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EDUCATION: Simplified Candlestick Psychology (Part 2)In the world of trading, candlesticks are more than just visual representations of price movements—they're windows into the psychology of the market. Every candlestick tells a story, and if you can learn to read it properly, you can understand the underlying emotions of buyers and sellers. Think of it like reading a book, where every candle is a chapter that contributes to the bigger narrative.
In the previous video, we went over the anatomy of a candlestick and this time we dive into the psychology behind the Open, High, Low, and Close (OHLC) values on the chart. This way, you can read the market like you would a good book—predicting what might happen next based on what you've already learned.
Anatomy of a Candlestick
Before we dig into the psychology, let’s first look at the anatomy of a candlestick. A standard candlestick consists of four key components: the Open, High, Low, and Close (OHLC). These are the foundation for interpreting market sentiment.
Open: This is where the price started during that specific time period.
Close: This is where the price ended at the close of that period.
High: This is the highest point the price reached during that time frame.
Low: This is the lowest point the price reached.
The body of the candle is the difference between the Open and Close. The wicks (or shadows) represent the range from the Low to the High. The bigger the body, the stronger the move in that direction. The longer the wicks, the more indecision and struggle between buyers and sellers.
The Psychology Behind the OHLC
Now, let’s break down the psychology behind each component of a candlestick. Every candle is a snapshot of the market’s emotion, so understanding the story behind each piece can help you predict future moves.
The Open: The Open represents the first battle of the trading session. It shows where the price starts, and it often sets the tone for the rest of the candle. If the market opens higher than the previous candle’s close, it suggests bullish sentiment, while opening lower indicates a bearish sentiment. But don't just focus on the open; its relationship with the close is just as important.
The Close: The Close is where the real battle is won or lost. It’s the final decision of the market—did the buyers or sellers win the battle? A close near the high of the candle suggests strong bullish sentiment, while a close near the low indicates bearish sentiment. A close near the open suggests indecision or equilibrium in the market. Traders often view the close as the most important part of a candlestick because it shows the prevailing market sentiment.
The High and Low: These two points tell us about the price extremes during the trading period. A long upper wick suggests that the bulls tried to push the price higher but were met with strong selling pressure. A long lower wick shows that the bears pushed the price lower, but the buyers fought back to reclaim some of the losses. A candle with small wicks indicates that the market didn’t have much fluctuation, and the momentum was steady in one direction.
The Body: The body of the candlestick is the most visual part, showing the range between the Open and Close. A large body indicates strong momentum and confidence in one direction. A small body, on the other hand, indicates indecision, where neither side has been able to dominate the market.
Putting it All Together
Now that we understand the anatomy and psychology behind the OHLC, it’s time to combine the elements and read the story.
For example:
Bullish Candlestick: If a candlestick has a long body with a close near the high and short wicks, it indicates that buyers were in control, and they finished strong.
Bearish Candlestick: Conversely, a candlestick with a long body, close near the low, and short wicks shows that sellers were in control.
Indecision: A candle with a small body and long wicks on both sides indicates indecision or a battle between buyers and sellers. The market isn’t sure where it wants to go yet.
Candlesticks, when grouped together, create patterns that help us predict future price movements. For instance, a series of bullish candles could indicate strong upward momentum, while a few indecisive candles in a row might suggest a potential reversal or consolidation.
Practical Takeaways
Watch the Close: The close is your primary indicator of sentiment. A close at or near the high (for bullish candles) or low (for bearish candles) can give you confidence in a trade.
Long Wicks Mean Rejection: Wicks can show where the price was rejected, which helps identify areas of support and resistance.
Don't Ignore Small Bodies: Small bodies with long wicks are signals of indecision. Don’t be too eager to jump into trades after such candles without further confirmation.
Reading candles like a book isn’t just about recognizing patterns—it's about understanding the market's emotions and sentiment. Every candlestick is a snapshot of the battle between buyers and sellers, and by learning to read these battles, you can understand the market's story and predict what might happen next. How do you use candlesticks in your trading? Are there certain patterns or setups that you rely on? Share your thoughts below—I’d love to hear how you read the story in the charts!
EDUCATION: Simplified Candlestick Psychology (Part 1)As traders, understanding candlestick patterns is fundamental to decoding market behavior. But beyond the pattern itself, there’s a deeper story being told with every candle. Just like words form a story in a book, the Open, High, Low, and Close (OHLC) of a candlestick reveals the psychological battle between buyers and sellers at a given moment in time. In this video, we’re going to break down how to read candles like a book and uncover the psychology behind each price action move.
The Anatomy of a Candlestick
Before we dive into the psychology of candles, let's refresh on the basic anatomy of a candlestick:
Open (O): The opening price of the candle, where the price starts within the time period.
High (H): The highest price reached during the candle’s time frame.
Low (L): The lowest price reached during the candle’s time frame.
Close (C): The final price when the candle closes at the end of its time frame.
Each candlestick provides valuable information about the price action during that specific time period. But what’s even more important is the psychological narrative it tells.
The Psychology Behind the OHLC
Understanding the psychology behind the Open, High, Low, and Close will give you insight into the market’s behavior and sentiment. Here’s a breakdown of what each component reveals:
The Open (O): The start of the battle. The opening price represents the market's starting point. Buyers and sellers have already made their decisions before the candle even begins, and the open shows where the price begins to unfold. If the open is near the low of the day, it indicates a bearish sentiment, while an open near the high could show bullish strength.
The High (H): The peak of the conflict. The high of the candle represents the furthest point reached by either the bulls or the bears. When the price reaches a new high, it signifies that the buyers are in control and pushing the price up. Conversely, if the high is lower than the previous candle's high, it suggests that sellers are starting to assert their influence.
The Low (L): The valley of indecision. The low of the candle is where the price falls before either the bulls or bears regroup. A low that is lower than the previous low indicates that the sellers are pushing the price downward. A higher low, on the other hand, suggests that the bulls are holding the line and potentially setting up for a rebound.
The Close (C): The conclusion of the battle. The close is the most important price point of the candlestick, as it represents where the battle between buyers and sellers has ended. The relationship between the open and close tells you who won the fight. If the close is higher than the open, buyers have won the battle. If the close is lower than the open, sellers have gained control.
Reading Candles Like a Book
When you look at a candlestick, think of it like reading a short sentence in a book. Each candle tells a small part of the market’s ongoing story, and together they form the narrative of price movement. Here's how to read the story:
Bullish Candles (Close > Open): When a candle closes higher than it opened, it tells the story of a market that was dominated by buyers. The longer the body, the stronger the buying pressure. A large body with a small wick suggests buyers were in full control with little resistance.
Bearish Candles (Close < Open): When the candle closes lower than it opened, it represents a market where sellers took charge. A long red body with little wick indicates a strong bearish move. A bearish candle with long wicks shows that although sellers were in control, there was some pushback.
Doji Candles: A doji occurs when the open and close are almost identical, signaling indecision or equilibrium between buyers and sellers. Doji candles are like a “question mark” in the story, telling us that the market is uncertain about which direction it will take next.
Engulfing Candles: An engulfing pattern, whether bullish or bearish, tells the story of a shift in momentum. If a candle completely engulfs the previous candle’s body, it signifies a strong change in sentiment—either a bullish or bearish reversal.
Putting it All Together: Candlestick Psychology in Action
Understanding the OHLC components is the first step, but it’s how these elements come together that really gives you the full psychological picture. A candlestick is like a snapshot of a battle. The open is where it starts, the high and low represent the range of movement during the battle, and the close is where the conflict resolves.
When you read candles in sequence, you begin to see the ongoing tug-of-war between buyers and sellers. The story unfolds slowly, and the more you practice, the better you become at predicting the next chapter. Let me know your thoughts below!
Options Blueprint Series [Basic]: Corn Futures and PPI InsightsIntroduction to Corn Futures Market Sentiment
Corn Futures are capturing the interest of traders as technical indicators and economic fundamentals align in a potential bullish setup. Currently, the Corn Producer Price Index (PPI) shows a Commodity Channel Index (CCI) bullish crossover, indicating a possible uptrend in prices. Corn Futures have followed suit with an earlier CCI bullish crossover, adding strength to the view that Corn prices could see upward momentum in the coming months.
As Corn Futures reflect early signals of a shift in market sentiment, this article explores a straightforward yet effective Bull Call Spread strategy using June 2025 options. By leveraging these CCI signals and key resistance levels, traders could position themselves to benefit from a potential rise in Corn prices while maintaining a controlled risk profile.
Corn Futures Contract Specifications and Margin Requirements
Understanding the specifications of Corn Futures is essential for managing both position size and margin requirements effectively. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Price Tick Size: The minimum fluctuation is 0.0025 cents per bushel, equivalent to $12.50 per tick.
Margin Requirement: Approximately $1,000 per contract, although this can vary based on broker and market conditions.
