of continuous derivatives trading.
NGFA represents a wide range of commercial hedgers who depend on agricultural futures markets to manage price risk. In its comments, the association emphasized that extending trading hours would likely lead to increased market volatility and higher operational costs, without delivering meaningful improvements to market efficiency or function.
“Our members have been clear—expanding trading hours to 24/7 would disrupt current risk management practices, increase operational costs, and create unnecessary exposure,” said NGFA President and CEO Mike Seyfert. “We hope the CFTC will recognize that longer trading hours do not equal stronger markets.”
The NGFA’s position reflects concerns that round-the-clock trading could strain resources, complicate risk management strategies, and reduce market stability.
The association urges the CFTC to consider the practical implications for market participants who rely on structured trading windows to operate effectively and efficiently.
You can find the letter here.