ICE Initiates London Gold Futures Trading Amid Broader Commodity Expansion

By EC Assets · Published 6 October 2026 · Updated 6 October 2026

Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) commenced trading in gold futures in London this week. The launch marks ICE's attempt to introduce precious metals derivatives in London, a global center for physical precious metals. This move follows ICE's recent expansion in other commodity markets. The company launched new VLCC tanker and container freight futures and options contracts. These contracts are designed to help customers hedge freight risk across global trade routes. Average daily volume across ICE's freight markets is up 33% year-to-date. ICE also launched new JKM LNG (Platts) options, LNG Balmo freight futures, and U.K. electricity options, expanding its global natural gas and power markets. ICE, a provider of financial market technology and data, reported September 2026 trading volume and related revenue statistics on October 05, 2026. The company also released its October 2026 ICE Mortgage Monitor Report. The report states that adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) are attracting renewed borrower interest as mortgage rates climb. ARMs accounted for more than 11% of rate locks, reaching their largest share in nearly four years. ICE's Conforming 30-year Fixed Rate also saw increased activity. Andy Walden, Head of Mortgage and Housing Market Research at Intercontinental Exchange, discussed trends in the adjustable-rate mortgage market. A joint venture between crypto exchange OKX and New York Stock Exchange owner ICE, called OKXICE, plans to launch 24/7 trading for tokenized U.S. stocks. Intercontinental Exchange has an advantage over Coinbase in terms of growth projections, share gains, and valuation due to its diversified platform supporting long-term growth. Investors will monitor further details regarding the volume and liquidity development of the newly launched precious metals futures contracts. The impact of these new offerings on London's commodity trading landscape will be a key point of observation. This article is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute investment advice.