Understanding the Dormant Designated Contract Market: A Comprehensive Guide

Definition & Meaning

A dormant designated contract market refers to a specific type of trading platform that has not seen any trading activity for a full year. However, if the market was established within the last 36 months, it is not classified as dormant, regardless of trading activity. This definition is important for regulatory purposes and helps ensure that trading platforms remain active and compliant with federal regulations.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A designated contract market that was established in January 2020 and has not seen any trades since January 2021 would be considered dormant as of January 2022.

Example 2: If a new market was designated in March 2021 and has not traded, it would not be classified as dormant until March 2024, as it falls within the 36-month exception. (hypothetical example)

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition
Designated Contract Market A trading platform that is authorized to facilitate trading in futures and options.
Inactive Market A market that may not meet the specific criteria to be classified as dormant but has low trading volume.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved with a designated contract market that may be classified as dormant, it is crucial to assess its trading activity and compliance status. You can explore US Legal Forms for templates that can assist you in managing the necessary documentation. If the situation is complex or if you need specific legal advice, consider consulting a legal professional.

Quick facts

  • Definition: A market with no trading for twelve months.
  • Exemption: Markets designated within the last 36 months.
  • Regulatory Body: Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

The market may face regulatory scrutiny and could be subject to additional compliance requirements.