Volumes for March and the 1st quarter down around 30% YOY, though we see a jump in March 2014 to February 2014 contracts
IntercontinentalExchange Group (NYSE: ICE), the leading global network of exchanges and clearing houses, today reported exchange traded volumes for March and the first quarter of 2014. Overall, ICE’s March 2014 and first quarter of 2014 average daily volume (ADV) decreased 16% and 13%, respectively, compared to prior year periods.
We will focus just on the forex volumes being reported. “TOTAL FX Volumes” includes futures and options for the U.S. Dollar Index and foreign exchange contracts. ICE offers nearly 60 contracts including the world’s most heavily traded currencies and the most widely recognized benchmark for the U.S. dollar, the ICE U.S. Dollar Index® (USDX®).
‘TOTAL FX‘ #’s
Average Daily Volume (ADV) March 2014: 31,000 contracts
Average Daily Volume (ADV) March 2013: 45,000 contracts
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Change y/y: -31%
Average Daily Volume (ADV) 1st Quarter 2014: 27,000 contracts
Average Daily Volume (ADV) 1st Quarter 2013: 39,000 contracts
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Change y/y: -30%
The exchange did see a jump in volumes for March 2014 (31k) up from February 2014 (23k), a 34.8% increase. Again, much of the drop off in contracts year over year could be attributed to the relatively low trading ranges and volatility in the FX market compared to 2013, which leaves less chance for speculation and hedging.
In mid-afternoon trading after the volume report the exchange’s stock (NYSE: ICE) was up 4.54 points trading at 204.83 (+2.27%).
To view the entire ICE report and complete volume results, click here.
For more on the global Forex industry see the LeapRate-Dow Jones Forex Industry Report.