BestEx Research Introduces TASClose: The Future of Futures Trading Execution

Introduction to TASClose

On March 11, 2026, BestEx Research made a significant stride in the trading landscape with the introduction of TASClose, an innovative execution algorithm tailored specifically for institutional futures traders. This cutting-edge solution is engineered to enhance execution efficiency by maximizing the capture of settlement prices during the critical trading times surrounding market settlement periods.

The Importance of Settlement Prices

For institutional investors such as hedge funds, asset managers, and ETF managers, securing the correct settlement price is paramount. This price serves as a benchmark for daily performance metrics and asset valuations. To minimize potential slippage against the net asset value (NAV), these traders need a strategy that allows them to accurately target this settlement price without incurring unnecessary costs.

Challenges with Traditional Trading Methods

Traditionally, settlement prices are formulated as a volume-weighted average price (VWAP) over a limited time frame, often the last one or two minutes of trading. This narrow window presents challenges: executing orders during this period can increase the risk of market impact, meaning traders might face unfavorable fills that deviate from the desired benchmark. While Trading at Settlement (TAS) contracts allow traders to secure a price that ensures the settlement price without trading during the settlement window, the complexity of executing across both TAS and underlying futures liquidity can lead to inefficiencies. Traders often find themselves manually coordinating both legs of the trade to avoid overfills, which can be cumbersome and time-consuming.

How TASClose Works

TASClose simplifies this intricate process. It enables clients to submit a TAS order alongside an underlying futures order, and the algorithm automatically coordinates these trades. By optimizing the execution of both components, TASClose seeks to minimize divergence from the settlement price while also reducing any potential market impact. This innovative approach not only alleviates the operational burdens faced by traders but also enhances their capacity to capture crucial settlement prices more effectively.

Client Insights and Industry Reception

Nick Ashwin, Product Manager for Futures and Head of Execution Services at BestEx Research, underscores the need for such a tool: "Many clients have left TAS liquidity untapped due to the operational complexities in coordinating execution. TASClose automates this process, allowing traders to achieve the settlement price with minimal effort."

The reception for TASClose has been overwhelmingly positive, particularly from some of the largest hedge funds and asset managers worldwide, highlighting an evident demand for advanced trading solutions that effectively reduce the costs of execution. Hitesh Mittal, Founder and CEO of BestEx Research, states, "We believe TASClose sets a new standard in algorithmic trading for futures. We are committed to continuous innovation aimed at helping our clients minimize execution costs."

Availability and Future Developments

TASClose is now operational across 29 eligible markets, including high-demand commodities such as Crude Oil, Natural Gas, Copper, and Corn. This range encompasses both outright trades and calendar spreads, with the potential for expansion aligned with client requirements. BestEx Research is taking a customer-first approach to ensure its offerings evolve based on market needs.

For those interested in further exploration or a demo, BestEx Research encourages inquiries through their dedicated contact channels.

About BestEx Research

Founded with the mission of providing sophisticated execution algorithms, BestEx Research has emerged as a leading name in innovative trading solutions aimed at reducing transaction costs for buy-side managers. Their cloud-based Algorithm Management System integrates execution algorithms with a user-friendly interface, transaction cost analytics, customization options, and automation functionalities, defining the future of algorithmic execution in multiple asset classes. Interested parties can find more about their services at bestexresearch.com.