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◈ GLOSSARY · TRADING & MARKETS

Limit Order.

A definition, in plain English — with the books that teach it.

ClearValue Books · reviewed against sources ·
DEFINITION

What it means

Definition

An instruction to buy at no more than a set price, or sell at no less than a set price. You trade certainty of fill for control of price — the order only executes if the market reaches your number. It's the default tool for anyone who doesn't want to get steamrolled on wide spreads or fast moves.

IN PRACTICE

Example

Stock is trading at $50.05. You place a limit buy at $50.00. If the ask drops to $50.00 or below, you fill there. If the stock runs to $52 instead, your order sits unfilled — which is the tradeoff.

RECOMMENDED READING

Books that explain this

Day Trade Online
Christopher A Farrell
Compleat Day Trader
Jake Bernstein
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