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Bulls are surviving…. for now.Earnings for Q4 to arrive mid-month.The January effect and more…By John Thorpe, Senior Broker |
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This Blog provides futures market outlook for different commodities and futures trading markets, mostly stock index futures, as well as support and resistance levels for Crude Oil futures, Gold futures, Euro currency and others. At times the daily trading blog will include educational information about different aspects of commodity and futures trading.
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Bulls are surviving…. for now.Earnings for Q4 to arrive mid-month.The January effect and more…By John Thorpe, Senior Broker |
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More Cryptocurrency Available for Trading! First Notice/Last Trading Day (FNLT), Cash Settled
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In the increasingly complex world of global derivatives markets, futures brokers play a far more critical role than many traders initially realize. While technology, platforms, and data feeds often dominate the conversation, the reality is that futures trading remains a relationship-driven business at its core. Execution quality, risk management guidance, regulatory oversight, and responsive human support all hinge on the broker standing between the trader and the exchange.
As futures markets have evolved over the decades—becoming faster, more electronic, and more global—the number of firms calling themselves futures brokers has grown substantially. Yet not all futures brokers are created equal. The difference between a firm that simply offers access to markets and one that provides real value can be profound, particularly during volatile periods when experience, judgment, and professionalism matter most.
This is where Cannon Trading Company stands apart.
Established in 1988, Cannon Trading Company represents what futures brokers were always meant to be: knowledgeable professionals with decades of experience, a deep understanding of markets, and a commitment to customer service that goes far beyond the transactional. In an industry increasingly crowded with short-lived firms and automated onboarding portals, Cannon Trading Company continues to demonstrate why longevity, expertise, and personal service remain the defining characteristics of elite futures brokers.
At the most basic level, futures brokers provide access to futures exchanges, enabling clients to trade standardized contracts across asset classes such as equities, interest rates, energy, metals, agriculture, and cryptocurrencies. However, reducing the role of futures brokers to order routing alone is a fundamental misunderstanding of their value.
Professional futures brokers serve as educators, risk managers, compliance guides, and strategic partners. They help clients understand margin requirements, contract specifications, liquidity conditions, and the real-world implications of leverage. They assist traders in selecting appropriate platforms, data feeds, and execution methods based on experience level and trading style. Most importantly, they act as a human safeguard in an otherwise fast-moving, unforgiving market environment.
When volatility spikes, systems fail, or unexpected market events occur, the presence of a seasoned futures broker can make the difference between orderly decision-making and costly mistakes. This is why traders who last in this business tend to gravitate toward futures brokers with proven track records rather than those offering the lowest headline commissions.
Futures trading is not new. These markets have existed in one form or another for centuries, evolving from agricultural hedging instruments into some of the most sophisticated financial products in the world. A futures broker who has lived through multiple market cycles brings a level of perspective that cannot be replicated by algorithms or newly formed firms.
Cannon Trading Company was founded in 1988, a time when futures trading was still largely conducted via open outcry pits. Since then, the firm has navigated the transition to electronic trading, the rise of algorithmic execution, multiple regulatory overhauls, financial crises, flash crashes, and unprecedented periods of global volatility. This depth of experience is not theoretical—it is lived.
Many modern futures brokers were formed in the aftermath of recent market booms, often without having experienced a true systemic stress event. Cannon Trading Company, by contrast, has remained active and relevant through decades of market evolution. That longevity speaks volumes about internal risk controls, ethical business practices, and an unwavering commitment to client success.
Professionalism in futures brokerage extends far beyond polished branding or sleek websites. It is reflected in how brokers communicate with clients, how transparently they explain risks, and how diligently they adhere to regulatory standards.
Cannon Trading Company has built its reputation on professionalism at every level of operation. From onboarding to daily account support, clients interact with experienced professionals who understand both the technical and emotional realities of futures trading. This includes clear explanations of margin usage, contract expiration, rollovers, and the mechanics of different futures markets.
Unlike firms that rely heavily on automated systems and generic support channels, Cannon Trading Company emphasizes direct access to knowledgeable representatives. Clients are not treated as ticket numbers or anonymous account IDs. Instead, they are engaged as individuals with unique goals, risk tolerances, and experience levels.
This professional approach fosters trust—an essential but often overlooked element in futures trading relationships.
While technology is essential, knowledge is irreplaceable. Many futures brokers focus heavily on platform features without ensuring that clients fully understand how to use them effectively. Cannon Trading Company takes a different approach.
