Funding Rate Explained: Who Pays Whom in Perpetual Futures
What is the funding rate?
The funding rate sets the periodic payments between traders holding perpetual futures positions; these payments are called funding fees. The rate is based on the price difference between the perpetual contract and the underlying spot price[1].
Who pays whom?
When the rate is positive (contract price above spot) long holders pay short holders; when it is negative (contract price below spot) short holders pay long holders[1]. According to Binance, the funding fee is not paid to the exchange but between traders[1].
How often is it paid?
According to Binance, funding rounds usually occur every 8 hours and the interval can be shorter in periods of high volatility[1]. Only positions open at the funding round are charged; with no position at that moment no fee applies. Holding a position overnight can mean several payments[1].
Cap and floor
According to Binance, a cap and floor limit the funding fee charged in a single round. For the current rate and funding times, check the exchange's own page[1].
Why it matters
Funding turns into a cost, or income, of holding a position: if the rate direction is against the position, the trader pays every round. The effect is small in short trades but can add up in positions held for a long time. The sign of the rate is not a direction indicator on its own.
Disclaimer
Funding rates change over time; check the exchange's own page for the current rate. This page is educational, not investment advice.
Frequently asked questions
- Who pays when the funding rate is positive?
- When the rate is positive, long holders pay short holders; when negative the reverse applies[1].
- How often is funding paid?
- According to Binance, rounds usually occur every 8 hours and can be shorter in high volatility. Only positions open at that moment are charged[1].
- Does the exchange collect the funding fee?
- No; Binance states that the funding fee is paid between traders, not to the exchange[1].
Related guides
Sources
- What Are Funding Fees in Binance Futures?. Binance Blog. Accessed: 2026-10-22.