Can I trade futures on the Gate.io app?

Gate.io’s mobile app supports futures trading with USDT- or coin-margined contracts, but users must complete KYC verification and transfer funds to the futures wallet to begin.

Jul 25, 2025 at 07:42 am

Understanding Futures Trading on Gate.io

Yes, you can trade futures on the Gate.io app. The platform supports a comprehensive futures trading interface directly within its mobile application, allowing users to access perpetual and delivery futures contracts for a wide range of cryptocurrencies. This feature is available to both new and experienced traders who have completed the necessary verification steps. To begin, ensure your account is fully verified under KYC (Know Your Customer) policies, as unverified accounts may face restrictions or be denied access to leverage trading entirely.

How to Access the Futures Section

Once logged into the Gate.io mobile app:

• Tap the “Trade” tab located at the bottom navigation bar
• Select “Futures” from the dropdown or swipe horizontally until you land on the futures trading screen
• Choose between “USDT-Margined” or “Coin-Margined” contracts depending on your preference
• Browse available pairs such as BTC/USDT, ETH/USDT, or altcoin futures like SOL/USDT
  Each contract type offers distinct leverage options and settlement mechanisms, so it's critical to understand the differences before placing any order.
  

  Setting Up Leverage and Margin Mode

  
  Before placing a trade:
• Tap the leverage indicator (e.g., “20x”) near the price chart
• Select your desired leverage—options typically range from 1x to 100x depending on the asset
• Toggle between “Cross Margin” and “Isolated Margin” modes based on your risk tolerance
  Cross Margin uses your entire wallet balance as collateral, which can increase liquidation risk but allows for better margin efficiency. Isolated Margin limits risk to the allocated position size only. Always review the liquidation price displayed in real-time before confirming your settings.
  

  Placing a Futures Order Step-by-Step

  
  To open a long or short position:
• Choose “Limit”, “Market”, or “Post-Only” order type based on execution preference
• Enter the quantity in either base currency (e.g., BTC) or quote currency (e.g., USDT)
• Set a stop-loss or take-profit level by tapping “Advanced” and entering price triggers
• Review the “Estimated Liquidation Price” and “Initial Margin Required”
• Confirm by tapping “Buy/Long” or “Sell/Short”
  Always double-check order parameters, especially when using high leverage, as small price movements can result in significant gains or losses. The app provides real-time risk indicators that update dynamically as market conditions change.
  

  Managing Open Positions and Orders

  
  From the “Positions” tab in the futures section:
• View all active positions with real-time PnL (Profit and Loss)
• Adjust leverage or margin type even after opening a position
• Close a position manually or set trailing stops via the “More” menu
• Monitor funding rates for perpetual contracts to avoid unexpected costs
  Funding payments occur every 8 hours and can be positive or negative depending on market conditions, so active traders should monitor these to manage costs effectively.
  

  Security and Risk Management Tools

  
  Gate.io provides built-in tools to help manage futures trading risks:
• Enable “Position Alerts” to receive push notifications when prices hit thresholds
• Use the “Auto-Deleveraging” warning system to understand potential forced liquidations
• Set up two-factor authentication (2FA) and withdrawal whitelisting for account safety
• Access historical orders and trade history under the “Account” section
  These tools are essential for maintaining control over your futures portfolio, especially when trading on mobile where real-time monitoring may be limited.
  

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  FAQs

  Q: Do I need to deposit funds specifically into a futures wallet?
  
  Yes. You must transfer funds from your spot wallet to the futures wallet within the app. Navigate to “Assets” → “Futures Wallet” → “Transfer” and select the asset (e.g., USDT). This step is mandatory before placing any futures trade.

  Q: Can I trade futures on Gate.io without completing KYC?
  
  No. Futures trading requires Level 2 KYC verification. If your account isn’t verified, go to “Profile” → “Verification” and complete identity and, if needed, address verification. Without this, the futures tab will remain inaccessible or non-functional.

  Q: What happens if my position gets liquidated?
  
  If the market hits your liquidation price, the system automatically closes the position to prevent further losses. You’ll receive a push notification and an email. The remaining margin (if any) stays in your futures wallet, but losses beyond initial margin are not charged due to Gate.io’s insurance fund.

  Q: Are there fees for opening or closing futures positions?
  
  Yes. Gate.io charges taker and maker fees for futures trades, typically ranging from 0.02% to 0.06% depending on your 30-day trading volume. Fees are deducted from your futures wallet balance at execution, and you can view them under “Transaction History” in the futures section.