Peak Margin on WebNotes

How to calculate margin using the Zerodha SPAN calculator

Tue, 12 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The Zerodha SPAN margin calculator at zerodha.com/margin-calculator is the standard tool for estimating the funds required before initiating a futures or options position on the NSE or BSE. This guide explains how the calculator works, how to read its output, and what the regulatory margin components mean.

For background on how margin works in the F&O segment see F&O segment on Zerodha and Margin pledge mechanics.

What SPAN and ELM mean

SPAN (Standard Portfolio Analysis of Risk) is a margin methodology developed by the Chicago Mercantile Exchange and adopted by Indian exchanges. SPAN calculates the worst-case one-day loss on a portfolio under 16 market scenarios that combine price and volatility moves. The exchange updates SPAN parameter files (called risk parameter files or RPFs) intraday, typically at 11 AM and after market close.

How to interpret the margin shortfall SMS on Zerodha

Tue, 12 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

A margin shortfall notification from Zerodha indicates that the margin in the trading account is insufficient to cover the margin required for one or more open F&O positions. This can trigger a peak margin penalty, forced position close-out, or both. This guide explains how to read every element of the SMS, identify the root cause, and take corrective action promptly.

For the background regulatory framework see How to understand peak margin penalty. For maintaining margin proactively see How to calculate margin using the Zerodha SPAN calculator.

How to understand peak margin penalty

Tue, 12 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The peak margin framework, introduced by SEBI via circular SEBI/HO/MRD/MRD-PoD-2/P/CIR/2020/198 on 1 December 2020 and fully enforced from 1 September 2021, requires brokers to report the highest margin required by any client at any of four random intraday snapshots each day. If a client’s margin at any snapshot is less than what is required for their open positions, a penalty is levied. This guide explains the mechanics, the penalty structure, and how to avoid shortfalls.

Bracket order discontinuation (historical)

Mon, 11 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Overview

A bracket order (BO) was an advanced intraday order type offered by Zerodha and several other Indian brokers that combined three linked orders into a single instruction: an entry order, a stop-loss order, and a target order. The three-legged structure allowed a trader to define the entry price, the maximum loss (stop-loss), and the desired profit exit (target) in a single order placement, with the bracket structure ensuring that once any one of the three legs executed (stop-loss or target), the remaining leg was automatically cancelled.