The recent sharp liquidation figure of $727 million in crypto futures reveals the high volatility and risks of the cryptocurrency market.
What is Crypto Futures Liquidation?
Crypto futures liquidation is the forced closing of a trader's position due to insufficient margin. Traders use futures to speculate on cryptocurrency prices, hoping to profit from leverage. However, if the price moves against them and margin falls short, the position is closed to prevent further losses.
Who Was Hit Hardest by Liquidations?
The total amount of liquidated capital reached $727 million, with $126 million lost in just one hour. The highest number of liquidations typically occurs among Bitcoin and Ethereum, but altcoins can suffer significant losses as well. For example, in a typical scenario, Bitcoin may account for $350 million, Ethereum for $200 million, and Solana for $50 million.
What Triggered the Liquidations?
Liquidations are often the result of sudden price swings, high leverage use, cascading liquidations, macroeconomic factors, and regulatory news. For instance, a sharp drop in the prices of cryptocurrencies can quickly lead to liquidations, especially when high leverage is used.
The $727 million crypto futures liquidation underscores the importance of risk management for traders. Understanding the mechanisms of liquidation and applying discipline in trading can aid in avoiding losses in the future.