ICE Futures and Options Hit Record Open Interest Amid Surging Commodity Demand

Intercontinental Exchange's global derivatives markets notched a historic milestone as open interest surged to 107.6 million contracts on October 20, 2025. The 16% annual growth underscores intensifying institutional activity across energy markets, with Brent crude and European gas futures leading the charge.

Energy derivatives dominated the record-setting activity, with oil futures OI jumping 24% to 11.2 million contracts. ICE's flagship Brent benchmark saw particularly robust demand, with open interest climbing 27% to 3.1 million contracts. The TTF European natural gas contract—now the de facto pricing mechanism for continental energy—posted 31% growth as volatility persists in post-pandemic markets.

"Depth of liquidity begets more liquidity," remarked Trabue Bland, ICE's SVP of Futures Markets. The exchange's physical-delivery mechanisms continue attracting commercial hedgers alongside financial players, creating a virtuous cycle of market participation.