Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - CME Group generated revenue of $1.5 billion in Q3 2025, down 3% from Q3 2024, with an average rate per contract of $0.702, resulting in clearing and transaction fees of $1.2 billion [8][9] - Market data revenue reached a record $203 million, up 14% year-over-year, marking the 30th consecutive quarter of revenue growth [8][100] - Adjusted net income was $978 million, or $2.68 per share, slightly above the previous year's strong performance, representing the third highest quarter in the company's history [9][10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Average daily volume for the quarter was 25.3 million contracts, the second highest in CME's history for Q3, with quarter-end open interest at 126 million contracts, the highest in five years [4][5] - The crypto complex traded a record 340,000 contracts per day, up over 225% year-over-year, driven by the success of Solana and XRP futures [5] - FX Spot Plus set new volume records every month in Q3, indicating strong demand for innovative trading solutions [6] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - CME Group maintained a 76% market share in WTI futures, up from 74% in the previous quarter, and held a 91% share in WTI options markets [56] - Natural gas complex grew by 2% in Q3, with NACAS options up 12%, reflecting ongoing demand for U.S. LNG exports [58] Company Strategy and Development Direction - CME Group is focused on innovation and expanding product offerings, including the introduction of 24/7 trading for cryptocurrency futures and options starting early next year [7] - The partnership with FanDuel aims to enhance retail strategy, potentially reaching 13 million accounts and expanding distribution of CME products [12][16] - The company is committed to maintaining strong capital efficiencies and exploring new market opportunities without necessarily pursuing acquisitions [16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in continued growth driven by customer demand and innovative products, despite a general pullback in volatility across asset classes [4][5] - The outlook for energy markets remains positive, with expectations of growth in crude and natural gas trading as U.S. energy products continue to globalize [58] - Management emphasized the importance of credibility in markets and the potential for future growth in retail and prediction markets [16][36] Other Important Information - CME Group announced the extension of its FTSE Russell Index derivatives license through 2037, ensuring continuity and value for clients [6] - The company is preparing for 24/7 trading in crypto markets by 2026, with ongoing efforts in tokenization of cash and other assets [70][76] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you talk about your long-term retail strategy? - Management highlighted the importance of the partnership with FanDuel and the potential to reach 13 million accounts, emphasizing a strong position to grow retail business organically without M&A [12][16] Question: Is CME Group considering sports-related event contracts? - Management stated that they are prepared to offer sports event contracts once regulatory approval is secured, emphasizing the need for government clarity on the classification of these contracts [20][22][36] Question: What is the outlook for energy markets? - Management noted that while energy volumes were down in Q3, there is still strong growth potential in crude and natural gas markets, particularly in Europe and Asia [56][58] Question: How are you thinking about capital deployment after the recent sale? - Management indicated that proceeds from the sale were approximately $1.55 billion, with plans to review potential uses of capital, including buybacks and dividends [63][64] Question: Can you elaborate on the hurdles for 24/7 trading? - Management discussed the need for tokenization and operational readiness for 24/7 trading, starting with crypto markets, while noting that demand from other asset classes is still being assessed [70][76]