Poker Glossary
Poker glossary

Bankroll Management

Bankroll management is choosing stakes and games so you do not run out of money during a downswing.

The simple explanation

Bankroll management is choosing stakes and game types so that you do not run out of money in a downswing. It means that you only play at levels for which your bankroll is large enough, and that you move down if you lose too much. It protects you from going broke.

A closer look

Even the best players have losing runs, and the size of the swings grows with the stakes. A common plan is to hold a certain number of buy-ins for each stake, and to move up only when you have enough for the next level. Tournaments need more buy-ins than cash games because the variance is higher. Good management is boring but essential: it keeps you in the game while your skill produces results.

A practical example

A player moves down to smaller stakes after losing part of their bankroll.

Full explanation

Bankroll management is choosing stakes and games so you do not run out of money during a downswing.

Bankroll management is the practice of choosing the correct stakes and game type to avoid exhausting a bankroll during downswings.

The idea is to keep the risk of ruin low. You play at stakes at which a normal losing streak cannot wipe you out.

Rules often give the number of buy-ins needed for a stake, and when to move up or down.

It is the basis of long-term success in poker.

Alternative spelling: BRM

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