Stopped Short

I mentioned in my last post that I was stopped out on UGA. Total bummer really, but that's also the point. While the loss would have been temporary, I now have capital to re-deploy elsewhere.

So what happened, you say?

I entered this 100 share position at on 19 March 2009 at $24.82. I went light because I didn't have a lot of capital to deploy, and I really haven't like the price point on UGA. Basically, for investing in the oil patch, I get more value elsewhere.

My stop was filled at $29.26, for a per share price, after commission, of $29.19. My stop was placed at $29.25, which I thought was loose enough to prevent all but the most egregious of downdrafts based on UGA's trading history. Clearly, it should have been a bit looser.

Profit, after commission, came to 17.6%. Not too bad for a 2 month holding period. While I would have loved to continue holding UGA, I have been able to pursue some other ideas with the freed capital. So things eventually work out. I have no interest in chasing UGA on the way up, even though I think it has a bit further to run. I'd rather deploy capital in more efficient ways and focus on getting a 2 or 3 bagger, if not more.

Remember, cut those losses short. But there is nothing wrong with taking a profit. Just don't take them too aggressively. Always let your winners run if you can.

Until next time...