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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

How Cryptocurrency Works?

Cryptocurrencies use cryptography technology to keep transactions and their units (tokens) secure. Cryptocurrency works via a technology called the blockchain. A blockchain is a decentralized technology that handles and records transactions across numerous computers. The security of this technology is part of its value.

Is Crypto Legal In India?

Cryptocurrencies are legal in India, and anyone can purchase, sell, and exchange them. It is currently uncontrolled, as India lacks a regulatory structure to oversee its operations. Per the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, companies must now record their crypto trading/investments within the financial year. In cases where a person receiving the gains is an Indian tax resident, or the cryptocurrency is regarded as domiciled in India, cryptocurrency transactions have been taxable in India

How To Invest In Cryptocurrency In India?

There are two ways of investing in cryptocurrency, mining and via exchanges. Cryptocurrency mining is the process of verifying and adding transactions between users to the blockchain public ledger. Purchasing cryptocurrency in India is a straightforward procedure where investors simply participate by registering with a crypto exchange such as WazirX. After registering for an account, citizens can trade multiple cryptocurrencies, store cryptocurrency in wallets, and more.

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 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.

How To Invest In Cryptocurrency Stocks?

Cryptocurrency can be purchased in two ways: through mining or exchanges. The process of confirming and adding transactions to the blockchain public ledger is known as cryptocurrency mining. Cryptocurrency exchanges are another option. Exchanges make money by charging transaction fees, but there are alternative platforms where you may communicate directly with other cryptocurrency traders.

How Safe Are Cryptocurrencies?

Cryptocurrencies can be safe, but your crypto wallets can be hacked if proper security steps are not performed. There are also dangers and uncertainties associated with investments, and we cannot declare any virtual currency investment risk-free. Buying and selling cryptocurrencies does not have to be dangerous if the trader is well-versed in the market and treats his coins with care.

How To Invest In Cryptocurrency?

There are two ways of investing in cryptocurrency, mining and via exchanges. Cryptocurrency mining is considered the procedure of verifying and adding transactions to the blockchain public ledger. Another option is via cryptocurrency exchanges. Exchanges generate money by collecting transaction fees, but there are alternative websites where you can interact directly with other users who want to trade cryptocurrencies.

Is Bitcoin And Cryptocurrency The Same Thing?

Bitcoin is a cryptocurrency that was designed to facilitate cross-border transactions, eliminate government control over transactions, and streamline the entire process without third-party intermediaries. The absence of intermediaries has resulted in a significant reduction in transaction costs. Satoshi Nakamoto, the creator of Bitcoin, created the first cryptocurrency in 2008. It began as open-source software for money transfers. Since then, plenty of cryptocurrencies have emerged, with some focusing on specific fields.

Disclaimer: Cryptocurrency is not a legal tender and is currently unregulated. Kindly ensure that you undertake sufficient risk assessment when trading cryptocurrencies as they are often subject to high price volatility. The information provided in this section doesn't represent any investment advice or WazirX's official position. WazirX reserves the right in its sole discretion to amend or change this blog post at any time and for any reasons without prior notice.
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