With decades of hands-on market experience, Cannon’s team possesses deep knowledge of futures contracts, market microstructure, and execution nuances. This expertise allows them to guide traders in selecting platforms and tools that genuinely align with their trading objectives rather than pushing one-size-fits-all solutions.
Whether a client is trading equity index futures, interest rate contracts, or commodity markets, the value of having a broker who understands the unique behavior of each market cannot be overstated. Knowledgeable futures brokers help traders avoid common pitfalls such as misinterpreting tick values, underestimating volatility, or misunderstanding settlement procedures.
This level of insight is particularly valuable for newer traders, but it remains just as critical for seasoned professionals navigating evolving market conditions.
In an industry where many firms promote “24/7 support” but deliver little more than automated responses, genuine customer service has become a rare differentiator among futures brokers. Cannon Trading Company stands out precisely because customer service is not an afterthought—it is a cornerstone of the firm’s identity.
Clients working with Cannon Trading Company consistently highlight responsiveness, clarity, and accessibility as defining strengths. When questions arise—whether related to margin calls, platform functionality, or market conditions—clients can speak directly with experienced professionals who understand the context of their accounts.
This human connection becomes especially important during periods of market stress. Futures markets can move rapidly, and delays or miscommunication can have significant financial consequences. Cannon Trading Company’s commitment to second-to-none customer service ensures that clients are never left navigating critical moments alone.
Trust is not built overnight in the futures industry. It is earned through consistent behavior, regulatory compliance, and a demonstrated commitment to ethical standards. Cannon Trading Company’s establishment in 1988 places it among a select group of futures brokers that have stood the test of time.
Over the decades, the firm has built lasting relationships with individual traders, institutional clients, and industry partners. This longevity reflects a business model grounded in sustainability rather than short-term growth tactics. In an industry where firms frequently merge, rebrand, or disappear altogether, Cannon Trading Company’s continued independence and stability are meaningful indicators of strength.
For traders evaluating futures brokers, longevity should not be underestimated. A firm that has survived multiple market cycles is far more likely to understand the realities of risk, regulation, and client needs than one that has only operated during favorable conditions.
The best futures brokers do not simply execute trades—they act as strategic partners. They help clients think critically about risk management, capital allocation, and long-term sustainability in the markets.
Cannon Trading Company embodies this philosophy. Rather than encouraging excessive leverage or unrealistic expectations, the firm emphasizes education, discipline, and informed decision-making. This approach aligns with the realities of futures trading, where success is often measured by longevity and consistency rather than short-term gains.
By working closely with clients, Cannon Trading Company helps traders develop strategies that fit their experience level and financial objectives. This partnership-oriented mindset distinguishes the firm from brokers that focus solely on transaction volume.
The futures brokerage landscape is crowded, with many firms competing primarily on price. While low commissions can be attractive, they rarely compensate for poor service, limited support, or a lack of expertise.
Cannon Trading Company demonstrates that value is not defined solely by cost. Professionalism, decades of experience, deep market knowledge, and exceptional customer service collectively create an offering that far exceeds what many futures brokers provide.
In an environment where technology continues to level the playing field, human expertise and integrity remain the true differentiators. Cannon Trading Company’s ability to blend modern trading infrastructure with old-school professionalism is what sets it apart.
Choosing among futures brokers is one of the most important decisions a trader can make. The right broker provides not just market access, but guidance, stability, and confidence in navigating complex financial markets.
Since its establishment in 1988, Cannon Trading Company has exemplified what a professional futures broker should be. With decades of experience, a deep reservoir of knowledge, and customer service that is truly second to none, the firm continues to stand apart in an increasingly impersonal industry.
For traders who value professionalism, trust, and long-term partnership over gimmicks and shortcuts, Cannon Trading Company represents a clear and compelling choice among futures brokers. In a business where experience matters and service can define outcomes, Cannon Trading Company remains a benchmark for excellence.
Ready to start trading futures? Call us at 1(800)454-9572 (US) or (310)859-9572 (International), or email info@cannontrading.com to speak with one of our experienced, Series-3 licensed futures brokers and begin your futures trading journey with Cannon Trading Company today.
Disclaimer: Trading Futures, Options on Futures, and retail off-exchange foreign currency transactions involve substantial risk of loss and are not suitable for all investors. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Carefully consider if trading is suitable for you in light of your circumstances, knowledge, and financial resources. You may lose all or more of your initial investment. Opinions, market data, and recommendations are subject to change at any time.
