CFTC Inflates Penalties for Rogue Traders to Match Economy

2026-05720 — Agency Information Collection Activities: Notice of Intent To Extend Collection 3038-0090: Adaptation of Regulations To Incorporate Swaps-Records of Transactions; Exclusion of Utility Operations Related Swaps With Utility Special Entities From De Minimis Threshold for Swaps With Special Entities

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) is extending its rules on keeping records for certain swap transactions, especially those involving utility companies. This means some utility-related swaps won’t count toward a small-transaction exemption anymore. If you’re involved in these swaps, get ready to keep better records and share your thoughts by May 26, 2026!

2026-05635 — Application of the Federal Securities Laws to Certain Types of Crypto Assets and Certain Transactions Involving Crypto Assets

Starting March 23, 2026, the SEC and CFTC are making it clear that some crypto assets and transactions must follow federal securities laws. This means crypto companies and investors need to play by new rules to keep things fair and safe. Expect more transparency and possible costs for compliance as the government steps up oversight in the crypto world.

2026-05314 — Request for Information on Climate-Related Financial Risk; Withdrawal

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) is officially canceling its 2022 request for information about climate-related financial risks. This change affects companies involved in derivatives and commodities markets, as the government rolled back the climate-focused rules in early 2025. No new costs or deadlines come with this withdrawal, so businesses can keep following existing financial risk rules without extra hassle.

2026-05105 — Prediction Markets

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) is asking for your thoughts on prediction markets—places where people bet on future events. They want to know what rules should apply, which bets might be off-limits, and how these markets impact everyone. If you have ideas, send them by April 30, 2026, because this could lead to new rules that affect traders and the public.

2026-03983 — Agency Information Collection Activities Under OMB Review

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission is asking for public feedback on a new information collection plan that could affect traders and companies. They want to make sure the paperwork isn’t too much of a hassle and are open to comments until March 30, 2026. This review helps keep things fair and clear without costing too much time or money.

2025-23150 — Proposal To Provide Exemptive Relief To Facilitate Cross-Margining of Customer Positions Cleared at Chicago Mercantile Exchange, Inc. and Fixed Income Clearing Corporation

The CFTC wants to make it easier for certain broker-dealers who work with both the Chicago Mercantile Exchange and the Fixed Income Clearing Corporation to combine customer funds in one account. This change helps these firms manage money more smoothly and could save time and costs. If you’re involved, get ready to share your thoughts by January 16, 2026!

Previous: 2025-01453 — Revocation of the Kwajalein Island Class D and Class E Airspace in the Republic of the Marshall Islands

The FAA is officially removing the Class D and Class E airspace rules over Kwajalein Island in the Republic of the Marshall Islands because they don’t have the power to control airspace there. This change affects pilots flying in that area, but it won’t cost anyone money or cause delays. The update is effective immediately, making the skies simpler and clearer for everyone involved.

Next: 2025-01618 — New Mailing Standards for Hazardous Materials Outer Packaging and Nonregulated Toxic Materials

The Postal Service is updating its rules for mailing hazardous materials to make outer packaging safer and clearer. If you send dangerous goods or toxic materials, you’ll notice new packaging requirements and no more limits on how much nonregulated toxic stuff you can mail. These changes start soon and help keep everyone safe without extra costs or hassle.