Regulation

MarketWatch: More counties to lack Medicare Advantage plans; millions face fewer choices during open enrollment

Millions of Americans will face fewer choices during Medicare open enrollment, MarketWatch reported, as the number of counties with no Medicare Advantage plans is set to rise to 181 in 2027 from 67 in 2026.

CFTC moves to classify certain event contracts as swaps, seeks public comment

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission proposed explicitly treating a range of event contracts as swaps and opened a 30-day public comment window once the notice is published in the Federal Register.

CFTC codifies exclusion of casino-style gambling from “swap” definition via interim rule

The Commodity Futures Trading Commission issued an interim final rule clarifying that casino-style gambling, including sportsbook and casino wagers, is not a “swap.” The rule takes effect upon Federal Register publication, with a 30-day public comment window, according to the CFTC.

SEC proposes expanding cross trades for funds, restoring most fixed-income eligibility

The SEC proposed amendments to its cross-trading rule to again permit most fixed‑income cross trades by registered funds and add new safeguards and reporting, aiming to lower costs for shareholders.

Treasury’s Bessent brings on Judy Shelton as counselor to advise on currency, China

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has appointed Judy Shelton as a counselor to advise on currency policy with a focus on financial conditions in China, according to CNBC. Shelton’s prior nomination to the Federal Reserve was blocked by the Senate over her policy views.

Blockchain.com seeks CFTC nod to run prediction markets and crypto derivatives in U.S.

The digital asset firm applied to the CFTC for futures-exchange designation and broker registration, aiming to bring event contracts and cryptocurrency derivatives to U.S. customers, according to CNBC.