Analysis of Key Indicators and Market Setup
Two primary indicators support the bullish case for Corn Futures: the CCI bullish crossover in both the Corn Futures and the Corn PPI. The CCI, a momentum-based indicator, identifies potential trend reversals by highlighting overbought and oversold conditions. The recent CCI bullish crossover in Corn Futures suggests early buying pressure, while the subsequent crossover in the Corn PPI confirms this trend on the economic front.
This alignment between technical and economic indicators provides a potentially unique opportunity for options traders to capture potential upward movement, particularly as Corn prices approach critical resistance levels in front of a potential breakout.
Identifying Key Resistance Levels for Corn Futures
Resistance levels play a crucial role in setting realistic targets and managing expectations. In the current Corn Futures landscape, the primary resistance level for the front contract is observed around 550. For our target contract, ZCN2025 (July 2025), this resistance translates to approximately 485 due to the effects of contango/backwardation.
These resistance levels serve as benchmarks for setting exit targets in a Bull Call Spread. If Corn prices rally towards this zone, it could provide a favorable exit opportunity while maintaining a controlled risk-to-reward structure.
The Bull Call Spread Strategy Setup
In this setup, we employ a Bull Call Spread using options with a June 20, 2025, expiration date. This strategy is ideal for capturing moderate upside movement while limiting downside risk through a capped loss. Here’s the specific setup:
Long Position: Buy the 460 Call for a premium of 25.41.
Short Position: Sell the 490 Call for a premium of 15.87.
By buying the 460 Call and simultaneously selling the 490 Call, we establish a Bull Call Spread that allows us to benefit from price increases up to the 490 strike level. This setup reduces the net cost of the trade while capping the profit potential at the 490 strike price, aligning with our outlook based on resistance levels.
Net Premium (Cost): 25.41−15.87=9.54.
Reward-to-Risk Analysis
A Bull Call Spread provides a straightforward way to define both maximum profit and loss at the outset. Here’s a closer look:
Maximum Profit: Achieved if Corn Futures price rises to or above the 490 strike level at expiration = (490−460)−9.54=20.46.
Maximum Loss: Limited to the net premium paid = 9.54.
Breakeven Point: 469.54, calculated by adding the net premium to the 460 strike.
This structure results in a reward-to-risk ratio of approximately 2.14:1.
Forward-Looking Trade Plan and Execution Strategy
This Bull Call Spread strategy is structured with specific entry and exit conditions in mind:
Entry Condition: Triggered once the ZC1! (continuous Corn Futures contract) surpasses the prior month’s high at 434'2. This confirmation aligns the technical breakout with the ongoing bullish trend indicated by the CCI and PPI crossovers.
Target Exit: Based on the resistance level, the target for this trade is 485 on the ZCN2025 contract. Reaching this level would allow for a strategic exit with a maximum profit potential.
Alternative Exit: If Corn Futures prices fail to sustain the breakout or if technical indicators weaken significantly, an early exit can be considered to limit losses or preserve gains.
By setting these clear parameters, the trade plan maintains discipline, helping traders avoid reactive decision-making and align with the predefined strategy.
Risk Management Essentials
Effective risk management is crucial, especially when trading options. Here are some best practices:
Stop-Loss Strategy: For options traders, a stop-loss can be set based on a percentage of the premium paid or by monitoring underlying futures price action.
Position Sizing: Limit the size of the position relative to the account balance to avoid overexposure. This is especially relevant for volatile markets like Corn.
Discipline and Emotional Control: Stick to the plan, avoid emotional reactions to market noise, and adhere to entry and exit conditions.
Risk management ensures that even if the trade does not perform as expected, losses are limited and capital is preserved for future opportunities.
When charting futures, the data provided could be delayed. Traders working with the ticker symbols discussed in this idea may prefer to use CME Group real-time data plan on TradingView: www.tradingview.com - This consideration is particularly important for shorter-term traders, whereas it may be less critical for those focused on longer-term trading strategies. Also, some of the calculations and analytics used in this article have been derived using the QuikStrike® tool available on the CME Group website.
General Disclaimer:
The trade ideas presented herein are solely for illustrative purposes forming a part of a case study intended to demonstrate key principles in risk management within the context of the specific market scenarios discussed. These ideas are not to be interpreted as investment recommendations or financial advice. They do not endorse or promote any specific trading strategies, financial products, or services. The information provided is based on data believed to be reliable; however, its accuracy or completeness cannot be guaranteed. Trading in financial markets involves risks, including the potential loss of principal. Each individual should conduct their own research and consult with professional financial advisors before making any investment decisions. The author or publisher of this content bears no responsibility for any actions taken based on the information provided or for any resultant financial or other losses.
How to Analyze a Cryptocurrency: Fundamental & Technical StyleCrypto is fashionable again (was it ever out of fashion?), with Bitcoin BTCUSD pumping to a new all-time high above $82,000 . But with all that buzz and excitement, it’s easier than ever to get swept away in the tide of social media hype, viral memes, and “expert” Telegram signals chats.
Is that real success in crypto trading? Not exactly. Real success requires more than just blindly following the noise. The savvy investor knows how to analyze a coin, piecing together a mosaic of factors to make some trading choice. Let’s break down 🤸♂️ how to do this effectively.
When looking to analyze a cryptocurrency, there are two distinct approaches you’d want to consider — fundamental and technical analysis. This pair of viewpoints cuts through the noise and gets to the real story behind a coin. Coupling them together can be a powerful recipe for success.
The Basics: Why You Need Both Fundamentals and Technicals
Crypto analysis is all about the combination of fundamental and technical approaches.
Fundamental Analysis (FA) helps you determine whether a cryptocurrency holds long-term potential based on its real-world application, team, and project structure.
Technical Analysis (TA) lets you gauge market sentiment and potential price moves by analyzing past price actions and trends.
Master both, and you’ve got yourself a complete toolkit. FA tells you if a coin is worth your time, and TA lets you fine-tune your entries and exits.
Fundamental Analysis: Reading Between the Blockchains
Fundamentals give you the long-term view—what a project stands for, what problems it’s solving, and whether it has staying power. A coin with solid fundamentals usually has a strong foundation, dedicated team, and clear purpose. Here are a few key aspects to evaluate:
Use Case: Does This Coin Do Anything Useful?
Not all coins are created equal, and some are, well… kind of a pointless joke, or created to be a pointless joke but turned out to be a big deal (did anyone say Doge DOGE/USE ?) If you want a real-world use case, look at Ethereum ETH/USD — it opened up the entire decentralized finance (DeFi) and smart contract universe. Now compare that to yet another dog-themed token.
The key is to ask yourself: does this coin solve a real-world problem, or is it banking on social media likes? A strong use case equals a stronger shot at lasting value.
Team and Leadership: Who’s Running the Show?
The team behind a coin is often the make-or-break factor. You want to see solid, experienced people who’ve been in the space and know their stuff. Look for LinkedIn profiles, past projects, and what industry insiders are saying.
Pro tip: if you can’t find the team anywhere online, or if their CEO goes by something like “CryptoKing” on Reddit or Telegram, proceed with caution (or dump it).
Investors and Backers: Who’s Got Skin in the Game?
In crypto, a solid roster of backers can be like a seal of approval — big-shot VCs, famous angel investors, or major blockchain funds often bring more than just cash. Big names like Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) or Pantera Capital backing a coin? That’s a good sign as they likely see something worth the investment.
But let’s keep it real: even the pros get it wrong. Sequoia’s high-stakes investment in FTX? That didn’t age well. It went from a headline win to a headline regret. The lesson? Big names can be a great vote of confidence, but they’re no substitute for doing your own homework.
Dig into how engaged these investors are. Are they making decisions or are they just a logo on the website? If they’re actually involved, it adds weight. Just remember: your best edge comes from putting in the research, not just riding on who’s along for the ride.
Partnerships and Network: Are They Walking the Talk?
A strong project is often backed by legitimate partnerships. Real collaborations with reputable companies from the industry show a coin has a foothold in the market, a strong network. But watch out for overblown claims—a name drop isn’t the same as a partnership. The best projects are the ones where you can verify the collaborations and see real interaction.
Technical Analysis: Getting the Pulse of the Market
If FA tells you what a coin is, TA tells you how it’s behaving in the market. TA is all about catching trends, spotting patterns, and getting the timing right. Here’s where to start:
Indicators to Watch: Moving Averages, RSI, and MACD
Moving Averages (MA): These smooth out price action to show you the market’s general direction. A 50-day MA crossing above a 200-day MA? That’s usually a bullish sign .
Relative Strength Index (RSI): The RSI tells you if a coin is overbought (above 70) or oversold (below 30), signaling potential reversals .
MACD (Moving Average Convergence Divergence): When the MACD line crosses above the signal line, it’s a buy signal; below, it’s a sell signal. This helps you ride momentum without getting whipsawed.
Chart Patterns: Know Your Shapes
Patterns like head and shoulders, double tops/bottoms, and trend lines are your map to market sentiment. Look for breakouts past resistance levels or breakdowns below support as entry and exit points. But stay flexible — that’s crypto and things can change on a dime.
