By Scout Nelson
The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and the Risk Management Center at Kansas State University co-hosted the 2026 Agricultural Commodity Futures Conference (AgCon) in Overland Park, Kansas. The event brought together policymakers, agricultural leaders, market participants, and academics to discuss challenges facing the farm economy and developments in commodity and derivatives markets.
AgCon 2026 focused on risk management tools and strategies used by farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses. Discussions covered market volatility, commodity contracts, derivatives markets, and financial risk management in modern agriculture.
The conference opened with remarks from Michael S. Selig, Chairman of the CFTC, and Richard Linton, President of Kansas State University. The opening session highlighted the importance of engaging with agricultural communities and understanding the challenges facing producers across the country.
Experts examined the relationship between cash and derivatives markets and discussed the evolution of commodity contracts. Participants also explored hedging strategies and risk management tools designed to help agricultural producers navigate uncertain market conditions.
Additional panels focused on agricultural credit, financing challenges, and economic pressures affecting farmers and agribusinesses. Key topics included rising production costs, commodity price fluctuations, supply chain disruptions, and broader challenges impacting the agricultural sector.
The conference also addressed emerging market innovations such as perpetual futures contracts, 24/7 trading environments, and tokenized collateral. Participants discussed how these developments could influence commodity trading and agricultural risk management in the future.
Economic and policy sessions featured insights from Alex Titus, Chief Advisor to the CFTC, and Aaron Hedlund of the White House Council of Economic Advisers. Discussions focused on the U.S. economic outlook, agricultural trade, and policy issues affecting producers nationwide.
The second day included remarks from U.S. Senator Roger Marshall of Kansas and sessions on agricultural prediction markets, data-driven commodity trading, and event contracts. A fireside chat between Michael S. Selig and Walt Lukken, President and CEO of the Futures Industry Association, examined regulatory priorities and changes within derivatives markets.
The event concluded with discussions on market integrity, emerging technologies, clearing systems, customer education, and improved market access. AgCon 2026 ended with closing remarks focused on strengthening risk management practices, enhancing market transparency, and supporting the long-term success of American agriculture.
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Categories: Kansas, Business