Exploring Different Types of Stop Loss Orders

Risk management plays a crucial role in trading, with exiting losing trades at the right moment being a key aspect. There are several types of trading orders to assist in your forex trading and exit strategies, such as stop loss orders. Let’s explore the different types of stop loss orders.

What Is a Stop Loss Order?

A stop-loss order is an instruction from the trader to the broker specifying the maximum loss that can be incurred on a position. Your positions will automatically close if the market moves against you, i.e. at a certain price level.

All forex trading platforms offer the option to add stop loss orders to your trades. While some institutions and seasoned traders trade without stop losses, they typically do so with minimal leverage (if any) and substantial capital.

The safest way to apply a stop loss is to set it before opening your trade as unforeseen circumstances may occur after you have opened the trade. These circumstances could include internet connectivity issues, system failures on your broker’s platform, or sudden emergencies requiring you to leave your computer.

There are two types of stop loss orders: static and trailing stop loss orders. The key distinction lies in their level of flexibility.

Static Stop Loss Orders

Static stop loss orders are the more basic types of stop loss orders as they are captured and stored on your broker’s server. This means that if your trading platform is not running on your computer, your broker’s server will automatically execute your stop loss if necessary.

With a static stop loss order, you set a fixed price level at which you want to automatically sell your holding if the price goes against you. Once the price hits that level, your order is triggered, and the position is sold regardless of further price movements.

Static stop loss orders offer a straightforward approach to risk management, ideal for beginners or situations requiring immediate protection.

Trailing Stop Loss Orders

Compared to a static stop loss order, a trailing stop loss order is more dynamic.

This type of order can significantly increase the profitability of a trading strategy while reducing its drawdown. However, it can also reduce profits and increase drawdown if not applied to the right strategy.

When using a trailing stop loss order, you set a percentage or fixed amount away from the current market price as the trigger. As the price moves in your favour, the price automatically trails upwards or downwards, locking in profits. However, if the price reverses and falls below the trailing stop price or rises above it, your position is sold.

Because a trailing stop loss is set at a certain distance from the current market price, the stop loss will never be further away from the current market price than the set distance. If the price moves higher, the trailing stop loss will move higher at the same rate as the price, and if the price moves lower, the trailing stop loss remains at the same level, i.e. it cannot move lower.

When the price moves above the level where the trailing stop loss was last modified, it will be readjusted, continuing to lock in profits or at least reduce the amount you can lose on the trade.

In Conclusion

Stop loss orders are an essential risk management tool for any forex trader as they help limit potential losses. While both static and trailing stop loss orders offer distinct advantages, understanding your trading strategy and risk tolerance is crucial to choosing the right type of stop loss order for your needs. Further research into both options is recommended to make an informed decision for your trading strategy.