New CFTC Customer Advisory Cautions The Public To Beware Of Trading Based On Internet Hype Date 06/04/2021 The Commodity Futures Trading Commission today issued a Customer Advisory strongly encouraging the public to research and understand the commodity futures markets, physical markets, and securities markets before trading based on information on social media. The advisory also warns of the risks associated with futures trading or buying physical commodities, such as precious metals. The Market Participants Division (MPD) issued the customer advisory in recognition of National Financial Capability Month, which began April 1. “Recent trading activity and market volatility triggered by posts on online message boards and social media platforms have given our Office of Customer Education and Outreach a perfect opportunity to remind investors of possible risks involved when making trading decisions that are impulsive or not thoroughly researched,” said MPD Acting Director Amanda Olear. “Investing in precious metals is not inherently risky, however investors need to know it is not risk-free.”