How much gain you need to recover a loss
Percentage losses and gains are not symmetric. The deeper the loss, the larger the gain needed to get back. This tool makes that visible.
Formula checked against worked examples · Last reviewed 2026-10-05
Formula: loss ÷ (1 − loss). For example, after a 50% loss you need a 100% gain on what is left to get back to even.
| Loss | Gain needed |
|---|
How to use
- Enter the percentage you lost from your starting capital.
- Read the gain needed on the remaining capital.
- Compare with the table beside it.
Formula
Required gain = loss ÷ (1 − loss)
Example
A 20% loss needs a 25% gain. A 50% loss needs a 100% gain on what is left.
Hypothetical example to explain the formula. It is not real market data and not a trading recommendation.
Frequently asked questions
- Why isn't recovering a 50% loss a 50% gain?
- Because the gain is measured on the smaller remaining balance. From 1,000 down to 500 you need +500, which is 100% of 500.
- How does this relate to stop losses?
- Keeping losses small keeps the road back short.
Limits and risk
This tool is educational. Results are estimates from the numbers you enter and are not investment advice. Trading CFDs is high risk and you can lose everything. Read the full risk warning
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