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ETF Scanner Gabriel’s ETF — Institutional Performance & Efficiency Screener Description: Gabriel’s ETF screener isolates high-efficiency, institutional-grade exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that combine superior long-term performance with low structural drag. It’s designed to uncover funds that outperform peers through strong 5-year returns, consistent NAV growth, low expense ratios, and disciplined yield management — essentially finding the “alpha carriers” of the ETF world. This screener serves as both a portfolio foundation builder and a benchmark comparison tool for systematic investors, portfolio managers, and capital allocators. Scanner: www.tradingview.com ⚙️ Interpretation: Strategy Intent The set is effectively constructing a “Quality Growth + Liquidity + Efficiency” model, targeting: Consistent long-term compounding (≥ 30 % 5Y Perf) Healthy recent trend (≥ 10 % 1Y NAV Return) Low-cost structure (≤ 0.4 %) Institutional-grade liquidity (≥ 2 B AUM + ≥ 900 M USD volume) Dividend reliability (≥ 0.45 %) Moderate volatility (ADR < 1.55 %) This combination favors stable, mega-cap ETFs suitable for core allocation portfolios or All-Weather ETF models. 📊 Expected Results With these filters, your screener will likely highlight ETFs such as: SPY / VOO / IVV – Core S&P 500 index trackers with large AUM, strong 5-year performance, low fees. QQQ / VGT / XLK – Tech-heavy growth ETFs with > 30 % 5-year gains. SCHD / VYM / HDV – Dividend-weighted funds meeting your minimum yield and efficiency filter. XLF / XLI / XLE / XLV / XLK – Sector ETFs with institutional liquidity. IWF / IWD / RSP – Style-based or equal-weight funds passing both momentum and liquidity screens.

Education

by GabrielAmadeusLau

ETH - BTC ETF News: What It Means for the Market+ China Rumors 🚨 ETH - BTC ETF News: What It Means for the Market + China Rumors 💥🌐 July just ended with a crypto bombshell 💣 — and the market is barely reacting. Let’s break it down: 🧠 One part hard news. 🌀 One part geopolitical smoke. 🎯 All parts worth watching if you care about macro market shifts. 🏛️ SEC Approves Real BTC & ETH for ETF Flows (July 29) Say goodbye to the cash-only ETF model. The SEC now allows direct in-kind creation/redemption of Bitcoin and Ethereum in ETFs. That means providers like BlackRock, Fidelity, VanEck can now use actual BTC/ETH, not just synthetic tracking. ✅ Bullish Impact: 💰 Real Spot Demand: ETF inflows = real crypto buying 🔄 Efficient Arbitrage: No middle step via cash = faster flows 🧱 TradFi + Crypto Merge: ETFs now settle with crypto — not just track it 🎯 Better Price Accuracy: Spot ETFs reflect true market value more cleanly 📉 The market reaction? Mild. But don’t get it twisted — this is a structural reset, not a meme pump. ⚠️ But There’s a Bearish Angle: 🏦 Centralized Custody: Crypto now lives in Coinbase, Fireblocks vaults ⚠️ Network Risks: ETF performance now tied to ETH/BTC uptime 🧑‍⚖️ Regulatory Overreach: More hooks into validator networks, MEV relays 🌊 Volatility Risk: Panic redemptions = real BTC/ETH sold into open markets Still, this is good news for Ethereum in particular. Why? Because ETH isn’t just money — it’s infrastructure. And now Wall Street is finally using it, not just watching it. 🇨🇳 And Then There’s China… Rumor or Tumor? Crypto Twitter is swirling with unconfirmed whispers from July 29 that China may be prepping a major Bitcoin statement ahead of the BRICS summit. But let’s be clear: 🚨 It’s a rumor. Or a tumor. 🧠 And like many tumors in crypto — there’s a 40% chance it brings bad news. 🤕 Still, here’s what’s being floated: 🧠 Speculations Include: 🔓 BTC re-legalization in “special finance zones” (HK-style) 🏦 BTC in national reserves (!) 🤖 CBDC integration or smart contract interoperability ⚒️ Return of official state-backed Bitcoin mining 🧯 But no official sources. Just geopolitics + timing. China’s FUD/FOMO pattern is Bitcoin tradition — don’t get trapped by hopium. But if even half of it is true... buckle up. 📈 Ethereum Leads the Charge — But Watch These Alts: If ETFs go fully crypto-native, some sectors light up 🔥 🔹 1. Ethereum Layer 2s (ARB, OP, BASE) → ETF gas pressure = L2 scaling demand 🔹 2. DeFi Protocols (UNI, AAVE, LDO) → TradFi liquidity meets on-chain utility 🔹 3. ETH Staking Derivatives (LDO, RPL) → Institutions want yield = LSD narrative grows 🔹 4. Oracles (LINK) → ETFs need trusted on-chain data = Chainlink shines 🔹 5. BTC on ETH Bridges (ThorChain, tBTC) → If BTC flows into ETH-based ETFs, bridges light up 🚫 What I will Avoid: ❌ Memecoins – zero relevance to ETF flows ❌ GameFi – not part of TradFi’s roadmap ❌ Ghost Layer 1s – no users, no narrative, no pump 🧠 My Take: ETH is building momentum toward $4,092 — the third breakout attempt on your 1-2-3 model. 🔥 The fuse is lit. Target? $6,036 Timing? Unknown. But structure is in place. Meanwhile, Bitcoin Dominance is rising. ETH is shining. Solana — while powerful — continues paying the price for memecoin madness 💀 We’re entering a new phase — where ETFs settle with real crypto , China watches the stage, and macro money is warming up behind the curtain. So stack smart. Study the flows. Don’t let silence fool you — the biggest moves come after the news fades. One Love, The FX PROFESSOR 💙 Disclosure: I am happy to be part of the Trade Nation's Influencer program and receive a monthly fee for using their TradingView charts in my analysis. Awesome broker, where the trader really comes first! 🌟🤝📈

Education

13:09

by FX_Professor

Ethereum and the Pectra Upgrade: ETH Growth Potential Ethereum is approaching a significant upgrade called Pectra, which, according to analysts at Trenovia Group, could become a major catalyst for ETH’s price appreciation—especially if network activity continues to rise. What Does Pectra Bring? Pectra continues Ethereum’s path toward greater technological maturity. The upgrade introduces enhancements to the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), optimizes validator coordination, and strengthens smart contract security. As Trenovia Group highlights, such developments are essential to the platform's long-term competitiveness and stability. Potential Impact on ETH Price Based on Trenovia Group’s internal analysis, ETH could strengthen after the Pectra upgrade, assuming a rise in network engagement. Past events, such as The Merge, have historically driven price momentum. However, sustained growth depends on actual increases in user activity, transaction volumes, and new project deployments. Network Activity as a Growth Indicator Network usage is one of the most critical metrics tracked by Trenovia Group. A surge in active wallets, decentralized applications (dApps), and DeFi platforms often translates to higher demand for ETH. These indicators are at the core of our investment strategies and client advisory services. Trenovia Group’s Position As a company focused on digital asset analytics and blockchain innovation, Trenovia Group views Pectra as a strategically important upgrade. It further solidifies Ethereum’s role in decentralized finance and Web3. We will continue to deliver in-depth market insights and recommendations as the network evolves. Conclusion Ethereum is entering a new phase of development. Should the Pectra upgrade lead to a measurable increase in network activity, Trenovia Group anticipates a favorable environment for ETH growth, reaffirming its position as a leader in the crypto market.

