As of mid-January 2026, the CME Group
has increased silver futures (SI) margin requirements to approximately 9% of the contract's notional value. This follows multiple hikes due to high volatility and rising prices, with requirements for a standard 5,000 oz contract potentially exceeding $40,000+ per contract based on silver prices ($100/oz).
Margin Structure: Shifted from fixed-dollar amounts to a percentage-based system (9%) to automatically handle extreme volatility.
Impact: Higher maintenance costs for traders, particularly short sellers.
Micro Silver (SIL): The 1,000 oz micro silver contract offers a smaller, more accessible option for traders, with margin requirements at roughly $4,400 per contract (as of Dec 2025 data).
Actionable Advice: Traders should consult the CME Group website for the most up-to-date margin requirements.