KOSPI 200 Futures Margin & Contract Specifications

What is the KOSPI 200 Index Futures?

The KOSPI 200 Index Futures is a stock index futures contract based on the KOSPI 200 Index and is listed on the Korea Exchange (KRX).

The KOSPI 200 Index consists of 200 representative large-cap stocks in Korea, covering more than 90% of the total market capitalization. It is highly representative of the Korean stock market and is often regarded as the “thermometer of Korean equities.”

This futures product is an important tool for investors to conduct hedging, leverage trading, and short-term strategies in the Korean equity market.

Factors Affecting KOSPI 200 Futures Prices

1. Performance of Large-cap Stocks in Korea

Companies such as Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix have a significant impact on index fluctuations.

2. Korean Economic and Export Data

As an export-driven economy, Korea’s trade balance, manufacturing PMI, and related indicators influence market sentiment.

3. Linkage with U.S. and Global Stock Markets

Strongly correlated with U.S. equities—particularly technology stocks and the S&P 500. Korean markets often take cues from U.S. overnight trading.

4. Exchange Rate Volatility (KRW ↔ USD)

A weaker Korean won boosts exports and stock prices, while appreciation may weigh on corporate earnings.

5. Geopolitical Events

Events such as North Korea’s nuclear tests and inter-Korean tensions often trigger risk aversion, adding volatility to the index.

6. Global Capital Flows and MSCI Index Adjustments

With a high proportion of foreign ownership, foreign capital inflows and outflows directly affect index performance.

7. Market Sentiment and Speculative Trading

Korean investors are active in short-term trading. As a result, KOSPI 200 Futures can be highly volatile and prone to sharp moves.

Trading Hours and Price Limits (Taiwan Time)

Trading Hours (Monday–Friday):

• Day Session: 08:00 – 14:45
• Night Session: 17:00 – 04:00 (next day)

The night session overlaps with U.S. market hours, enabling investors to track global market developments.

Price Limit System

• Daily price fluctuation limit: ±10% (based on the previous day’s closing price)
• In times of extreme volatility, a circuit breaker may be triggered to temporarily halt trading and stabilize market sentiment.

 

The KOSPI 200 Index Futures is a highly representative derivative product that allows investors to effectively participate in the rise and fall of the Korean stock market. Since Korea’s economy is heavily driven by technology and exports, this futures product is valuable for traders seeking exposure to Asian economic trends and global technology momentum.

KOSPI 200 Futures feature high leverage and liquidity, with day-and-night trading sessions that reflect global market news in real time. This also makes it convenient for investors to align strategies with U.S. market movements.

However, investors should be aware of the risks: the large contract multiplier amplifies gains and losses, while Korea’s market is often influenced by geopolitical tensions and foreign capital flows. Proper position sizing, risk management, and close monitoring of global events and exchange rate fluctuations are essential.

In conclusion, the KOSPI 200 Index Futures is a versatile instrument suitable for positioning in the Korean market, implementing short-term strategies, or hedging operations. Nevertheless, it is recommended for investors with sufficient risk awareness and trading experience.

KOSPI 200 Futures 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

KOSPI 200 Futures Contract Specifications

Here is a summary for traders of the contract specifications, exchange, trading hours, minimum price fluctuation, and available trading months for KOSPI 200 FuturesFutures, Mini KOSPI 200 FuturesFutures.

KOSPI 200 FuturesLast Trading Day

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