Time-based stops: do you exit after X hours regardless?

A trade that hasn't worked after a set time is probably not the trade you planned — the setup has expired even if the stop hasn't hit. Time stops cut the slow drift and free the margin for real setups.

Time-based stops: do you exit after X hours regardless? — leverage and margin diagram
Leverage: a small margin controlling a larger position

Do you use them?

  • the time limit and how you chose it
  • how time exits compare with price exits in your journal
  • the setups where time stops fit best
Time-based stops: do you exit after X hours regardless? — central bank rate path diagram
A central bank's policy rate path across recent meetings

The order types guide covers the mechanics of scheduled exits.

Background: Market, limit and stop orders: which order type to use

The order types on a trading platform decide when and at what price you enter or exit. What each one does, and the mistakes that cost traders money.

What is the difference between a buy limit and a buy stop?

A buy limit is placed below the current price to buy on a dip. A buy stop is placed above the current price to buy if the price breaks higher.

Does a stop-loss guarantee the exit price?

No. A standard stop-loss becomes a market order when triggered and can fill beyond its level in a gap or fast market. Guaranteed stops, where offered, cost extra.

Read the full guide

Comments

Log in to join the discussion. Comments follow the community guidelines.

Log in to comment

Loading comments…