Important: Trading commodity futures and options involves a substantial risk of loss. The recommendations contained in this article are opinions only and do not guarantee any profits. This article is for educational purposes. Past performances are not necessarily indicative of future results.
This article has been generated with the help of AI Technology and modified for accuracy and compliance.
Follow us on all socials: @cannontrading
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In the high-stakes arena of derivatives trading, the gap between profitability and substantial loss is often measured in milliseconds and micro-decisions. Yet, before a single contract is bought or sold, a trader makes perhaps their most critical financial decision: selecting the best futures broker to serve as their gateway to the global markets. This choice is not merely logistical; it is strategic. The right brokerage acts as a conduit for liquidity, a shield for capital safety, and a partner in executing complex strategies.
While the modern landscape is flooded with discount firms and automated interfaces, discerning traders consistently return to the foundational principles of service, longevity, and integrity. Among the pantheon of firms, Cannon Trading Company stands as a distinct and enduring example of what a best futures brokerage should be. Established in 1988, Cannon has navigated the transition from the physical trading pits to the digital age without losing the human element that defines true brokerage service.
The following Q&A essay explores the primary questions traders ask when vetting a potential partner, illustrating why Cannon Trading Company remains a prime example of these principles in practice.
“Is my capital safe, and how do I know this broker will be here tomorrow?”
The Answer: This is the single most important question a trader can ask. In an industry that has seen the collapse of major firms (such as MF Global or PFGBest), the safety of funds is paramount. The best futures broker is one that is fully regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and is a member of the National Futures Association (NFA). However, regulatory stamps are just the baseline. True security is demonstrated through longevity. A firm that has survived the Dot-com bubble, the 2008 financial crisis, the flash crash, and the volatility of the COVID-19 pandemic has proven its risk management culture.
The Cannon Trading Example: Cannon Trading Company has been in operation since 1988. This is not a trivial statistic; it is a testament to operational resilience. While fly-by-night discount firms often vanish during market downturns, Cannon has maintained its standing for over three decades. They operate as an Independent Introducing Broker (IIB), introducing accounts to some of the largest and most capitalized Futures Commission Merchants (FCMs) in the industry. This structure allows them to offer the personalized service of a boutique firm while their clients’ funds are held in segregated accounts at major clearing houses like StoneX or Wedbush. This dual layer of security—regulatory compliance and stable clearing partnerships—is why many consider them the best futures broker for safety-conscious traders.
“Will I be able to reach a human being when the markets go crazy?”
The Answer: Technology is perfect until it isn’t. When an internet connection fails, a platform freezes, or a limit order is rejected during a high-volatility event (like a Federal Reserve announcement), the ability to pick up the phone and speak to a licensed broker immediately is the difference between a managed exit and a catastrophic account blowout. The best futures brokers do not hide behind chatbots or email ticketing systems with 24-hour response times. They run fully staffed trade desks.
The Cannon Trading Example: This is perhaps Cannon Trading’s most significant competitive advantage. In an era where customer service is increasingly automated, Cannon maintains a “human-first” approach. Their phone lines are answered by licensed Series 3 brokers, not support scripts. Reviews on platforms like Trustpilot frequently cite specific brokers by name—Ilan, John, Kim—praising them for walking clients through platform setups or handling emergency orders. When searching for the best futures brokerage, this level of accessibility is often the deciding factor for professional traders who know that “uptime” refers to support as much as software.
“Are the commissions and fees transparent, or will I be nickel-and-dimed?”
The Answer: The “race to zero” in commissions has created a confusing landscape where a “low commission” often hides high data fees, platform fees, inactivity fees, and poor execution quality. The best futures broker offers what is known as “honest pricing.” They may not always be the absolute cheapest on the surface (though they are often competitive), but they provide value that exceeds the cost. Traders must ask: “What is the ‘all-in’ rate?” which includes exchange fees, NFA fees, and clearing fees. A transparency-focused broker will provide this breakdown upfront.
The Cannon Trading Example: Cannon Trading is known for offering flexible commission structures that can be tailored to the trader’s volume. Whether you are a high-volume scalper or a low-frequency swing trader, they work to find a rate that fits. More importantly, they do not engage in “hidden fee” tactics. Their E-Futures International platform, for instance, offers a robust trading environment without the exorbitant monthly software leases charged by some competitors. By balancing competitive commissions with superior service, they exemplify the value proposition of a best futures broker. They understand that the cheapest broker is expensive if they cost you a trade.
