Unrealized PnL
Unrealized PnL, or profit and loss, is the paper gain or loss on a position that is still open. It represents the difference between the current market price of the underlying asset and the entry price of the position.
Because the position has not been closed, this profit or loss can change rapidly with every tick of the market. Unrealized PnL is a key metric for traders, as it directly impacts their account equity and, consequently, their proximity to a margin call.
While it is not yet "real" money, it determines the trader's ability to open new positions or maintain existing ones. Monitoring unrealized PnL is essential for effective risk management, as it provides a dynamic view of how the market is impacting the trader's portfolio in real-time.