Understanding margin Margin is the collateral required to support a leveraged position. It is not the total potential loss. Requirements depend on the instrument, price, size, account and applicable leverage. Account measures Balance, equity, used margin and free margin describe different aspects of your account. Unrealized profit or loss changes equity as market prices change. Monitoring positions Review the live terminal for current requirements and protective levels. Margin calls and stop-out thresholds must be specified in the approved account terms; this document does not introduce new thresholds.