Say you have 10 apples. Some guy is willing to pay 10 USD per apple. You therefore, on paper, have 10×10 = 100 USD worth of apples.
Now, for some reason, no one wants to buy your apples for 10 USD per apple, but only 5 USD per apple. You therefore, on paper, have 10×5 = 50 USD worth of apples.
No money was exchanged or lost, your apples are just worth less now.
The same principles apply to stocks.
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