Break-even and trailing stops: two different exit tools

A break-even rule moves protection toward an entry-related level after a condition is met. A trailing rule continues adjusting protection as price moves. They can coexist, but their activation and priority need to be explicit.

Include trading costs

A stop at the entry price can still leave a net loss after commission, swap or execution differences. If the aim is cash break-even, define which costs the rule estimates and the units it uses.

Define the order of operations

Specify activation distance, new stop distance and whether a later rule may loosen an existing stop. Consider how the rule behaves when the broker’s minimum distance or freeze constraints block a modification.

Inspect a few paths

Try a steady favourable move, a quick reversal and a gap. Record the requested and accepted stop levels. A chart line does not by itself show that the broker accepted every modification.

Customise a visible behaviour

Editable EA source lets you make exit priority explicit. Treat the change as a new behaviour to inspect, rather than assuming that adding more stop-management rules always improves returns.

Reference and further reading

Start with a free editable EA project · Explore MQLume source code

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