In this article, we will explain the key differences between CFDs (Contracts for Difference) and Futures CFDs, helping you understand their unique characteristics.
Overview
CFDs (Contracts for Difference):
A CFD is a financial contract that allows traders to speculate on the price movement of an asset without owning the underlying asset itself. Traders can profit from both rising and falling markets.
Futures CFDs:
Futures CFDs are contracts based on a Futures market. Unlike standard CFDs, which reflect the live price of the underlying asset, Futures CFDs are linked to a contract that expires at a specified date in the future.
Key Differences
| Feature | CFDs | Futures CFDs |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership of Asset | No ownership of the underlying asset. | No ownership of the underlying asset. |
| Expiration Date | No expiration date—positions can be held indefinitely (subject to overnight fees). | Have a defined expiration date based on the futures contract. |
| Pricing | Mirrors the live market price of the asset. | Linked to the price of the corresponding futures contract. |
| Overnight Fees | Charged when holding positions overnight. | Typically no overnight fees as pricing is based on futures expiry. |
| Leverage | Available, allowing higher exposure with lower capital. | Also offers leverage, though margins may differ. |
| Market Types | Available on a wide range of assets, including stocks, commodities, indices, etc. | Based on futures contracts for specific assets like commodities, indices, and currencies. |
| Contract Settlement | No settlement as there’s no expiry; you close the position when you decide. | Settles based on the expiration date of the underlying futures contract. |
How They Work
-
CFDs:
When you trade CFDs, you enter a contract with a broker to exchange the difference between the price of an asset when you open the position and the price when you close it. If the price moves in your favor, you earn a profit, and if it moves against you, you incur a loss. -
Futures CFDs:
When trading Futures CFDs, you speculate on the price movement of a futures contract rather than the actual asset. Futures CFDs have an expiration date, and their price is tied to the futures contract that underlies the CFD. Upon expiry, your position is automatically closed.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between CFDs and Futures CFDs depends on your trading strategy and goals:
- Short-term traders may prefer regular CFDs for their flexibility and ability to hold positions indefinitely.
- Traders focused on longer-term trends or those who want to avoid overnight fees might opt for Futures CFDs, as they have set expiration dates.