Thats funny that LCH is going to clear nymex clearport stuff. Ice cut ties with them last year, and are bringing clearing over here starting this summer. IMO, Ice will crush nymex in OTC, as they will have the flexibility to create new products without the constraint of another entity. (I.e. NYM having to ask LCH to clear new products).
hike margins and the price skyrockets.... fewer players means more vol. and OPEC wont just sit there and watch without notice. DeBeers run the diamond biz the same way... freeze out or buy out the competition and you can run the show besides, everyone will just trade Brent instead...