How margin is calculated
Required margin = Notional value ÷ Leverage
Notional value is the size of the position in the base currency, converted to your account currency. One standard lot of EUR/USD at 1.0800 has a notional value of $108,000; at 30:1 leverage the required margin is $3,600.
Margin is not risk
Margin is a deposit, not the amount you can lose. Your risk is set by your stop loss and position size. High leverage lets you open larger positions — which is exactly why position sizing matters more, not less.
Frequently asked questions
What leverage is available?
It depends on your broker and jurisdiction. Retail traders in the UK and EU are typically limited to 30:1 on major pairs; US retail forex is limited to 50:1 on majors.
What is a margin call?
A margin call happens when your account equity falls below the margin required to keep positions open. Brokers may close positions automatically at a stop-out level.
Calculators are provided for educational purposes. Verify margin requirements with your broker. Risk warning: Trading leveraged products involves a high risk of loss. Nothing on this site is investment advice.