The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) published highlights from AgCon 2026, which it co-hosted with the Risk Management Center at Kansas State University in Overland Park, Kansas. Discussions focused on agricultural financing and hedging needs amid rising production costs, fluctuating commodity prices and supply chain disruptions. Panelists examined access to agricultural credit and the financial challenges facing producers and merchants, alongside the relationship between cash and derivatives markets, evolving commodity contracts and effective hedging tools. Participants also explored the implications of perpetual futures, 24/7 trading and tokenized collateral for agricultural risk management. Discussions on agricultural prediction markets and event contracts were complemented by consideration of how emerging technologies and information advantages affect market integrity. In a fireside chat, CFTC Chairman Michael S. Selig and Futures Industry Association President and CEO Walt Lukken discussed the commission’s priorities, the evolving regulatory landscape and developments shaping derivatives markets. Closing panels addressed clearing, market access and the role of intermediaries.

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