Frequency Asked Questions
Why trade futures?
- Leverage
Leverage can seem risky, but when used properly it is a game changer. Leverage is the ability to control a large contract value with a relatively small amount of capital. In the futures market, that capital is called performance bond, or initial margin, and is typically 3-12% of a contract’s notional or cash value.
Assume that one E-mini S&P 500 future has a value of $103,800. You initiate a position by posting an initial margin of at least $5,060. In other words, you will have exposure to $103,800, but you have only put down a small percentage of the value. This is called greater capital efficiency. - Liquidity
With futures, you can gain access to some of the most liquid markets in the world. Liquidity is perhaps one of the most important elements in gauging opportunities. - Portfolio Diversification
One of the most important characteristics of any investment portfolio is its diversity. Portfolio diversification helps offset exposure in any single position, and helps investors protect themselves against wide swings in key sectors.
Many futures and commodities are uncorrelated to traditional equities and bonds.
Furthermore, Futures and options on futures give market participants the opportunity to hedge against market risk by sector and to raise and lower levels of desired exposure in times of anticipated and unanticipated event-driven volatility. - Day Trading
Whereas securities (or single equities) have restrictions that can hinder day trading ranging from settlement rules to short selling. Futures allow you to trade in and out, long or short, intraday without regulatory restriction. - We’re here to make it easier!
Our trading solutions fit all shapes and sizes. You could be a novice, want hands-on help and education to learn how to trade futures and/or options. Maybe you want someone to bounce ideas off of from time to time. We also cater to self-directed traders and professionals looking for a low cost, low latency solution.
Want to learn more about futures? Head over to our Education page and go over a quick course!
How much trading experience do I need to start?
Any amount of experience is fine! We work with traders ranging from novice to professional and our trade desk works as much or as little as needed with our clients. You can learn more by visiting our Brokerage Solutions or Contact Us for more information!
How can Blue Line Futures help me?
At Blue Line Futures, our mission is to make your futures trading experience as streamlined as possible through quality customer service, cutting-edge technology and comprehensive research.
- Research
In-house proprietary research written by traders, for traders. Clients have unfiltered access to all daily actionable reports. We strive to better prepare you with data driven and in-depth market analysis right from our expert trade desk. You can check out our insights here or Sign up for a Free 2-Week Trial of our Research here. - Platforms
Our platform options are endless, let us help you find the one to best suit your needs. Start off by demoing our Blue Line Edge. Available on all devices (desktop and mobile), it puts powerful trading tools at your fingertips. Combined with our propriety research it truly brings you an Edge. Learn more about it here. - Education
Learn and grow your trading skills with Blue Line Futures. We provide a comprehensive catalog of educational material, including courses with trackable progress. We offer special crash courses for Novice, Intermediate and Professional traders. Strengthen your base and expand your knowledge to use it your advantage in the markets. Head over to education here. - Brokerage Solutions
We offer a full service or managed approach for those that want to work with our experts as well as a self-directed setup for professionals and institutions looking for a low cost, low latency solution. Talk to our team to find your fit. See more here.
Can my money be managed by Blue Line Futures?
We offer a range of options to help you achieve your goals. Let’s connect to discuss further. Contact us here.
Can I talk to one of your specialists at the trade desk?
Absolutely! Feel free to pick our brains — the vast experience of our experts has helped us develop an unmatched service and industry leading trading solutions.
Our team is a call away at (312) 278-0500. You can also email us at info@BlueLineFutures.com or submit your information here.
What products can I trade?
Our clearing solutions do not stop with the major U.S. exchanges (CME and ICE). We can connect you to just about any exchange around the world.
What is the minimum account size?
The minimum funding level to open an account is $2,000. However, consider your trade plan and the number of markets you want to participate.
What are your margin requirements?
Margins are subject to change without notice and can be found here.
Do you work with international clients?
Yes, we have a vast international client base, including those from Canada. Connect with one of our specialists to find the best clearing option for where you are domiciled.
Can I transfer my brokerage account after approval?
Yes, we make it easy. With a one-page form, you can request to transfer all cash and positions from your current brokerage to Blue Line Futures.
What type of institutions do you work with?
Our institutional clients range from other brokerages, advisors and prop trading firms, to feedlots, elevators, and family offices.
If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out to us and we’ll be happy to answer them!