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Why is my pnl down? insights on losing money

Why Your Crypto PNL Might Be in the Red | Traders Call Out Hidden Trading Fees and Risks

By

Sophia Zhang

Jul 21, 2025, 12:31 AM

Edited By

Diego Silva

Updated

Jul 21, 2025, 01:38 PM

2 minutes reading time

A downward trending graph representing financial losses, with red arrows indicating decreasing profits.
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A surge of concerns from traders highlights how trading fees and risky leverage strategies can sink profits in the crypto market. With the growing complexity of trading dynamics, many are left asking: What can new traders do to navigate these pitfalls?

Unpacking Fee Structures

Many newcomers underestimate the weight of trading fees in their profit calculations. According to one trader, "At 25x leverage, you need a gain of over 5% just to turn a profit after fees." Another trader emphasized that because youโ€™re trading with leverage, you also pay fees for keeping the trade open. This reflects a larger discussion where traders express frustration over fees that exceed profit margins.

Moreover, comments point to multiple fees associated with futures trading:

  • Exchange (Commission) Fee: Charged for every order execution.

  • Funding Fee: Typically set to an 8-hour interval to reduce the price gap between spot and futures prices.

  • Insurance Clearance Fee: Happens when a position is forcibly liquidated.

High Leverage Hazards

High leverage trading is another major concern. Some traders warn, "Stop using high leverage if you donโ€™t know why your PNL is down." This sentiment highlights risk among novice traders, putting their funds on the line without grasping potential losses.

Emphasizing the Value of Paper Trading

There's strong encouragement to start with paper trading, as noted by one trader, "Youโ€™re doing the right thing by starting small to teach yourself." Simulation experiences can build essential trading skills without the risk of losing real money.

"Your fees are out sizing your position and profit margin. You immediately enter a trade at a loss," underscores the importance of understanding costs for success.

Key Takeaways

  • ๐ŸŒŸ Traders overlook significant fees that demand large earnings to break even.

  • ๐Ÿ“‰ Many new traders risk substantial positions through high leverage without recognizing the downside.

  • โœ… Community members advocate for paper trading to mitigate risks while gaining experience.

The Road Ahead for New Traders

As more newcomers enter the crypto market, an increase in awareness about trading fees and risks is anticipated. While many traders currently face losses, education can lead to better strategies and potentially more sustainable trading behaviors this year. Navigating these challenges is crucial to turning the tides for budding traders.

The crypto landscape rewards informed decision-making now more than ever. Are you prepared to take the plunge?