Futures markets are the formal exchanges on which futures contracts are bought and sold for commodities, financial products, and interest rates.

Futures markets constitute a large part of the financial system and are an attempt by participants to hedge against some of the volatility and risks to which they might be exposed as time passes, especially where contracts await resolution or payment.

Futures contracts might be created for financial instruments, commodities, and other derivative interests. The Chicago Mercantile Exchange, the Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) and the Eurex Exchange are large parts of the international network of futures markets and clearing houses.

Futures markets are regulated by both government and self-regulatory organizations (SROs) worldwide.