CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. The vast majority of retail client accounts lose money when trading in CFDs. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
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What caused my buy limit order not to be executed?
When placing a buy limit order, execution depends on the ask price, not the bid price shown on charts. Charts typically display the bid price, so even if it appears the price reached your limit, the ask price may have stayed higher, preventing order execution due to the bid-ask spread.
Common reasons
Reason
Explanation
Ask price did not reach the limit price
Buy Limit orders are triggered by the ask price, not the bid price shown on the chart by default.
Chart shows bid price
MT5 charts usually display historical bid prices unless the ask line is enabled.
Bid-ask spread
The ask price is higher than the bid price, so the executable buy price may not have reached your limit level.
Market conditions
Low liquidity, fast price movement, or gaps may affect order execution.
Example
Chart display
Actual execution condition
Bid price appears to touch the Buy Limit level
The order will only trigger if the ask price reaches the Buy Limit level or lower.
Important notes
For Buy Limit orders, execution depends on the ask price.
The chart may not show the full bid-ask spread unless the ask price line is enabled.
A pending order is not guaranteed to execute unless the required market price condition is met.
