Core Insights - CME Group has achieved a new open interest record of 403,113 contracts in Dairy futures and options as of February 27, 2026, alongside a record monthly average daily volume (ADV) of 11,234 contracts in February, surpassing the previous record of 9,514 contracts set in September 2025 [1] Dairy Futures and Options Performance - The increase in open interest and volume is attributed to tightening inventories of nonfat dry milk and butter, as well as strong demand for whey protein, prompting clients to utilize CME Group's services for risk management [1] - Cash-Settled Cheese futures and options reached a record open interest of 90,378 contracts on February 26, with a monthly ADV of 2,985 contracts [1] - Class IV Milk futures and options also recorded a monthly ADV of 1,443 contracts, marking a significant performance in the Dairy sector [1] CME Group Overview - CME Group is recognized as the world's leading derivatives marketplace, providing a platform for trading futures, options, cash, and OTC markets, which enables clients to optimize portfolios and manage risk effectively [1] - The company offers a diverse range of global benchmark products across major asset classes, including agricultural products, and operates one of the leading central counterparty clearing providers, CME Clearing [1]