CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 77% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
From 5 January 2027, we are increasing the margin requirement on Volatility Index (VIX) futures CFDs from 10% to 20%, which reduces the maximum leverage from 1:10 to 1:5.
VIX futures track expected volatility in the US stock market and can rise sharply within a single trading session, especially during periods of market stress. These moves can also happen overnight or over a weekend. When they do, prices may gap, and stop-loss orders or automatic close-outs may not execute at the level you expect.
Given current market conditions, we are taking this step to help manage the risks of sharp market movements. The change applies to both new and existing positions.
If you hold VIX futures CFDs, please review your positions and available funds before 5 January. You will find answers to common questions below.
What is changing?
From 5 January 2027, the margin requirement on VIX futures CFDs increases from 10% to 20%. Leverage reduces from 1:10 to 1:5.
Why are you making this change?
Given current market conditions, we are taking this proactive step to help manage the risks of potential sharp market movements.
Which instruments and positions does it apply to?
It applies to Volatility Index (VIX) futures CFDs only, and to both new positions and positions you already have open. Other instruments are not affected.
How much more margin will I need?
You will need twice as much margin to maintain the same position value. For example, a position valued at $1,000 will require $200 in margin instead of $100.
What is margin level?
Margin level shows your account value relative to the margin your open positions need. You can see it in your account in the app. It falls when your margin requirements increase or when your positions lose value.
What happens if I do not have enough available funds?
If your available funds do not cover the higher margin and your margin level falls below 25%, some or all of your positions will be closed automatically. Positions are closed in line with your account’s close-out strategy.
See also: What does my account/margin status show?
Can I check whether my positions will be affected?
Yes. Before 5 January 2027, review your open Volatility Index (VIX) futures CFD positions. The additional margin needed will be equal to the margin they currently use, so check that your available funds cover at least this amount.
Does this change the result of my position?
No. The profit or loss on your position still moves with the price of the VIX futures CFD as before. Only the amount of margin held to keep the position open changes. Margin is not a fee, and it is released when you close the position.
Can I still open, change or close my positions?
Yes, you can open, change or close positions as usual before and after the change.
How do I add funds?
You can deposit funds at any time using the Deposit option in the app.
Will I be charged any fees for this change?
No. The change itself does not add any fee or charge. Our standard charges continue to apply.
Will this affect overnight fees?
No. Overnight interest is calculated on the notional value of your position, not on the margin, so this change does not affect it.
Where can I get more help?
Start a chat with us in the app and we will be happy to help.