Education

What Does Lump Sum Investing Mean for Investors and Traders?What Does Lump Sum Investing Mean for Investors and Traders? Lump sum investing is when an investor or trader commits a significant amount of capital to the market in one go rather than spreading it over time. This approach is believed to provide strong long-term returns but also comes with risks, particularly in volatile markets. This article explores how lump sum investing works, why investors and traders use it, potential risks, and strategies to manage exposure in different market conditions. What Is Lump Sum Investing? Lump sum investing is when an investor puts a significant amount of capital into the market at once, rather than spreading it over time. This approach is common when someone receives a windfall—such as an inheritance, bonus, or proceeds from closing an effective position—and decides to invest the full amount immediately. Unlike dollar-cost averaging (DCA), which involves dividing an investment into smaller, regular parts, lump sum investing seeks to maximise market exposure from day one. The key argument of investors is that markets tend to rise over time. By investing upfront, capital has more time to grow, rather than sitting on the sidelines waiting to be deployed. Lump sum investing isn’t limited to equities. It applies across asset classes, including forex, commodities, and fixed income. A trader taking a large position in a currency pair based on a strong technical setup is, in effect, making a lump sum investment—allocating its capital at once rather than scaling in gradually. Institutional investors also use lump sum strategies, particularly when allocating large amounts into funds or rebalancing portfolios. However, while this method is believed to have strong long-term potential, it exposes investors and traders to market volatility, making risk management a key consideration. Why Some Investors and Traders Use Lump Sum Investing Lump sum investing is often used because it puts capital to work immediately, giving it more time to grow. Historical market data supports this approach—studies, including research from Vanguard, have claimed that potential returns are higher in lump sum vs dollar-cost averaging in most market conditions. This is because markets tend to rise over the long term, and waiting to invest can mean missing out on early gains. Long-term investors typically deploy lump sums when they have high conviction in an asset or when a large amount of capital becomes available. For example, a fund manager rebalancing a portfolio or an individual investing an inheritance may decide to allocate the full amount upfront rather than spreading it out. In Trading Traders use lump sum investing differently. While some may use an approach similar to dollar-cost averaging and scale into a position, most traders will deploy capital when they see a high-probability setup. For instance, instead of spreading 1% risk across several trades, they will typically open a position with the entire 1% all at once. Institutional investors also use lump sum strategies when making block trades or adjusting asset allocations. For example, a pension fund investing in equities after a market downturn may deploy capital in one move to take advantage of lower prices. However, investing a lump sum of money isn’t just about maximising potential returns—it also involves risk, particularly in volatile markets. The next section explores the potential downsides of this approach. Potential Risks of Lump Sum Investing Lump sum investing comes with risks—particularly in volatile markets. The decision to invest everything at once means full exposure from day one, which can work against investors if the market moves against them after deployment. Some key risks to consider include: Market Timing Risk Investing a lump sum relies on deploying capital at a single point in time, making it sensitive to short-term market fluctuations. If an investor enters at a peak—such as before the 2008 financial crisis or the early 2022 market downturn—they could face an immediate drawdown. While long-term investors may recover, traders working on shorter timeframes have less room to absorb losses. Volatility and Psychological Impact Markets rarely move in a straight line. Lump sum investments can see rapid swings in value, which can be difficult for some investors to handle. Seeing a portfolio drop sharply after investing can lead to emotional decisions, such as panic selling or deviating from an original strategy. Traders face a similar issue when entering a full position—sudden volatility can trigger stop losses or force them to exit prematurely. Liquidity Risk For traders, placing a large order in a low-liquidity market can result in slippage, where the trade executes at a worse price than expected. This is especially relevant in forex, small-cap stocks, and commodities with lower trading volume. How Lump Sum Investing Performs in Different Market Conditions Market conditions play a major role in how lump sum investing performs. While historical data suggests it often outperforms spreading investments over time, short-term results can vary significantly depending on the broader trend. Bull Markets Lump sum investing tends to perform well in sustained uptrends. Since markets generally rise over time, deploying capital early allows one to take advantage of long-term growth. Research from Vanguard found that in about 68% of historical periods, lump sum investing outperformed dollar-cost averaging because assets had more time in the market. A strong bull market—like the one from 2009 to 2021—allowed lump sum investors to see considerable gains over time. Bear Markets Investing a lump sum just before a downturn exposes capital to immediate losses. For instance, an investor who entered the market in late 2007 would have faced steep drawdowns during the 2008 crash. Recovery took years, depending on the assets involved. Although CFD traders can trade in rising and falling markets, the main challenge is to determine a trend reversal and avoid taking a full position just before it happens. Sideways Markets When prices move within a range without a clear trend, lump sum investing can be less effective. Investors may see stagnant returns if an asset moves sideways for extended periods, such as during the early 2000s. Traders in choppy markets often break positions into multiple entries to manage risk, rather than committing full capital at once. Strategies to Potentially Reduce Risk with Lump Sum Investing Lump sum investing involves full market exposure from the start, which means risk management plays a key role in avoiding unnecessary drawdowns. Understanding how to invest a lump sum of money wisely can help investors and traders potentially manage downside risks. Assess Market Conditions Deploying capital blindly can lead to poor outcomes. Investors often analyse valuations, interest rate trends, and macroeconomic factors before making large allocations. For traders, technical indicators such as support and resistance levels, moving averages, and momentum indicators help assess whether market conditions favour a full-position entry. Diversification Across Assets and Sectors One key concept in understanding how to invest a lump sum is diversification. Since allocating a lump sum to a single asset increases exposure to its price movements, some investors spread capital across multiple stocks, asset classes, or geographies to reduce concentration risk. A lump sum investment split between equities, bonds, and commodities can smooth out volatility, particularly in uncertain markets. Hedging Strategies Once they’ve decided what to do with a lump sum of money, some investors and traders hedge their positions. Opening opposite positions in correlated assets, trading stock pairs, or diversifying exposure across sectors in index trading can act as protection against downside moves, particularly in uncertain or high-volatility environments. Position Sizing Adjustments Traders concerned about volatility sometimes split a lump sum trade into staggered entries, adjusting size based on price action. This approach provides flexibility if market conditions shift unexpectedly. The Bottom Line Lump sum investing is a popular strategy among investors and traders, offering full market exposure from the start. While it has its advantages, managing risk is crucial, especially in volatile conditions. FAQ What Is Lump Sum Investment? Lump sum investment is when an investor places a large amount of capital into an asset or market all at once instead of spreading purchases over time. This approach is common after receiving an inheritance, bonus, or proceeds from an asset sale. It provides immediate market exposure, which can be advantageous in rising markets but also increases the risk of short-term volatility. What Is a Lump Sum Trading Strategy? A lump sum trading strategy entails entering a trade with the entire position size in a single transaction, rather than gradually scaling in. Traders often use this approach when they have strong convictions in a setup. While it maximises potential returns if the market moves favourably, it also increases exposure to short-term price swings. Is It Better to Invest Lump Sum or DCA? Lump sum investing has historically outperformed dollar-cost averaging (DCA) in most market conditions because capital is exposed to growth sooner. However, DCA helps manage timing risk by spreading capital over time, making it a common choice for investors concerned about short-term market fluctuations. What Are the Disadvantages of Lump Sum Investing? The main risk is market timing—investing at a peak can lead to immediate losses. Lump sum investors also face higher short-term volatility, which can be psychologically challenging. In low-liquidity markets, executing large trades at once may lead to slippage, affecting execution prices. This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

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What Is the Difference Between ETFs and Index Funds?What Is the Difference Between ETFs and Index Funds? ETFs and index funds are designed to provide access to diversified portfolios of assets, often tracking the performance of a specific market index. But while they may appear similar at first glance, they have distinct characteristics that cater to different types of investors and strategies. This article breaks down the key differences between ETFs vs index funds, explores how they work, and explains why traders and investors might choose one over the other. What Are ETFs? Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are investment vehicles that trade on stock exchanges, much like individual shares. They’re structured to replicate the performance of a particular benchmark, sector, commodity, or a combination of asset classes. What sets ETFs apart is their flexibility. Traders and investors buy and sell ETFs throughout the trading day at market prices. This makes them particularly appealing to active traders who value liquidity and the ability to react quickly to price movements. Another key advantage is their typically low cost. Most ETFs are passively managed, meaning they aim to replicate a benchmark rather than beat it. This reduces management fees, making ETFs a cost-effective choice compared to actively managed offerings. ETFs also offer diversification in a single transaction. By trading one ETF, investors can gain exposure to hundreds or even thousands of underlying securities. This makes them a popular choice for spreading risk across multiple assets. What Are Index Funds? Index funds are investment vehicles designed to mirror the performance of a specific index, like the FTSE 100 or the S&P 500. An index fund provides broad exposure by holding a portfolio of assets that closely matches the composition of the benchmark it tracks. An index vehicle tracking the S&P 500 would invest in the 500 largest companies in the US, in the same proportions as the index. This passive strategy keeps costs low, as there’s no need for active management or frequent trading decisions. So, how is an index fund different from an exchange-traded fund? The index fund can take the form of either an ETF or a mutual fund; for instance, the SPDR S&P 500 ETF, or SPY, is an index fund. Mutual fund versions of index funds are traded at the end-of-day net asset value (NAV), while ETF versions are bought and sold throughout the trading day like individual shares. This distinction is important for traders considering factors like liquidity and pricing flexibility. Low-cost index funds are popular for their relative simplicity compared to some other financial instruments, cost efficiency, and diversification. By investing in a single product, investors can gain exposure to an entire market, reducing the need for extensive research or active management. Is an ETF an index fund? Not necessarily. An ETF can be an index fund if it tracks an index, but ETFs can also track different sectors, assets, or geographies without being one. Differences Between ETFs and Index Funds ETFs and index funds share a common purpose: to track the performance of an underlying benchmark. However, the debate of ETFs vs mutual funds vs index funds often comes down to trading mechanisms and investment strategies, which can influence their suitability for different types of traders and investors. Trading Mechanism One of the most noticeable differences between ETFs vs index funds is how they’re traded. ETFs trade on stock exchanges, allowing them to be bought and sold throughout the trading day at market prices. This means their value fluctuates based on demand, similar to individual shares. In contrast, mutual fund indices are priced and traded only once a day, at the net asset value (NAV) calculated after markets close. Variety ETFs encompass diverse assets like stocks, bonds, and commodities, covering sectors, regions, or mixed asset classes. Index funds, on the other hand, only track a specific market index, like the S&P 500, FTSE 100, or Nasdaq 100. Cost Structure Both ETFs and mutual fund indices are known for low fees, but there are nuances. ETFs typically have slightly lower expense ratios, as they incur fewer administrative costs. However, trading ETFs may involve brokerage fees or bid-ask spreads, which can add up for frequent traders. Mutual fund vehicles often require no trading fees but may impose a minimum investment amount. Tax Efficiency ETFs tend to be more tax-efficient than mutual fund indices. This is due to how they handle capital gains. ETFs generally use an “in-kind” redemption process, which minimises taxable events. Mutual fund index funds, on the other hand, may trigger taxable capital gains distributions, even if you haven’t sold your shares. Liquidity and Accessibility ETFs can be bought in small quantities, often for the price of a single share, making them more accessible to retail investors. Mutual fund vehicles may require higher minimum investments, which could limit access for some investors. Additionally, ETFs offer instant trade execution, while mutual vehicles require you to wait until the end of the trading day to complete transactions. ETF CFD Trading ETF CFD (Contract for Difference) trading is a versatile way to speculate on the price movements of ETFs without actually owning the underlying assets. When trading ETF CFDs, you’re entering into an agreement with a broker to exchange the price difference of an ETF between the time the position is opened and closed. Unlike traditional ETF investing, where you purchase shares on an exchange, CFD trading allows you to take positions on price movements—whether upwards or downwards. Leverage and Lower Capital Requirements One major advantage of ETF CFD trading is leverage. With CFDs, you only need to put down a fraction of the trade’s total value as margin, allowing you to control larger positions with less capital. However, leverage amplifies both potential gains and losses, so careful risk management is essential. Potential Short-Term Opportunities ETF CFDs add a layer of flexibility for traders exploring the difference between ETFs, mutual funds, and index funds by focusing on short-term speculation rather than long-term holding. Traders can react quickly to news, economic events, or trends without the constraints of traditional ETF investing, such as settlement times or the need to meet minimum investment requirements. Since ETF CFDs can be traded with intraday precision, they allow traders to capitalise on smaller price movements. A Complement to Long-Term Investing For those who already invest in traditional ETFs or indices, ETF CFD trading can serve as a complementary strategy. While long-term investments focus on gradual wealth-building, CFDs enable active traders to seize potential short-term opportunities, hedge against risks, or diversify their trading activities. Flexibility Across Markets With ETF CFDs, traders gain access to a wide range of markets, from equity indices to commodities and sectors. This diversity allows for tailored trading strategies that align with market conditions or specific interests, such as tech or energy ETFs. Uses for ETFs and Index Funds The differences between index funds and ETFs mean they play distinct but complementary roles in financial markets, offering tools for various investment and trading strategies. Whether focusing on long-term goals or seeking potential short-term opportunities, these products provide flexibility and diversification. Portfolio Diversification Both are popular for spreading risk across a broad range of assets. For example, instead of buying shares in individual companies, a single investment in an ETF tracking the S&P 500 provides exposure to hundreds of large US firms. This diversification may help reduce the impact of poor performance of any single asset. Cost-Effective Market Exposure Both types offer relatively low-cost access to markets. Passive management strategies mean lower fees compared to actively managed products, making them efficient choices for building portfolios or gaining exposure to specific sectors, regions, or asset classes. Tactical Market Moves ETFs, with their intraday trading capability, are particularly suited to tactical adjustments. For instance, a trader looking to quickly increase exposure to the tech sector might buy a technology-focused ETF, while potentially reducing risk by selling it as conditions change. Long-Term Wealth Building Index funds, particularly in their mutual fund format, are designed for patient investors. By tracking broad indices with minimal turnover, they offer a way to potentially accumulate wealth over time, making them popular instruments for retirement savings or other long-term objectives. How to Choose Between Index Funds vs ETFs Choosing between an index fund vs ETF depends on your trading style, investment goals, and how you plan to engage with the markets. While both offer relatively cost-effective access to diverse portfolios, your choice will hinge on a few key factors. - Trading Flexibility: ETFs are popular among active traders looking for potential intraday opportunities. Their ability to trade throughout the day allows for precision and quick responses to market changes. Index funds, whether ETFs or mutual products, are usually chosen by long-term investors who are less concerned about daily price movements. - Fees and Costs: While both options are low-cost, ETFs often have slightly lower expense ratios but may incur trading fees or bid-ask spreads. Mutual fund products typically skip trading fees but may have higher management costs or minimum investment requirements. - Tax Considerations: ETFs often provide better tax efficiency due to their structure, particularly when compared to mutual fund indices. For investors concerned about capital gains distributions, this could be a deciding factor. - Strategy: If you’re targeting specific themes, sectors, or commodities, ETFs that aren’t tied to an index can provide unique exposure. For broad, passive market tracking, index funds—whether ETFs or mutual funds—offer simplicity and consistency. The Bottom Line ETFs and index funds are powerful instruments for traders and investors, each with unique strengths suited to different strategies. Whether you’re focused on long-term growth or short-term price moves, understanding their differences is key. For those looking to trade ETFs with flexibility, ETF CFDs offer a dynamic option. Open an FXOpen account today to access a range of ETF CFDs and start exploring potential trading opportunities with competitive costs and four advanced trading platforms. FAQ What Is an Index Fund? An index fund is an investment vehicle designed to replicate the performance of a specific market index, such as the S&P 500 or FTSE 100. It achieves this by holding the same securities as the index in similar proportions. These vehicles can be either mutual funds or ETFs, offering investors broad market exposure and low costs through passive management. What Is the Difference Between an ETF and an Index Fund? An ETF trades like a stock on an exchange throughout the day, with prices fluctuating based on market demand. They track various assets across different sectors, markets, and asset classes. Index funds track indices, like the S&P 500 or FTSE 100, and can be traded as an ETF or mutual fund. What Is Better, an S&P 500 ETF or Mutual Fund? The choice depends on your needs. ETFs offer intraday trading, lower fees, and no minimum investment, making them popular among those who look for flexibility. Mutual funds often waive trading costs and are chosen by long-term investors comfortable with end-of-day pricing. Are ETFs as Safe as Index Funds? ETFs and index funds carry similar risks since both track market performance. So-called safety depends on the underlying assets, overall conditions, and your investment strategy, not the type itself. What Is the Difference Between a Mutual Fund and an Index Fund? A mutual fund is a broad investment vehicle managed actively or passively, while an index fund is a type of mutual fund or ETF specifically designed to replicate an index. What Are Index Funds vs Equity Funds? Index funds are designed to track the performance of an index. Equity funds, on the other hand, focus on stocks and can be actively or passively managed. While all index funds are equity funds, not all equity funds track indices. This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

