When a futures contract holder receives a notice of intent to deliver, it marks a significant point in the contract's lifespan. This notice signifies that the party who sold the contract intends to deliver the underlying asset at the contract's expiration date. In simpler terms, it means that the seller is ready to fulfill their obligation to provide the asset to the buyer. This is a crucial concept in the world of finance, as it plays a vital role in determining the value and risk associated with futures contracts.