To buy a E-Mini S&P500 future you only need around $4000 to meet the margin requirement. Since I'm totally new to options trading, what is the theoretical minimum required to buy a Call option on the E-Mini S&P500 futures? Thanks!
The req. is $50[index multiplier] x premium. An 8.50 call = $425. No variation margin, simply 100% of premium.
That is wrong. It's not how SPAN margin operates. You're confused between typical equity-options margining and index futures options margining. Not the same.
Uh..... so are you saying that in a retail account you can buy options on margin? Are you saying SPAN margin covers purchasing futures options in a retail account? Are you implying that equity options can be bought on margin as well??
Unless you're a member of a JBO you'll need to put-up 100% of the premium when buying vol. The OP clearly stated "buying a call", no mention of selling vol. You're really a value-add, Randek. Try not to think to hard, you may sprain something.
Just pointing out to the misinformation you've posted. No need to get so sensitive. You might pop another vein vessel.
What misinformation? Please enlighten us to your take on the requirement for buying a call. We're waiting. WTF is a "vein vessel"?
This thread is great fun! By the way, "vein vessel" is the single most important vessel in the human body as it carries vein. Unfortunately, it is very unstable and can pop at the first sign of a disagreement.