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Running Profit/Loss

Ongoing measure of performance combining realized results with current mark to market valuation of open positions.

Running profit/loss (P&L) measures unrealized gains or losses from open positions based on current market prices. Unlike realized P&L, it fluctuates with market movements and is essential for risk management in trading.

In oil markets, running P&L helps traders assess exposure in futures, swaps, and physical contracts. For example, a long Brent crude position purchased at $85 per barrel may show a running P&L of $2,000 if the market price rises to $87, reflecting potential gains if closed.

Monitoring running P&L informs decisions on position adjustments, margin requirements, and hedging strategies. It also provides transparency for performance evaluation and stress testing under volatile conditions.

Running P&L is critical for active risk monitoring, ensuring traders maintain discipline and avoid excessive losses while maximizing potential gains.