E-mini DAX Futures Margin & Contract Specifications

What is the DAX Futures?

DAX Futures is one of Europe’s most representative equity index futures products. It tracks the DAX 40 Index (formerly DAX 30), listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. The index includes Germany’s 40 largest companies by market capitalization, such as SAP, Bayer, Volkswagen, Adidas, and others. It is widely regarded as a key barometer of Europe’s manufacturing strength and export-driven economy.

To meet the needs of different investor profiles, the Eurex Exchange introduced:

• E-mini DAX Futures (smaller contract size)
• Micro DAX Futures (even smaller, more accessible)

These contracts enable both retail traders and professional investors to participate in the movements of the European stock market.

Key Factors Affecting the Price of E-mini DAX Futures

1. Economic Data and Business Cycle

As Europe’s largest economy, Germany’s manufacturing, exports, and industrial production data strongly influence the DAX Index. For instance, if the IFO Business Climate Index or manufacturing PMI weakens, it may signal falling business confidence and slowing growth, pulling the index lower.

2. Eurozone Performance

Germany’s economy is closely tied to the broader Eurozone. Hawkish policies from the European Central Bank (ECB), such as interest rate hikes, can suppress corporate financing and equity valuations, weighing on DAX Futures. Political risks (e.g., Italy’s fiscal issues, French strikes) also impact market sentiment.

3. Exchange Rate Movements (EUR/USD)

Exports are a major driver of Germany’s economy. An appreciating euro reduces competitiveness for German products abroad, hurting exporters and pressuring the index. Conversely, a weaker euro typically benefits the DAX.

4. Global Market Sentiment and Risk Appetite

The DAX is often seen as a proxy for global risk assets. Large swings in U.S. or Asian equity markets often spill over into European trading. For example, a sharp U.S. tech selloff or geopolitical tensions in Asia can trigger declines in the DAX.

5. Interest Rates and Inflation Policy

Persistently high inflation in Germany may push the ECB to accelerate rate hikes, raising bond yields and weighing on equities. Since many DAX constituents are large exporters and manufacturers, monetary policy directly affects their valuations and financing costs.

6. Energy Prices and Supply Issues

Germany has long been dependent on Russian natural gas. Energy price surges or supply disruptions can significantly raise production costs, squeeze profits, and drag the index lower. For example, during the early stages of the 2022 Russia-Ukraine war, the DAX dropped more than 20%.

7. Policy Reforms and Taxation

Changes in labor laws, corporate taxation, and green regulations (e.g., carbon neutrality requirements) also affect German companies’ operating costs and future outlook, thereby influencing the index.

8. Foreign Capital Flows

The inflow or outflow of international funds plays a key role. In times of global asset rotation, capital shifting out of U.S. or Asian equities into European markets often makes the DAX a top target.

 

• E-mini DAX Futures and Micro DAX Futures provide flexible tools to participate in Europe’s equity markets.
• E-mini DAX: Moderate contract size, suitable for professional traders with medium capital.
• Micro DAX: Low entry threshold and high flexibility, designed for retail investors and beginners.

Whether for short-term trading, long-term positioning, or hedging European exposure, these DAX futures contracts are essential instruments for tracking Europe’s largest economy. They allow traders to engage directly with global capital flows and the heartbeat of the Eurozone’s industrial powerhouse.

German Stock Index-DAX Margin

How much money is needed to trade futures? At the beginning, the required margin is the initial margin. While holding a position, the margin after deducting floating profits and losses must remain above the maintenance margin; otherwise, a margin call will be issued. For day-trading margin, only half of the margin is required, provided the position is closed before the market closes.

Foreign Futures

German Stock Index-DAX Contract Specifications

Here is a summary for traders of the contract specifications, exchange, trading hours, minimum price fluctuation, and available trading months for German Stock Index-DAXFutures, Mini-DAX FuturesFutures, Micro-DAX FuturesFutures.

German Stock Index-DAXLast Trading Day

Futures