Meme Coins and the Hype Machine: Beware the FOMO
If you’ve been in the crypto game for any time at all, you’ve seen the lure of meme coins. From Dogecoin to Shiba Inu, these coins have made some people rich — but they’ve also created some bagholders.
Don’t Chase Trends: Just because a coin is all over TikTok doesn’t mean it’s a wise investment. Meme coins often rely on community-driven hype rather than any real-world utility. FOMO is the quickest way to make a costly mistake.
Be Wary of Telegram and Discord “Tips”: While some groups are genuinely insightful, many operate more like echo chambers. If your trading strategy is “I saw it in a chat,” it might be time to rethink your approach. Look for projects with substance, not just the latest meme.
Bringing It All Together: Using FA and TA for Smarter Trades
Blending FA and TA lets you go beyond hype. Here’s a solid plan to put these tools to work:
Research the Fundamentals: Assess if a project has real value based on its use case, team, and partnerships.
Look for Technical Confirmation: Use technical analysis to decide the best time to enter and exit.
Set Goals and Limits: Establish your profit targets and stop-loss points before you buy.
Crypto trading is part science, part art. Fundamental analysis gives you the big picture, while technicals keep you tuned in to market conditions. Use them together, and you’ll be a lot less likely to end up with a token that’s only valuable for a while.
Final Take: Follow the Data, Not the Crowd
Crypto success isn’t about catching the latest Twitter trend — it’s about staying grounded in facts and making decisions based on data, research, and analysis. Use FA to pick projects that last and TA to catch price action at the right time.
So, Which Type of Analysis Do You Prefer?
Are you more of a fundamentals fan, focusing on the project’s long-term vision and team? Or do you live by the charts, riding trends and tracking indicators? Maybe you’re a mix of both? Whichever camp you fall into, we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Drop a comment and share your go-to analysis strategy—let’s get the conversation started!
Is Overtrading Ruining Your Profits? Find Out Now!Is Overtrading Ruining Your Profits? Find Out Now!
Understanding Overtrading: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention Strategies
What Is Overtrading?
Overtrading is a dangerous practice in the trading and investment landscape, defined by the excessive buying and selling of financial instruments that often goes beyond an established trading plan or acceptable risk thresholds. Traders frequently fall into the trap of overtrading due to strong emotional influences such as greed, fear of missing out (FOMO), or a desperate attempt to quickly recover from previous losses. This behavior leads to impulsive decisions that may not align with rational analysis. Furthermore, the relentless stream of market information and the fear of missing profitable opportunities can exacerbate the temptation to trade more than necessary.
Another primary driver of overtrading is a lack of discipline. Traders sometimes mistakenly believe that more frequent trading equates to greater profit potential, a notion particularly common among novice traders. These traders may equate high trading activity with success, failing to realize that less frequent, well-researched trades often yield better results.
As overtrading takes hold, its consequences can be severe. Frequent buying and selling can lead to diminished profits due to increased transaction costs, such as commissions and fees, eroding potential gains significantly. Moreover, the constant trading exposes traders to heightened market volatility, increasing the risk of sudden negative price swings.
The emotional ramifications of overtrading are equally concerning. High-frequency trading activities can elevate stress levels, resulting in anxiety and compromised decision-making capabilities. Emotional states such as fear and impatience can cloud judgment, causing traders to stray from their original trading strategies.
Identifying Symptoms and Types of Overtrading
Overtrading presents itself through a range of symptoms and behaviors. By recognizing these signs, traders can take proactive steps to mitigate the risks associated with overtrading. Below are key symptoms and classifications of overtrading:
Symptoms of Overtrading
- Excessive Trade Frequency: Traders engaging in overtrading execute an unusually high number of trades, often without a concrete strategy or rationale.
- Impulsive Decision-Making: Traders may find themselves making quick, emotionally driven decisions, often fueled by FOMO or a desire for immediate profits.
- Neglecting Risk Management: Overtrading often leads to ignoring fundamental risk management principles, resulting in oversized positions and inadequate use of stop-loss orders, which heightens exposure to potential losses.
- Emotional Trading: The stress associated with frequent trading can lead to fluctuating emotions, such as anxiety and frustration, further impairing judgment and resulting in erratic trading choices.
- Chasing Losses: Overtraders commonly indulge in "revenge trading," where they attempt to recover losses quickly by taking on higher risks or deviating from their established trading plans.
Types of Overtrading
- High-Frequency Trading (HFT): This strategy involves executing a vast number of trades in a short time, often through automated systems. While HFT can yield quick profits, it often incurs high transaction costs and detracts from thorough analytical scrutiny.
- Scalping: Scalpers aim to profit from minor price changes by conducting numerous trades throughout the day. While legitimate, excessive scalping can lead to significant stress and minimal net gains.
- Day Trading Addiction: Some day traders may become overly attached to the excitement of constant trading, leading to impulsive decisions and diminished profits.
- FOMO Trading: Traders influenced by FOMO rush into trades without adequate analysis, driven by the fear of missing out on potential profits.
- Excessive Diversification: Overtrading can result in overly diverse portfolios without sufficient research, leading to a lack of focus and diluted returns.
Strategies to Overcome Overtrading
To effectively mitigate overtrading, traders need to cultivate self-awareness, discipline, and specific strategies to rein in impulsive trading habits. Here are key steps to consider:
1. Develop a Comprehensive Trading Plan: Creating a detailed trading plan with defined entry and exit strategies, risk management rules, and profit targets can provide a structured framework, reducing impulsive trades.
2. Set Trade Limits: Determine the maximum number of trades you will execute daily or weekly to prevent excessive trading and maintain focus on quality opportunities.
3. Practice Patience: Cultivate the ability to wait for high-probability setups that align with your trading plan. Resist the temptation to trade out of impatience or boredom.
4. Utilize Stop-Loss Orders: Implementing stop-loss orders for every trade helps control potential losses, safeguarding capital and minimizing emotional decision-making in volatile conditions.
5. Avoid Revenge Trading: After a loss, resist the urge to immediately make trades to recover those losses. Take time to reassess your strategy and avoid letting emotions dictate your actions.
6. Maintain a Trading Journal: Keep a detailed log of all trades, including the thought process behind each decision and emotional experiences. Reviewing this journal helps identify patterns associated with overtrading.
7. Limit Market Monitoring: Reduce the amount of time dedicated to watching the markets and financial news. Continuous monitoring can prompt impulsive actions based on transient market fluctuations.
8. Prioritize Quality Over Quantity: Focus on high-quality trades that align closely with your trading plan rather than accumulating a large number of trades.
9. Take Breaks: Regularly stepping away from trading can alleviate stress and allow for clearer thinking, enhancing your trading strategy.
10. Seek Mentor Guidance and Community Support: Engage with trading peers or mentors who can provide advice and accountability in your trading practices.
11. Practice Mindfulness: Develop mindfulness techniques to increase awareness of your emotions during trading. Recognizing emotional influences allows for better decision-making.
Implementing these strategies can bolster a disciplined, mindful approach to trading. Remember, trading success hinges on patience, focus, and adherence to a carefully constructed plan.
Lastly I would like to add this previous lecture to this post, I'm sure will be useful for you...
The Psychology Of Trading How To Manage Your Emotions
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and Also...
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In conclusion...
In the fast-moving realm of financial trading, the temptation to engage in overtrading can derail even seasoned traders from their financial objectives. By developing a thorough understanding of overtrading—its signs, causes, and classifications—traders can navigate with greater awareness and confidence.
Successful trading isn't merely about rapid profits or constant activity; it demands discipline, strategic focus, and the ability to maintain composure amidst market volatility. Through self-discipline and commitment to a well-structured trading plan, traders can protect their investments from overtrading's adverse impacts.
Whether you are an experienced trader aiming to refine your strategies or a beginner initiating your trading journey, recognizing and addressing the tendency to overtrade is crucial. Embrace the journey of self-awareness and continuous learning, as it is the cornerstone of achieving long-term financial success in trading.
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Who Benefits from a Weak Dollar?Who Benefits from a Weak Dollar?
As the global reserve currency, the performance of the US dollar (USD) against currencies from other countries is an important trading indicator. While a weak dollar might sound negative, there are financial assets that benefit when the US currency – also known as the greenback because of the colour of the banknotes – trades lower relative to other currencies.
Who benefits from a weak dollar? In this FXOpen article, we look at the definition of a strong dollar vs a weak dollar and how you can use a weak dollar in your favour.
What Is a Strong vs a Weak US Dollar?
The foreign exchange (FX) market operates like other financial markets – prices are driven by supply and demand. On the FX market, currencies are traded in pairs. What affects the performance of a strong currency vs a weak currency?
Supply consists of the currency being sold, while demand is created by the currency being bought. As in other markets, the value of one currency relative to another fluctuates constantly based on macroeconomic factors such as interest rates, inflation, central bank reserves, and trade balances. As prices fluctuate, there are opportunities to profit from trading strong and weak currencies.
