Once you’re ready to start trading, follow the steps below to connect to and access our markets. Keep in mind, the steps to trade vary depending on what type of trader you are – whether you’re trading on behalf of an institution or for your own individual account.
Start with the person or department in charge of managing market and trading permissions for your firm. If your institution is already connected to CME Group, you may only need to be added to your firm’s existing account(s) and permissioned to trade our markets.
If your firm is not yet connected to CME Group, our dedicated team is ready to help you navigate the onboarding process. Contact our New Customer team directly, who are well-equipped to assist you with the process.
Alternatively, follow the below steps:
- Set up a futures trading account with a clearing member/futures commission merchant (FCM).
- Talk to your FCM about whether a membership may be appropriate for you.
- Decide how you want to execute your trades.
- Your FCM/broker may be able execute your trades on your behalf.
- Access CME Group markets directly via CME Direct – our bespoke trading platform.
- Work with an independent software vendor (ISV) who can provide access to CME Group market data, hosting, and connectivity services.
- Connect directly to our API for both production and test environments.
Check out these services before you start trading
Clearing account
Providing clearing services for customers around the globe through our clearinghouse, CME Clearing allows you to significantly mitigate and manage your risk. By acting as the counterparty for every trade, CME Clearing helps you mitigate counterparty risk by maintaining a matched book and risk-neutral position.
Find a broker
In order to trade futures, you must have an account with a registered futures broker who will maintain your account and guarantee your trades. In the futures business, brokerage firms are known as either a futures commission merchant (FCM) or an introducing broker (IB). Many securities brokers are also registered to deal in futures.
Market data
Take advantage of our industry-leading data solutions that help address your trading, research, compliance and risk management requirements.
Technology vendor services
Access a comprehensive directory of Technology Vendors who provide access to CME Group market data, hosting, and connectivity services.
In order to trade futures, you must have an account with a registered futures broker who will maintain your account and guarantee your trades. In the futures business, brokerage firms are known as either a futures commission merchant (FCM) or an introducing broker (IB). Many securities brokers are also registered to deal in futures.
Consider selecting a broker who supports the products and markets you are interested in trading. Working with a knowledgeable broker and firm can play an important role in your long-term success.
Already have a Broker?
- Confirm your account is enabled for futures trading with your broker
- Visit cmegroup.com/activetrader.com for market news, tools, and trading insights specifically created for active traders.
Inform your trading strategy with CME Group’s innovative tools.
Use a variety of tools, including Price Action Alerts and the CME Liquidity Tool, and information to expand your understanding of the futures and options markets. Discover opportunities and watch for trends across all asset classes.
Stay informed on our markets.
Keep track of the products you are interested in with My Portfolio. View trading data and access all your contracts in a single location.
Explore futures and options topics with free courses, webinars, and videos from CME Institute
Receive updates about Products, Trading and Clearing Technology, Market Regulation, Economic Research Reports, and more.
Futures & options trends and insights for active traders.
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