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If you’re trading E-mini S&P 500 futures in TradeStation, there are really just 2 numbers that matter.
And once you know where to look, you can check them anytime.
Where to Find It
Go to the TradeStation futures margin page:
https://tradestation.com/pricing/futures-margin-requirements/
If you type in “ES,” it’ll bring up the E-mini S&P 500 futures row right away.
That’s all you need.
The 2 Numbers That Matter
You’ll see two key columns:
- Intraday Initial Margin
- Overnight Margin
Right now, the intraday margin is around $2,655.
That’s the reduced amount required to open and hold a position during intraday hours — as long as TradeStation is offering that rate.
The Part Most Traders Miss
That lower intraday margin can disappear at any time.
When volatility picks up, TradeStation can remove it — and if that happens, you’re immediately subject to the full margin requirement.
Which is around:
- $26,551 (long)
- $24,913 (short)
So even if you’re planning to be in a trade briefly…
If the intraday margin gets pulled, you need the full amount in your account just to hold the position.
The Bottom Line
This is why it’s important to keep an eye on that page.
Because the number you think you need to trade…
Isn’t always the number you actually need.
🚨 PS — Weekly Trading Show TOMORROW 🚨
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