How it works
Trading profit compares entry and exit prices across your position quantity. A long position benefits from a higher exit; a short position benefits from a lower exit.
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; Exit price: $112.00; Quantity: 10; Gross P&L: $120.00; Entry + exit fees: $4.24; Net P&L: $115.76; Return on $1,000 entry notional: 11.58%.
Calculation method
The contract multiplier converts each price movement into the instrument’s monetary exposure. Confirm its meaning with your contract specification; leverage does not multiply this P&L a second time.
Interpretation
Entry and exit percentage fees apply to their respective notionals. A trade with a positive gross result can still lose money after commissions and other costs.
Limitations
Return on entry notional compares profit with total initial exposure. Return on margin compares the same profit with the committed capital. Neither measure models financing, liquidation or slippage unless included in entered costs.
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
How does a short trade change the profit calculation?
A short position gains from a decline between entry and exit. Fees still reduce gross gains or deepen losses; select the correct direction before comparing results.
What is a worked example for Trading Profit?
Direction: Long; Entry price: $100.00; Exit price: $112.00; Quantity: 10; Gross P&L: $120.00; Entry + exit fees: $4.24; Net P&L: $115.76; Return on $1,000 entry notional: 11.58%.