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Loss calculator
Calculate the amount and percentage of a loss from the original cost and the current value or sale price.
Loss calculator
Enter your values below and press Calculate to see your result instantly.
Total Realized Loss
-$250.00
LOSS PERCENTAGE
25.0%
RECOVERY NEEDED
33.3%
To break even after a 25% loss, you need a 33.3% gain. This is the asymmetric nature of capital.
About the Loss calculator
Calculate the amount and percentage of a loss from the original cost and the current value or sale price.
How to use the Loss calculator
- Enter the Initial Cost / Investment and the Current Value / Sale Price.
- Press Calculate.
Formula and method
Loss = Cost − Sale price and Loss % = Loss ÷ Cost × 100.
Worked example
Something bought for $1,000 and sold for $800 is a loss of $200, or 20%.
Tips
- A loss of 50% needs a gain of 100% to break even.
Frequently asked questions
How much do I need to gain to recover a loss?
Divide the loss percentage by (100 − loss percentage). Recovering a 20% loss needs a 25% gain.