Understanding CFD expiration dates: how they impact your trades

Contracts for Difference (CFDs) are popular financial derivatives that allow traders to speculate on the price movements of assets without actually owning them. They are widely used for trading stocks, indices, commodities, and currency pairs, offering flexibility, leverage, and the ability to go short or long.

One key aspect of CFD trading that traders must be aware of is expiration dates. While some CFDs, such as those based on Forex pairs or stocks, do not have fixed expiration dates, others—particularly those tied to futures contracts—do. These expirations can affect a trader’s open positions, strategy, and potential costs.

What is the expiration date of CFD?

A CFD expiration date is the predetermined date when a CFD contract expires or is automatically closed or rolled over by the broker. While many CFDs, such as those on stocks and forex, have no set expiration, CFDs based on futures contracts—such as those tracking indices, commodities, or bonds—typically follow the expiration schedule of the underlying asset.

Unlike futures contracts, where traders must either settle the contract physically or roll it over manually before expiration, most brokers handle CFD rollovers automatically. Instead of requiring the trader to close a position and open a new one, brokers often adjust the price to reflect the next contract period while incorporating any price differences (such as spread costs or interest rate adjustments). So, we can conclude that:

• CFDs offer more flexibility as traders are not obligated to roll over contracts.
• Futures have set expiry dates, while many CFDs remain open indefinitely unless closed manually.
• CFDs do not involve physical delivery, unlike some futures contracts (e.g., oil or agricultural commodities).

Yet, the impact of CFD expiration varies depending on the asset class:

• Indices – CFDs on stock indices (e.g., S&P 500, FTSE 100) are often based on futures contracts and have expiration dates aligned with the underlying index future.
• Commodities – CFDs on commodities like oil, gold, or natural gas are commonly based on futures contracts, leading to periodic expirations and rollovers.
• Bonds and interest rates – CFDs on bond futures or interest rate instruments also follow the expiration schedule of the futures market.
• Stocks and Forex pairs – Typically, stock and Forex CFDs do not have expiration dates, allowing traders to hold positions indefinitely as long as margin requirements are met.

How CFD expiration dates affect traders

CFD expiration dates can significantly impact a trader’s open positions and overall strategy. When a CFD reaches its expiration date, traders face two possible outcomes:

1. Position closure – If the broker does not offer automatic rollovers, the position will be closed at the expiry price, potentially affecting planned strategies.
2. Contract rollover – If the broker supports rollovers, the position is automatically transferred to a new contract with an adjusted price to reflect the underlying futures market.

For short-term traders, expiration may not be a major concern, as they typically close trades before expiration. However, long-term traders must be mindful of these dates to avoid unexpected closures or price adjustments.

Automatic rollover vs. non-rolling CFDs

• Automatic rollover CFDs: Some brokers automatically roll over expiring CFD contracts to the next period. This means that instead of closing the position, the broker adjusts the price and swaps the contract to the next available futures contract. Traders must be aware that rollovers may come with cost adjustments.
• Non-rolling CFDs: If a CFD is non-rolling, it will be closed at expiration, requiring traders to manually open a new position if they wish to continue holding exposure to the asset. This can create gaps in trading strategy, especially if the market experiences significant volatility between contracts.

Trading costs associated with rollovers

When a CFD contract is rolled over, traders may incur additional costs, including:

• Spread adjustments – The price difference between the expiring contract and the new contract may lead to a widened spread, affecting trade profitability.
• Financing fees (swap rates) – If a trader holds a CFD position overnight, brokers may charge financing fees, which can change when rolling over to a new contract.
• Price gaps and adjustments – The new contract may start at a different price than the expiring one due to market fluctuations, impacting the unrealized profit/loss of the position.

Being aware of CFD expiration dates and associated costs helps traders plan their entries and exits more effectively, minimizing the risks tied to unexpected closures or additional trading expenses.

How to manage CFD expirations

To avoid unexpected disruptions and additional costs, traders must proactively manage expiration dates. Most brokers provide CFD expiration details in their trading platforms, and you, as a trader, can track expiration dates by checking the broker’s contract specifications or using the trading platform’s market watch feature (platforms like MetaTrader often display contract details, including expiry dates).

