CFTC Organization

The CFTC organization consists of the Commissioners, the offices of the Chairman, and the agency's operating units.

The Commission consists of five Commissioners appointed by the President, with the advice and consent of the Senate, to serve staggered five-year terms. The President designates one of the Commissioners to serve as Chairman. No more than three Commissioners at any one time may be from the same political party.

Clearing and Risk (DCR)
The Division of Clearing and Risk oversees derivatives clearing organizations (DCOs) and other market participants in the clearing process, including futures commission merchants, swap dealers, major swap participants and large traders. It monitors the clearing of futures, options on futures, and swaps by DCOs, assesses DCO compliance with Commission regulations, and conducts risk assessment and surveillance. DCR also makes recommendations on DCO applications and eligibility, rule submissions, and which types of swaps should be cleared.

Enforcement (DOE)
The Division of Enforcement investigates and prosecutes alleged violations of the Commodity Exchange Act and Commission regulations. Potential violations include fraud, manipulation and other abuses concerning commodity derivatives and swaps that threaten market integrity, market participants and the general public.

Market Oversight (DMO)
The Division of Market Oversight fosters derivatives markets that accurately reflect the forces of supply and demand and are free of disruptive activity. It oversees trade execution facilities and data repositories, conducts surveillance, reviews new exchange applications and examines existing exchanges to ensure compliance with applicable core principles. DMO also evaluates new products to ensure they are not susceptible to manipulation as well as rule filings by exchanges to ensure compliance with core principles.

Swap Dealer and Intermediary Oversight (DSIO)
The Division of Swap Dealer and Intermediary Oversight oversees the registration and compliance of intermediaries and futures industry self-regulatory organizations (SROs), including U.S. derivatives exchanges and the National Futures Association (NFA). Under Dodd-Frank, DSIO also will be responsible for developing and monitoring compliance with regulations addressing registration, business conduct standards, capital adequacy, and margin requirements for swap dealers and major swap participants.

Chief Economist (OCE)
The Office of the Chief Economist provides economic support and advice to the Commission, conducts research on policy issues facing the Commission, and educates and trains Commission staff. The OCE plays an integral role in the implementation of new financial market regulations by providing economic expertise and cost-benefit considerations underlying those regulations.

Data and Technology (ODT)
The Office of Data and Technology provides technology and data management support for Commission market and financial oversight, surveillance, enforcement, legal support, and public transparency activities. ODT also provides general network, communication, storage, computing, and information management infrastructure and services.

Executive Director (OED)
The Executive Director ensures the Commission’s adaptation to the ever-changing markets it is charged with regulating, directs the allocation of CFTC resources, develops and implements management and administrative policy, and ensures program performance is measured and tracked Commission-wide. The OED also oversees the Commission’s Whistleblower and Consumer Affairs programs, and the Office of Diversity and Inclusion.

General Counsel (OGC)
The Office of General Counsel provides legal services and support to the Commission and all of its programs. These services include: representing the Commission in appellate, bankruptcy and other litigation; assisting in the performance of adjudicatory functions; providing legal advice and support for Commission programs; drafting and assisting in preparation of Commission regulations; interpreting the CEA; and advising on legislative, regulatory, and operational issues.

Inspector General (OIG)
The Office of the Inspector General is an independent organizational unit at the CFTC. Its mission is to detect waste, fraud, and abuse and to promote integrity, economy, efficiency, and effectiveness in the CFTC’s programs and operations. As such it has the ability to review all of the Commission’s programs, activities, and records. In accordance with the Inspector General Act of 1978, the OIG issues semiannual reports detailing its activities, findings, and recommendations.

International Affairs (OIA)
The Office of International Affairs advises the Commission regarding international regulatory initiatives; provides guidance regarding international issues raised in Commission matters; represents the Commission in international organizations, such as the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO); coordinates Commission policy as it relates to international initiatives of the G20, Financial Stability Board and the US Treasury Department; and provides technical assistance to foreign market authorities.

Legislative Affairs (OLA)
The Office of Legislative Affairs is the Commission’s liaison with Congress. OLA coordinates the provision of reports, briefings and informational materials to Congressional offices and the testimony of agency officials before Congressional Committees. The office monitors legislative activities that affect the work of the Commission. It also manages the Commission’s response to inquiries on behalf of constituents and other communications from the legislative branch.

Public Affairs (OPA)
The Office of Public Affairs is the Commission’s liaison with the general public and news media. OPA issues press releases and media alerts, and maintains the Commission’s website and social media presence.