Total futures volume for February 2003 was 16.3% lower than the 213,078 contracts recorded for the same period one year ago. While monthly volume in western barley showed an increase over year-ago levels, it was more than offset by a decline in flaxseed and feed wheat futures as well as by a lack of trade in canola meal futures. Total futures open interest levels as of February 28, 2003 were 63,140 contracts, 14.0% below the 73,373 contracts open on February 28, 2002.
February 2003 WCE total options trade declined relative to a year ago. Canola was the main factor behind the overall decline. However, western barley options volume rose 112.5% over year ago totals.
Total futures and options volume combined for the month of February declined slightly from year ago levels, totaling 179,879 contracts, compared to 218,167 contracts in 2002. Combined futures and options open interest levels as of February 28, 2003 were 66,970 contracts, 11.9% below year-ago levels.
Crop year-to-date futures trade in 2002/03 was down 16.4% at 1,192,606 contracts compared to 1,425,957 contracts in the 2001/02 crop year. Crop year-to-date futures and options trade combined in 2002/03 was 1,208,484 contracts compared to the 1,479,842 contracts traded during the same period in the 2001/02 crop year.
