Unrealized Profit and Loss
Unrealized profit and loss, often called floating PnL, is the potential gain or loss on an open position that has not yet been closed. It is calculated by comparing the current market price of the asset to the entry price of the position.
This figure changes constantly as the market moves, reflecting the health of the trade. While not yet realized in cash, it is a key metric for monitoring position performance and determining when to take profits or cut losses.
In the context of margin trading, unrealized losses reduce the available equity in the account, which can impact the ability to maintain the position. Tracking this metric is fundamental to active trading and risk management.
It provides a snapshot of the current state of a trade's success or failure.