Some people see shorting crypto as a worthwhile trading strategy, but that doesn't mean it's not without its risks.
In this guide, we'll discuss what it means to short crypto, and explore the following:
- How to short Bitcoin (BTC)
- How to short Ethereum (ETH)
- How to short Solana (SOL)
- How to short memecoins
Now, let’s get into it.
Shorting crypto on Solana
On Solana, you can short cryptocurrencies on decentralized exchanges such as Jupiter and Drift, or on lending/borrowing platforms such as Save.
Shorting crypto with perpetual futures (Jupiter and Drift)
Perpetual futures contracts are a popular method for shorting cryptocurrencies.
To short crypto using perpetual futures, you enter a sell (short) position on the contract, betting that the price of the underlying asset will decrease. If the price drops, you can close your position—pocketing the difference as profit.
Also, with perpetual futures you have ample time to wait for the perfect position to exit, as these contracts don't have an expiration date, enabling you to hold your positions indefinitely—unlike traditional futures.
Shorting crypto on lending and borrowing platforms (Save)
Another method to short crypto involves using lending and borrowing protocols such as Save.
Here's how it works:
- First, you deposit collateral into the protocol and then borrow the cryptocurrency you believe will decrease in value.
- Then, you immediately sell the borrowed asset at the current market price.
- If the price drops as anticipated, you buy back the same amount of the asset at the lower price.
- Finally, you return the borrowed asset to the protocol, keeping the difference as profit.
Choosing the right trading platform
When selecting a platform for shorting among Jupiter, Drift, and Save, carefully evaluate the following key aspects:
- User interface: Assess the platform's ease of use and intuitiveness.
- Asset diversity: Check the variety of tokens available for shorting.
- Fee structures: Compare transaction costs and any additional charges.
- Security measures: Verify recent security audits (look for up-to-date reports or request them from the team if not readily available).
Additionally, thoroughly understand the potential risks associated with decentralized trading as it’s inherently risky due to several factors:
- Firstly, the lack of regulation means there’s no oversight or protection if things go wrong, making it easier for scams and fraud to occur.
- Secondly, smart contract vulnerabilities can be exploited by hackers, leading to loss of funds.
- Thirdly, liquidity issues on decentralized platforms can result in significant slippage or inability to execute trades at desired prices, further increasing risk.
Also, make sure that you explicitly understand the risks of shorting cryptocurrencies—which we’ll continue to discuss below.
Risks of shorting crypto
Shorting cryptocurrencies is inherently risky due to the volatile nature of the crypto market. Prices can move rapidly, and unexpected events—such as regulatory changes or technological developments—can cause significant price swings.
Here’s what to keep an eye out for:
- Unlimited losses: Unlike buying an asset (where your maximum loss is the amount you invested), shorting potentially exposes you to unlimited losses—meaning you could lose your entire collateral. Mostly, this is the case on decentralized exchanges (DEXs) such as Jupiter and Drift as they rely on perpetual futures.
- Margin calls: If you’re using leverage to short, the platform may issue a margin call if the market moves against you. This means you’ll need to add more collateral to maintain your position. If you can’t meet the margin requirement, your position may be liquidated, resulting in a loss.
- Market manipulation: The crypto market is still relatively young and can be susceptible to manipulation. Whales (large holders of cryptocurrency) can influence prices, leading to sudden spikes or drops that may not reflect the asset’s true value.
- Liquidity risks: In thinly-traded markets, it can be difficult to find buyers or sellers, leading to slippage (the difference between the expected price and the actual execution price). This can erode your profits and increase your losses.
Apart from this, it’s also crucial to bear in mind the legal and regulatory environment in your region before shorting cryptocurrencies.
Legal and regulatory considerations
The legal and regulatory landscape for shorting cryptocurrencies varies significantly across different jurisdictions. In some countries, shorting crypto is entirely legal, while in others, it may be restricted or subject to specific regulations.
- Some jurisdictions regulate the platforms that offer short selling of cryptocurrencies. This can include requirements for licensing, reporting, and customer protection. Ensure that the platform you choose complies with local regulations.
- Shorting cryptocurrencies may have tax implications, such as capital gains tax. The tax treatment of profits and losses from shorting can vary, so it’s essential to understand the tax rules in your country and keep accurate records of your trades.
- Engaging in short selling on unregulated or decentralized platforms may expose you to legal risks. If a platform is shut down or if there are disputes, you may have limited recourse to recover your funds.
How to short crypto with Phantom
Executing a short trade on decentralized exchanges such as Jupiter and Drift involves a few key steps.
Below is a general guide to help you get started with shorting e.g. Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), and memecoins on Drift:
- Connect wallet: Ensure your Phantom wallet has sufficient funds for transaction fees and collateral. Then head over to drift.trade and select “Launch App” in the top-right corner of your screen and connect your Phantom wallet. If this is your first time using Drift, you'll be prompted to set up an account, which requires a minimal amount of SOL.
- Deposit collateral: **After setting up an account, which is quick, you'll be able to deposit funds as collateral. You can either do so within the setup wizard, or by first clicking on “Main Account” in the top-right corner of your screen and then on “Deposit/Withdraw”.
- Select asset: After you've deposited some collateral, select “Trade” in the navigation bar and then “Perpetuals”. At the top-left of your screen, select “Limit” order—as it allows you to specify detailed buying and selling signals—and “Short”. Above the candle chart in the center of your screen, you'll be able to choose the cryptocurrency you wish to short from a dropdown menu (e.g. SOL-PERP).
- Enter details: Now, you can fill out the order form on the left side of your screen. When keying in the trade size, you can toggle between your chosen cryptocurrency and USDC. Next, select the leverage (if any) and limit price (entry point of your short position) of your order. Note, leverage amplifies both potential gains and losses, so choose carefully.
- Place order: After finalizing the order form, you'll be able to buy the perpetual contract, i.e. short the cryptocurrency you selected by clicking “SHORT XYZ-PERP”. If your order is successful, you'll find it listed in the “Positions” tab under the candle chart.
- Monitor and manage: **After placing your short position, monitor the market closely. If the asset’s price drops, you’ll profit from the difference. If the price rises, you’ll incur a loss. So make sure to either set automated triggers (Take Profit/Stop Loss) or manually close your position whenever it suits you best. You can close your short anytime by navigating to the “Positions” tab under the candle chart.
How to bridge tokens to Solana with Phantom?
To bridge assets from Ethereum and the EVM ecosystem to Solana, read our bridging guide.
And if you'd like to bridge funds to the Solana ecosystem, use our own Cross-Chain Swapper. With our Cross-Chain Swapper, you can bridge tokens across Ethereum, Solana, and Polygon right in your Phantom wallet.
Here’s how:
Disclaimer: This guide is strictly for educational purposes only and doesn’t constitute financial or legal advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any assets or to make any financial decisions. Please be careful and do your own research.
