Gold (1 Troy Ounce) Futures Margin & Contract Specifications

What Is One Ounce of Gold?

One ounce of gold refers to a gold trading unit measured in one troy ounce. Gold is quoted using the troy ounce (oz t) system, where 1 troy ounce equals 31.1035 grams. When the international gold price is quoted at, for example, USD 2,000 per ounce, it means USD 2,000 for one troy ounce of gold.

Factors Affecting the Price of One Ounce of Gold

1. U.S. Dollar Movements

Gold is priced in U.S. dollars. When the dollar weakens, gold prices tend to rise because gold becomes cheaper for non-U.S. buyers; conversely, a stronger dollar usually puts downward pressure on gold prices.

2. U.S. Real Interest Rates

Gold is a non-yielding asset. When the U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed) maintains high interest rates or when real interest rates rise, the opportunity cost of holding gold increases, and gold prices are typically pressured.

3. Inflation and Purchasing Power

Gold is considered a long-term inflation hedge. When inflationary pressures persist, investors tend to buy gold to hedge against the erosion of purchasing power.

4. Geopolitical Risks and Safe-Haven Demand

Gold is a classic safe-haven asset. Wars, trade frictions—such as current global tariff uncertainties—or political instability tend to boost safe-haven demand, leading capital to flow into gold.

5. Central Bank Gold Purchases

In recent years, central banks—especially in emerging markets—have continued to increase their gold reserves to reduce reliance on a single currency. This “structural buying” by central banks provides strong downside support for gold prices.

6. Physical Gold Demand in China and Asia

In Asia, gold demand typically rises during festive seasons such as the Lunar New Year and wedding seasons, driven by purchases of jewelry and investment bars. China is the world’s largest gold consumer, while Hong Kong serves as a gateway between mainland China and international markets. Demand for gold jewelry and investment coins in China is often reflected in physical premiums in Hong Kong, which in turn supports or lifts gold prices.

7. Mining Costs and Supply

Gold mining has become increasingly challenging over time. If new mine supply stagnates or if mining costs—such as energy and labor—rise significantly, long-term expectations for gold prices tend to increase.

1-Ounce Gold 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

1-Ounce Gold Contract Specifications

Here is a summary for traders of the contract specifications, exchange, trading hours, minimum price fluctuation, and available trading months for 1-Ounce GoldFutures.

1-Ounce GoldLast Trading Day

Futures