> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://qubitdex.gitbook.io/main/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://qubitdex.gitbook.io/main/trading-on-qubitdex/perpetual-futures.md). # Perpetual Futures The perpetual futures market is one of the most dynamic and strategic areas of on-chain trading. It goes beyond simply buying and holding — enabling users to trade in both directions, hedge risk, and apply leverage to amplify capital efficiency. QuBitDEX's perpetual contracts are built to deliver a **CEX-grade experience** — with high-performance matching and low-latency execution — while maintaining the transparency and self-custody of on-chain systems. *** ### What is a Perpetual Contract? A perpetual contract is a type of derivative with **no expiration date**. Unlike traditional futures, you can hold positions indefinitely without worrying about settlement dates. Here's how it works: * You can **go long** (bullish) or **go short** (bearish) on an asset * All trades are **margin-based** — no need to pay the full notional upfront * The contract price tracks the spot price, with a **funding rate mechanism** used to balance long and short positions This type of instrument is especially suitable for: * Traders looking to profit in both bull and bear markets * Users who want to hedge their spot holdings * Strategy-driven traders who require flexible position management --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://qubitdex.gitbook.io/main/trading-on-qubitdex/perpetual-futures.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.