How it works
Trading break-even is the exit level at which the modeled gross price gain exactly offsets entry fees, exit fees and entered fixed charges. It can differ from the raw entry price.
The formula
Keep currency, units and time periods consistent. Percentage inputs use percentage points (enter 5 for 5%). Results are rounded only for display; tiny nonzero values may use scientific notation. Undefined ratios are shown as unavailable.
Direction: Long; Entry price: $100.00; Entry fee: 0.10%; Exit fee: 0.10%; Fixed costs: $0; Break-even exit price: $100.2002; Required move: Approx. +0.2002%.
Calculation method
For a long trade, exit proceeds must cover the purchase notional and all costs. For a short trade, the closing purchase must leave enough of the initial sale proceeds to pay those costs.
Interpretation
Fixed commissions and funding or borrow costs are spread over quantity times multiplier. Percentage fees remain tied to entry and exit notional, so they change as the solved exit price changes.
Limitations
A long exit fee at 100% leaves no retained proceeds. A short trade can have no feasible positive break-even price when costs consume its possible gain. The calculator does not infer future funding or recommend an exit.
Method and reference sources
Method and content checked 2026-09-20. These sources provide background, not endorsement or professional certification. The formula and limitations above define this calculator.
- CME Group — Calculating futures profit or lossContract size and price-movement context; verify your broker or exchange specification separately.
- Investor.gov — Understanding FeesInvestment fee and compounding context; enter the terms of your fund or account.
Frequently asked questions
Why is break-even different from entry price?
Entry costs must be recovered and exit costs may still be payable. Percentage exit fees depend on the exit value, so the fee-aware break-even price solves for that amount.
What is a worked example for Break-Even Trading Price?
Direction: Long; Entry price: $100.00; Entry fee: 0.10%; Exit fee: 0.10%; Fixed costs: $0; Break-even exit price: $100.2002; Required move: Approx. +0.2002%.