Oscar Mora
US • 4/23/2026
Confusing interpretation of contract limits when closing positions
I was trading a $50K evaluation account with a maximum limit of 5 mini contracts. In my case, I already had an open position of 3 (SELL) contracts. I then placed a stop-loss order (Buy to Cover 3 contracts) intended strictly to close that existing position. However, the system treated this as if I was attempting to increase exposure beyond the 5-contract limit, resulting in the order being rejected. From a trading perspective, this was not an attempt to exceed the account limit, but simply a standard risk management action to close an existing position. The issue appears to be how the platform interprets stop/exit orders in relation to contract limits. Support confirmed the rejection was due to exceeding the 5-contract limit and stated that execution is handled by Tradovate. However, there was no clear explanation of why a closing order was treated as additional exposure in the system logic. While I understand the importance of strict risk rules in prop accounts, the lack of clarity around how closing orders interact with contract limits can lead to confusion and unintended rejections. Apparently in their system math: 3 + 3 = 6 3 - 3 = 6 Makes perfect sense…