Futures Deleveraging

Definition ∞ Futures deleveraging involves the forced reduction of leveraged positions in futures contracts, often triggered by market movements. This process occurs when a trader’s margin balance falls below the maintenance margin requirement due to adverse price changes in their futures positions. Exchanges or lending protocols automatically close or reduce these positions to mitigate further losses and maintain solvency. Large-scale deleveraging events can cascade, leading to rapid price declines as forced selling exacerbates market downturns.
Context ∞ Futures deleveraging is a critical concept in understanding cryptocurrency market dynamics, especially during periods of high volatility. News reports frequently cite “long liquidations” or “short squeezes” as examples of deleveraging events that cause sudden and sharp price movements in assets like Bitcoin or Ethereum. The risk of widespread deleveraging is a constant consideration for traders and analysts, particularly when assessing the stability of derivatives markets and the potential for market contagion.