NYMEX Holdings (NMX): Back to the futures

In this generally difficult market, there are still areas that are hot, and the energy futures market is one such area. One place that benefits from the solid business in futures trading is the exchange itself where such futures are traded. NYMEX Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: NMX) is the largest exchange for energy futures and options contracts trading in the world.

Additionally, it trades contracts for gold, silver, copper, aluminum and other metals. The company went public in 2006, and despite some stumbles along the way, I like the direction it is heading. In 2006, it began using Chicago Mercantile Exchange's Globex electronic trading platform, which has proven a terrific move. Analysts believe that these two firms have merger potential.

This pick isn't without its risks. Certainly, exchanges are highly susceptible to regulatory changes. NYMEX has competition as well, in the form of IntercontinentalExchange, Inc. (NYSE: ICE). Prior to NYMEX starting its electronic trading, Intercontinental was able to capture roughly half of its crude oil market share. While NYMEX has managed to get most of this business back, no question that Intercontinental is an competitor to keep your eye on.