I only feel safe if im holding the private keys of my bitcoins. The futures are nothing but some contracts in some computer, it is a distraction to me, the people involved don't even hold the underlying asset. If there are fluctuations in the price if I hold through it. Also you need a special verification to be able to operate with futures if im not mistaken, which I don't have anyway.
Did you happen to watch the video I referenced and understand the tactic that is being used? Basically, you'd crunch the numbers and lets say you'd short 10% of your expected mining rake at a lower price than you could make a profit after rent/electrical cost (if applicable).
I"m just curious if anyone is employing that strategy. In theory, it does check out.