For example, when consumers and businesses increase demand for US dollars, the value of the currency increases – or strengthens – relative to other currencies, allowing traders to exchange their dollars for a larger amount of another currency than before. Still, if they want to buy the USD, they will get less of it than they could previously. Conversely, when demand for the dollar falls, its value weakens relative to other currencies and traders receive a smaller amount of foreign currency than before or can buy more dollars with their native currency.
What Causes a Weak Dollar?
Several major drivers cause the USD and other currencies to weaken, including:
- Central bank policy. In the US, the Federal Reserve sets interest rate policy, which tends to drive the demand and supply of dollars. When interest rates rise, investors bring funds into the country to receive higher interest payments, increasing demand for the currency. When interest rates fall, investors look to other countries with higher rates where they can receive a larger return.
- Inflation. High inflation reduces the dollar’s purchasing power, pulling down its value against other currencies.
- Fiscal policy. US government policies on spending lower the value of the dollar if they increase supply through economic stimulus, such as during the Covid-19 pandemic.
- Economic growth. A slowdown or contraction in growth has the potential to make the US less attractive to foreign investors and traders and weigh on demand for USD.
- External central banks. Monetary policies of other central banks, e.g. the European Central Bank (ECB) or the Bank of England (BOE), can result in their currencies strengthening relative to the dollar.
- Geopolitics. The greenback is considered to be a safe-haven asset, meaning that during times of economic or geopolitical uncertainty, investors sell their higher-risk assets and buy it as a store of wealth. The dollar tends to decline when risk-on sentiment prevails.
The US Dollar Index (DXY), which measures the value of the USD against a basket of other currencies, initially fell during the Covid-19 pandemic as extended lockdowns affected the global economy but rose as restrictions eased.
However, a “strong” currency is not always better than a “weak” currency. Some groups can benefit from a weaker currency.
Who Benefits When the US Dollar Weakens?
Multinational Companies
US-based companies that generate substantial amounts of revenue in foreign currency from other countries can raise their profits, as they receive more dollars when they convert their earnings.
For example, if a US multinational company sells goods in Europe and brings in €1 million in revenue, an exchange rate of €1 to $1 would convert to $1 million. However, if the dollar weakens to $1.20 to €1, the same €1 million would be worth $1.2 million. Multinational companies that operate in multiple countries and multiple currencies can boost profits across their foreign operations.
US Exporters
US firms that export their products and services abroad benefit when the greenback falls in value as they become cheaper for foreign buyers, increasing demand. If exporters raise their prices in USD terms, these will still translate into higher prices in other currencies.
US Producers
A lower US dollar makes imports of goods and services produced in foreign countries more expensive for US consumers. This benefits US producers that compete with importers, as they can sell more domestically-manufactured goods – such as American cars – to US buyers at lower prices than imported goods.
When the US dollar weakens, the relative value of the euro rises, making a car imported from a German manufacturer more expensive for US consumers to buy as the company will need to raise the dollar price to receive the same amount of euros.
Investors
Traders and investors in assets paired with or priced in USD can benefit from better performance when the greenback weakens. And as multinational companies tend to increase their profits, their shareholders can benefit from higher stock prices and dividends. Prolonged weakness in the dollar can encourage overseas companies to acquire US companies at a discount.
In addition, investors in foreign stocks, bonds, or other assets receive higher returns when they sell the investments and exchange the proceeds for USD.
If dollar weakness prompts the Federal Reserve to reduce interest rates to stimulate the economy, borrowing costs fall for those who borrow US dollars to finance their investments.
As we have seen, a decline in the value of the dollar is not always negative. So, what does a weak dollar mean for traders? How can you trade to profit from a falling USD?
How to Trade a Weak Dollar
There are different ways traders can make money from US dollar weakness. You can trade indices, stocks, currencies, commodities, and cryptocurrencies* via CFDs on platforms such as TickTrader.
Short the US Dollar Index
You can go short on the USD by selling the US Dollar Index or an exchange-traded fund (ETF) that tracks the direction of the dollar. To short it, you open a sell position and wait for its value to decline. When closing a trade, you buy it back. The difference between the ask and bid prices is your profit.
Trade Currency Pairs
If you expect the greenback to weaken, you can trade it against another currency by buying a pair where it’s a quote currency, e.g. EUR/USD, and selling a pair in which it is a base currency, e.g. USD/JPY.
Buy Commodities
Commodities such as crude oil, metals, and coffee tend to trade in an inverse relationship to the US dollar because they are priced in USD, so a lower value of the US dollar means that commodities become cheaper for buyers, so the demand increases. You can go long on commodities such as gold when the dollar begins falling to profit from the price rise.
Buy Stocks
As US multinationals and exporters perform well when the USD weakens, investing in their stocks can generate positive returns. For example, healthcare company Johnson & Johnson’s share price has historically tended to rise on a weaker USD. The stock gained around 20% when the dollar fell during the COVID-19 pandemic, as investors anticipated that the company's foreign revenue would rise in dollar terms.
Buy Cryptocurrencies*
Cryptocurrencies* such as Bitcoin and Ethereum have emerged as an alternative asset class that you can use to potentially profit from currency fluctuations, such as hedging against a weak greenback. Cryptocurrencies* tend to gain value when the USD weakens, so you can go long when you expect it to fall and exit the position when it strengthens.
Downsides of a Weak Dollar
For traders and investors, a weak greenback can help generate profits, but there are drawbacks to an extended decline.
As the purchasing power of American consumers falls over time, they can cut spending and switch to generic brands, reducing US revenues for multinational firms and weighing on their share prices. Traders holding US dollars also have lower purchasing power when buying foreign assets, such as non-US stocks priced in other currencies.
When the value of the USD declines, volatility in financial markets can rise as investors and traders become more risk-averse.
A lower USD exchange rate also affects trade with nations with stronger currencies. It can become more attractive for other countries to adjust their currency values to gain a competitive advantage in international trade. The potential for currency manipulation can contribute to political tensions.
The Bottom Line
The use of the terms “strong” vs “weak” in describing currencies does not always equate to “good” and “bad”. There are opportunities to trade on a weak US dollar that can generate profits for traders.
It is important for traders and investors to carefully analyse the opportunities and downsides of a weak US dollar before taking a position. They should stay informed about the global economic and geopolitical developments that can affect currency values and financial markets.
If you are looking to trade assets based on the value of the USD, you can open an FXOpen account and trade forex, cryptocurrencies*, indices, stocks and commodities.
*At FXOpen UK, Cryptocurrency CFDs are only available for trading by those clients categorised as Professional clients under FCA Rules. They are not available for trading by Retail clients.
Finding Ranging Market Before Happening! (X Empire)In the heart of ARZ Trading System, is a candle that we call it MC (Master Candle). Any time that we see a candle that matches following description, most likely we will have a ranging market, with specified range of oscillations:
1. Candle itself is in the direction of the trend
2. Body of the next candle is within high to low of this candle
3. In the next candle(s), price could retrace most of the MC candle
The main ranging area is the high to low of the MC candle. The exact size of this area, from high to upper is UTP (here $0.00062), and from low to lower is LTP (here $0.00011). This means price could fluctuate between these levels.
If market is going to continue the trend (here is uptrend), price should break the UTP level and continue strongly.
Indicators vs. Strategies: A Complete Guide
Understanding Indicators vs. Strategies in TradingView: A Complete Guide
When navigating TradingView, one of the essential questions traders face is whether to rely on indicators or strategies to inform their trading decisions. Both indicators and strategies play critical roles, yet they serve distinct functions and require different approaches to money management, risk, and emotions control. Let’s explore the key differences between indicators and strategies in TradingView and discuss best practices for risk management, along with strategies to avoid.
1. Indicators: The Building Blocks of Analysis
What They Are
Indicators are statistical tools that help traders interpret market data, revealing trends, potential entry and exit points, and momentum. Indicators can be used individually or combined for more complex insights. In TradingView, indicators can be customized to fit different asset types, making them versatile tools in any trader’s toolkit.
Pros
Simplicity: Indicators can be straightforward and easy to interpret, especially for beginners.
Flexibility: Traders can apply indicators to various timeframes and markets.
No Repainting: Well-designed indicators do not repaint, meaning they don’t change past values when new data comes in, providing stable signals for backtesting and live trading.
Cons
Limited Guidance on Money Management: Indicators alone don’t provide a full plan for money management, position sizing, or stop-loss placement.
Potential for Over-Reliance: Relying solely on indicators can lead to analysis paralysis or a false sense of market understanding without a structured risk management framework.
Emotional Challenges: Indicators require interpretation and patience. Without a clear exit plan, traders may succumb to emotional impulses, like exiting too early or holding onto a position for too long.
2. Strategies: A Comprehensive Trading System
What They Are
Strategies go beyond indicators by integrating entry, exit, stop-loss, and profit-taking rules. In TradingView, strategies can be backtested across different market conditions, giving traders insight into their performance over time. Strategies are more comprehensive in design, often incorporating multiple indicators, risk management rules, and position sizing.
Pros
Structured Money Management: A well-designed strategy includes money management rules that allow traders to control position size, set stop-loss levels, and adjust for varying market conditions.
