What is net profit?

Definition

For a trading strategy, net profit should reflect realized gains and losses plus fees and other included costs over the stated period. The calculation needs a clear starting balance, ending balance and treatment of open positions.

A positive net profit does not establish reliability or good risk-adjusted performance. Drawdown, capital used, sample size, execution quality and whether all costs were included remain essential context.

ELI5

Net profit is what remains after gains and costs are combined. It is the amount a strategy actually added over the measured period under the stated accounting rules.

For example, a bot may report about $121 in net profit after its completed trades and included costs. That number should still be read alongside the starting capital, drawdown and any open positions or fees left outside the calculation.

Frequently asked questions

What costs should trading net profit include?

Trading fees, spreads, financing, data, infrastructure and realized losses should be included when they apply to the stated result.

Is net profit enough to compare trading strategies?

No. Strategies can use different capital and take very different risks, so returns and drawdowns are also needed.

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