The European Commission is considering the implementation of blanket multipliers to offset potential increases in bank capital requirements under the upcoming Fundamental Review of the Trading Book, set to take effect in 2027. This measure aims to address concerns about a competitive disadvantage for EU banks compared with US banks, as the US has not yet aligned its regulations. The EC has already postponed the FRTB twice and is evaluating this new approach alongside previously proposed targeted amendments.

Matthew Chamberlain, who will reach nine years as CEO of the London Metal Exchange in January 2026, has reaffirmed his commitment to the role, stating he has no intention to step down. Chamberlain previously announced plans to leave in 2022 but reversed the decision, emphasizing his dedication to leading the LME and driving its ongoing initiatives.

Recent VIX swings have exposed fragility in US options markets, where modest S&P 500 declines triggered outsized volatility reactions as dealers scrambled to hedge short positions. UBS and Bank of America strategists said October's sharp but brief VIX spike reflected technical pressures from market makers and leveraged ETFs rather than a broad risk-off move. Analysts warn that daily rebalancing in leveraged equity funds, now a $160 billion market concentrated in tech, could amplify future shocks as liquidity thins, creating feedback loops in an otherwise calm market.

Global exchange leaders at the World Federation of Exchanges annual meeting in Istanbul have expressed concerns about the impact of regulatory divergence on global trade. Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Chairman Carlson Tong noted that varying national regulations are creating challenges, while Saudi Tadawul Group CEO Khalid Abdullah Al-Hussan highlighted the effects of differing monetary policies on market liquidity.

Soybean futures have reached a five-month high, rising as much as 1.7% after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said China is ready to make "substantial" soybean purchases as a trade pact nears. Wheat and corn futures have also gained on optimism about a deal after the countries agree a proposed framework.

India's Multi Commodity Exchange has introduced European-style monthly options on its MCX iCOMDEX Bullion Index, which tracks gold and silver futures. The new product aims to provide traders with diversified, cost-effective exposure to the bullion segment amid rising volatility in precious metals markets.

Market participants are divided on the impact of prediction markets on sports betting integrity as the Commodity Futures Trading Commission oversees a growing sector with limited experience and resources. Critics argue that the CFTC's reliance on self-reporting and whistleblowers is insufficient compared with state-level regulations, while supporters believe that blockchain-based prediction markets offer greater transparency and would be helpful in catching misconduct.

Major commodity traders, hedge funds, and banks have ramped up hiring for specialist gold traders amid soaring interest in the metal. Companies like Trafigura Group and Gunvor Group have built new precious-metals teams, while rivals and financial institutions are looking to expand their presence in the sector.

JPYC has launched the world's first stablecoin backed by the Japanese yen, marking a significant development in Japan's digital asset landscape. The JPYC stablecoin is fully convertible to yen and backed by domestic savings and Japanese government bonds.

tZERO Group has adjusted its vision under new CEO Alan Konevsky to focus on strategic partnerships and expanding its market infrastructure for blockchain and tokenized securities. As part of the shift it has partnered with Archax to cross-list digital securities and has applied for licenses from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to introduce derivatives.

BNP Paribas is gearing up for Europe's transition to T+1 settlement by leveraging its experience in markets with shorter cycles and learning from the North American shift, says Gary O'Brien, head of settlement and liquidity management. While BNP Paribas is technically ready for T+1, the bank is focusing on helping clients understand the broader impacts, particularly on liquidity and financing.

President Donald Trump has nominated Mike Selig, a longtime crypto ally and current SEC Crypto Task Force general counsel, to chair the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, with Selig pledging to help make the US the "Crypto Capital of the World." While a market-structure bill is stalled in the Senate, the CFTC is expected to play a central oversight role if it advances; the industry welcomed the pick as the agency, short-staffed since early September, prepares for a bigger remit.