Hedge Bet Calculator: Cover a Bet and Equalise Return
Free hedge bet calculator: work out how much to stake on the opposite outcome to equalise the return, and the minimum hedge odds for no loss.
This hedge bet calculator works out how much to stake on the opposite outcome of a bet you already placed so that the return is the same either way, and the minimum hedge odds for no loss.
Hedge bet calculator
Works out how much to stake on the opposite outcome so the return is the same either way, and the minimum odds at which there is no loss.
A hedge equalises the return but does not create a profit: the net result can be negative if the opposite odds are low. Odds and limits change.
How it works
Enter the stake and odds of your original bet and the current odds of the opposite outcome. The hedge is calculated so that, whichever outcome happens, the return is the same. The minimum odds are the value from which the hedge leaves no loss; below it, hedging locks in a loss.
Formulas
- Hedge stake:
H = S × D₁ / D₂. - Equal return:
S × D₁. Net result:S × D₁ − S − H. - Minimum hedge odds for no loss:
D₂ = D₁ / (D₁ − 1).
Worked example
Original stake 100 at odds 3.00 and a hedge at 1.60: hedge stake 187.50, total staked 287.50, equal return 300.00, net result 12.50. The minimum hedge odds for no loss are 1.50.
Things to keep in mind
- A hedge does not create a profit: it locks in a result that can be negative.
- Hedge odds change and must be for the opposite outcome with the same settlement rules.
- Every operator has its own limits and commissions, which this calculation ignores.
Next steps
- Equalising the return across outcomes is also the idea behind arbitrage between operators.
- To spread one stake over several outcomes from the start, there is dutching.
- To hedge the last leg of a parlay, first work out the price of the whole slip.
- And if you are looking for the net profit you want to reach, calculate the stake from that goal.
Frequently asked questions
What is a hedge bet?
A second bet on the opposite outcome of one already placed, to equalise the return and limit the effect of the result.
How do you calculate a hedge?
Original stake × original odds, divided by the odds of the opposite outcome.
Does hedging always leave a profit?
No. Only if the opposite odds are above the minimum; below it the net result is negative.
Does it work for live betting?
Yes: use the current live odds of the opposite outcome.
To convert odds formats use the odds calculator.
18+. Take part only where it is legal. Betting carries a risk of loss. Do not treat potential returns as a budget and do not chase losses. If gambling stops being under control, stop and look for help from the support services in your country.
