Mark G. Bagan passed away at the age of 58 in 2024, leaving behind a legacy of achievement and dedication in the US futures industry.
His professional journey began in 1987, when he joined the Minneapolis Grain Exchange (MGEX) as an intern. Exhibiting exceptional leadership, Bagan rose through the company, leading his teams with wisdom, integrity and compassion. In 2005, he was appointed chief executive officer of MGEX, a position he held until his passing.
During his tenure, Bagan was instrumental in guiding MGEX to record volume levels for its flagship contract, Hard Red Spring Wheat, and in transitioning MGEX futures contracts to exclusively electronic trading. He oversaw the 125th MGEX anniversary celebration in 2006 and began working to transition the exchange to a for-profit entity, paving the path for its future. In 2020, the exchange’s membership overwhelmingly approved MGEX’s sale to Miami International Holdings.
Bagan represented MGEX (now MIAX Futures Exchange) in a variety of industry organizations, including FIA and on the boards of the National Futures Association and the Commodities Market Council. He also served on the Joint Audit Committee, Joint Compliance Committee, Inter-Financial Surveillance Group and various task forces of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission.
Though he may no longer walk among us, his legacy endures – a testament to his expertise and strategic vision, which earned him widespread admiration and respect. Bagan was a visionary whose innovative thinking and bold decision-making set new standards of success.
