Commodity Exchange

Definition ∞ A commodity exchange is a regulated marketplace where raw materials and primary agricultural products are bought and sold. These exchanges facilitate price discovery and provide standardized contracts for trading physical goods or their derivatives. Examples include oil, gold, grains, and livestock. The exchange ensures fair trading practices and provides mechanisms for hedging against price fluctuations.
Context ∞ The classification of digital assets by regulatory bodies often references commodity exchanges, particularly when discussing whether cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin should be treated as commodities. This distinction influences legal oversight, taxation, and the types of financial products that can be offered. News articles frequently report on regulatory debates concerning the appropriate framework for digital assets, comparing them to established commodity markets.