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What is a limit order in crypto, and how does it work?

By October 18, 2022May 11th, 20233 minute read

The world of finance is changing by leaps and bounds. The introduction of newer asset classes, such as crypto, is altering how we trade and invest, in addition to the classic investment instruments. Since crypto is still in a nascent stage, the market’s inherent volatility necessitates close monitoring by traders in order to capitalize on price swings. 

Utilizing limit orders in crypto helps one to have more control over trading activities. In order to play our cards correctly when trading, we should understand the different types of orders available. But first, let’s talk about limit orders.

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What is a Limit Order?

Using a limit order, traders can specify a maximum price at which they would want to buy or sell a coin. The limit order method works using the following if-else algorithm:

  •  If the market price of your investment in a crypto coin or other digital asset reaches the limit price, your order is carried out; 
  • If not, the order is canceled. 

The key benefit of using limit orders is that both buyers and sellers can select the desired price. When their preferred crypto reaches the target price, they can then make a trade even if they are unable to continuously monitor the market, staying one step ahead of other traders. Consequently, a limit order enables one to purchase or sell crypto at a specific or higher price. 

Traders use limit order in various situations. Some of them are:

  • The coin is a low-volume coin and isn’t frequently traded on the market. 
  • The trader is concerned that the price of a crypto coin is fluctuating a lot.
  • The trader doesn’t indulge in intra-day trading, hence, doesn’t have the time to keep a watch on the market. 
  • Some investors only employ limit orders when they think that the price of an asset will rise to the desired level.
  • The trader is trading a huge volume of coins at once. 

Drawbacks of Limit order

Limit order makes it convenient for traders to invest in crypto, but they have a few setbacks too. Here are some disadvantages of using Limit orders:

  • The order will not be filled if a willing buyer or seller does not meet the limit price within the allotted time frame. 
  • Additionally, time is crucial when placing limit orders. Each order placed in an exchange’s order book has a time stamp. In case of the same price, the order placed first takes precedence over the orders accepted later. 

How does it work?

There are two limit order types: sell limit orders and buy limit orders.

  • Sell Limit Order: When a trader places a sell limit order, they specify the lowest price they want the crypto coin to reach. The order will be activated only when the crypto price is equal to or more than the minimum price.
  • Buy Limit Order: Here, a trader establishes a limit they are willing to meet to purchase a stock. The order will be carried out only when the price of the crypto is lower than the predetermined price.

Investors should also consider the order’s expiration date while placing a limit order. Suppose a trader doesn’t have the time to keep a close eye on the market. In that case, they can find themselves buying or selling at a less acceptable price since a poor evaluation of market price movement will ultimately force the investor to underestimate the limit order. In order to stay updated with the constantly shifting market conditions, traders and investors should periodically examine their open limit orders.

Conclusion

Limit orders are a great trading instrument when a trader wants to purchase or sell a coin at a higher price. An investor can use it to maximize unrealized gains or reduce loss risk. It is a great option for investors who are patient and are looking to HODL. However, limit order doesn’t come without risk. You might lose out on a profitable opportunity if an order is not filled. Hence, traders should be aware of the pros and cons of all kinds of orders and strategize their moves carefully. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Cryptocurrencies Legal In India?

In India, cryptocurrency is legal, and anyone can buy, sell, and trade it. Because India lacks a regulatory system to regulate its operations, it is presently uncontrolled. According to the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, companies must now document their crypto trading/investments inside the financial year.

What Are The Best Cryptocurrencies To Invest In?

The best cryptocurrencies to invest in would be the ones you study and analyze in detail. Some of the most popular cryptocurrencies include Bitcoin, Ethereum, and many altcoins such as Tron, Ripple, Litecoin, etc.

Is Pi Cryptocurrency Safe?

Pi Network captured the crypto community’s interest even before it officially debuted. Its innovative mobile mining approach and user-friendly design simplify crypto adoption for a broader audience.Some users see this as a chance to get engaged in the crypto from the beginning and profit in the future, similar to how early Bitcoin adopters made huge profits by mining and keeping the coin. Other users have compared Pi to a worthless multi-level marketing (MLM) scheme.

Is Cryptocurrency Banned In India?

No, cryptocurrency is not banned in India. India has seen its ups and downs in the crypto sector concerning its legal status. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued a circular in April 2018 advising all organizations under its jurisdiction not to trade in virtual currencies or provide services to assist anyone in dealing with or settling them. A government committee proposed outlawing all private cryptocurrencies in mid-2019, with up to ten years in prison and severe penalties for anyone dealing in digital currency. The Supreme Court overruled the RBI's circular in March 2020, allowing banks to undertake cryptocurrency transactions from dealers and exchanges.

How Many Cryptocurrencies Are There?

There are over 5000 other digital currencies available on the internet in addition to Bitcoins. The only problem is that they haven't gotten the users' attention. Besides Bitcoins, a few other digital currencies have gained popularity among users. It's been more than ten years since Bitcoins were first released, and now they've achieved new heights thanks to their phenomenal success.

What Is Virtual Currency?

Virtual currency is a type of uncontrolled digital currency that can only be used online. It is exclusively stored and transacted using designated software, mobile or computer applications, or unique digital wallets, and all transactions are conducted through secure, dedicated networks. Because digital currency is just currency issued by a bank in digital form, virtual currency is not the same as a digital currency. Virtual currency, unlike ordinary money, is based on a trust structure and cannot be issued by a central bank or other banking regulatory organization.

Is Ethereum Safe To Invest?

The Bitcoin market is unquestionably more volatile than the stock market. This may not be the market for you if you are incredibly risk-averse. Ethereum, on the other hand, may be a terrific investment for you if you're a diamond-handed investor who won't lose sight of short-term losses. Ethereum is a relatively safe investment as it is also based on blockchain.

What Is The Safest Cryptocurrency To Invest In?

Bitcoin has had the highest market capitalization, has been around the longest, has the most experienced development team, and has enormous network impact and brand recognition. As a result, while trading cryptocurrencies, the rate of return on Bitcoin is commonly used as a benchmark. However, the risks associated with cryptocurrencies remain, and the safest cryptocurrency for you depends on your analysis.

Is Cryptocurrency Safe To Invest In?

Cryptocurrency investments are subject to market risks, but if sufficient security measures are not taken, trading accounts can be maliciously accessed. Investments come with risks and uncertainties, and we cannot claim that any digital currency investment is risk-free. Buying and selling cryptocurrencies can be risky even if the trader is knowledgeable about the market and treats their coins carefully.

Is crypto legal?

Crypto is legal in most countries, including India. While nations like the U.S. and many in Europe have regulatory frameworks, others like China have strict bans.

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