Section 1256 contracts investment & finance definition

Any of several types of futures and options contracts that are subject to a special tax rule of the Internal Revenue Service. Named for a section of the IRS Code, these contracts must generally be treated as if they are sold at fair market value on the last business day of the tax year. Section 1256 contracts include regulated futures contracts, foreign currency contracts, nonequity options, dealer equity options, and dealer securities futures contracts.