How to Calculate Futures Profit and Loss

Futures Profit Calculation Formula

To calculate profit or loss on a futures trade, you multiply the point move by the contract's point value and the number of contracts traded. Unlike stocks, futures use multipliers that define how much each full point move is worth in dollars.

The Basic Formula

Example: ES (E-mini S&P 500)

• Point Value: $50 per full point
• Entry: 5,200.00
• Exit: 5,210.00 (10 point gain)
• Quantity: 1 contract
• Calculation: 10 points × $50 = $500 profit (before commissions).

FAQ: Futures Profit

What is the difference between points and ticks?

A point is the primary unit of price change. A tick is the smallest possible price fluctuation. For example, in ES, a full point is 1.00, and a tick is 0.25 (there are 4 ticks in a point).

Do these calculations include commissions?

No, the basic formula calculates "Gross P/L." To find your net profit, you must subtract the round-turn commission charged by your broker.

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