Deriv Lot Size Guide: How to Calculate Position Size for Synthetic Indices and Forex
The Position-Size Formula
- Decide your risk per trade (e.g. 1% of a $100 balance = $1).
- Place the stop at a logical level and measure its distance in price points.
- Find how much one lot gains or loses per point (contract specification).
- Lot size = $ risk ÷ (stop distance × value per point per lot), rounded down to the allowed step.
Where to Find Contract Details
In MT5, open Market Watch, right-click the symbol and choose Specification. Note the contract size, minimum volume, volume step and margin. Values differ between indices and change from time to time, so always check before trading.
Example
| Item | Example value |
|---|---|
| Balance | $100 |
| Risk (1%) | $1 |
| Stop distance | set by your chart level |
| Value per point per lot | from Specification |
| Lot size | $1 ÷ (stop × value per point), rounded down |
If the calculated size is below the minimum volume, the trade is too big for your account: use a wider account balance, a closer logical stop, or a slower index.
Mistakes
- Copying someone else’s lot size.
- Using the same lot on V10 and V100.
- Moving the stop further to "make room" without reducing size.
- Ignoring margin requirements.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What lot size should I use on Volatility 75?
Calculate it from your risk and stop distance; start at the minimum volume shown in Specification.
What is the minimum lot size on Deriv MT5?
It differs by symbol; check the Specification in MT5.
How do I calculate lot size?
Risk in dollars ÷ (stop distance × value per point per lot).
Why did my account blow up with a small lot?
Fast indices or wide moves can still exceed your balance without a stop.
Should lot size change with balance?
Yes, keep risk as a percentage of the current balance.
Is there a lot size calculator?
Use the formula above with your symbol’s specification values.
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