CME Group to Launch NHL-Linked Futures Contracts in September

The new contracts track the CME FutureSports Performance Indexes, which utilize official NHL play-by-play data to create rules-based financial metrics. By applying a systematic methodology, the indexes assign point values to specific in-game actions, offering a transparent framework for market participants. The offering includes both standard-sized contracts, valued at 10 times the underlying index, and micro-sized contracts scaled at one-tenth of that value.

Tim McCourt, Senior Managing Director at CME Group, stated that the move aims to bring regulated market discipline to sports-related business risks. The instruments are designed for a broad ecosystem of stakeholders, including arena operators, broadcasters, sponsors, and retailers, who seek to mitigate exposure to team performance. The platform will operate around the clock, supported by central clearing safeguards and standardized pricing.

This launch follows a record-breaking period for the NHL, which generated $1.53 billion in sponsorship revenue during the 2024-25 season and hosted over 23 million fans. According to Steve Byrd, Head of Partnerships at FutureSports, the index methodologies adhere to IOSCO Principles for Financial Benchmarks, ensuring the governance required for institutional-grade financial instruments.