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Your guide to futures trading

New to futures? You're not alone. These nine articles cover everything from how contracts work to how gains are taxed in Canada.

The foundations of futures

What is futures trading?

Futures allow you speculate on price movements without owning the underlying asset. Learn how contracts, leverage, and margin work, and how futures differ from stocks.

Understanding futures contracts

Every futures contract spells out exactly what's being traded and on what terms. Break down contract specs, margin requirements, pricing, and daily settlement.

Futures vs. options vs. stocks

Three very different ways to trade. Compare risk profiles, capital requirements, obligations, and which instrument might suit your goals.

Putting together a strategy

Without a clear plan, futures trading can be hard to manage. This article walks through 11 commonly used approaches, including when to use each one, how to manage risk, and the most common mistakes that catch new traders off guard.

Mistakes to avoid when trading futures

Over-leveraging, revenge trading, ignoring contract expiry dates — even experienced futures traders make these mistakes. Here's what to watch out for before you start, not after.

Taxes, terms, and other essentials

Canadian taxes and futures trading

Futures profits in Canada are taxed as either capital gains or business income — and the CRA decides which. Learn how each classification works, what you can deduct, and what records to keep.

Glossary of futures terms

Know what margin means in stock trading? It means something different in futures. (So does settlement.) This glossary covers the key terms, so you're not guessing when it counts.

Ready to trade futures?

You've got the knowledge. Now put it to work. Trade futures alongside your stocks, ETFs, and options — all in one place.