LAKEFRONT FUTURES

Lakefront Futures & Options, LLC is a US-based brokerage firm that focuses on commodity futures and options. Founded on March 15, 2019, the company is headquartered at 325 West Huron Street Suite 512, Chicago, IL 60654. It operates as an independent brokerage, clearing trades through multiple Futures Commission Merchants (FCMs) such as Rosenthal Collins Group, R.J. O'Brien, and others. The firm caters to a diverse clientele, including individual speculators, commercial hedgers (especially in agriculture), and investors seeking managed futures.

A critical aspect of Lakefront Futures is its lack of direct regulatory oversight. The broker is not registered with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) or the National Futures Association (NFA) as a futures commission merchant or introducing broker. This means clients do not have access to the protections typically afforded by registration, such as segregation of funds or dispute resolution through regulatory channels. While Lakefront claims to clear at regulated FCMs, the firm itself operates without regulatory supervision, which significantly increases counterparty risk. Traders should exercise due diligence and understand that recourse is limited in the event of a dispute.

Lakefront offers a range of services centered on commodity futures and options. For commercial entities, it provides custom hedging strategies to manage price risk in agricultural commodities, metals, energy, and softs. Speculative traders can access futures and options for a wide variety of underlyings through electronic or broker-assisted trading. The firm also offers managed futures programs, where professional Commodity Trading Advisors (CTAs) make trading decisions on behalf of clients. Educational resources include market commentary, webinars, and one-on-one coaching.

The broker provides its proprietary Exchange Direct platform, which integrates trading, charting, news, and data. Exchange Direct offers real-time quotes, market depth, and one-click execution, according to the website. Additionally, Lakefront leverages relationships with multiple FCMs to offer clients a choice of third-party platforms, including popular retail trading systems. The firm emphasizes speed and functionality, with 24/7 e-help desk support.

Lakefront does not publicly detail specific account tiers but states it accommodates traders of all sizes and experience levels. To open an account, clients must complete an account package and fund via personal check, cashier’s check, or bank wire. Importantly, checks must be made payable to the clearing FCM, not to Lakefront Futures, indicating that funds are held by the clearing firm. IRA and 401(k) accounts are supported through Millennium Trust Company as custodian.

The broker targets three primary groups: (1) commercial producers and agribusinesses needing hedging services, (2) retail speculative traders looking to trade commodities futures and options, and (3) investors seeking alternative investments through managed futures. The firm emphasizes personalized service and claims to cater to both beginners and seasoned traders, though the lack of regulation may be a concern for risk-averse clients.

Lakefront Futures & Options, LLC is registered in the United States with the address 325 West Huron Street Suite 512, Chicago, IL 60654. The company maintains a Facebook and LinkedIn presence. Founded in 2019, it is a relatively new entrant in the futures brokerage industry. The firm describes itself as an independent brokerage, which means it acts as an intermediary between clients and clearing FCMs rather than being a direct clearing member of exchanges.