To minimize disruptions from expirations, traders should:

• Close positions before expiry (if necessary) – If a CFD does not roll over automatically and the trader does not want to be forced into an expiry-based exit, closing the position in advance can prevent unwanted liquidation.
• Be aware of price adjustments – If a contract is rolling over, traders should factor in potential price differences between the old and new contracts.
• Avoid trading close to expiration – Market liquidity can fluctuate near expiry dates, leading to increased spreads and potential slippage.

Considerations for short-term vs. long-term traders

• Short-term traders (day traders, scalpers) – CFD expirations are generally less of a concern, as trades are closed within the same day. However, monitoring upcoming expirations can help avoid sudden volatility.
• Long-term traders (swing traders, position traders) – Those holding trades for weeks or months need to be especially cautious about expiration schedules. They should check whether their broker offers automatic rollovers and understand any associated costs.

Best brokers for CFD trading in 2025

A reliable broker is essential for effectively managing CFD expirations and rollovers. A good broker provides transparent expiration policies, competitive spreads, and advanced trading platforms to optimize trading strategies. Below, we explore some of the industry-leading companies, highlighting their key offerings and how they help traders handle CFD expirations seamlessly.

Plus500 – a user-friendly CFD trading experience

Plus500 is a globally recognized CFD broker, offering a streamlined trading platform that caters to both beginners and experienced traders. The broker provides access to a diverse range of CFDs, including stocks, Forex, indices, commodities, and cryptocurrencies. Plus500 operates under strict regulatory oversight and is known for its intuitive WebTrader platform.

— CFD trading benefits with Plus500:

• Automatic rollovers on expiring CFDs – Ensures that futures-based CFDs roll over smoothly to the next contract, avoiding sudden trade closures.
• Commission-free trading – Competitive spreads with no hidden fees, making it cost-effective for traders managing expiration-related adjustments.
• Real-time alerts & risk management tools – Allows traders to set price notifications and stop-loss orders to mitigate risks during contract transitions.

HF Markets (HFM) – deep liquidity and competitive pricing

HF Markets (HFM), formerly known as HotForex, is a well-established broker known for its deep liquidity, fast execution, and competitive trading conditions. It offers a wide selection of CFD instruments, including commodities, indices, and forex pairs, all with flexible leverage options.

— CFD trading benefits with HF Markets:

• Transparent expiration dates – Traders can access detailed contract specifications, ensuring they are aware of upcoming CFD expirations.
• Flexible CFD options – Offers both rolling and non-rolling CFD contracts, allowing traders to choose the best fit for their strategy.
• Tight spreads and low swap rates – Reduces costs associated with rollovers and holding positions through contract expirations.

eToro – Social trading with CFD flexibility

eToro is a pioneer in social trading, enabling users to follow and copy top traders’ strategies. With a strong presence in CFD markets, eToro provides access to a broad selection of assets, including commodities, indices, and stocks, many of which have expiration dates aligned with futures markets.

— CFD trading benefits with eToro:

• Copy trading for expiration strategies – Allows traders to follow experienced investors who effectively manage CFD rollovers.
• User-friendly interface – Makes it easy to track expiration schedules and adjust positions accordingly.
• Seamless execution and position adjustments – Minimizes disruptions when CFDs expire by providing clear notifications and rollover options.

AvaTrade – advanced trading tools for CFD expirations

AvaTrade is a multi-regulated broker offering a variety of CFDs across multiple asset classes. Known for its advanced trading technology, AvaTrade provides proprietary platforms like AvaTradeGO and MetaTrader 4/5, equipped with features to help traders manage expiration risks.

— CFD trading benefits with AvaTrade:

• Expiration tracking and alerts – Traders receive automated notifications for approaching CFD expirations.
• Advanced charting and market analysis – Helps traders prepare for price adjustments that may occur during contract rollovers.
• Multiple trading platforms – Includes MetaTrader and its own AvaTradeGO app, ensuring a smooth trading experience around expiration periods.

XM – fast execution and professional CFD trading

XM is a trusted broker known for its competitive spreads, fast order execution, and strong regulatory framework. It offers a range of CFDs, including futures-based instruments where expiration dates play a crucial role.

— CFD trading benefits XM:

• Low-latency execution – Ensures that trades are processed instantly, reducing slippage risks during contract rollovers.
• Customizable trading strategies – Supports automated trading, allowing traders to program strategies that consider expiration dates.
• Comprehensive market insights – Provides research and analysis on CFD markets, helping traders anticipate expiration-driven market movements.