What is the expected outcome of successful day trading?

• A. End the day with cash in hand
• B. Increase account balance by margin loans
• C. Hold all positions overnight
• D. Achieve guaranteed profits

Answer: (A)

End the day with cash in hand is the core outcome because day trading focuses on turning intraday price movements into realized cash by closing all positions before the market closes. This locks in gains or losses, keeps your account liquid, and avoids overnight risk from gaps or after-hours news that can move prices unpredictably. While some traders use margin, that leverages the account and adds risk rather than guaranteeing a positive outcome. Holding positions overnight goes against the day-trading approach, since it exposes you to unexpected moves after hours. Profits aren’t guaranteed in any trading approach, so aiming for guaranteed profits isn’t realistic.