ICE to launch London gold futures, FT reports

Intercontinental Exchange plans to launch gold futures trading in London, the Financial Times reported October 6, a move that would challenge London's over-the-counter bullion market.

Why it matters: Exchange-traded gold futures in London would shift price discovery and clearing away from the bilateral OTC market, with direct implications for dealers, vaults and the LBMA's role.

Data as of Reported October 6, 2026; ICE confirmation and contract details still pending at publication

Intercontinental Exchange will launch gold futures trading in London, the Financial Times reported on October 6. The move would put exchange-traded, centrally cleared gold contracts into the world’s largest physical bullion hub, which has historically traded over the counter through bilateral dealer agreements.

Contract specifications, launch timing and clearing arrangements were not yet confirmed by ICE at publication. London’s gold market has been under structural pressure this year: an LBMA High Court trial over 2019 deaths at Barrick’s North Mara mine opens October 7, keeping the association’s responsible-sourcing regime in the spotlight.

The launch lands as gold trades near $4,171 an ounce with silver at records, and as Deutsche Bank projects silver averaging $70 by mid-2027. Exchange competition for bullion flows is intensifying alongside the price action.

ICE to launch London gold futures, FT reports

Sources