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Metrics · Market tape

Price change % explained

In simple wordsHow far today’s price moved vs yesterday’s close, as a percent.

Market tape

Statement family

3

Sample tickers to try

3

Related metrics

See formulaOn our deskTry MEBL research

Definition

Change % usually compares today’s last print to the previous close. Green or red is only a short session snapshot.

Purpose & when you need it

Purpose

Change % compresses the day’s move into one label so you can scan the board - still not an order.

When you need it

Need last and a prior close. Circuit days and thin prints need extra care when reading the size of the move.

Where it appears & why people look

Where

Research header, Live tab, movers lists, and watchlist-style desks.

Why people look

People use change % to see if the session looks up, down, or flat before opening books.

Formula (simple)

Change % ≈ (last − previous close) ÷ previous close × 100, when both prints exist. Missing prior close → we do not invent a move.

Traps (tip culture)

Green is not a buy light. Red is not a sell order. A large % on tiny volume can look dramatic and still be thin homework.

On our desk

Header change chip and Live tab when quote data includes a usable prior close.

Related

Related metrics

FAQ

Is +5% a tip to buy?

No. It only says the print moved versus the prior close. Check volume, books, and filings.

What if change is blank?

Prior close or last may be missing. We keep an honest empty.

Do circuit limits change how I read %?

Yes. On limit-up / limit-down days the % can sit at the band - still not advice.

Continue on high-volume hubs

Stay on the high-volume path: market today → stock list → company share price → beginners / metrics - tip check when a forward arrives.