What happens if I do not meet the elevated margin requirement in my futures account when the initial margin period begins at 16:45 ET?

If your futures account does not meet the initial margin requirement at 16:45 ET, your position may be liquidated and applicable fees may apply.

There are two ways to avoid this:

• Close the position before 16:45 ET. Positions opened and closed before the cutoff only require intraday margin. Anything still open at 16:45 must meet the full initial margin requirement.
• Fund the account in advance. Make sure it covers initial margin for any position you intend to carry overnight, well before the cutoff rather than at it.

Liquidation is a risk control, not a loss limit – it does not guarantee your position closes at a favourable price.