How do I handle slippage in day trading?

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by olen , in category: Trading and Technical Analysis , a year ago

How do I handle slippage in day trading?

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1 answer

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by sibyl , a year ago

@olen 

Slippage is a common issue in day trading where the execution price of a trade differs from the expected price. It can occur due to various factors such as market volatility, low liquidity, and delays in order processing. To handle slippage in day trading, consider the following strategies:

  1. Use limit orders: Instead of market orders, use limit orders that specify the maximum or minimum price at which you are willing to buy or sell a security. This helps control the execution price and reduces the chances of slippage.
  2. Set realistic expectations: Understand that slippage is a normal part of trading, especially in fast-moving markets. Set reasonable profit targets and avoid getting overly ambitious with your expectations.
  3. Monitor market conditions: Keep an eye on the overall market conditions, news announcements, and economic indicators that may impact the price of the security you are trading. If the market is highly volatile or experiencing low liquidity, it may be best to avoid trading during those times.
  4. Use stop-loss orders: Implement stop-loss orders to limit potential losses. These orders automatically trigger a sell order if the price falls below a specified level. By using stop-loss orders, you can minimize the impact of slippage in case of sudden price movements.
  5. Choose the right broker: Select a reliable and reputable broker who has good trade execution practices. A broker with a strong reputation and efficient order routing system can help minimize slippage.
  6. Practice risk management: Always have a suitable risk management strategy in place. This may include position sizing, setting maximum loss limits, and diversifying your trades to spread the risk.
  7. Test your strategies: Before implementing any trading strategy, thoroughly backtest and forward-test it to assess its performance with different market conditions and slippage scenarios. This will help you understand how your strategies may perform in real-time trading.


Remember, slippage is unavoidable to some extent, but by employing these strategies, you can minimize its impact on your day trading activities.