Stock Profit/Loss Calculator

Calculate trading profit, commission impact, percentage returns, and Capital Gains Tax on share dealing.

Stock Trade Details
£
Price you paid per share
Total shares purchased
£
Price you sell/sold at
Trading currency
£
Fee paid when buying
£
Fee paid when selling
Understanding Stock Profit/Loss
How Profit/Loss is Calculated

Stock trading profit or loss is calculated by comparing your total investment (including fees) against the proceeds from selling:

Total Cost = (Buy Price × Shares) + Buy Commission
Total Proceeds = (Sell Price × Shares) - Sell Commission
Net Profit/Loss = Total Proceeds - Total Cost
Percentage Return = (Net Profit / Total Cost) × 100
Break-Even Price

The break-even price is the minimum sell price needed to recover your entire investment including all commissions:

Break-Even = (Total Cost + Sell Commission) / Shares

If you sell above this price, you make a profit. Below it, you make a loss.

Capital Gains Tax (UK)

For the 2026/27 tax year:

  • Annual allowance: £3,000 (reduced from £6,000 in 2023/24)
  • Basic rate: 18% on gains above allowance
  • Higher rate: 24% on gains above allowance
  • CGT only applies if total gains across all assets exceed the allowance
  • Report via Self Assessment if you exceed the allowance
Commission Fees

UK stockbrokers charge varying commission rates:

  • Commission-free platforms: £0 per trade (e.g., Trading 212, Freetrade)
  • Low-cost brokers: £3-£6 per trade
  • Traditional brokers: £8-£12 per trade
  • Some brokers charge a percentage (0.5-1%) instead of flat fees
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I calculate stock profit and loss?

Stock profit/loss = (Sell price × Shares) - (Buy price × Shares) - Buy commission - Sell commission. This gives you net profit after all trading fees. Percentage return = (Net profit / Total cost) × 100.

Q: How much is Capital Gains Tax on shares in the UK?

For 2026/27, the CGT allowance is £3,000. Gains above this are taxed at 18% (basic rate taxpayers) or 24% (higher/additional rate). CGT only applies if total gains across all assets exceed the allowance.

Q: What are typical share dealing fees in the UK?

UK stockbrokers typically charge £0-£12 per trade. Some platforms offer commission-free trading (e.g., Trading 212, Freetrade), while traditional brokers charge £5-£12 per trade. Always check your broker's fee schedule.

Q: What is the break-even price for stocks?

Break-even price is the minimum sell price needed to recover your investment including all fees. Formula: (Buy price × Shares + Buy commission + Sell commission) / Shares. This tells you the exact price to sell at to avoid a loss.

Q: Do I pay tax on stock profits in the UK?

Yes, if your total capital gains exceed £3,000 in the 2026/27 tax year, you must pay Capital Gains Tax on the excess. Gains are taxed at 18% (basic rate) or 24% (higher rate). Report via Self Assessment if gains exceed the allowance.

Quick Examples
Tips for Share Trading
  • Use commission-free platforms for frequent trading
  • Factor in fees when setting profit targets
  • Track all trades for CGT reporting
  • Use ISA/SIPP accounts for tax-free gains
  • Consider stamp duty (0.5%) on UK shares
  • Keep records for at least 6 years
2026/27 Tax Rates
CGT Allowance £3,000
Basic Rate CGT 18%
Higher Rate CGT 24%
Stamp Duty (UK shares) 0.5%
Related Tools
Disclaimer: This calculator is for illustrative purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Tax rates and allowances are subject to change. Consult a qualified financial adviser for personalised advice. Last updated: January 2026.