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Understanding risk in perpetual trading liquidation

Liquidation Risks | Users Question Perpetual Trading Mechanics

By

Alice Tran

Nov 27, 2025, 11:35 PM

Edited By

Jasmine Wong

2 minutes reading time

A group of traders studying market charts and graphs on a computer screen to understand liquidation risks in perpetual trading.
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In a recent series of discussions on forums, questions have arisen about the intricacies of perpetual trading and the risks of liquidation. Active participants are eager to understand how liquidation prices work and the actual implications on their entire wallet balance versus their initial position values.

Confusion Over Liquidation Dynamics

One trader expressed confusion: "If I open a position using $X while my wallet balance is $5X, what do I lose if it hits the liquidation price?" This concern highlights a frequent issue among new traders trying to grasp the landscape of leverage.

The trader also noted that boosting wallet balance to $10X appears to increase the distance to liquidation price, questioning if the entire balance is at risk during liquidation events. Insights from various sources indicate that while liquidation can impact more than just the initial position value, the max loss often correlates to the position itself, sparking ongoing debate.

User Experiences Reveal a Common Fear

Commenters on the topic have shared their personal experiences with leverage trading:

  • One noted, "Just lost $200 leveraging my trade, but I've learned. It's a stressful ride!"

  • Another warned against leveraging much capital, emphasizing the importance of holding good assets instead.

  • A user highlighted, โ€œDonโ€™t do leverage!โ€, capturing a prevailing sentiment that warns traders to tread carefully.

Community Sentiment and Key Insights

The opinions reflect a mix of caution and personal lessons learned. Many users caution against engaging heavily in leveraged positions, echoing concerns that liquidations can lead to significant financial loss. The broader context suggests an ongoing discomfort among newer participants about risks associated with margin trading, especially in the volatile crypto market.

Key Insights

  • โš ๏ธ Many traders avoid leveraging most of their capital for safety.

  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ "Keep it simple, invest in good assets!" - Comment from a veteran trader.

  • ๐Ÿ“‰ Trader experiences show losses can be substantial without proper understanding.

As the conversation around leverage and liquidation evolves, traders are left asking: how can they balance risk while still pursuing opportunities in crypto? Analysts urge individuals to educate themselves thoroughly before experimenting in these potentially high-risk markets.

What Lies Ahead for Traders?

Thereโ€™s a strong possibility that more traders will shift toward conservative strategies due to the rising concern over liquidation risks. With the current wave of caution among people discussing their experiences on forums, analysts estimate about 70% of new traders may opt for lower leverage in 2025. This shift could lead to a more stable market, as individuals prioritize risk management over aggressive trading. Enhanced educational resources and mentorship programs may also gain attention, making it easier for newcomers to navigate the complexities of crypto trading without falling victim to severe financial losses.

A Lesson from History's Firefighters

Consider the evolution of the fitness industry during the late 1980s. Initially, consumers rushed into high-intensity workout programs promising quick results, much like traders diving into leveraged positions without sufficient understanding. However, as injuries rose and sustainability became a concern, many switched to balanced exercise regimens focusing on long-term health. In a similar vein, todayโ€™s traders may shift their focus from quick profits to consistent strategies, learning to protect their investments and health in the unpredictable world of crypto.