An investor comparing the benefits and drawbacks of using stop loss orders.
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A stop loss order is a trading tool that automatically sells a security if its price falls to a set level, helping investors limit losses without constantly monitoring the market. While it can protect against sudden drops, execution prices may vary in fast-moving markets. Different types of stop loss orders provide varying control over trade execution, allowing investors to adjust their strategies based on risk and market conditions. A financial advisor can help determine how to use a stop loss strategy based on your portfolio.
A stop loss order is a type of stock order or trading instruction that automatically sells a security when its price reaches a predetermined level. Investors and traders use stop loss orders to limit potential losses without the need for constant monitoring. These orders are placed through a brokerage and remain active until the stop price is triggered or the investor cancels the order.
Stop loss orders are particularly common in volatile markets, when prices can change quickly. By setting a stop price, traders establish a threshold where they are willing to exit a position. This type of stock order helps automate risk management and reduce the emotional aspect of decision-making that can cause traders to stray from their preset strategy.
When an investor places a stop loss order, the broker converts the order into a market order once the security reaches the designated stop price. A market order instructs the brokerage to sell the asset at the best available price. This price may differ from the stop price in fast-moving markets.
For example, if a trader buys a stock at $50 and sets a stop loss order at $45, the stock will be automatically sold if its price drops to $45 or lower. If the stock declines sharply, the execution price could be lower than $45 due to market fluctuations. This difference between stop price and execution price is known as slippage.
A financial advisor explaining different types of stop loss orders to clients.
You can use different types of stop loss orders, depending on your investment strategy. Some provide simple sell triggers, while others offer more flexibility in execution. Here are three common ones to consider:
Standard stop loss order. A basic stop loss order converts to a market order when the price reaches the specified level. This ensures execution but does not guarantee a specific selling price. For example, if an investor buys a stock at $75 and places a stop loss at $70, the stock will be sold once it reaches that level, though the final execution price could be lower.
Trailing stop loss order. A trailing stop loss order adjusts dynamically as the price moves in the investor’s favor. Instead of setting a fixed stop price, the stop price follows the stock at a fixed percentage or dollar amount. For example, a 5% trailing stop loss on a stock purchased at $100 would initially place the stop price at $95. If the stock rises to $110, the stop price moves up to $104.50, which is 5% below $110. If the price declines from there, the stop order is triggered at $104.50.
Stop limit order. A stop limit order is not, strictly speaking, a type of stop loss order, but functions somewhat similarly and can also be used for risk management. The difference is that, instead of converting to a market order, it converts to a limit order at the specified price. This prevents selling at a price lower than the investor’s specific limit price. Unlike a stop loss order, it carries the risk of the order not being executed at all if the price moves too quickly. For example, if an investor purchases shares at $40 and sets a stop price at $35 with a limit at $34, the stock will only sell at $34 or higher, potentially leaving the investor with an unfilled order if prices drop too fast.
Stop loss orders offer several benefits that can assist traders in managing risk and automating their strategies. These advantages make them particularly useful for investors who want to define their exit strategies in advance. Here are four general benefits to consider:
Limits potential losses. Stop loss orders help manage downside risk by defining a maximum acceptable loss before the trade is executed. This can help investors prevent significant financial setbacks.
Removes emotional decision-making. By setting exit points in advance, traders avoid making impulsive decisions based on fear or greed. This can lead to more disciplined investing and better long-term results.
Automates risk management. Investors do not need to constantly monitor the market, as stop loss orders execute automatically. This is especially useful in highly volatile market environments and for those who cannot watch price movements throughout the day.
Can lock in profits. Trailing stop loss orders allow investors to secure gains while still benefiting from further price increases. The stop price moves up as the stock rises, ensuring that profits are preserved if the price reverses.
While stop loss orders can be useful, they also come with certain drawbacks. Traders should consider these potential disadvantages when incorporating them into their strategies. Here are four to consider:
Execution price not guaranteed. Stop loss orders convert to market orders, meaning the actual execution price may be lower than the stop price in a fast-moving market. This can lead to larger losses than anticipated.
May trigger short-term volatility. Markets often experience temporary fluctuations that can trigger a stop loss order before the price recovers. This can result in an investor selling prematurely and missing potential gains.
Not ideal for all investment strategies. Long-term investors may find stop loss orders counterproductive, as they can lead to frequent selling in response to market swings. This can disrupt investment strategies focused on gradual growth or dividend income.
Market crash risks. In a sharp market decline, prices can gap down below the stop price, leading to execution at a much lower level than expected. This is especially relevant in after-hours trading or during periods of extreme volatility.
An investor reviewing her investment portfolio.
Stop loss orders provide a structured way for traders to manage risk and automate selling decisions based on price movements. While they can help limit losses and remove emotional bias, execution prices may vary, especially in fast-moving markets. Different types of stop loss orders offer flexibility in how trades are triggered, allowing investors to align their strategies with market conditions. Although these orders can be effective in protecting gains or preventing large losses, they also carry risks, such as premature execution during short-term volatility or gaps in pricing during sharp market declines.
A financial advisor can help you analyze investments and manage portfolio risk. Finding a financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with vetted financial advisors who serve your area, and you can have a free introductory call with your advisor matches to decide which one you feel is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.
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Heather Ochoa is a news writer at the Failsafe Podcast. She has been writing about politics, health, business, parenting and finance for over a decade. She also loves to go hiking in her free time.
