A stop-loss is an automated trading order that limits your potential loss on a position. It works like a safety net, automatically closing your trade if the market moves against you by a predetermined amount. This essential risk management tool helps protect your trading capital and ensures that no single trade can significantly damage your account.

How Stop-Loss Works

When you enter a trade, you set a stop-loss at a specific price level where you want to exit if the trade goes against you. For example:

For Buy (Long) Positions:

If you buy a stock at $100 and set a stop-loss at $95, your position will automatically close if the price falls to $95, limiting your loss to 5%.

For Sell (Short) Positions:

If you short a stock at $100 and set a stop-loss at $105, your position will automatically close if the price rises to $105, limiting your loss to 5%.

Key Features of Stop-Loss Orders

  • Automatic Execution: Orders execute automatically when price reaches the stop level
  • Risk Management: Helps you predetermine and limit potential losses
  • Emotion Control: Removes emotional decision-making during market volatility
  • Capital Protection: Prevents small losses from becoming large drawdowns