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ETFs vs Mutual Funds: Differences and Advantages ETFs vs Mutual Funds: Differences and Advantages Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and mutual funds are two of the most popular investment options, each offering unique features and advantages. While both provide access to diversified portfolios, their differences in structure, management, and trading make them suitable for different strategies. This article breaks down the key distinctions between exchange-traded funds vs mutual funds and how to choose between them. What Are ETFs? Exchange-traded funds, or ETFs, are investment vehicles that allow traders to access a diverse range of assets through a single product. An ETF is essentially a basket of investments—such as stocks, bonds, or commodities—that typically tracks the performance of an index, sector, or specific theme. For example, SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust (SPY) follows the S&P 500 index, providing exposure to the largest companies listed on US stock exchanges. What sets ETFs apart is how they’re traded. Unlike mutual funds, which are only bought or sold at the end of the trading day, ETFs trade on stock exchanges throughout the day, just like individual shares. This means their prices fluctuate as demand and supply change, giving traders the flexibility to enter or exit positions at market prices. ETFs are known for their cost-effectiveness, as most are passively managed to mirror the performance of an index rather than exceed it. This passive structure usually leads to lower management fees compared to actively managed funds. Additionally, ETFs are often transparent, with their holdings disclosed daily, so investors know exactly what they’re buying. ETFs come in various types, from those focused on specific sectors, like technology or healthcare, to broader options covering entire economies or bond markets. This variety makes them a popular choice for traders and investors looking to diversify or target specific market opportunities. What Are Mutual Funds? Mutual funds are investment products that pool money from multiple investors to create a diversified portfolio, typically managed by a professional fund manager. These funds invest in a wide range of assets, including stocks, bonds, and other securities, depending on the fund’s objective. For instance, an equity mutual fund focuses on stocks, while a bond fund invests primarily in fixed-income securities. One defining feature of mutual funds is their pricing. Unlike ETFs, mutual funds aren’t traded on stock exchanges. Instead, they are bought and sold at the fund’s net asset value (NAV), which is calculated at the end of each trading day. This makes them more suited to long-term investment strategies. Mutual funds often appeal to investors looking for a hands-off approach. The fund manager handles the selection and management of assets, aiming to achieve the fund’s stated goals—whether that’s generating income, preserving capital, or achieving long-term growth. However, this active management comes with higher fees compared to ETFs. These costs include management fees and sometimes additional charges like entry or exit loads, which can eat into returns over time. Mutual funds also often require a minimum investment, making them less accessible for some investors. That said, they offer a wide variety of options, from sector-specific funds to diversified portfolios, providing flexibility for different investment goals and risk preferences. Are There Differences Between an ETF and a Mutual Fund? ETFs and mutual funds share similarities—they both allow investors to pool money into diversified portfolios. However, the differences between ETFs and mutual funds can significantly impact which one is better suited to an investor’s goals. Trading and Pricing ETFs are traded on stock exchanges continuously during market hours, similar to individual shares. Price fluctuations are based on market demand and supply. In contrast, mutual funds are priced only once per day after the market closes, based on the fund’s net asset value (NAV). This makes ETFs more appealing for those seeking flexibility and the ability to react to market movements, while mutual funds cater to long-term investors less concerned with intraday price changes. Management Style ETFs are mostly passively managed, designed to track the performance of a specific index, sector, or asset class. Mutual funds, on the other hand, often feature active management. This involves fund managers selecting assets to outperform the market, which can offer potential opportunities for higher returns but also comes with increased costs. Fees and Costs ETFs typically come with a lower expense ratio compared to mutual funds, making them more cost-efficient. This is due to their passive management approach and lower operational costs. Mutual funds may charge higher fees to cover active management and administrative expenses. Additionally, mutual funds may have extra costs like sales charges or redemption fees, whereas ETFs incur standard brokerage commissions. Liquidity When considering mutual funds versus ETFs, liquidity becomes a critical factor, as ETF prices change intraday, while mutual funds are limited to end-of-day pricing. This difference can influence how quickly you can access your funds. Tax Efficiency ETFs tend to be more tax-efficient because of their structure. When investors sell ETF shares, transactions occur directly between buyers and sellers on the exchange, limiting taxable events. In mutual funds, redemptions often require the fund manager to sell securities, which can result in capital gains distributed to all investors in the fund. Minimum Investment Mutual funds often require a minimum initial investment, which can range from a few hundred to thousands of dollars. ETFs, however, don’t have such requirements—traders can purchase as little as a single share, making them more accessible for those with smaller starting capital. ETF CFD Trading ETF CFD trading offers a flexible way for traders to speculate on the price movements of exchange-traded funds without the need to buy them on stock exchanges. CFDs, or Contracts for Difference, are derivative products that track the price of an ETF, allowing traders to take positions on whether the price will rise or fall. This approach is particularly appealing for short-term speculation, making it a useful complement to traditional long-term ETF or mutual fund investing. Flexibility One of the standout features of ETF CFDs is their flexibility. Unlike investing directly in ETFs, CFD trading enables you to capitalise on price fluctuations without owning ETF shares. Traders can go long if they anticipate a rise in the ETF’s value or short if they expect a decline. This ability to trade in both directions can potentially create opportunities in both bullish and bearish markets. Moreover, CFDs allow for trading over shorter timeframes like 1-minute or 5-minute charts, providing potential opportunities for scalpers and day traders. Leverage Leverage is another significant feature of ETF CFDs. With leverage, traders can gain larger exposure to an ETF’s price movements with smaller initial capital. For example, using 5:1 leverage, a $1,000 position would control $5,000 worth of ETF exposure. However, you should remember that while this magnifies potential returns, losses are also amplified, making risk management a critical component of trading CFD products. Costs Actively managed ETFs can charge expense ratios to cover management and operational costs. CFDs eliminate these fees, as traders don’t directly invest in the ETF’s assets. However, both ETF investing and ETF CFD trading include brokerage fees or spreads. Wider Range of Markets With CFDs, traders can access a variety of global ETF markets through a single platform. This reduces the need to open accounts in different jurisdictions, saving on administrative and currency conversion costs. CFD trading is popular among traders who want to take advantage of short-term price movements, diversify their strategies, or access ETF markets straightforwardly. While traditional ETFs are often favoured for long-term growth, ETF CFDs provide an active, fast-paced alternative for traders looking to react quickly to market changes. Use Cases for ETFs and Mutual Funds In comparing ETFs vs mutual funds, it’s important to recognise their use cases based on an investor’s goals, strategies, and time horizons. ETFs ETFs are used by investors seeking flexibility and real-time market engagement. They are attractive for those who want to take advantage of price movements or actively manage their portfolios. For example, an investor might focus on sector-specific ETFs, like technology or energy, to capitalise on industry trends. ETFs also offer a lower-cost option for diversification, making them useful for those building broad exposure across markets without significant capital. Additionally, ETFs may be effective for hedging. An investor with exposure to a specific market segment can use an ETF to potentially offset risks, especially in volatile markets. For instance, during an anticipated downturn in equities, an inverse ETF could be used to possibly mitigate losses. Mutual Funds Mutual funds are popular among long-term investors prioritising professional management. Their hands-off approach makes them appealing to individuals who prefer not to monitor markets daily. For instance, someone saving for retirement might opt for a diversified mutual fund that balances risk and growth over time. Mutual funds are also advantageous for accessing specialised strategies, such as actively managed funds focusing on niche markets or themes. While they typically involve higher fees, the tailored management can align with specific financial objectives. Factors for Choosing Between ETFs and Mutual Funds Selecting between mutual funds vs ETF options depends on an investor’s financial goals, trading style, and the level of involvement they are comfortable with in managing their investments. - Time Horizon: ETFs are popular among short- to medium-term investors and traders who prefer flexibility and the ability to follow intraday price movement. Mutual funds, on the other hand, are mostly used by long-term investors focused on gradual growth or income over time. - Cost Sensitivity: ETFs generally have lower expense ratios and no minimum investment requirements, making them cost-efficient. Mutual funds often involve higher management fees and, in some cases, additional charges like entry or exit fees, which can add up over time. - Active vs Passive Management: If you’re looking for a hands-off approach with professional oversight, actively managed mutual funds might be more appealing. However, if you prefer to track indices or specific sectors at a lower cost, ETFs might be more suitable. - Liquidity Needs: Investors who need quick access to their capital often prefer ETFs because they can be traded throughout the day. Mutual funds lack this intraday liquidity, as transactions are only processed at the trading day’s end. The Bottom Line Understanding the differences between mutual funds vs exchange-traded funds is crucial for selecting the right investment approach. ETFs offer flexibility and cost-efficiency, while mutual funds are popular among long-term investors seeking professional management. For those interested in ETF CFD trading, which allows traders trade in rising and falling markets, opening an FXOpen account provides access to a diverse range of ETF markets alongside competitive trading conditions. FAQ What Is an ETF vs Mutual Fund? An ETF is a fund traded on stock exchanges, offering intraday liquidity and lower fees, typically tracking an index or sector. A mutual fund pools investor money for professional management, priced once at the end of a trading day at its net asset value per share. Mutual Funds and ETFs: Differences ETFs trade like stocks, are generally more cost-efficient, and offer intraday liquidity. Mutual funds are actively managed, have higher fees, and are designed for long-term investing with end-of-day pricing. Is the S&P 500 an ETF or a Mutual Fund? The S&P 500 itself is an index, not a fund. However, it can be tracked by both ETFs (like SPDR S&P 500 ETF) and mutual funds, offering similar exposure but with differing management styles and fee structures. This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