“Does the broker offer the specific trading platform I need for my strategy?”
The Answer: A scalper using order flow and a DOM (Depth of Market) has vastly different needs than a spread trader looking at daily charts or an algorithmic trader running Python scripts. The best futures brokers are platform-agnostic; they do not force you into a proprietary “walled garden.” Instead, they offer a suite of industry-standard platforms (like Sierra Chart, Trading Technologies, CQG, or Rithmic) and ensure seamless connectivity to the exchange.
The Cannon Trading Example: Cannon Trading offers access to a massive array of platforms, ensuring they can accommodate any trading style. Their proprietary-labeled solution, the E-Futures platform, is an excellent all-rounder for discretionary traders, offering charting and DOM trading. However, they also support heavy hitters like Sierra Chart (revered for its customization), MultiCharts, and MarketDelta. For mobile traders, the iBroker app integration allows clients to monitor positions from anywhere. This flexibility distinguishes them as a best futures brokerage, as they adapt to the trader’s tools rather than forcing the trader to adapt to theirs.
“What are the margin requirements, and are they realistic?”
The Answer: Day trading margins are a double-edged sword. While low margins (high leverage) attract many beginners, they also increase the risk of ruin. The best futures broker provides competitive day trading margins to allow for capital efficiency but couples this with responsible risk management advice. They should offer low margins for micro-contracts (e.g., Micro E-mini S&P 500) to allow smaller accounts to participate without being over-leveraged.
The Cannon Trading Example: Cannon Trading strikes a balance that appeals to serious traders. They offer aggressive day trading margins—often as low as $50 for Micro E-mini contracts and $500 for standard E-mini contracts during market hours. This allows for high capital efficiency. However, unlike “churn and burn” shops that encourage reckless leverage, Cannon’s brokers often act as risk managers, helping clients understand the implications of leverage. This responsible approach to margin is a hallmark of the best futures broker; they want you to survive in the long run, not just generate commissions today.
“Do they provide education that is actually useful, or just generic marketing fluff?”
The Answer: The internet is awash with “get rich quick” trading courses. A reputable broker counters this with sober, technical, and practical education. The best futures brokers provide daily market technicals, support and resistance levels, and tutorials on how to actually use the software. They focus on the mechanics of trading—how to place a bracket order, how to roll a contract, how to interpret a clearing statement.
The Cannon Trading Example: Cannon Trading publishes daily support and resistance levels that are widely read in the industry. These are not vague predictions but actionable price levels based on technical analysis. Furthermore, their “learning center” is populated with platform tutorials that save new clients hours of frustration. By focusing on the mechanics of trading and market structure rather than promising guaranteed returns, they uphold the ethical standards expected of a best futures brokerage.
“What is their relationship with the CME Group and other exchanges?”
The Answer: The Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME Group) is the world’s leading derivatives marketplace. The best futures broker must have a robust, low-latency connection to the CME. Whether it is for trading the E-mini S&P 500, Crude Oil (WTI), or Gold, the broker’s technology infrastructure must ensure that orders are routed to the exchange matching engine instantly.
The Cannon Trading Example: Through their clearing partnerships, Cannon Trading provides direct market access to the CME Group, ICE, Eurex, and CBOE. They ensure that clients are trading on the official exchange data, not a delayed or filtered feed. Their long-standing presence in the industry means they have deep institutional knowledge of how the CME operates, managing everything from expiration protocols to delivery notices for their clients. This connectivity reinforces their status as a best futures broker.
“Can they handle complex account types, such as IRAs, Trusts, or Corporate accounts?”
The Answer: Many discount apps only support individual margin accounts. However, professional trading often involves tax-advantaged structures. The best futures brokers have back-office teams capable of processing the paperwork for Self-Directed IRAs, Corporate Accounts, Trusts, and Foreign accounts. This capability signals a mature brokerage firm.
The Cannon Trading Example: Cannon Trading excels in this administrative complexity. They routinely handle accounts for LLCS, Trusts, and retirement accounts, working with custodians to facilitate futures trading within tax-advantaged vehicles. This level of service is rare among “app-based” brokers and highlights why Cannon is often chosen as the best futures brokerage for sophisticated entities and high-net-worth individuals who require more than just a basic login.


