Portfolio Drag

Definition

Portfolio drag refers to the aggregate reduction in a portfolio’s overall return caused by various costs, fees, and inefficiencies inherent in investment management and trading activities. This subtle but persistent erosion of capital can significantly impact long-term compounding. In the context of cryptocurrency and derivatives, these drags are often exacerbated by market volatility, high transaction costs, and specific protocol fees. It represents the opportunity cost of capital diverted from productive investment.