Risk Control: Strategies often have mechanisms for handling risk, such as maximum drawdown thresholds, trailing stops, and profit targets. With these, traders are less exposed to catastrophic losses.
Emotional Control: Strategies minimize emotional trading by automating decision-making. With clear, predefined rules, traders can avoid impulsive reactions to market swings.
Cons
Complexity: Developing and optimizing strategies can be complex and time-consuming. Without careful backtesting and optimization, a strategy may underperform in live markets.
Backtesting Limitations: Some strategies look profitable in historical data but may not hold up in real-time. Traders should be cautious of backtesting biases and over-optimizing to fit historical data.
3. Money Management & Risk Control: Indicators vs. Strategies
Indicators: Indicators do not inherently provide money management tools. While they may signal trends or potential entry and exit points, it is up to the trader to set their stop-loss, take-profit levels, and position sizes. This requires a strong sense of discipline and risk management to avoid substantial losses.
Strategies: Strategies, on the other hand, typically include integrated money management. With clear stop-loss and take-profit points, traders can manage risk more effectively. Strategies can also be coded to account for risk-adjusted metrics like the Sharpe Ratio and Sortino Ratio, helping to ensure that returns are balanced against the level of risk taken.
4. Strategies to Avoid on TradingView
When evaluating strategies on TradingView, it’s essential to avoid the following pitfalls:
4.1 Repainting Strategies
Repainting strategies can change historical data when new information is added, leading to inaccurate backtests. They may appear to perform well historically but will give false signals in real-time, which can be detrimental to your trading success.
4.2 Martingale-Based Strategies
Martingale strategies double the position size after a loss in an attempt to recover it on the next trade. While this might seem appealing, it can quickly lead to oversized losses, especially during periods of consecutive losses. Avoid strategies that risk increasing position sizes without limit as these can rapidly drain an account.
4.3 Strategies with High Drawdowns
Strategies with significant historical drawdowns are risky. A high drawdown suggests that the strategy may face considerable periods of loss. Analyzing drawdown in tandem with the Sortino and Sharpe Ratios can help gauge the quality of the strategy’s risk-adjusted returns.
4.4 Strategies without Stop-Losses
Trading without stop-losses is dangerous as it leaves trades vulnerable to catastrophic losses. Reliable strategies should always include some form of a stop-loss to limit potential losses.
4.5 Low Reward-to-Risk Ratios (e.g., 1:1 or 1:2)
Strategies with low reward-to-risk ratios (such as 1:1 or 1:2) are generally ineffective in the long run because they don’t provide sufficient reward relative to the risk taken. Aiming for a reward-to-risk ratio of at least 1:3 or higher can improve long-term profitability.
4.6 Heikin Ashi-Based Strategies for Real-Time Trading
While Heikin Ashi candlesticks are effective for trend visualization, they average out price data, creating delays in signal timing. This can lead to late entries and exits in fast-moving markets, resulting in increased slippage and potentially lower profits in real-time trading.
5. Evaluating a Strategy: Key Metrics
When reviewing or developing a strategy on TradingView, consider these essential metrics to assess its quality:
Sortino Ratio: Measures risk-adjusted returns, focusing on downside volatility. A higher Sortino Ratio indicates that the strategy delivers good returns relative to the risk taken.
Sharpe Ratio: Evaluates the returns relative to the strategy’s total volatility. A higher Sharpe Ratio is preferable, as it suggests consistent returns with manageable risk.
Drawdown: The maximum percentage loss from a strategy’s peak equity value. Low drawdown means the strategy can endure market downturns without excessive loss.
Profit Factor: The ratio of gross profit to gross loss. A profit factor above 1.5 is generally considered good, with higher numbers indicating better performance.
Conclusion
Indicators and strategies each have unique strengths and limitations. Indicators provide signals and insights but lack the comprehensive rules for money management and emotional control that strategies can offer. Strategies, with clear rules for risk management, profit-taking, and stop-losses, help traders manage their accounts with a disciplined approach. Avoid strategies that rely on repainting, Martingale systems, high drawdowns, or low reward-to-risk ratios, and always review metrics like the Sortino Ratio, Sharpe Ratio, and drawdown to ensure sound decision-making. By carefully selecting and fine-tuning strategies in TradingView, traders can enhance their odds of consistent, profitable trading.
Practical Application of Order Blocks in Trading🔸In trading, especially in the context of institutional and supply-demand-based strategies, order blocks, imbalances, breakers, and entry points are all critical elements for spotting potential high-probability trade setups. Here’s a breakdown of each:
1. Order Blocks
🔸Definition: Order blocks are areas where large institutional orders (by banks, funds, etc.) are believed to have been placed, often leading to sharp price movements. These typically form after a period of consolidation, when a large entity enters the market to create momentum in a particular direction.
Types:
▪️Bullish Order Block: An area where institutions have placed buy orders, resulting in an upward price move. It’s generally identified by a down candle (in a bullish trend) before a strong upward move.
▪️Bearish Order Block: An area with concentrated sell orders, leading to a strong price decline. It’s marked by an up candle (in a bearish trend) before a sharp downward move.
▪️Use in Trading: Traders look for price to return to these areas as potential entry points, expecting the area to act as support (for bullish order blocks) or resistance (for bearish order blocks).
2. Imbalances
🔸Definition: Imbalances (also called Fair Value Gaps or FVG) occur when there is a strong price movement in one direction, leaving a "gap" in liquidity. ▪️IThis happens when there’s more demand or supply than what the current orders can fulfill, leading to a price spike.
▪️Identification: Look for consecutive candles moving in the same direction without much overlap in their wicks. This often leaves a gap between the high of one candle and the low of the next.
▪️Use in Trading: Since price often "rebalances" itself, traders may expect price to return to this area before continuing its trend, using it as a potential point for entries in the direction of the larger trend.
3. Breakers
🔸Definition: A breaker is a failed attempt at reversing a trend, usually involving a break of structure that indicates a reversal but then fails, with price moving back in the original trend's direction.
Types:
▪️Bullish Breaker: When a downtrend is invalidated, but instead of continuing downwards, price reverses back up. The previous support level that price broke and closed below may now act as a support zone.
▪️Bearish Breaker: When an uptrend is invalidated, but price moves back down, often causing previous resistance to act as resistance again.
▪️Use in Trading: Breakers are often used to identify failed reversals where traders might enter in the direction of the initial trend, as these zones tend to have strong support or resistance.
4. Bullish and Bearish Breakers in Trading
Bullish Breaker:
▪️A level created after a failed bearish structure, turning into support as the price breaks upward.
Look for confirmation of price moving above this level, with entry points often at or just above the zone.
Bearish Breaker:
▪️A level created after a failed bullish attempt, creating a resistance zone as price breaks lower.
Traders enter trades when price retests this breaker level and shows signs of rejection.
5. When to Enter Trades
▪️Order Block Entry: Look for price to return to an order block zone (after creating it), confirming it as a valid area of support or resistance. Confirmation methods include candlestick patterns or lower timeframe support/resistance creation.
▪️Imbalance Entry: Price may "fill" imbalances, and traders can look to enter as price retraces to this level with signs of rejection or confirmation. Watch for candles rejecting at the edge of the imbalance zone.
▪️Breaker Entry: Wait for price to test the breaker zone and show signs of rejection, typically with a smaller time-frame entry trigger (like a lower high or low in structure).
▪️Risk Management: When entering trades based on these points, place stops beyond the zone or recent high/low, and target areas of the next significant support/resistance or opposite liquidity pools.
6. Tips for Effective Use
🔸Multi-Timeframe Analysis: Check higher timeframe levels for stronger order blocks or breakers and use lower timeframes to refine entry.
🔸Wait for Confirmation: Often, a test of these areas with a reversal candlestick pattern (like a pin bar or engulfing candle) on a lower timeframe will provide better entries than immediately entering.
🔸Volume Confirmation: Higher volume in these areas can suggest more institutional interest and improve the chance of a successful trade.
🔸Mastering these concepts involves observing how price interacts with these levels across different market conditions, which enhances accuracy over time.
HOW TO MASTER YOUR EMOTIONS IN TRADING....On the start of my trading career I failed so many times, losed so much money and not because of my analysis, strategy or entry points.... but because of my EMOTIONS. I was an emotional trader , somedays this monster still come and take a peak at me but well I have defeated him so here is how to do it....
DEVELOP A SOLID TRADING PLAN.
clear strategy:
Outline entry, exit, and risk management rules. This provides a sense of control and reduces emotional reactions.
Risk tolerance:
Define how much you 're willing to lose on each trade, ensuring that losses dont harm your overall capital.
Set Realistic Goals:
Focus on achievable targets rather than high risk high reward bets. this is not a get rich quick scheme so never think you are going to be a millionaire in a month...
PRACTICE PATIANCE AND DISCIPLINE
stick to your plan;
avoid chasing the market... wait for your set up to come into play. Patience is key in trading , overtrading or chasing trades due to impatience often leads to mistakes which leads to losses.
