The core formula
Break-even spread (%) = Buy fee + Sell fee + Slippage + (Withdrawal cost / Position size * 100)
Only trade when observed spread is clearly above break-even, with safety margin for execution delay.
Worked examples
| Position size | Total fixed costs | Break-even spread |
|---|---|---|
| $1,000 | 0.10% + 0.10% + 0.03% + $1 withdrawal | 0.33% |
| $5,000 | 0.10% + 0.10% + 0.03% + $1 withdrawal | 0.25% |
| $20,000 | 0.10% + 0.10% + 0.03% + $1 withdrawal | 0.235% |
Execution buffer most traders forget
- Latency buffer: add +0.03% to +0.08% for volatile sessions.
- Order-book buffer: add +0.02% if depth is thin.
- Operational buffer: add +0.01% for occasional partial fills.
Safe rule: if your calculated break-even is 0.27%, require at least 0.35% displayed spread before acting.
Quick checklist before pressing buy
- Network matches on both exchanges (for example, TRC20 to TRC20).
- Withdrawal status is active on sender exchange.
- Top-of-book size can absorb your order with acceptable slippage.
- All fees are verified on the current tier/VIP level of your account.
Use this with CoinNavigator tools
Open the Live Spread Monitor, shortlist routes above your threshold, then validate exact net numbers with the Arbitrage Calculator.
Related reads: Fees & Profit Guide | Risk Checklist | Best Coins for Arbitrage