What price is used as the basis for contract liquidation?

When a futures contract is liquidated, the settlement price is typically based on the Mark-to-Market (MTM) Price, representing the current fair market value.

Oct 08, 2024 at 10:33 am

1. What Price is Used as the Basis for Contract Liquidation?

When a futures contract is liquidated, the price used as the basis for settlement is typically:

a. Mark-to-Market (MTM) Price: The current fair market value of the underlying asset, as determined by the exchange or a third-party pricing service.

2. Understanding Price Basis

The price basis for liquidation ensures that both parties to the contract receive a fair settlement. Here's how it works:

• If the spot price is higher than the futures price at the time of liquidation, the short seller must pay the difference to the long seller. This compensates the long seller for missing out on the potential profit they could have realized by holding the contract until expiration.
• If the spot price is lower than the futures price, the long seller must pay the difference to the short seller. This compensates the short seller for missing out on the potential loss they could have avoided by closing the contract at a higher price.

3. Exceptions to MTM Pricing

In some cases, the following exceptions may apply:

• Index Futures: May use a volume-weighted average price (VWAP) over a specific timeframe.
• Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs): May use the closing price of the underlying ETF shares.
• Commodity Futures: May use physical settlement based on the actual delivery of the underlying commodity.

4. Importance of Accurate Pricing

Accurate pricing is crucial to ensure fairness and avoid disputes during contract liquidation. Exchanges and regulators actively monitor and regulate pricing mechanisms to maintain market integrity and transparency.