FOCUS ON PROCESS ,NOT PROFITS
Measure success by execution;
focus on executing your plan properly, regardless of the outcome. profits will follow if your process is solid
STAY DETACHED FROM MONEY; rather than looking at how much profits you will be gaining, view each trade as a success of your plan and % of your capital. reducing emotional attachment to dollar helps so you are never greedy even when in profit.
[/bMANAGE RISK PER TRADE
position sizing;
use small positions sizes to avoid large emotional reactions to market movements
stoploss order;
setting stop loss levels in advance helps take the emotion out of closing trades at a loss
LEARN FROM MISTAKES WITHOUT SELF-CRITICISM
Reflect on trades; evaluate both successful trades and failed trades to understand why they failed and your emotional response to those failures or success
avoid overthinking losses: losses are part of the game, learning to accept them and learning from the losses without self-blame keeps your emotions in check
REGULARY REVIEW AND ADJUST
KEEP A TRADING JOURNAL ,RECORD YOUR EMOTIONS,WHY YOU TOOK THE TRADE AND WHY, WHAT WAS THE OUTCOME OF THE TRADE?
ONCE you establish these habits, trading will get better.. I wish you guys good luck and lets make profit
HOW TO GET RICH PREDICTING BITCOINS BULL RUN & CRASH! TUTORIALCOINBASE:BTCUSD NASDAQ:IBIT AMEX:BITX
HOW TO GET RICH PREDICTING BITCOINS BULL RUNS & CRASHES! TUTORIAL
In this must-watch tutorial, I'll reveal the secrets to predicting Bitcoin's rise and fall with stunning accuracy. Join me as I walk you through four distinct indicators that you can use to jump into Bitcoin before massive runups and dodge huge crashes. Whether you're a seasoned trader or a crypto newbie, these insights will transform how you approach the market. Don't miss out on this exclusive analysis that could change your financial future!
Smash that like button and follow for more game-changing strategies, ideas, and tutorials!
Smart Money Market Structure Order Block Trading🔸The principles of "smart money" trading focus on understanding the behavior of institutional investors, often referred to as "smart money," to make informed trading decisions. By analyzing market structure, order blocks, supply and demand zones, and market cycles, traders aim to predict price movements and make profitable trades. Here’s a breakdown of these key concepts and how they interact:
1. Market Structure
Market structure is the fundamental flow of price movement, typically defined by highs and lows that indicate trends. The market can be seen in three primary states:
▪️Uptrend: Characterized by higher highs (HH) and higher lows (HL).
▪️Downtrend: Defined by lower highs (LH) and lower lows (LL).
▪️Consolidation (Range-bound): Prices oscillate between a support (demand) and resistance (supply) level.
▪️Understanding market structure helps traders identify when a market is trending or ranging, which is essential for timing entries and exits.
2. Order Blocks
Order blocks are areas on a price chart where large institutional traders, like banks and hedge funds, execute significant orders. These blocks often indicate strong levels of support or resistance due to the substantial buying or selling activity.
▪️Bullish Order Block: Typically found before a strong upward move. It's the last bearish (down) candle before the price rallies, signaling a demand zone.
▪️Bearish Order Block: Typically found before a strong downward move. It's the last bullish (up) candle before the price drops, indicating a supply zone.
▪️Order blocks provide clues to where "smart money" has entered the market, suggesting areas where price may return for liquidity and where retail traders may find good entry points.
3. Supply and Demand Zones
Supply and demand zones are similar to support and resistance levels but with a focus on identifying imbalances. They represent areas where supply (sellers) and demand (buyers) are significantly unbalanced:
▪️Demand Zone: A price range where buyers are strong enough to prevent further price drops. This often corresponds to an area of support.
▪️Supply Zone: A price range where sellers have historically stepped in to prevent further price increases, serving as resistance.
▪️Prices often revert to these zones due to liquidity needs, creating entry points for trend continuations or reversals.
4. Lower Highs (LH) and Higher Lows (HL)
These are essential markers in identifying trend changes:
▪️Lower Highs (LH): In a downtrend, the price fails to reach a previous high, indicating seller dominance and potential continuation of the downtrend.
▪️Higher Lows (HL): In an uptrend, the price creates higher lows, suggesting that buyers are gradually gaining strength, signaling a continuation of the uptrend.
These structural points help traders understand potential trend reversals or continuations.
5. Accumulation and Distribution Phases
These phases are critical to the Wyckoff Market Cycle:
▪️Accumulation: This phase represents a period where "smart money" accumulates positions at low prices. It typically occurs after a downtrend and is characterized by a consolidation or sideways price movement. This phase often signals a future uptrend.
▪️Distribution: This is the phase where institutional players offload positions after a significant price increase. Like accumulation, distribution appears as consolidation, often preceding a downtrend.
▪️Accumulation and distribution are often analyzed using volume patterns and price action to gauge when a trend may begin or end.
6. Market Cycles (The Wyckoff Theory)
Market cycles are a sequence of phases that price undergoes over time. According to Wyckoff’s methodology, there are four phases:
▪️Accumulation: Institutions build positions, often at a market bottom.
▪️Markup: After accumulation, the price starts to increase as demand outstrips supply.
▪️Distribution: Institutions sell off their positions, often at the top of the cycle.
▪️Markdown: Price declines as supply overwhelms demand, leading to a downtrend.
▪️Understanding these phases allows traders to anticipate potential turning points, which is critical in smart money trading.
Applying These Principles in Trading
The smart money trading approach uses these principles collectively:
🔸Identify Market Structure: Determine whether the market is trending or ranging, then identify order blocks, supply and demand zones, and significant highs and lows.
🔸Recognize Key Levels: Watch for accumulation and distribution phases at these levels, helping to anticipate likely future movements.
🔸Confirm with Volume: Use volume analysis to confirm accumulation or distribution activity.
🔸Set Entries and Exits at Smart Money Zones: Utilize identified order blocks and supply/demand zones to enter trades with the trend (markup or markdown) or exit before a reversal.
🔸By combining these elements, traders seek to align with the strategies of institutional investors, capturing trends early and minimizing exposure during less favorable periods.
Leap Competition: Top 3% in 5 Days! Here's HowLast competition, I hit the top 2% in the Leap Competition on TradingView. This time, though, something clicked. In just 5 days, I was already back in the top 3%.
I didn't change my strategy. Instead I focused on refining how I managed risk. I stopped obsessing over perfect entry points and focused on squeezing as much profit as possible from each trade. That meant shifting to a new management technique.
I prioritized a high risk-to-reward ratio, knowing that fewer trades could yield better returns. By using a trailing stop-loss, each trade had room to reach its potential without getting cut off too soon. This approach transformed each trade into a high-upside opportunity, letting winners ride and securing profits along the way.
Over the last few days, I made fewer than ten trades. Each one was carefully planned through a top-down approach, looking at the bigger picture on higher timeframes to catch the market’s broader trends. This view kept me aligned with the trend, setting up trades with stronger potential.
What really amplified my results, though, was the trailing stop. By locking in profits while riding the market’s momentum, this tool turned profitable trades into standout winners. It let me capture each market move fully without jumping out too soon.
Now, let’s get into the top trade that helped me to get into top 3% within less than a week:
And here’s the trailing stop-loss indicator I’m using—perfect for trades with room to run:
//@version=5
indicator("Swing Low Trailing Stop", overlay=true)
// User Inputs
initialStopPercentage = input.float(0.5, title="Initial Stop Loss Percentage", minval=0.01, step=0.01) * 0.01
Swing_Period = input.int(10, "Swing Period")
i_date = input.time(timestamp("05 Nov 2024 00:00 +0300"), "Start Date")
// Variables for tracking stop loss
var float stopLossPrice = na
var float lastSwingLow = na
// Calculate Swing Low
swingLow = ta.lowest(low, Swing_Period)
// Logic
if i_date == time
stopLossPrice := low * (1 - initialStopPercentage)
lastSwingLow := swingLow
// Update Stop Loss
if time > i_date
newSwingLow = swingLow
if (newSwingLow > lastSwingLow )
stopLossPrice := math.max(stopLossPrice, newSwingLow)
lastSwingLow := newSwingLow
// Plot the stop loss price for visualization
plot(time >= i_date ? stopLossPrice : na, title="Trailing Stop Loss", color=color.red, linewidth=2, style=plot.style_linebr)
With this refined approach, I can’t wait for next week and the fresh opportunities that lie ahead!
Big thanks to the TradingView community for creating opportunities like this competition—it’s a game-changer. Getting to test and refine strategies in a real, competitive environment pushes all o us to get better every day!
If you haven’t joined already, make sure to hop into the competition . It’s an incredible way to challenge yourself, sharpen your skills, and see how you stack up against other traders!
Keep focusing on becoming 1% better every day if you want to make this happen.
