What is a Higher Margin Requirement?

A Higher Margin Requirement (HMR) is a temporary increase in the margin required to open new positions during periods when the firm has identified elevated market risk. It is applied as part of the firm's risk management framework and is not applied to, or reflective of, any individual client's trading behaviour. HMR does not alter the margin on positions already open at the time the window begins.

What you need to know:

1. HMR may apply during specific periods, including around weekend market close, around daily session open/close, and around scheduled major market data releases (e.g. NFP, CPI, interest rate decisions). It can apply to new positions in FX, Metals (Gold, Silver, Platinum), Cash Indices, and Oils.

2. During an HMR window, additional free margin may be required to open a new position in an affected instrument. This does not apply retrospectively to positions already held.

3. Margin requirements are generally expected to return to standard levels shortly after the window ends, subject to prevailing market conditions. Indicative rates and window durations differ by instrument and are subject to change without notice, particularly during periods of heightened volatility. They do not constitute a guarantee of margin levels, execution, or order acceptance at any specific time. Current details are set out in the MT4/MT5 Product Schedule, which should be treated as the primary reference.

4. If you are unable to open a position, please check your available free margin. If you believe margin has not returned to standard levels after a window has closed, please contact the Client Success Team so this can be reviewed.

This FAQ is provided for general information only and does not constitute financial or trading advice; trading leveraged products carries a high level of risk and may not be suitable for all investors.