- The CFTC is seeking feedback on allowing standard energy futures contracts to trade continuously, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Regulators are also evaluating perpetual commodity contracts that remain open indefinitely without expiration dates.
- The review follows approval of Bitcoin perpetual futures and will assess risks tied to settlement, delivery, and market integrity.
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission has launched a public consultation on two major changes for U.S. energy derivatives markets. On June 22, CFTC Chairman Mike Selig announced a request for comment covering 24/7 trading for standard futures contracts and perpetual contracts tied to physically delivered or storable commodities, including crude oil. The agency will gather feedback over a 30-day period after publication in the Federal Register.
Two Proposals Enter Public Review
According to the CFTC, the first proposal examines whether standard futures contracts should trade continuously without changing expiration dates or delivery terms. Notably, the review includes energy futures that currently operate within established trading schedules.
The second proposal focuses on perpetual contracts linked to physical commodities. Unlike traditional futures, perpetual contracts do not expire and instead remain open indefinitely.
Mike Selig said the Commission wants a clear and data-driven record before evaluating the impact of these developments. He added that the agency remains committed to innovation while preserving protections against manipulation and market disruption.
As the review moves forward, the CFTC will use submitted comments to better understand operational and market effects.
Physical Commodities Present New Challenges
While perpetual contracts are common in digital asset markets, energy commodities introduce different considerations. Crude oil involves storage costs, delivery obligations, transportation infrastructure, and physical settlement requirements.
Consequently, the CFTC is examining whether a structure widely used in crypto markets can function effectively in commodity markets. According to the National Law Review analysis cited in the source material, contracts that settle during non-peak market hours may face greater risks of price distortion.
That distinction has become increasingly important as regulators evaluate perpetual products beyond digital assets.
Bitcoin Model Shapes Current Discussion
The latest consultation follows the CFTC’s approval of Bitcoin perpetual futures contracts in May 2026. At the same time, the agency released guidance explaining how perpetual contracts should be reviewed.
However, the Commission has indicated that contracts tied to physical commodities require additional scrutiny under existing regulations. Therefore, exchanges seeking to list energy perpetuals would face a different review process than digital commodity products.
The comment period is expected to attract responses from exchanges, brokers, clearinghouses, commercial hedgers, energy traders, and crypto market participants. Meanwhile, the CFTC will assess whether continuous trading and perpetual structures can operate alongside existing delivery, settlement, margin, and surveillance requirements in energy markets.
