How Does the Delivery Point Affect the Price of a Physically-Settled Contract?
The designated delivery point significantly impacts the futures price because it incorporates the transportation costs and logistical ease of moving the underlying asset to that location. If the delivery point is congested or difficult to access, the futures price may trade at a discount to reflect the extra costs or delays.
Conversely, a strategic or easily accessible delivery point can support a higher futures price. The delivery point is a key factor in determining the cost of carry.
Glossar
Futures Price
Valuation ⎊ Futures price, within cryptocurrency and derivative markets, represents a binding agreement to transact an asset at a predetermined future date and price, functioning as a standardized forward contract facilitated by an exchange.
Delivery Point
Settlement ⎊ In cryptocurrency derivatives and options trading, the Delivery Point signifies the precise moment and mechanism by which an underlying asset, or its cash equivalent, transfers from the seller to the buyer upon contract expiration or exercise.