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What Is an ETF and How Does ETF CFD Trading Work?What Is an ETF and How Does ETF CFD Trading Work? Exchange-traded funds, or ETFs, have gained significant popularity in recent years as a way to invest in a diversified portfolio of securities. But for the uninitiated, the world of ETFs can seem complex and overwhelming. So, what is an exchange-traded fund, and how does it work? In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about ETFs, the advantages and disadvantages, and we’ll explain how to trade ETF CFDs. What Is an ETF and How Does It Work? The ETF definition in investments is the following: exchange-traded funds (ETFs), sometimes called equity-traded funds, are financial products that track the performance of a specific index, commodity, or group of assets. ETFs are popular among individual and institutional investors thanks to their flexibility, low fees, and transparency. Like stocks, ETFs are traded on exchanges. This means that you can buy ETF shares when the stock market is open. Note that you buy shares of a fund, not the fund itself. Unlike stocks, however, ETFs don’t focus on a single asset. Instead, ETFs consist of multiple assets and even different asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, commodities, and cash. Some ETFs are passively managed, meaning they’re designed to track a specific market or sector. Others are actively managed and have professional portfolio managers who choose which assets to include in the ETF. ETFs are an effective way for traders and investors to diversify their positions. Because ETFs comprise a diverse range of securities, holders can gain exposure to different assets, markets, and sectors without having to trade each one individually. This can help reduce risk and volatility and potentially generate more stable returns over the long term. Differences and Pros and Cons of ETFs vs Mutual Funds While they share some similarities to mutual funds, one of the main differences between the two is that mutual funds are only traded at the end of the trading day according to their net asset value (NAV), while an ETF’s share price fluctuates throughout the day. Mutual funds pool money from investors to invest in a range of assets and are often actively managed by a professional portfolio manager. This means they typically come with higher fees and a higher minimum investment requirement. Generally speaking, ETFs are the more cost-effective and flexible option, as they offer lower expense ratios and allow for intraday trading. They also tend to be more tax efficient due to their reduced portfolio turnover rates. However, ETFs come with commissions, while mutual funds do not. Moreover, the passive management style of many ETFs can lead to lower returns compared to mutual funds, which aim to beat the market through active management. ETF Types There are many different types of ETFs out there that can be used to meet a wide variety of investment goals. Let’s look at some examples of exchange-traded funds. Index ETFs What is an ETF in the stock market? Equity ETFs are those that track a stock index. They vary in terms of the sectors, industries, company sizes, and countries they cover. Equity ETFs are divided into broad market and sector ETFs. Broad Market ETFs These ETFs track the performance of the entire market. They can be a useful tool for investors looking to gain exposure to the overall market without having to pick an individual instrument. One of the most significant broad-market ETFs is the SPDR S&P 500 ETF. Sector ETFs Sector ETFs offer investment in specific industries or areas of the market, like technology, healthcare, energy, and financials. These ETFs are ideal for investors looking to profit from the overall growth of an industry. Popular sector ETFs include the ARK Innovation ETF. Bond ETFs These ETFs invest in fixed-income securities such as government, corporate, and municipal bonds. Bond ETFs expose investors to the fixed-income market, which can be an effective tool for diversifying a portfolio. One of the bond ETFs is iShares 20+ Year Treasury Bond ETF. Commodity ETFs Commodity ETFs invest in assets like gold, silver, oil, and other natural resources. Commodity ETFs offer investors easy access to the commodity market and can help them hedge during market downturns. SPDR S&P Oil & Gas Exploration & Production ETF (XOP) is an example of a commodity ETF. Currency ETFs These ETFs invest in foreign currencies and are used to gain exposure to a particular country’s currency or group of currencies, meaning they can be used to hedge against currency risk. Primary currency ETFs include the Invesco DB US Dollar Index Bullish Fund. Leveraged ETFs Leveraged ETFs use derivatives to provide investors with magnified exposure to the underlying assets, typically 2x, 3x, or 5x. For instance, a 2x leveraged ETF based on the S&P 500 would drop 2% if the S&P 500 fell by 1%. Direxion Daily Semiconductor Bull 3X Shares ETF is one of the most popular leveraged ETFs. Inverse ETFs These ETFs allow buyers to invest in the inverse performance of the underlying asset. For example, an inverse ETF that tracks the S&P 500 would go up when the S&P 500 goes down. Inverse ETFs can be useful for hedging against market downturns but also shouldn’t be held long-term. An example of an inverse ETF is the ProShares Short S&P 500 ETF. How to Trade ETF CFDs Aside from buying ETFs on stock exchanges, you can trade them via CFDs. CFDs are derivative products that allow traders to speculate on the price movement of an underlying asset, such as an ETF. Unlike traditional ETF investing, ETF CFD trading does not involve owning the ETF itself. Instead, traders are exposed to the price movements of the underlying ETF when they open a position. At FXOpen, we have dozens of ETF contracts for difference (CFDs) that are ideal for short-term trading. One key benefit of CFD trading is the use of leverage, which allows traders to open larger positions with smaller amounts of capital. This can potentially amplify profits but also magnify losses. All of our ETF CFDs offer 1:5 leverage, so to open a $100 position, you’ll need $20 to cover the margin requirements. Moreover, ETF CFDs can be opened long or short, allowing traders to profit from both rising and falling markets. This can be especially useful when looking to hedge against an existing position or take advantage of short-term market movements. Unlike regular ETFs, CFDs are subject to overnight fees, which are charged for holding open positions overnight. However, the same as with regular ETFs, CFD traders receive dividends if applied. The dividend adjustment is positive for buy trades and negative for sell trades. Consider a Trading Strategy If you’re thinking of trading ETF CFDs, it’s important to have a trading strategy in place. One approach is a trend-following strategy, which involves identifying and entering in the direction of the trend of the underlying ETF. Many traders use technical analysis tools, like moving averages and trendlines, to help them gauge the direction of a trend. Seasonal trend trading can also work particularly well for ETF CFDs. Traders using this strategy look at historical market data and identify trends that tend to occur during certain times of the year. For example, a retail sector-based ETF might perform well around the holiday season, so traders could use this expectation to guide the direction of their trade. Some traders prefer breakout trading - taking positions in ETF CFDs when their prices break through key support or resistance levels. Breakout trading can be especially effective in ETF CFD trading because ETFs tend to be less volatile than individual stocks. This means that when an ETF breaks through a support or resistance level, it may continue in that direction for an extended period, providing traders with an opportunity to profit. Trading ETF CFDs: Advantages and Disadvantages While we’ve explained some of the key advantages and disadvantages of ETF CFD trading, there are other factors to consider. Here are some additional advantages and disadvantages of ETF CFDs to be aware of. Advantages Flexibility: ETF CFDs can be bought and sold quickly throughout the day, providing traders with the flexibility to adjust their positions in response to intraday market events. Broad Exposure: ETF CFDs offer exposure to a wide range of global markets and sectors, meaning that traders can diversify their positions and speculate on the price movements of a market or sector as a whole rather than relying on a single asset. Hedging: This broad exposure also allows traders to use ETF CFDs to hedge against their other positions and reduce their potential losses. For example, a trader long on tech stocks could use a technology-based ETF CFD to short the sector during earnings season to protect from downside risk. Disadvantages Only Tradeable During Specific Hours: ETF CFDs are only available to trade when their respective exchanges are open. This might only be 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. EST, whereas other types of CFDs, like forex CFDs, are available to trade 24/5. Potential Liquidity Issues: During periods of high volatility or low volume trading hours, some ETF CFDs can suffer from poor liquidity. This can widen spreads, increase costs for traders, and heighten the risk of slippage. Fund Closure: While rare, it is possible for an ETF to cease trading while you have an open CFD position. This would result in the liquidation of the position and the net profit or losses being realised. When combined with leverage, a forced liquidation could lead to significant losses. Your Next Steps Now that you have a solid understanding of ETFs and their CFD counterparts, you may wonder how to start trading them. Follow this step-by-step guide to get started: 1. Open an FXOpen Account: At FXOpen, we offer a wide range of ETF contracts for difference (CFDs) that you can begin trading in minutes. 2. Explore ETFs: The next step is to look for ETFs that align with your strategy. You can research factors like potential for growth and historical performance to help determine if an ETF is right for you. You may also want to consider elements like the ETF’s level of diversification and trading volume. 3. Place a Trade: Once you think you’ve found the ETF you want to trade, you can use one of four trading platforms at FXOpen to enter a position. This involves selecting the ETF CFD you want to trade, choosing the appropriate trade size, and setting stop losses to manage risk. At this stage, you could also set some targets for where you’d like to exit your trade. 4. Manage Risk: As your trade progresses, the only thing left to do is manage your position’s risk. You could do this by gradually moving your stop loss closer to breakeven, taking partial profits, and hedging your position with other ETF CFDs. Trade on TradingView with FXOpen. Consider opening an account and access over 700 markets with tight spreads from 0.0 pips and low commissions from $1.50 per lot. This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

