What record did ICE report for open interest in its natural gas and power markets in May, and how did it compare year-on-year?

ICE reported that total open interest across its futures and options markets reached an all-time high of 130.5 million contracts. Specifically, global natural gas markets hit a record 48 million contracts on May 22 — an 11% increase year-on-year — while global power markets reached a record 4 million contracts on May 25, up 10% from the previous year. In North America, natural gas futures and options open interest reached a record 41.4 million contracts on May 22, also 11% higher year-on-year.

According to ICE’s SVP Trabue Bland, what key factors are driving strong interest in ICE’s natural gas and power markets?

Trabue Bland, SVP of Futures Markets at ICE, attributed the strong interest to 'the shifting picture for global LNG trade routes' and increased demand from data centres. She also stated that participants are hedging 'regional and international price dynamics, pipeline constraints, infrastructure investments and evolving energy requirements.'

Open interest in natural gas and power on ICE hits record in May

May 27, 2026

Intercontinental Exchange reported record open interest in global natural gas and power markets this May, driven by geopolitical tensions and shifting LNG trade routes. Total contracts hit 130.5 million, with North American natural gas futures up 11% year-on-year.

reuters

2026-05-27

Open interest in natural gas and power on ICE hits record in May

Open interest in natural gas and power on ICE hits record in May

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