 CMC Markets, the spread betting house founded by former Conservative party co-treasurer Peter Cruddas, had a record half-year as punters raced to bet on volatile markets. Cruddas, once dubbed the richest man in the City, said he is delighted with how the focus on high value clients is paying off. Revenues from CFDs contracts for difference were 200 million in the six months to September, compared to 85 million a year ago. The move into stockbroking is also paying off, with revenues of 26 million, up from 14 million last time. 