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Sector Rotation Analysis: A Practical Tutorial Using TradingView Sector Rotation Analysis: A Practical Tutorial Using TradingView Overview Sector rotation is an investment strategy that involves reallocating capital among different sectors of the economy to align with their performance during various phases of the economic cycle. While academic studies have shown that sector rotation does not consistently outperform the market after accounting for transaction costs, it remains a popular framework for portfolio management. This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide to analyzing sector rotation and identifying leading and lagging sectors using TradingView . Understanding Sector Rotation and Economic Cycles The economy moves through distinct phases, and each phase tends to favor specific sectors: 1. Expansion : Rapid economic growth with rising consumer confidence. - Leading Sectors: Technology AMEX:XLK , Consumer Discretionary AMEX:XLY , Industrials AMEX:XLI 2. Peak : Growth slows, and inflation may rise. - Leading Sectors: Energy AMEX:XLE , Materials AMEX:XLB 3. Contraction : Economic activity declines, and unemployment rises. - Leading Sectors: Utilities AMEX:XLU , Healthcare AMEX:XLV , Consumer Staples AMEX:XLP 4. Trough : The economy begins recovering from a recession. - Leading Sectors: Financials AMEX:XLF , Real Estate AMEX:XLRE Step 1: Use TradingView to Monitor Economic Indicators Economic indicators provide context for sector performance: GDP Growth : Signals expansion or contraction. Interest Rates : Rising rates favor Financials; falling rates benefit Real Estate. Inflation : High inflation supports Energy and Materials. Step 2: Analyze Sector Performance Using Relative Strength Relative Strength RS compares a sector's performance against a benchmark index like the SP:SPX This helps identify whether a sector is leading or lagging. How to Calculate RS in TradingView Open a chart for a sector TSXV:ETF , such as AMEX:XLK Technology. Add SP:SPX as a comparison symbol by clicking the Compare ➕ button. Analyze the RS line: - If RS trends upward, the sector is outperforming. - If RS trends downward, the sector is underperforming. Using Indicators e.g.: You may add the Sector Relative Strength indicator from TradingView’s public library. This tool ranks multiple sectors by their relative strength against SP:SPX Additionally, you can use the RS Rating indicator by @Fred6724, which calculates the Relative Strength Rating (1 to 99) of a stock or sector based on its 12-month performance compared to others in a selected index. Example In early 2021, during economic recovery, AMEX:XLK 's RS rose above SP:SPX , signaling Technology was leading. Step 3: Validate Sector Trends with Technical Indicators Technical indicators can confirm sector momentum and provide entry/exit signals: Moving Averages Use 50-day and 200-day Simple Moving Averages SMA. If a sector TSXV:ETF trades above both SMAs, it indicates bullish momentum. Relative Strength Index RSI RSI > 70 suggests overbought conditions; <30 indicates oversold conditions. MACD Moving Average Convergence Divergence Look for bullish crossovers where the MACD line crosses above the signal line. Example During the inflation surge in 2022, AMEX:XLE Energy traded above its 200-day SMA while RSI hovered near 70, confirming strong momentum in the Energy sector. Step 4: Compare Multiple Sectors Simultaneously TradingView allows you to overlay multiple ETFs on one chart for direct comparison: Open AMEX:SPY as your benchmark chart. Add ETFs like AMEX:XLK , AMEX:XLY , AMEX:XLU , etc., using the Compare tool. Observe which sectors are trending higher or lower relative to AMEX:SPY Example If AMEX:XLK and AMEX:XLY show upward trends while AMEX:XLU remains flat, this indicates cyclical sectors like Technology and Consumer Discretionary are outperforming during an expansion phase. Step 5: Implement Sector Rotation in Your Portfolio Once you’ve identified leading sectors: Allocate more capital to sectors with strong RS and bullish technical indicators. Reduce exposure to lagging sectors with weak RS or bearish momentum signals. Example During post-pandemic recovery in early 2021: Leading Sectors: Technology AMEX:XLK and Industrials AMEX:XLI Lagging Sectors: Utilities AMEX:XLU Investors who rotated into AMEX:XLK and AMEX:XLI outperformed those who remained in defensive sectors like AMEX:XLU Real-Life Case Studies of Sector Rotation Case Study 1: Post-Pandemic Recovery In early 2021, as economies reopened after COVID-19 lockdowns: Cyclical sectors like Industrials AMEX:XLI and Financials AMEX:XLF outperformed due to increased economic activity. Defensive sectors like Utilities AMEX:XLU lagged as investors shifted away from safe havens. Using TradingView’s heatmap feature , investors could have identified strong gains in AMEX:XLI and AMEX:XLF relative to AMEX:SPY Case Study 2: Inflation Surge in Late 2022 As inflation surged in late 2022: Energy AMEX:XLE and Materials AMEX:XLB outperformed due to rising commodity prices. Technology AMEX:XLK underperformed as higher interest rates hurt growth stocks. By monitoring RS lines for AMEX:XLE and AMEX:XLB on TradingView charts, investors could have rotated into these sectors ahead of broader market gains. Limitations of Sector Rotation Strategies Transaction Costs : Frequent rebalancing can erode returns over time. Market Timing Challenges : Predicting economic cycles accurately is difficult and prone to errors. False Signal s: Technical indicators like MACD or RSI can produce false positives during volatile markets. Historical Bias : Backtested strategies often fail when applied to future market conditions. Conclusion Sector rotation is a useful framework for aligning investments with macroeconomic trends but should be approached with caution due to its inherent limitations. By leveraging TradingView ’s tools, such as relative strength analysis, heatmaps, and technical indicators, investors can systematically analyze sector performance and make informed decisions about portfolio allocation. While academic research shows that sector rotation strategies do not consistently outperform simpler approaches like market timing or buy-and-hold strategies, they remain valuable for diversification and risk management when used judiciously.

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What is an ETF? | The Modern Investor’s Secret Weapon Why ETFs Are Like a Financial Swiss Army Knife ? Warren Buffett famously stated that 90% of his wife’s inheritance would go into one simple investment: a low cost S&P 500 index fund, likely an ETF (Exchange Traded Fund). ETFs, which now manage over $13 trillion in assets worldwide, combine the benefits of diversification and simplicity by bundling various stocks, bonds, or other assets into a single investment product. 1. Understanding ETFs ETFs allow you to invest in a collection of assets that often track specific indices, sectors, or asset classes. Key benefits include: - Diversification: Gain broad exposure without picking individual stocks. - Liquidity: Trade ETFs like stocks throughout the trading day. - Transparency: Daily disclosure of holdings ensures clarity about your investments. Passive investing with ETFs has surged in popularity over active strategies due to lower fees and higher transparency 2. The Impact of Fees While ETFs are cost effective, they do charge fees (expense ratios).Even small differences in fees can compound significantly over time, reducing long term returns: - A 0.05% fee might cost $6K over 20 years on a $100K investment growing at 10% annually. - A 1.00% fee could cost $112K over the same period. Thus, keeping costs low is critical, especially for long-term investors. What qualifies as “low cost”? - Under 0.10%: Very low, often for funds tracking major indices. - 0.10%–0.25%: Still affordable, typically for niche or strategy-focused ETFs. - Above 0.50%: High; these funds require careful evaluation to justify their costs. 3. Leading ETF Providers Major ETF providers dominate the industry: - BlackRock (iShares): $3.2 trillion AUM, 452 funds, 0.30% average fees. - Vanguard: $3 trillion AUM, 86 funds, 0.09% average fees, known for reinvesting profits to lower costs. - State Street (SPDR): $1.5 trillion AUM, 158 funds, 0.27% average fees, creator of the first US-listed ETF (SPY) 4. Top ETFs by Popularity Some ETFs hold significant assets due to their simplicity, reliability, and low fees : - S&P 500 funds (SPY, VOO, IVV): Track the largest US companies - Total US Market (VTI): Covers small, mid, and large-cap US stocks - Thematic Funds (VUG, VTV): Focus on growth or value stocks - Nasdaq 100 (QQQ): Heavy on tech companies like Apple and Microsoft - Bond ETFs (BND, AGG): Represent the US investment-grade bond market These ETFs serve as essential building blocks for diversified portfolios 5. Concentration in US Markets US indices like the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 are increasingly dominated by a handful of companies: - The top 10 stocks make up 39% of SPY and 52% of QQQ. - Companies like Apple, Microsoft, and Amazon account for 34% of the S&P 500. While this concentration can amplify gains in bull markets, it also increases vulnerability during downturns. 6. Exploring Specialized ETFs Beyond broad-market funds, ETFs can target specific regions, sectors, or investment strategies. Choosing the right ETF mix depends on your financial goals, time horizon, and risk tolerance. For simplicity, Warren Buffett recommends sticking to an S&P 500 index fund, while globally diversified options like VT are also available. Final Takeaway ETFs have revolutionized investing with their low costs, transparency, and accessibility. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned investor, understanding what's inside the ETF and how it aligns with your strategy is key to building a successful portfolio.