The futures industry is notoriously cyclical. Firms rise during volatility and fall during stagnation or due to scandal. Cannon Trading Company’s persistence since 1988 is not an accident; it is a result of adhering to the “old school” values of brokerage while adopting “new school” technology.
They understand that a best futures broker is not defined solely by the lowest commission tick or the flashiest website. It is defined by trust. Trust that the funds are segregated. Trust that the person on the phone knows what a “stop-limit” order is. Trust that the firm acts in the client’s interest.
Traders who leave Cannon often return after realizing that the grass is not greener at “zero-commission” brokerages where service is non-existent. By consistently answering the hard questions with transparency and integrity, Cannon Trading Company continues to set the bar. They do not just facilitate trades; they facilitate careers. For the novice attempting to navigate their first contract, or the institutional hedger managing exposure, Cannon Trading remains a prime example of the best futures brokers available in the market today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the minimum deposit to open an account with Cannon Trading? A: Cannon Trading generally requires a minimum deposit of $2,000 to open a standard account, though this can vary depending on the specific clearing firm and account type. For specific programs or micro-trading, they may be flexible; it is best to speak with a broker directly.
Q: Does Cannon Trading offer a demo account? A: Yes, Cannon Trading offers free demo accounts for most of their platforms, including their flagship E-Futures International. This allows traders to practice strategies and get comfortable with the interface using real-time market data before risking real capital.
Q: Can I trade Micro E-mini contracts with Cannon Trading? A: Absolutely. Cannon Trading supports the full suite of CME Micro products, including Micro S&P 500, Micro Nasdaq, Micro Gold, and Micro Oil. They offer very competitive margins on these products, making them accessible for smaller accounts.
Q: Is Cannon Trading a “Discount Broker”? A: Cannon Trading is a full-service broker that offers discount pricing. They blur the line by providing the low commissions typically associated with discount firms while providing the broker-assisted service and support typically associated with full-service commission houses.
Q: How do I withdraw my funds? A: Fund withdrawal is a streamlined process. Clients submit a withdrawal request form, and because funds are held in segregated accounts at top-tier clearing firms (like StoneX), wire transfers are typically processed within 24 to 48 hours.
Q: Is Cannon Trading regulated? A: Yes, Cannon Trading Company is registered with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) and is a member of the National Futures Association (NFA), NFA ID: 0216708. They have been in good standing since their inception in 1988.
Q: What makes a firm the “best futures broker”? A: The best futures broker is characterized by regulatory compliance, segregation of funds, reliable trading platforms, accessible customer service (real brokers), and competitive, transparent pricing. Cannon Trading checks all these boxes.
Additional Considerations for the Modern Trader
When evaluating the best futures brokers, one must also consider the evolution of market data. Cannon Trading provides options for Level 1 and Level 2 data packages, allowing traders to see the full depth of the order book. This is crucial for order-flow traders who rely on “reading the tape.” Furthermore, their integration with third-party analytical tools means that traders can perform sophisticated technical analysis outside the execution platform if they choose.
Another aspect that cements Cannon’s reputation as a best futures brokerage is their blog and newsletter. In an industry often filled with noise, their market commentary provides clarity, summarizing overnight action in Asian and European sessions to prepare US-based traders for the opening bell.
Ultimately, the search for the best futures broker ends when a trader finds a firm that aligns with their risk tolerance and service needs. For thousands of traders over the last 37 years, that search has ended at Cannon Trading Company.
Ready to start trading futures? Call us at 1(800)454-9572 (US) or (310)859-9572 (International), or email info@cannontrading.com to speak with one of our experienced, Series-3 licensed futures brokers and begin your futures trading journey with Cannon Trading Company today.
Disclaimer: Trading Futures, Options on Futures, and retail off-exchange foreign currency transactions involve substantial risk of loss and are not suitable for all investors. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Carefully consider if trading is suitable for you in light of your circumstances, knowledge, and financial resources. You may lose all or more of your initial investment. Opinions, market data, and recommendations are subject to change at any time.
Important: Trading commodity futures and options involves a substantial risk of loss. The recommendations contained in this article are opinions only and do not guarantee any profits. This article is for educational purposes. Past performances are not necessarily indicative of future results.
This article has been generated with the help of AI Technology and modified for accuracy and compliance.
Follow us on all socials: @cannontrading
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