What is a Notional Amount?
Different financial instruments will have a face value. This is referred to as a notional amount or notional value. The word ‘notional’ means that something is just an idea and not a physical reality. The reason why we talk about a notional amount on a financial instrument is that it is an amount of money that doesn’t actually change hands. This numerical value is still important though, especially when it comes to calculating any payments that need to be made on a bond, future, or other derivative instrument.