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Preserving Wealth: Essential Investment Strategies Have you realized that your dollars or euros don't buy what they used to? Inflation, the quiet thief of purchasing power, has become a pressing issue for both individuals and investors. In November 2024, the annual inflation rate in the United States increased to 2.7%, marking its second consecutive rise, while inflation in the eurozone reached 2.2%. Though these figures may appear modest, even slight upticks in inflation can significantly reduce the value of your savings and investments over the long haul. United States Inflation Rate YoY (ECONOMICS:USIRYY) The Basics of Inflation and Its Effects Inflation transpires when the overall price level of goods and services rises, diminishing the purchasing power of money. If left unchecked, it can undermine the real value of your assets and complicate your financial aspirations. In such a climate, cultivating strategies to hedge against inflation becomes vital. Effective inflation hedging allows individuals to safeguard their assets, maintain their value, and even potentially grow their wealth during times of rising prices. This article delves into several of the most potent inflation hedges, such as equities, global diversification, real estate, precious metals. Each approach carries distinct advantages for protecting your portfolio from the pressures of inflation. Equities: A Reliable Defense Against Inflation Historically, stocks have emerged as one of the most effective long-term instruments for mitigating inflation. Companies often adapt to increasing costs by raising prices, allowing them to sustain profitability. By investing in shares of these companies, individuals can benefit from their ability to pass on costs, which helps preserve and potentially grow their investments during inflationary stretches. Certain sectors are particularly adept at thriving in inflationary climates. Consumer staples—essential goods such as food, beverages, and household products—tend to perform consistently because demand remains steady regardless of price hikes. Similarly, energy stocks often benefit from inflation, as rising oil and gas prices can directly enhance profits for firms in that sector. However, not every stock is an ideal candidate. It is essential to select high-quality companies with solid fundamentals, such as stable earnings, healthy balance sheets, and notable pricing power. Firms operating in industries with limited competition or significant barriers to entry often demonstrate stronger pricing capabilities, making them attractive choices during inflationary periods. By integrating thoughtfully chosen equities into your portfolio, you can protect your wealth while positioning yourself for long-term success. Stocks remain a foundational element of effective inflation-hedging strategies, offering both growth potential and a buffer against the dwindling purchasing power of money. Equity Growth Potential: Stocks tend to grow in value over the long term, often outpacing inflation. When inflation rises, companies can increase prices to maintain profit margins, which can lead to higher earnings and, eventually, stock prices. Investing in indices that reflect a broad range of companies, like the S&P 500, can provide exposure to this growth potential. Indices, such as the S&P 500, are statistical measures that track the performance of a specific group of stocks, representing a particular segment of the financial market. The S&P 500, for instance, comprises 500 of the largest publicly traded companies in the United States, covering various industries. This index serves as a benchmark for the overall performance of the U.S. stock market and provides investors with insights into market trends, economic health, and the performance of large-cap stocks. Indices are commonly used by investors to gauge market movements, assess investment strategies, and create diversified portfolios. They can be passive investment vehicles, such as index funds or exchange-traded funds (ETFs), which aim to replicate the performance of these indices, allowing investors to benefit from broad market exposure without needing to buy individual stocks directly. S&P500 Weekly chart From 2009 till today Read also: Global Diversification: Mitigating Risks Across Borders Inflation does not affect all economies with the same intensity; thus, diversifying investments internationally can serve as a powerful buffer against rising prices. By tapping into global markets, investors can shield their assets from localized inflation while gaining exposure to regions with robust economic prospects or consistently stable inflation rates—enhancing the overall performance of their portfolios. Emerging markets, in particular, present compelling opportunities during inflationary periods. Characterized by expanding sectors and rising middle classes, these economies often offer higher returns than developed nations, especially when inflation diminishes the purchasing power of domestic assets. Resource-rich countries generally benefit as commodity prices climb, propelling economic growth and creating appealing investment opportunities. International diversification also affords the benefit of currency diversification. By holding investments in multiple currencies, you gain exposure to exchange rate fluctuations that can mitigate the adverse effects of inflation. For example, if your home currency depreciates due to rising inflation, foreign assets denominated in stronger currencies may increase in value, acting as a natural hedge. Furthermore, currencies from economies with stable monetary policies can provide additional protection against inflationary pressures. By spreading investments across diverse global markets, sectors, and currencies, you not only reduce inflation risks but also position yourself to capitalize on a range of economic dynamics. Global diversification stands out as one of the most effective defenses against inflation in today’s interconnected economy. Real Estate: A Tangible Investment with Upside Potential Real estate is widely recognized as one of the most effective assets during inflationary times. As a physical investment, real estate not only preserves value but often appreciates over time, frequently outpacing inflation rates. This makes it a potent hedge against inflation for both preserving and expanding wealth. One key advantage of real estate lies in its capacity to generate rental income. In times of inflation, landlords can often increase rents to keep pace with rising costs, ensuring that their income grows along with inflation. This reliable cash flow becomes especially resilient during economic uncertainty. Additionally, property values typically increase in correlation with inflation, driven by higher costs of construction materials, labor, and land. Investors who retain real estate during inflationary periods frequently observe a rise in asset values, granting both protection against inflation and opportunities for long-term gains. For those preferring a hands-off investment experience, Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) present an excellent alternative. REITs allow individuals to invest in a diversified array of real estate assets—such as commercial buildings, residential properties, and infrastructure projects—without the need for active management. These trusts generally perform well during inflation as they benefit from both rising property values and increasing rental income. Moreover, real estate provides the added benefit of leveraging investments. By using borrowed funds to acquire property, investors can amplify their returns during inflation, as the value of their assets appreciates while the real costs of debt are diminished by inflation. Precious Metals: A Time-Honored Financial Shield Gold and other precious metals have stood the test of time as reliable hedges against inflation. During economic uncertainty and rising prices, these assets frequently prove their worth as safe havens. Unlike fiat currencies, which may depreciate during inflation, precious metals tend to maintain or appreciate in value, making them essential components of a diversified portfolio. Gold's longstanding appeal stems from its ability to preserve purchasing power. When inflation erodes the value of paper money, gold often rises in price, acting as a shield against financial instability. Its widespread recognition as a store of value further enhances its reliability during periods of economic fluctuation. Investors can obtain exposure to gold in various forms, including physical assets like bullion and coins, which provide tangible ownership, as well as Gold ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds) that allow trading without logistical concerns of storage. Furthermore, gold mining stocks can offer leveraged exposure to the metal; as gold prices rise, mining companies typically see their profit margins expand, making their stocks potentially lucrative investments. Emerging alongside these traditional forms is digital gold, allowing investors to purchase fractional amounts of gold online. This modern strategy combines the ease of ETFs with the security of owning physical gold, appealing to those looking to diversify with smaller investments. Gold also plays a unique role in market psychology. Its historical significance and status as a "crisis commodity" render it a go-to asset during geopolitical tensions or economic downturns. Incorporating precious metals into your investment approach—whether through physical assets, ETFs, mining stocks, or digital gold—enables effective shielding of your wealth from inflation while providing the flexibility to adapt to market shifts. Gold Futures Weekly chart from 2010 till now. Conclusion Inflation, while often gradual and subtle, can have a profound effect on your financial stability. By adopting astute investment strategies that hedge against inflation—such as investing in stocks, diversifying internationally, acquiring real estate, holding precious metals. As economic conditions change, staying informed and proactive will empower you to navigate and thrive in challenging environments. With the right strategies, you can not only keep pace with inflation but also secure a brighter financial future. ✅ Please share your thoughts about this article in the comments section below and HIT LIKE if you appreciate my post. Don't forget to FOLLOW ME; you will help us a lot with this small contribution.

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Major earnings are times to hedge or BTD As far more eloquent and technical writers have covered (spotgamma, etc) - it's very clear that the markets in general are driven by single name options on the largest market cap companies. And to help visualize just how much volatility can happen around earnings on these single names, I wanted to be able to visualize those earnings dates and impacts against some of the major benchmark ETFs like SPY or QQQ. So far, I hadn't seen a place that gives this a more clear presentation so here is my first attempt at visualizing just how large the ripples are from the "megacaps" (AAPL, MSFT, NVDA, TSLA, etc) in a very "glanceable" way. Introducing this indicator here first! Earnings Date Highlighter - from0_to_1 Easily see the earnings dates from top market movers or the top holdings of your favorite ETF!

