Mark to Market
Quick Definition
The practice of valuing positions at current market prices and settling daily gains/losses, standard in futures markets and portfolio accounting.
What Is Mark to Market?
Mark to market (MTM) is the process of recording the value of an asset or portfolio at its current market price rather than its book value or purchase price. In futures markets, MTM is mandatory: at the end of each trading day, the exchange calculates gains and losses on every open position and credits or debits margin accounts accordingly. If a position loses enough value that the margin falls below the maintenance level, the trader receives a margin call. MTM reduces counterparty risk by ensuring losses are realized daily rather than accumulating until contract settlement. In accounting, MTM (or fair value accounting) is used under GAAP and IFRS standards for financial instruments. The practice was controversial during the 2008 financial crisis when illiquid assets had to be marked down to depressed market prices, potentially exacerbating the downturn.
Mark to Market Example
- 1A trader long 10 oil futures at $80 sees oil close at $78. MTM debits $20,000 (10 contracts × 1,000 barrels × $2 loss) from the margin account that evening
- 2A fund marks its bond portfolio to market at quarter-end, recognizing $2M in unrealized losses as yields rose 50 basis points during the period
Related Terms
Futures Contract
A standardized exchange-traded agreement to buy or sell an asset at a predetermined price on a specific future date, with daily mark-to-market settlement.
Forward Contract
A customized private agreement between two parties to buy or sell an asset at a specified price on a future date, traded over-the-counter.
Notional Value
The total value of a derivatives position based on the underlying asset's price, representing the full exposure rather than the capital invested.
Open Interest
The total number of outstanding derivative contracts that have not been settled, closed, or expired, indicating market participation and liquidity.
Call Option
A contract giving the holder the right, but not the obligation, to buy an underlying asset at a specified price within a specified time period.
Put Option
A contract giving the holder the right, but not the obligation, to sell an underlying asset at a specified price within a specified time period.
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