Eurex, the leading European derivatives exchange, has announced that US-based Introducing Brokers (IBs) can now become direct members of the exchange, significantly increasing their access to European and global derivatives markets. This development broadens Eurex’s presence in the US and extends trading availability for American participants.
Eurex Welcomes US Brokers, Expanding Market Access
This move follows regulatory changes approved by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) in July, which now allow CFTC-registered foreign boards of trade (FBOTs) to provide direct access to US Introducing Brokers. Prior to this change, US traders seeking to trade on Eurex had to rely on non-US intermediaries, many of whom were not available during US trading hours. The new membership option will enable US clients to trade via domestic IBs throughout the entire US trading day.
Robbert Booij, CEO of Eurex, emphasized the importance of this expansion: “Our goal is to make it easier for clients to access our markets. This step provides US traders with more choices and enhances their efficiency in trading and managing risk.”
Booij, who took on the role of CEO earlier this year amid market shifts related to Brexit, has been instrumental in pushing these regulatory changes. He succeeded Michael Peters, who retired in September after serving as interim president for four years.
Wide Range of Products Available for US Traders
With this new access, US traders will have the opportunity to trade a variety of Eurex’s most popular derivatives, including contracts like the EURO STOXX 50, STOXX Europe 600, German Bond Futures, and numerous MSCI derivatives.
Eurex Strengthens Crypto Offerings with Ethereum Futures
In August 2024, Eurex further expanded its product line by launching FTSE Ethereum Index Futures and Options, adding to its growing portfolio of cryptocurrency instruments. This followed the successful introduction of Bitcoin derivatives in 2023, making Eurex one of the leading exchanges offering regulated crypto futures and options.
In 2023, Eurex made headlines as the first European exchange to offer cryptocurrency index futures, launching the FTSE Bitcoin Index Futures in both USD and EUR. This move added to its growing list of crypto-related products, which includes Bitcoin ETNs launched in 2021.
Despite a slight 2% decline in total trading volume in 2023, driven by a 9% drop in index derivatives, Eurex saw growth in its OTC Clearing segment. The average daily cleared volume increased by 10% to €185 billion, with GC Pooling volumes rising sharply by 142% to €158.9 billion.
