One term, clearly explained

Margin

Money or assets required to support obligations arising from a position, under the rules of the product and account.

Updated: Sep 28, 2026 · Verified: Sep 28, 2026

Definition

Money or assets required to support obligations arising from a position, under the rules of the product and account.

What you need to know

For futures, margin is not a down payment on the purchase of the underlying asset. Initial and maintenance requirements are distinct; the broker may require an additional amount. Breaching the threshold may result in a margin call or closure of the position.

This information is for learning and comparison, not investment advice. Verify product details and eligibility conditions against the current source.

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