What is a Stop Loss in Forex?

Stop Loss (SL)
Forex Trading Glossary

Quick Answer: A stop loss automatically closes your trade at a predetermined price to limit losses. It is the most important risk management tool in forex trading.

What is a Stop Loss (SL)?

A Stop Loss (SL) order automatically closes a trade once price hits a predefined level against your position. It protects capital by enforcing a maximum loss per trade.

Best Practices for Stops

  • Structure-based: Place stops beyond logical invalidation points.
  • Position sizing: Calculate lot size so the stop corresponds to a safe risk percentage.
  • Avoid moving stops wider: Doing so usually magnifies losses.
  • Account for spread: Especially on stop orders in volatile sessions.

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