Moein
How to PREDICT MARKETS! Tops and BottomsIn this video, I go over the following in great detail:
Predicting Markets with Williams %R, RSI, and MACD
Predicting market movements can be challenging, but combining the Williams %R, Relative Strength Index (RSI), and Moving Average Convergence/Divergence (MACD) indicators can provide powerful insights for traders.
Williams %R measures the current closing price relative to the high-low range over a specific period, helping identify overbought or oversold conditions. RSI gauges the speed and change of price movements, also indicating overbought or oversold levels. MACD analyzes the relationship between two moving averages of a security's price, identifying potential buy or sell signals.
By using these three indicators together, traders can:
Confirm Trends: When all three indicators align, it strengthens the signal for a potential trend continuation or reversal.
Identify Entry and Exit Points: Overbought or oversold signals from these indicators can help pinpoint optimal entry and exit points.
Reduce False Signals: Combining multiple indicators can help filter out false signals, increasing the reliability of predictions.
Trend Direction and Trading Indicator TutorialThe Tenoris Trend Indicator determines support and resistance using a proprietary method that I've not seen in other indicators.
Over the last 10 days a potential gain of 15% on Bitcoin is shown on the chart.
The key is knowing which Red and Green arrows are most likely to indicate the reversal of the price trend from short to long or long to short (red to green or green to red arrows and boxes).
The arrows are used for trade entries and exits and the boxes in relationship to the price of a closed candle are used to predict price direction.
The time frame of the chart is critical for maximizing the accuracy of the indicator.
In general a 7D candle on crypto and a 30 day candle on stocks and a quarterly candle on indexes like the S&P provides the most accurate trend direction.
On Bitcoin a 4H candle chart can be successfully used to determine entires for short term trades lasting a few days. In extensive back testing and live trading a gain of 10% a month or more is consistently possible.
The key to using the indicator is knowing which arrows are the most indicative of a trend change. When a green candle closes above the red boxes it's likely that price is going to go from trending down to up. When a red candle closes below a green box it's likely that price will trend down.
Compared to moving averages, and other directional trend indicators the Tenoris Trend Indicator is superior in detecting trend changes much earlier than other methods of technical analysis commonly used.
Mastering the Anchored Volume Profile: Setup & Tutorial on TVMastering the Anchored Volume Profile: Setup & Tutorial on TradingView 📊
The Anchored Volume Profile is a powerful tool that traders use to visualize volume distribution over a specified price range, providing critical insights into market behavior. Here’s a detailed description of its setup and usage on TradingView:
In this video, we will be going in-depth into the following areas:
What is the Anchored Volume Profile?
The Anchored Volume Profile is a specialized indicator that helps traders understand the distribution of traded volume at different price levels. Unlike traditional volume profiles that analyze data over a fixed time period, the anchored version allows traders to anchor the volume analysis to specific bars, candles, or price points.
Why Use the Anchored Volume Profile?
Identifying Support and Resistance Levels: You can easily identify key support and resistance levels by analyzing where the most volume has been traded.
Spotting Trends and Reversals: High-volume nodes can indicate areas of strong interest, helping to predict potential trend continuations or reversals.
Improving Entry and Exit Points: Knowing where the market participants are most active can significantly enhance your decision-making process for entries and exits.
How to set up the Anchored Volume Profile on TradingView:
Add the Anchored Volume Profile Indicator:
Click on the “Indicators” button at the top of the chart.
Search for “Anchored Volume Profile” in the search bar.
Select it from the list and apply it to your chart.
Anchor the Indicator:
Click on the anchor icon that appears on the chart.
Drag it to the specific bar, candle, or price point where you want to start your volume analysis.
Customize Settings:
Adjust the settings to suit your trading style. You can modify the range, color, and other parameters to better visualize the data.
Using the Anchored Volume Profile:
Analyzing Volume Nodes: Identify high and low volume nodes. High volume nodes often act as support or resistance, while low volume nodes might indicate potential breakout areas.
Understanding Market Sentiment: See where the majority of trading activity has taken place to gauge market sentiment.
Making Informed Decisions: Use the insights from the volume profile to make better-informed trading decisions regarding entries, exits, and stop-loss levels.
A capture of inflation, dilution and stimulus /2024As we see by the chart, we had a series of events mostly around mega-stimulus for Covid and a massive dilution of currency as triggering events. Inflation rose and is now back down close to the desirable 2% inflation.
We don't want prices to go back to where they were, that is deflation and is not healthy for an economy. We want prices to stay near the same year after year with modest inflation. When inflation rises too fast, we increase interest rates to slow down spending, to reduce inflation. The best we can do is work on wage growth to accommodate the inflation from our past years while maintaining modest inflation.
At 2.4% inflation currently, there really is pretty much nothing to fix anymore, we just need to keep it around where it is, a little lower really and work on modest wage growth.
Looking at this data, it really looks like the vast majority of the culpability of that inflation we had came from 2020, one of the single worst years financially as a country with inflation starting to rise immediately in 2021, and exacerbated some in 2021.
Looking at this chart, there is a tangible possibility that we see >10% inflation by 2027
Here is the M2 money supply chart:
Election Year Cycle & Stock Market Returns - VisualisedIn this chart, we're analysing the open value of the week the US election took place and comparing it to the open of the following election, showing the gain (or loss) in value between each election cycle.
Historically we can see prices in the Dow Jones Industrials Index tend to appreciate the week the election is held. Only twice has the return between the cycles produced a negative return.
Buying stocks on election day, 8 out of 10 times has yielded a profitable return between the election cycles. 80% of the time in the past 40 years returning a profit, has so far been a good strategy to take.
The typical cycle starts with the election results, an immediate positive movement and continued growth before finishing positive.
The Outliers
2000-2004 was the only year which ended negative without prices going higher than the election day.
2004-2008 increased 41.84% before ending negative.
2008-2012 began the cycle falling 30.62% before finishing positive.
The names of presidents who won their respective elections is to visualise who had the presidential term during that specific cycle.
This is all you need to get started: a paper trading account!Starting your trading journey wisely means utilizing a Paper Trading account, also known as a demo account. This account simulates the real trading experience by mirroring market movements and conditions, but operates without the risk of losing real money. It offers traders access to comprehensive market data just like a live account, enabling practice with real-world price fluctuations—if Gold (XAU/USD) experiences a 5% rise or fall, the same scenario reflects in the demo account. This provides an excellent opportunity to understand market dynamics without financial exposure.
A Beginner's Best Friend: The Demo Account
For novice traders, a demo account is an essential entry point into the financial markets. It allows individuals to familiarize themselves with various trading aspects and strategies. Many traders base their transition to live trading on the insights and performance gleaned from their demo accounts. The convenience of setting one up is straightforward—simply use the Paper Trading option on TradingView to practice with a simulated account.
Click on the Trading Panel of your chart, and you'll find the Paper Trading option on TradingView.
Advanced Applications for Experienced Traders
However, the utility of demo accounts isn’t confined to just beginners; seasoned traders also derive significant benefits.
Experimenting with New Strategies
Experienced traders frequently utilize demo accounts to try out and assess new trading strategies. This method serves as a safe way to test different approaches without putting their capital at risk.
Evaluating Automated Tools
Developers of trading bots and algorithms rely on demo accounts for comprehensive testing of their tools. These automated systems undergo rigorous backtesting in a zero-risk environment, ensuring they are ready for live trading scenarios.
Training and Development
Demo accounts serve as effective training platforms for both individual traders and those employed within financial institutions. Whether it’s a retail trader or a professional in a hedge fund, these accounts offer vital learning experiences that hone skills effectively.
Skill Development and Confidence Building
The benefits of demo accounts extend to enhancing both technical and soft skills. Fundamental competencies such as market analysis, strategy formation, and data interpretation can be improved in a low-stakes setting. Meanwhile, soft skills like patience, resilience, and adaptability receive a boost, ultimately shaping a well-rounded trader.
Moreover, the journey can build confidence. Since trading can be intricate and losing money can shake one's self-assurance, a demo account provides a haven for refining trading strategies without risking actual funds. This psychological support can significantly influence success in the live markets, where self-confidence is often linked to profitability.
How Long Should You Practice?
The duration one should spend in a demo account varies, influenced by personal factors. For those transitioning to full-time trading, a minimum of three months is advisable. Though this may seem lengthy, it is a small price to pay for a comprehensive understanding of market dynamics and a variety of trading conditions.
The Advantages of Practicing Day Trading in a Demo Account
1- Accelerated Learning
Utilizing non-market hours for practice enables traders to quickly accumulate experience, far exceeding what can be gained during regular market sessions.
2- Preparedness for Quick Decisions
Day trading requires rapid decision-making skills. Regular practice in a demo account equips traders to respond swiftly to market fluctuations.
3- Intuitive Market Recognition
Frequent practice encourages an instinctual grasp of market conditions, vital for timely and effective trading actions.
4- Confidence in Trading Decisions
Confidence plays a critical role in a day trader's success. Thorough practice in a risk-free environment allows traders to build confidence before they step into live trading.
5- Adaptability to Market Variability
Day traders often experience victories and losses. Practicing within a controlled environment fosters a clear mindset to tackle each trade, essential for adapting to shifting market scenarios.
