Margin for Long and Short Positions on Futures ES and MES

[Mod-MattZ]

Earlier today, we received an inquiry about whether positions in ES (E-mini S&P 500) or MES (Micro E-mini S&P 500) Futures carry different margin requirements depending on whether those positions are long or short.

The distinction between long and short exchange overnight initial and maintenance margin is highlighted on the CME’s website for the particular product you are trading, under the “margin tab”.

For example, here is the margin page for MES ( Micro E-mini S&P 500 Index): https://www.cmegroup.com/markets/equities/sp/micro-e-mini-sandp-500.margins.html

Please remember that any positions held into the market close first require the exchange initial margin, which is 10% more than maintenance margin.

Ask your questions below.

Best,
Matt Z
Optimus Futures
www.optimusfutures.com