HKEX: US Dollar Gold Futures Active in October, Single-Day Trading Volume Hits Record High

In October 2026, trading activity in HKEX US Dollar Gold Futures (GDU) increased significantly, with several core metrics delivering strong performance. Total monthly volume exceeded 270,000 contracts, with notional turnover reaching US$36.4 billion, and a record single-day trading volume was set mid-month. Data shows that total volume in US Dollar Gold Futures for the full month of October reached 271,488 contracts across 22 trading days, with average daily volume (ADV) of approximately 12,340 contracts. In terms of notional turnover, the full-month total reached US$36.4 billion, with average daily turnover of approximately US$1.7 billion. Notably, on October 16, single-day volume in US Dollar Gold Futures surged to 30,132 contracts, setting a new all-time high, corresponding to notional turnover of approximately US$4.1 billion. This figure successfully broke the previous record of 27,922 contracts set on August 21. The report noted that bid-ask spreads and calendar spreads remained at relatively narrow levels in October, with quotes as low as 1 to 3 minimum price fluctuation units (ticks). This helps facilitate more efficient trade execution and makes it easier to roll positions. To continuously enhance market competitiveness and reduce investor costs, HKEX is implementing a series of incentive measures. Currently, HKEX applies a market-wide trading fee waiver for US Dollar Gold Futures contracts, waiving the US$1 per contract per side trading fee. This preferential policy applies from July 6, 2026 to June 30, 2027 (both dates inclusive). In addition, HKEX has established the "Active Trader Program," aimed at providing additional cash incentives to eligible participants.