Crude Oil Futures & Options Expiry 2026

Trading commodities like crude oil using futures & options is very useful whether you aim to speculate on the commodity's price or hedge your positions. However, when trading derivative contracts like F&O, it is vital to know the expiry dates of the contracts. Let’s take a look at the crude oil expiry details for 2026.

What is Crude Oil Futures & Options Expiry?

Futures & Options (F&O) are derivative contracts. These contracts do not hold any intrinsic value and derive their value from the underlying asset. In this case, the futures and options contracts derive their value from crude oil. A change in crude oil prices affects the prices of its futures and options.

Both futures and options are contracts in which participants agree to purchase or sell a commodity at a predetermined price on a specific date. The expiry date is the last trading day of these contracts, after which the parties have the right to exercise the contract and take delivery of the commodity. In India, crude oil futures and options in the commodity exchanges are cash-settled and not physically delivered. Alternatively, traders can settle the contract in a cash settlement or rollover the position to the next expiry.

Crude Oil Futures Expiry Dates 2026

Here are the expiry dates for MCX crude oil futures contracts in 2026 -

Crude Oil Options Expiry Dates 2026

Here are the expiry dates for MCX crude oil options contracts in 2026 -

Factors That Can Affect Crude Oil Prices at Expiry

Numerous factors impact the price of crude oil. Given the volatility of crude oil prices, here are some key factors that affect the price of crude oil contracts at expiry.

Demand and Supply

One of the main factors that affects the price of crude oil is global demand and supply. When demand exceeds supply, the price of crude oil increases, and when supply exceeds demand, the price of crude oil declines.

Currency Rates

For countries that depend heavily on crude oil imports, the currency rate plays a crucial role in determining the price of crude oil. When the domestic currency is weak, its purchasing power declines. More money is needed to purchase the same amount of crude oil, making imports of crude oil expensive. This leads to higher domestic crude oil prices.

Geopolitical and Economic Events

Traders should always keep an eye on geopolitical events, such as wars, trade restrictions, tariffs, and environmental regulations, as they can significantly impact crude oil prices. Economic events such as inflation rates, manufacturing activity, GDP growth, and other key data also affect crude oil prices.

Crude Oil Inventory Levels

Crude oil inventory levels are a great indicator of demand and supply. A higher inventory of crude oil indicates lower demand for the commodity, and vice versa. Traders can track weekly crude oil inventory levels to understand demand and supply dynamics better.