Definition ∞ Low funding rates in cryptocurrency futures markets indicate a reduced cost for holding long positions. These rates represent periodic payments exchanged between long and short position holders in perpetual futures contracts, designed to keep the contract price close to the spot price of the underlying asset. When funding rates are low, or even negative, it suggests a less aggressive bullish sentiment or a relatively stronger presence of short sellers. This can imply that the cost of maintaining a long position is minimal, or shorts are paying longs.
Context ∞ Crypto news often references low funding rates as a market indicator for potential price reversals or a lack of strong directional conviction. Sustained low rates can suggest a cooling of speculative fervor or a consolidation phase, providing analysts with insights into market equilibrium. Traders monitor these rates closely to assess market bias and adjust their strategies in anticipation of future price action.
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