Profit / Loss Calculator
Estimate gross P&L on long and short positions across stocks, crypto, and CFDs.
For forex trades, use pip value × lot size instead. This calculator is intended for stocks, crypto, and CFDs.
How to use the profit and loss calculator
This trade profit calculator estimates your gross P&L for long and short positions across stocks, crypto, and CFDs. Select your trade direction, enter your entry price, exit price, and position size in units or shares, then click calculate. The result shows your estimated profit or loss immediately. Using a profit loss calculator before placing a trade helps you confirm the dollar outcome matches your expectations for the setup.
The formula is straightforward: for a long trade, profit equals (exit price minus entry price) multiplied by position size. For a short trade it is the reverse — (entry price minus exit price) multiplied by position size — because you profit when price falls. Understanding this distinction matters when switching between long and short strategies or trading instruments that can be sold short, such as CFDs and futures.
This calculator shows gross P&L before commissions, spread, and financing costs. For a complete picture of net profit you would subtract those costs from the gross figure. The distinction between realised and unrealised P&L is also worth keeping in mind: an open position shows paper gains or losses that only become real once the trade is closed. Plan around the numbers before entry, not after.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate profit on a stock trade?
For a long trade, subtract your entry price from your exit price and multiply by the number of shares. Buying 100 shares at $50 and selling at $55 gives a gross profit of (55 - 50) × 100 = $500. Subtract commissions to arrive at your net profit.
How does a short trade profit calculation work?
For a short trade you profit when price falls. Subtract the exit price from the entry price and multiply by position size. Shorting 100 shares at $55 and covering at $50 gives a gross profit of (55 - 50) × 100 = $500. The direction toggle in this calculator handles the sign automatically.
What is the difference between realised and unrealised P&L?
Unrealised P&L is the paper profit or loss on an open position — the trade has not been closed yet. Realised P&L is the gain or loss locked in when a trade is closed. Only realised P&L permanently affects your account balance; unrealised P&L can reverse if price moves against you before you exit.
Does this calculator work for cryptocurrency trades?
Yes. The P&L formula is identical for crypto: (exit price minus entry price) × position size for a long trade, or (entry price minus exit price) × position size for a short. Enter your number of coins or tokens as the position size and the calculation works the same way.
How do commissions affect my profit calculation?
Commissions reduce gross profit and increase gross loss. A $500 gross profit with $10 commission on entry and exit becomes $480 net. For active traders or small accounts, commission costs compound quickly and can meaningfully erode returns, so including them in your pre-trade planning is worthwhile.