CFTC Seeks Public Comment On Exemption Request From The Chicago Mercantile Exchange Involving Credit Default Swaps

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) is requesting public comment on a petition submitted by the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) in connection with credit default swaps (CDS) cleared by CME.

Specifically, CME is requesting that the Commission issue an order under Section 4d of the Commodity Exchange Act that would permit CME and futures commission merchants clearing through CME to commingle customer funds used to margin, secure, or guarantee CDS cleared by CME with other funds held in the segregated account.

Comments regarding the exemption request should be submitted on or before September 14, 2009.

Comments may be submitted electronically to secretary@cftc.gov. All comments received will be posted on the Commission?s website.