On April 4, 2016, the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (the “CFTC”) approved guidance relating to the appropriate treatment of certain electric power and natural gas contracts. The guidance provides that certain capacity contracts in electric power markets and certain natural gas contracts should not be considered “swaps” under the Commodity Exchange Act. Release.
U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC)
The CFTC Announces Final Rule for Alternative to Fingerprinting for Foreign Natural Persons
On March 28, 2016, the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) approved a final rule that will add an alternative method of CFTC registration for foreign natural persons. The CFTC will now accept a registered firm’s criminal history background check on such foreign natural person in place of fingerprints. The final rule is set to take effect 30 days after its publication in the Federal Register. Press Release.
CFTC Approves National Futures Association Rules Enhancing Protections for Retail Forex Customers
On August 27, 2015, the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) approved rule amendments and a new interpretive notice proposed by the National Futures Association (NFA). The rule amendments and interpretive notice enhance protections for customers of retail foreign exchange transactions. Press Release.