The National Stock Exchange (NSE) has partnered with S&P Global Energy (Platts) to introduce NSE Dated Brent Crude (Platts) futures in its commodity derivatives segment. Trading is expected to begin on April 13, 2026.
This launch is subject to approval from Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). Once approved, Indian refineries and traders will be able to directly protect themselves (hedge) against global oil price changes.
What Are Brent Crude Futures?
In India, crude oil trading usually happens on Multi Commodity Exchange of India (MCX), which mainly follows US oil prices (WTI).
Now, India is introducing Brent crude futures, which are based on global oil prices. Around 60–70% of the world’s crude oil trade is linked to Brent prices.
With this launch, Indian traders will be able to trade directly based on global oil rates through NSE.
This step will expand NSE’s energy segment, increase competition, and likely boost trading activity.
Key Features of the New Contracts
The contracts will be launched under the symbol ‘BRCRUDEOIL’.
Prices will be based on the S&P Global Energy (Platts) Dated Brent Assessment, a major global oil benchmark.
The minimum trade size will be 100 barrels of oil.
These contracts will be cash-settled, meaning profits or losses will be paid in rupees based on the final price.
Even though oil is traded in US dollars globally, Indian traders will be able to trade in rupees on NSE.
Benefits for Traders and Companies
This new product will help both government and private oil companies in India to lock in prices in advance (hedging). This can protect them from losses caused by rising international oil prices.
At the same time, small investors will get another major platform apart from MCX to trade and potentially earn profits from changes in global oil prices.
