Which is better, U-based or coin-based contracts? What is the difference in the profit and loss calculation method between the two?

U-based contracts use stablecoins like USDT, minimizing crypto volatility risk, while coin-based contracts use the crypto itself, allowing for direct hedging.

Apr 28, 2025 at 12:49 pm

When discussing the merits and differences between U-based and coin-based contracts in the cryptocurrency trading world, it's essential to understand the fundamental aspects of each. U-based contracts are typically denominated in a stablecoin, such as USDT, which means that the value of the contract is pegged to a stable currency. On the other hand, coin-based contracts are denominated in the cryptocurrency itself, such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, meaning the value of the contract fluctuates with the price of the underlying asset.

Understanding U-based Contracts

U-based contracts, often referred to as USDT-margined contracts, are popular among traders who prefer to have their profits and losses calculated in a stable currency. The primary advantage of U-based contracts is that they minimize the volatility risk associated with the underlying cryptocurrency. For example, if you are trading a Bitcoin/USDT contract, your profit and loss will be calculated in USDT, which means you won't have to worry about the price of Bitcoin itself affecting your position's value.

The profit and loss calculation for U-based contracts is straightforward. If you enter a long position and the price of Bitcoin increases, your profit will be the difference between the entry and exit prices, multiplied by the contract size, and expressed in USDT. Conversely, if the price decreases, your loss will be calculated similarly. The formula for calculating profit and loss for U-based contracts is:

• Profit/Loss = (Exit Price - Entry Price) Contract Size

Understanding Coin-based Contracts

Coin-based contracts, also known as coin-margined contracts, are denominated in the cryptocurrency itself. This means that both the margin and the profit and loss are calculated in the same cryptocurrency as the underlying asset. The primary advantage of coin-based contracts is that they allow traders to hedge their positions in the cryptocurrency without needing to convert to a stablecoin.

The profit and loss calculation for coin-based contracts is slightly more complex because it involves the value of the cryptocurrency itself. If you enter a long position in a Bitcoin/BTC contract and the price of Bitcoin increases, your profit will be the difference between the entry and exit prices, multiplied by the contract size, and expressed in BTC. Similarly, if the price decreases, your loss will be calculated in BTC. The formula for calculating profit and loss for coin-based contracts is:

• Profit/Loss = (Exit Price - Entry Price) Contract Size

Comparing Profit and Loss Calculation Methods

When comparing the profit and loss calculation methods of U-based and coin-based contracts, it's important to consider the impact of volatility. In U-based contracts, the profit and loss are calculated in a stable currency, which means that the volatility of the underlying asset does not directly affect the value of your position. This can be advantageous for traders who want to avoid the additional risk of cryptocurrency price fluctuations.

In coin-based contracts, the profit and loss are calculated in the cryptocurrency itself, which means that the volatility of the underlying asset directly affects the value of your position. This can be advantageous for traders who want to hedge their positions in the cryptocurrency without converting to a stablecoin. However, it also means that the value of your profit or loss can fluctuate significantly due to the price movements of the underlying asset.

Choosing Between U-based and Coin-based Contracts

The choice between U-based and coin-based contracts depends on your trading strategy and risk tolerance. If you prefer a more stable environment and want to minimize the risk of cryptocurrency volatility, U-based contracts may be the better option. They allow you to trade in a stable currency and calculate your profits and losses in a predictable manner.

If you are comfortable with the additional risk of cryptocurrency volatility and want to hedge your positions in the cryptocurrency itself, coin-based contracts may be the better option. They allow you to trade and calculate your profits and losses in the same cryptocurrency, which can be advantageous for certain trading strategies.

Practical Example of U-based and Coin-based Contracts

To illustrate the difference between U-based and coin-based contracts, let's consider a practical example. Suppose you want to trade a Bitcoin contract with a contract size of 1 BTC.

• U-based Contract Example: You enter a long position in a Bitcoin/USDT contract at an entry price of $30,000 and exit at $31,000. Your profit would be calculated as follows:

  • Profit = (Exit Price - Entry Price) Contract Size = ($31,000 - $30,000) 1 BTC = 1,000 USDT

• Coin-based Contract Example: You enter a long position in a Bitcoin/BTC contract at an entry price of 1 BTC and exit at 1.0333 BTC. Your profit would be calculated as follows:

  • Profit = (Exit Price - Entry Price) Contract Size = (1.0333 BTC - 1 BTC) 1 BTC = 0.0333 BTC

In this example, the profit for the U-based contract is expressed in USDT, while the profit for the coin-based contract is expressed in BTC. The choice between the two depends on your preference for stability and your trading strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I switch between U-based and coin-based contracts during a trade?

A: No, once you enter a position in either a U-based or coin-based contract, you cannot switch between the two during the trade. You must close your current position and open a new one in the desired contract type.

Q: Are there any fees associated with U-based and coin-based contracts?

A: Yes, both U-based and coin-based contracts may have associated fees, such as trading fees, funding fees, and withdrawal fees. These fees can vary depending on the exchange and the specific contract you are trading.

Q: How does leverage affect the profit and loss calculation for U-based and coin-based contracts?

A: Leverage amplifies both the potential profit and loss for both U-based and coin-based contracts. The profit and loss calculation remains the same, but the amount of leverage you use will determine the size of your position and the potential impact on your account balance.

Q: Can I use both U-based and coin-based contracts in the same trading strategy?

A: Yes, you can use both U-based and coin-based contracts in the same trading strategy, depending on your goals and risk tolerance. Some traders may use U-based contracts for more stable positions and coin-based contracts for hedging or speculating on the price of the underlying cryptocurrency.