Education

Less is more...If you don't know me, I have been a trader a very long time. Nearly 25 years to be exact. Over the years, I have spent a lot of time studying a wide array of techniques, tools, patterns and market sentiment. Lucky enough, the markets have also been very kind to me. I've been fortunate enough to have two trading books published by large traditional publishing companies. So it's safe to say, I live and breathe trading. I am going to do a series of posts here covering a couple of key educational topics - starting with Elliott Wave theory. When it comes to Elliott Wave theory, there seems to be a love hate relationship for many people. Some get it, some see it as not relevant. To be honest, both are correct. Now before you jump on the high horse "it doesn't work for crypto" - let me start by saying, this is not a lesson on how to use Elliott Theory. I covered that in these posts below; And step two; In terms of using Elliott, it's not as simple as trying to figure out each and every move. (this is often why, it does not work.) Instead the benefit of Elliott, is to accept it as a bias tool that aids in understanding the current market sentiment. We often see posts online about things like the Wall Street cheat sheet. I also covered this in another post here on @TradingView Where the theory has any real value, is simply to obtain a bias. The market is always searching for liquidity. In order to obtain liquidity, the market needs to attract players for the game. Now, you have probably entered a trade and felt almost immediately that the market has pushed against you, it's out to get you and the brokers are playing 1 vs 1 against you. This is where sentiment really comes in. As a retail trader you have likely been exposed to tools such as RSI, MACD or even dabbled with Elliott and Wyckoff. But the reason the market does, what the market does, is not to get you as an individual, instead it's there to collect liquidity from a crowd. Elliott wave theory isn't a technical tool, it's a sentiment tool. So instead of trying to guess every internal and nested swing, you can make an awful lot of money by simply giving a directional bias. I wrote an article in 2021 here - About the emotions, I used the Simpsons to get the point across. The general idea is to understand where liquidity is likely to be and use that to make informed trading decisions. If you have any specific questions, even topics you would like covered, leave a comment below. I'll add to this in another post as part of this series. Stay safe and wish you all the best. Disclaimer This idea does not constitute as financial advice. It is for educational purposes only, our principle trader has over 20 years’ experience in stocks, ETF’s, and Forex. Hence each trade setup might have different hold times, entry or exit conditions, and will vary from the post/idea shared here. You can use the information from this post to make your own trading plan for the instrument discussed. Trading carries a risk; a high percentage of retail traders lose money. Please keep this in mind when entering any trade. Stay safe.

Education

by Mayfair_Ventures

Has the Bitcoin Market Become More Manipulated After ETFs? The long-awaited approval of a Bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF) in late 2023 undoubtedly marked a turning point for the cryptocurrency. However, with this institutional influx, concerns regarding increased market manipulation have also surfaced. Let's delve into whether these concerns hold water and what the future might hold for Bitcoin's volatility. Pre-ETF Era: A Wild West of Wash Trading Market manipulation in Bitcoin wasn't exactly a new phenomenon before ETFs. Wash trading, a tactic where investors buy and sell the same asset repeatedly to inflate its trading volume, was a prevalent concern. This created an illusion of high demand, enticing others to invest and driving prices up artificially. Mark Cuban, a prominent crypto investor, even predicted wash trading as the "next possible implosion" for the industry in early 2023 . The Double-Edged Sword of Institutional Investors The arrival of big players with the ETF has undeniably brought more regulation and scrutiny to the market. This, in theory, should deter blatant manipulation tactics. However, the sheer volume these institutions trade with can also influence prices significantly. The question isn't whether they manipulate, but rather how their trading strategies might unintentionally impact market behavior. A Glimpse into the Recent Controversy A recent Wall Street Journal report alleging that Binance, a major cryptocurrency exchange, fired an investigator uncovering market manipulation by a VIP client reignited concerns . This incident highlights the potential conflicts that can arise when profit margins clash with regulatory compliance. So, Has Manipulation Increased? The answer is complex. While blatant wash trading might be less prevalent, the impact of institutional trading volume and potential conflicts within exchanges are new considerations. It's likely that the nature of manipulation has evolved, becoming more subtle and potentially harder to detect. A Future of Stability or Stagnation? The influx of institutional investors could indeed lead to a more stable Bitcoin market, mirroring traditional stock indices. This would be a far cry from the explosive, volatile growth Bitcoin has seen in the past. However, this stability might also come at the cost of reduced returns for investors hoping for another Bitcoin boom. The Long Hodler's Perspective As a large language model, I can't claim to be a "hodler" (long-term Bitcoin holder). However, historical data suggests that Bitcoin has weathered similar periods of regulation and scrutiny before. The key takeaway is that despite potential manipulation, Bitcoin's underlying technology and its core value proposition as a decentralized currency still hold significant appeal. The Road Ahead The future of Bitcoin manipulation hinges on two key factors: 1. Regulatory Strength: Stronger regulations with clear guidelines and robust enforcement mechanisms are crucial to deter future manipulation attempts. 2. Transparency on Exchanges: Exchanges need to be more transparent about their trading practices and address potential conflicts of interest. Conclusion Whether Bitcoin morphs into a stable, institutionalized asset or maintains its volatile character remains to be seen. However, the fight against manipulation, regardless of its form, will be critical in ensuring a fair and healthy Bitcoin market for all participants.

Education

by bryandowningqln

History of Bitcoin: The Underdog That Rewired Finance Bitcoin, a phenomenon that emerged at the onset of the 2008 financial crisis, has changed the way we think about money. To celebrate the token’s $73,000 milestone, we trace its origin story and look ahead into the future. To infinity… and beyond? Table of Contents A Financial Product Too Big to Ignore Born in 2008 as the World’s First Cryptocurrency The Very Early Days of Trading on Exchanges The Volatile Phenomenon That Sparked a Change in Finance A Place to Find Value in the Face of a Global Pandemic Cryptocurrency Trading Lands on Wall Street What’s Coming Next for BTC Price as We Move Deeper into 2024? Bitcoin for Your Thoughts? 📍 A Financial Product Too Big to Ignore 📍 Bitcoin’s story is the story of an underdog that pushed through volatility and disbelief, but also dashed forward riding on hope and enthusiasm. Bitcoin ( BTC/USD ), the world’s largest cryptocurrency, has so far managed to survive and overcome each one of its many pitfalls and obstacles thanks to its novelty, mystery, and investment appeal. Not only that, but the orange coin has progressed so remarkably, it has risen to rival the valuation of the world’s biggest companies. As we’re about to close the first-quarter chapter of 2024, we take a closer look at what has fueled Bitcoin’s price to record levels about $73,000 a pop. To celebrate the token’s historical milestone of $73,000 , we go back to its creation, tracing major development milestones. From wiping out billions of dollars from its valuation to logging stratospheric gains, Bitcoin’s history is nothing short of a miracle. Today, Bitcoin boasts a valuation of more than $1.4 trillion. In other words, more than double as electric carmaker Tesla (ticker: TSLA ), founded by the uber-rich eccentric engineer Elon Musk. With great power, comes great interest from Wall Street. A bunch of spot Bitcoin ETFs are now strutting among asset managers, finding their way to ordinary (and some degen) investors and money-spinning professionals alike. 📍 Born in 2008 as the World’s First Cryptocurrency 📍 The history of Bitcoin is relatively short. But it can sting. Because we were all playing games or being 8 years old instead of buying Bitcoin at 4 cents. Back in 2008, the financial system crumbled under the pressure of a global crisis. A collapse in the housing market led to millions of homeowners not being able to cover their mortgage payments. About that time, an individual—or a group of people—called Satoshi Nakamoto, concluded the banking system was not reliable. A new asset class emerged—one that did not need the intervention of banks to function. Bitcoin, as it was called in the white paper released in November 2008 , was born. Essentially, Bitcoin represented a new type of money. An innovative software system that intended to rewire the worldwide financial system. Bitcoin sprouted to life as an open-source software running on a peer-to-peer network called blockchain. One way to think of Bitcoin is to see it as an electronic form of physical cash without gatekeepers such as banks. The participants in the decentralized network are responsible for the verification of transactions, and all transactions are visible for the public. 📍 The Very Early Days of Trading on Exchanges 📍 Once it was born, Bitcoin stayed confined to a small network of only a few computers (and the early adopter group of ultra-niche geeks). Then, mining Bitcoin was able to get you hundreds or even thousands of coins in a few days’ time due to the low level of computing power required. Safe to say, the first people to play around with Bitcoin had no idea the tiny orange-themed gig will turn into a fire-breathing $1.3 trillion dragon. Instead, the squad of core developers would try and make the network operate as smoothly as possible. Once this was achieved, Bitcoin hit its first exchange in 2010. The first Bitcoin to be transacted on an exchange was worth zero dollars. Then at the peak of 2010, one Bitcoin reached a record high of 39 cents. Since then, the price of Bitcoin has experienced a wild ride as millions of people have onboarded the crypto bandwagon. Hundreds of exchanges have opened and traders today reach daily volumes of tens of billions of dollars exchanged in Bitcoin. Bitcoin's mind-blowing price increase from its first steps through March 12, 2024 - Source: TradingView 📍 The Volatile Phenomenon That Sparked a Change in Finance 📍 It did not take much for Bitcoin to be noticed as a wonder of technology and a catalyst for change. Once it landed for trading on its first cryptocurrency exchanges, Bitcoin quickly gained popularity purely from an investment perspective. The first traders would buy and sell the token in a matter of hours only to realize a small profit and savor the rush of adrenaline. This same speculative behavior could still be found today even after the stratospheric gains that have made Bitcoin a heavyweight in terms of valuation. The price gyrations have crushed many traders and investors who were found unprepared to stomach the aggressive swings. Along the way, Bitcoin has endured over 17 selloffs of more than 30%. It has been through six declines of more than 60%, and four of more than 80%. Still, after all these spectacular drops, Bitcoin has clawed back its losses and returned stronger than ever. So strong, it crushed all doom-and gloom forecasters and permabears when it blasted through the $73,000 threshold in March of 2024. Not long before that, Bitcoin had a chance to prove its worth as a safe haven in troubled times. 📍 A Place to Find Value in the Face of a Global Pandemic 📍 It’s important to mention that the current record high in the price of Bitcoin arrived after BTC’s previous peak of $69,000 in November 2021. Back then, the coronavirus crisis, which hit in March 2020, turned out to be a key period of growth for crypto. The original digital currency served as a safe haven and a store of value—digital gold, if you like, or better—amid lingering uncertainty in the broad financial markets. In numbers, during the pandemic’s low point in March 2020, one Bitcoin was worth about $3,900. Presently, a single Bitcoin is up more than 1,700% from its coronavirus-fueled meltdown. The pandemic helped shift investor focus on the crypto market as participants sought to find pent-up value. The search has led to millions of Bitcoin proponents flocking to the digital asset. In practice, the interest to invest in Bitcoin has been so big, the top cop on Wall Street—the Securities and Exchange Commission—finally gave its nod. 📍 Cryptocurrency Trading Lands on Wall Street 📍 The big dogs on Wall Street welcomed the first Bitcoin-centric products to trade alongside stocks , bonds , and forex . More specifically, there are now eleven exchange-traded funds (ETFs) offering spot Bitcoin, or the real deal, unlike Bitcoin futures, which don’t hold genuine BTC. The step is a monumental milestone in Bitcoin’s path toward mainstream adoption and acceptance in the financial markets. The eleven Bitcoin ETFs , approved by the Securities and Exchange Commission, were greeted by investors with billions of dollars injected. Giant asset managers such as BlackRock and Fidelity are seeing overflowing demand for Bitcoin from both institutions and retail investors. The positive thing about these spot BTC ETFs is that they’re backed by the physical asset. Whenever inflows start to outpace liquidity, the asset manager needs to purchase new Bitcoin and add it to its reserves. The more the net inflow, the more it needs to buy BTC. And that drives prices higher. From inception in January to March 2024, BlackRock’s BTC ETF hit $10 billion—faster than any US ETF ever. 📍 What’s Coming Next for BTC Price as We Move Deeper into 2024? 📍 Looking ahead into 2024, there is no doubt that we are going to see new bouts of volatility. More than that, many are optimistic we will continue to see a string of fresh records in the price of Bitcoin. With this in mind, the risks will be there too. Both new and old, market participants need to know that price swings may be stomach-churning as the market adjusts to shifting moods in the rarefied air of $70,000. Buying at the top is scary. 📍 Bitcoin for Your Thoughts? 📍 How did you first get exposure to Bitcoin? When did you buy your first piece of the crypto and are you brave enough to buy again at the top? Let us know in the comments! Liked this article 🚀? Give us a follow to get notified for any future releases! With 💖, TradingView Team

