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Chicago Mercantile Exchange Center facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

The Chicago Mercantile Exchange Center is a large office complex made of two tall towers in Chicago, Illinois. These buildings were finished in 1987 and each has 40 floors! They were designed by the architects Fujikawa Johnson. People sometimes call this important building "The Merc" or by its address, 30 South Wacker. It's one of the tallest buildings in Chicago.

Cme building aerial view
The Chicago Mercantile Exchange at 30 South Wacker

About the Chicago Mercantile Exchange Center

The Chicago Mercantile Exchange Center is home to the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME). This is a very important place where people buy and sell things like farm products, metals, and even money from different countries. It's like a big marketplace, but instead of physical goods, people trade promises to buy or sell things in the future.

Design and Construction

The two towers of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange Center were built to be strong and modern. They were completed in 1987, which means they have been a part of Chicago's skyline for many years. The architects, Fujikawa Johnson, made sure the buildings were not only tall but also useful for the many businesses inside.

  • Height: Each tower has 40 floors, making them quite tall.
  • Location: The complex is located at 30 South Wacker Drive, right in the heart of downtown Chicago.
  • Purpose: These towers provide office space for many companies, especially those involved in finance and trading.

Why is "The Merc" Important?

The Chicago Mercantile Exchange, often called "The Merc," is one of the largest financial exchanges in the world. This means that important decisions about prices and trading happen here every day. It helps connect buyers and sellers from all over the globe. The buildings are a symbol of Chicago's role as a major center for business and trade.

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