Introduction to Contract Trading: Understanding Leverage, Long/Short Positions, and Risk Management

Basic Concepts of Futures Trading

Futures Trading allows users to speculate on price movements without directly holding the asset. Long positions bet on rising prices, while short positions bet on falling prices. Leverage amplifies the scale of principal operations, bringing higher returns while also increasing risk. When market prices move against the position and margin is insufficient, the system will automatically liquidate the position (margin call).

The differences between perpetual contracts and futures contracts

Perpetual contracts have no fixed expiration date, making them suitable for short-term and high-frequency trading, adjusting the long-short balance through periodic funding rates. Futures trading has a definite delivery date, making it suitable for medium- to long-term trend trading, but it involves the risk of price fluctuations at the time of delivery. Both have their advantages, and investors can choose based on their strategies.

Trading Operations and Margin Management

Before trading, you need to choose between the cross margin or isolated margin mode. Cross margin shares margin, but the risks are joint, while isolated margin independently manages risks. Choose an appropriate leverage multiplier, place orders at market price or limit price, and set take-profit and stop-loss to control risks. Understanding the estimated liquidation price and margin rate helps avoid liquidation.

Risk Warning and Practical Advice

Futures trading is high risk, and it is recommended that beginners start with low leverage, reasonably diversify investments, and avoid using essential living funds. Closely monitor changes in funding rates and market dynamics, and use simulated trading to familiarize yourself with the operational process in order to progress steadily.

Summary

Mastering the core concepts and operational skills of Futures Trading is an important step into the crypto market. Rational investment, strict Risk Management, and continuous learning will help you achieve stable profits in a volatile market.