Futures margin is a performance bond supporting leveraged exposure, not the price paid for the contract and not a maximum-loss amount.
| Initial margin | Required to open/carry |
|---|---|
| Maintenance | Minimum ongoing level |
| Risk | Can exceed posted margin |
How it works
Brokers and exchanges may change requirements during volatility, and lower intraday rates may not apply into the close.
- Define the contract and expiration month
- Convert the price move into points and ticks
- Multiply by the contract's verified point or tick value
- Account for fees, liquidity, and risk limits
Worked example
Margin enables leverage. A two-contract position moving 10 ticks changes by 20 total contract-ticks. The dollar result equals those contract-ticks multiplied by the product's tick value.
Risk and common mistakes
Size from stop-based loss and drawdown capacity, not from the maximum contracts margin permits.
- Confusing margin with maximum possible loss
- Using the wrong micro or E-mini multiplier
- Ignoring expiration, maintenance breaks, or economic events
- Sizing from desired profit instead of predefined risk
Use the related calculator
Model the contract values and risk with your own inputs before planning a simulated trade.
Open calculator →Frequently asked questions
What is the most important point about futures margin explained?+
Futures margin is a performance bond supporting leveraged exposure, not the price paid for the contract and not a maximum-loss amount.
Is this information personalized financial advice?+
No. ORIVECT Education provides general educational information. Contract selection, leverage, and risk decisions require your own judgment and current official documentation.
Where can I verify the current contract specification?+
Use the official exchange source linked from the relevant ORIVECT market reference page. Trading hours, margin, and holiday schedules can change.