Commodity Futures Trading Commission Research and Development Modernization Act of 2025

Summary

Requires the Commodity Futures Trading Commission to set up and run research, development, demonstration, and public information programs to study emerging technologies and their effects on CFTC-regulated markets (including cybersecurity, data security, and systemic risk). It lets the Commission adopt written R&D plans, use "other transactions" (a flexible procurement tool) when contracts are not appropriate, accept limited non-monetary contributions for R&D work under set conditions (with a sunset on that authority), and file detailed reports to Congressional agriculture committees on these activities each year.

• Requires the CFTC to create and maintain R&D, demonstration, and public information programs focused on emerging technologies affecting derivatives markets.
• Allows the CFTC to adopt written R&D plans by rule or order that specify focus areas and how other-transaction authority will be used.
• Authorizes the Commission to enter into 'other transactions' (a procurement flexibility) when contracts are infeasible and in support of an R&D plan, with required written policies and competition efforts.
• Permits the CFTC to accept certain limited non-monetary contributions (e.g., data sharing, facility access) for R&D work, subject to conditions and a sunset (Oct 1, 2031).
• Prohibits soliciting or accepting contributions that are conditional, inconsistent with rules, would appear to endorse contributors, or could have been reasonably acquired by contract.
• Requires timely notifications to House and Senate Agriculture Committees when accepting non-monetary contributions and an annual, detailed report on other transactions and contributions.
• Does not itself appropriate funds or change tax law; it amends the Commodity Exchange Act to add authorities and reporting duties.
• Places transparency and procedural controls around new procurement and contribution authorities to limit misuse and ensure oversight.