6- Setting Realistic Income Expectations
Repeated practice enables traders to set achievable income expectations, cultivating a sensible outlook prior to committing to full-time trading.
7- Enhancing Chart Analysis Skills
A demo account encourages traders to develop chart reading abilities without becoming overly reliant on them, promoting a balanced analytical approach.
8- Personal Trading Style Development
The complexities of day trading call for personalized strategies. Regular practice in a demo account allows traders to foster their unique trading styles and embrace accountability for their decisions.
9- Effective Risk Management
Practicing with margin in a demo account allows traders to experiment with leverage while treating each trade seriously.
Also Read:
and now...
"Best Practices for Using Demo Accounts"
To ensure you maximize the benefits of a demo account, adopt the following strategies:
Serious Approach
Although no real money is at stake, treating the demo account with seriousness enhances realism and deepens the learning experience.
Realistic Capital Allocation
Even though demo accounts may offer unlimited capital, traders should simulate an amount similar to their intended live trading capital for a more accurate experience.
Maintain Consistent Leverage
Using the same leverage plan that you would apply during live trading ensures that your demo experience aligns closely with potential future outcomes.
Gradual Transition to Live Trading
Transitioning from a demo account to live trading should be done thoughtfully. Test your strategies extensively in the demo environment, simulating real trading amounts, to reduce the likelihood of mistakes once you start live trading.
In conclusion...
In summary, a demo account is a vital resource for both novice and experienced traders navigating the complexities of financial markets. For beginners, it provides a risk-free avenue to grasp market dynamics and develop essential trading techniques. For seasoned professionals, demo accounts are indispensable for strategy testing, evaluating automated tools, and enhancing both technical and psychological skills.
While the ideal duration in a demo account varies from trader to trader, committing to three months is recommended for anyone serious about entering full-time trading. Day traders particularly stand to gain by practicing within a demo setting, allowing them to accelerate skill acquisition, prepare for snap decisions, and foster a robust sense of confidence. The structured environment of a demo account promotes the crafting of personalized trading strategies, the establishment of effective risk management practices, and the ability to adapt to real-world market conditions.
Lastly I would like to add this previous lecture to this post, I'm sure will be useful for you...
The Psychology Of Trading How To Manage Your Emotions
and..
The Benefits of Keeping a Trading Journal for Your Psychology
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Algorithmic vs. Quantitative Trading: Which Path Should You TakeI’ve always wondered why anyone would stick to traditional trading methods when algorithms and mathematical models could do all the heavy lifting.
I started questioning everything:
• Why do so many mentors still swear by discretionary trading when algorithms could handle all the heavy lifting?
• Do they really have solid proof of their “own” success, or is it just talk?
• Or are they keeping things complex and discretionary on purpose, to confuse people and keep them as members longer?
• Why deal with the stress of emotions and decisions when an algorithm can take care of it all?
• Imagine how much further ahead you could be if you stopped wasting time on manual trades and instead focused on market research and developing your own models.
When I first got into trading, I thought Algorithmic Trading and Quantitative Trading were basically the same thing. But as I dug deeper, I realized they’re two completely different worlds.
Algorithmic Trading: It’s simple – you set the rules and the algorithm executes the trades. No more sitting in front of the screen “controlling your emotions” and trying to manage every little detail. Instead, you let the algorithm handle it, based on the rules you’ve set. It frees up your time to focus on other things rather than staring at price charts all day.
But here’s the thing – it’s not perfect. You’ll still need to test the rules to make sure the data and results you’re getting aren’t overfitted or just random.
Quantitative Trading: A whole different level. It’s not just about executing trades; it’s about understanding the data and math behind market movements. You analyze historical price, economic, and political data, using math and machine learning to predict the future. But it can be complex – techniques like Deep Learning can turn it into a serious challenge.
The upside? This is the most reliable way to trade, and it’s exactly what over 80% of hedge funds do. They rely on quant models to minimize risk and to outperform the market.
So, which path should you choose?
Quantitative Trading can feel overwhelming at first, I recommend starting with the basics. Begin with Pine Script coding in TradingView—start building a foundation with simple strategies and indicators. As you grow more confident, start coding your own ideas into rules and refining your approach to eventually automated your trading strategy.
TradingView is a great tool for this, and I’d highly suggest grabbing the Premium plan. This will give you access to more data and features to make your learning journey smoother.
Dive into the Pine Script documentation , and begin bringing your ideas to life.
I promise, the more you focus on this, the better and more independent you’ll become in trading.
Every day, aim to get just 1% better.
To Your success,
Moein
EDUCATION: The “Fake” Engulfing Candle: A SNEAKY TRAPAs traders, we’re often taught to look for classic price action patterns, and one of the most well-known is the Engulfing Candle. It's that strong reversal pattern where the body of the second candle completely engulfs the body of the first, signaling potential trend reversals or continuations. But what happens when that engulfing candle shows up in the "wrong" place? That’s what I like to call a "Fake" Engulfing Candle.
A "Fake" Engulfing Candle is one that paints on the chart but in a location that doesn’t align with the market context or trend. For example, if you’re in a strong, established trend, an engulfing candle that appears in the middle of the trend (without any supporting structure or context) could be a false signal. This kind of engulfing candle might look great on the chart, but it's not telling you the full story—it’s a signal with poor timing.
Understanding the Importance of Location
The location of an engulfing candle is key. A "real" engulfing candle typically forms after a clear trend exhaustion or at a key support or resistance level. These are areas where price is likely to reverse, and that’s where an engulfing pattern becomes meaningful. However, when the engulfing candle appears in random locations—without any clear structure around it—it’s often just noise in the market.
Fake signals, like this, can lead traders to make impulsive decisions, chasing trades that aren’t supported by solid market structure or context. Think of it like walking into a room full of noise—you may hear words, but they’re not telling you anything meaningful.
How to Spot a Fake Engulfing Candle
Context is King: Look for the engulfing candle to form after a trend exhaustion or near a key support or resistance level. If it pops up in the middle of a strong trend with no visible reason for reversal, chances are it’s a fake.
Volume Confirmation: Is the engulfing candle supported by volume? A strong engulfing candle should have an increase in volume, confirming the strength of the move. If volume is absent or weak, the signal may be unreliable.
Previous Market Structure: The best signals often come from patterns that align with previous market structure, such as previous highs or lows. If the engulfing candle doesn’t respect any major levels or swing points, it might not be worth trading.
Practical Takeaway: Don't Fall for the Fake
The takeaway here is simple: don’t let the appearance of a "perfect" engulfing candle fool you. Just because it looks good on the chart doesn’t mean it’s the right signal for the current market conditions. Always pay attention to the context around the pattern and confirm it with volume and other technical indicators. Remember, location matters when it comes to identifying valid trade setups.
Have you ever been caught by a "Fake" Engulfing Candle? What’s your process for distinguishing real signals from fake ones? Drop your thoughts in the comments—I'd love to hear how you handle these tricky setups!
SWING TUTORIAL - ABSLAMCIn this tutorial, we analyze the stock NSE:ABSLAMC (Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC Limited) identifying a lucrative swing trading opportunity following its all-time high in Oct 2021. The stock declined by nearly 57%, forming a Lower Low Price Action Pattern, but subsequently reversed its trend.
At the same time, we can also observe the MACD Level making a contradictory Pattern of Higher Lows. This Higher Low Pattern of the MACD signaled the start of a Bullish Momentum, thereby also signaling a good Buying Opportunity.
The trading strategy yielded approximately 114% returns in 63 weeks. Technical analysis concepts used included price action analysis, MACD, momentum reversal, trend analysis and chart patterns. The MACD crossover served as the Entry Point, with the stock rising to its Swing High Levels of 720 and serving as our Exit too.
As of wiring this tutorial, we can also notice how the stock is making a breakout and retest of the Swing High levels and trying to continue its momentum further upward trying to make a new All Time High.
KEY OBSERVATIONS:
1. Momentum Reversal: The stock's price action shifted from a bearish to a bullish trend, indicating a potential reversal.
2. MACD Indicator: The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) line showed steady upward momentum, signaling increasing bullish pressure.
3. MACD Crossover: The successful crossover in May 2023 confirmed the bullish trend, creating an entry opportunity.
TRADING STRATEGY AND RESULTS:
1. Entry Point: MACD crossover in May 2023.
2. Exit Point: Swing High Levels - 720.
3. Return: Approximately 114%.
4. Trade Duration: 63 weeks.
TECHNICAL ANALYSIS CONCEPTS USED:
1. Price Action Analysis
2. MACD (Moving Average Convergence Divergence)
3. Momentum Reversal
4. Trend Analysis
5. Chart Patterns
NOTE: This case study demonstrates the effectiveness of combining technical indicators to identify bullish momentum. By recognizing Price Action, MACD movements, and Reversal patterns, traders can pinpoint potential entry and exit points.
Would you like to explore more technical analysis concepts or case studies? Share your feedback and suggestions in the comments section below.