Education

Bitcoin REALISM I am definitely not going to win any popularity competitions with my comments and thoughts. But that's not the point when it comes to making money. The main issue for me still in Crypto Land is the lack of realism. The image on the front cover was from a google search of "realism" I guess the confused face made my day. This is exactly how you need to be looking when you read these points below. I have explained the logic of every major move over the last couple of years and this guys - is no different. So let's start by exploring the reality of market cap for one. When you buy a stock you have a number of stocks in circulation times that by the price and you can get a market cap. Of course, unlike most companies on the exchange Bitcoin CANNOT just issue new stock. We have to remember some Bitcoin are gone and lost forever so this number will likely end up around 20million and not the full 21m. The current Market cap is roughly 19,806,000 x $42,897. Let's call it a little over 820 Billion. At the ATH of $69,000 we saw $1.302 Trillion. Lets look at what is needed and an angle of attack if Bitcoin was to hit $500k by Jan 25, 26, 27, 28 or 2029. This is only one aspect of the story. Prior to the ETF launch people were saying silly things like "Trillions coming in, $100k imminent" Blackrock's largest ETF is roughly $354 Billion. This is the SP500 fund founded back in 2001. So 23 years old roughly now. Here's the actual chart. What does this mean? Well, let's say Blackrock decided to close their biggest ETF and throw it all into Bitcoin. That level would still not take us back to the current ATH. Bullish, Bullish, Bullish - we are still $25,000+ under the current ATH. So what about other ETF's? Obviously the market is bigger than just Blackrock. Let's look at this aspect too. Look at the end of 2021 as the ETF market collectively was at it's high. We are talking about $10Trillion in 8,552 ETF's. I've posted several times about the current COT landscape. Clearly social media Bitcoin is buzzing and everyone is about to become rich, it's different this time and so on. Well, COT says otherwise. Back at the top when everyone was calling for $135,000 I said the reason for the drop would be liquidity. So why is this different? I said there were two likely scenario's on the table as we moved down. The first was we were in an early stage accumulation, we needed to go up to 32k and back down to the low 20's. This would allow us to travel much higher and sustain such a large move. The second option was bearish. Well, I guess the second move played out. The momentum is still clearly not with us - we are still FWB:25K + under the current ATH - not what one would or should expect after 12 Bitcoin specific ETF's obtaining approval & launching. Look at the momentum People seem to fall into the echo chamber and all logic leaves the building. I have been at this game a long, long time. Seen it all before and I am sure I will see it again. This does not mean I am Bearish or anti Bitcoin - not for one second. I am one of the lucky ones in at the right time, sold a lot on the way up and happy with the current holdings. All I am trying to emphasis here - is don't get sucked into the void which is not supported by ANY sound logic. I recently watched a couple of video's with Warren Buffet, another with Jim Rickards. They both explained something very interesting in a very clear way. Although Anti Bitcoin - what they said made a lot of sense. The same lesson kinda applies to things like gold. When you buy an asset, the asset can produce for you. So assume you buy a house - you get rental income each month and with the price of the property going up over time you make gains there. Buy a business same thing - Buffet explained this using a farm as the example. Sell grains, cows or whatever you farm. Over time you still hold the asset. This isn't true for the likes of diamonds, gold or Bitcoin. Hence it fits into the greater fool theory. If I sell you my last bitcoin I picked up for less than $200. You buy it all today at $42,850. You have to find someone else willing to pay you more than the $42,850 in the future. For me, this is the main reason I don't personally care up or down or sideways here. But many in the echo chamber do. The average price across the breakeven addresses are around $37k - this is Breakeven not profit. So imagine majority of the retail crowd with an average entry after DCA'in at $37k. These are all things to keep in mind when your playing shorter term moves. ETF's are structured in such a way long term growth can be expected, volatility get's somewhat reduced. You noticed what's happened on the weekends since the launch? So whilst I expect it to go up in the long run. We need a healthy pullback as to be expected. This gives more time for real accumulation to happen - but this will also put some stress on that average (BE) level of $37k. Just keep this in mind and one more thing if you want to comment on "oh your wrong - up only" give some logic to support it or I won't bother responding. This move will take time. For me, nothing has changed since 2022. We are not ready for new highs - YET... Anyway enjoyed or not I thought it was worth another educational post. Stay safe! Disclaimer This idea does not constitute as financial advice. It is for educational purposes only, our principle trader has over 20 years’ experience in stocks, ETF’s, and Forex. Hence each trade setup might have different hold times, entry or exit conditions, and will vary from the post/idea shared here. You can use the information from this post to make your own trading plan for the instrument discussed. Trading carries a risk; a high percentage of retail traders lose money. Please keep this in mind when entering any trade. Stay safe.

Education

by Mayfair_Ventures

Time is everything A lot of people see a Bitcoin pullback, a drop or a red candle as a negative thing. Clearly this is lack of experience, lack of understanding and only ever seeing re-assurance of the one bias they can comprehend. Many people believe my posts to be negative or anti Bitcoin - you could not be more wrong, as a very early holder, I simply don't care - up down or sideways. It's been kind to me and I will say it was more luck than judgement. Right place, right time. But as a professional trader, money manager and tech investor - I have seen my fair share of market trends, hype, realism and shocks in the market to know. Time is all it takes. You can go back over SPX for example and If you buy and hold the trend has only been up. Obvious its one of indices designed to go up. This does not make it a "get rich quick scheme" For me the problem lies in the cult esq mentality and the desire to get rich quick. When you have, or manage a larger fund - time is always less of an issue, when a Limited partner of a fund told me the company hold period was 15-20 years on average, it took a while to let that sink in. 1% of a lot of money is a lot of money, 1% of a $10,000 pushes you to want more - hence jumping on the up only bandwagon. You need to remember; Last year I posted two options for Bitcoin; I said my preferred route put us in early stage accumulation. The second option went back even further than that, it's the Evil move I said I would hope Composite Man would not be as cruel. Unfortunately with the move from 32k to 48k region, it's clear now the second play has in-fact been the one playing out. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- So here's some rational logic - the medicine most DO NOT WANT to swallow. People seem to throw the same argument - ETF & Halving - They have very little else to contribute. So let's look at what an ETF is and does. An Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) itself doesn't inherently stabilize an asset. However, the structure and mechanics of an ETF can have certain features that may contribute to perceived stability or liquidity in the underlying assets it represents. Here's how: Diversification: ETFs often hold a diversified portfolio of assets. By pooling together various assets like stocks, bonds, or commodities, they spread risk. This diversification can help mitigate the impact of poor performance in a single asset on the overall value of the ETF. Arbitrage Mechanism: ETFs have a unique creation and redemption mechanism. Authorized Participants (usually large financial institutions) can create or redeem ETF shares in large blocks, usually known as creation units. This process involves exchanging a basket of assets for ETF shares or vice versa. This helps to keep the market price of the ETF close to the Net Asset Value (NAV) of its underlying assets, promoting stability. Liquidity: ETFs are traded on stock exchanges, providing investors with liquidity. The ability to buy or sell shares throughout the trading day at market prices contributes to the perception of stability. The underlying assets might not be as easily tradable, but the ETF itself can be bought or sold like a stock. Market Makers: In the secondary market, market makers play a crucial role in providing liquidity. They continuously quote buy and sell prices for the ETF shares, helping to ensure that there is a smooth and efficient market. This can reduce the impact of large buy or sell orders on the market price. Now for some extra therapy, we also need to look at the realistic timeframes these large players operate at. Blackrock's most popular ETF is their SPX (S&P500) fund. with it's inception around 2001 I believe. $354BN. Now if we look at Bitcoin's market cap - we dropped from $1.3 Trillion at the 69k High down to around 300Billion at the 15k low region. So working out market cap is simple current price of Bitcoin x coins in circulation. (just over 19m). This is just highlighting the obvious; Blackrock is not going to empty the SPX fund and stick $350Billion in a newly established fund. Again time, they have enough money to not need to force or risk anything on a large scale. But what is interesting is the point above about market makers. In Wall Street terms, a market maker is a financial institution or individual that facilitates the buying and selling of financial instruments in a market. Market makers play a crucial role in ensuring liquidity and maintaining orderly trading in financial markets, including stock exchanges. Here are key aspects of what market makers do: Liquidity Providers: Market makers stand ready to buy or sell a financial instrument (such as stocks, bonds, or options) at publicly quoted prices. This activity provides liquidity to the market, allowing investors to execute trades quickly and efficiently. Bid and Ask Prices: Market makers quote bid and ask prices for a security. The bid price is the price at which they are willing to buy, and the ask price is the price at which they are willing to sell. The difference between these prices is known as the bid-ask spread. Order Execution: When an investor places a market order to buy or sell a security, the market maker ensures that the trade is executed promptly by matching it with their own inventory or finding a counterparty in the market. Risk Management: Market makers take on some level of risk by holding an inventory of securities. To manage this risk, they continuously adjust their bid and ask prices based on market conditions and changes in the supply and demand for the securities. Arbitrage Opportunities: Market makers may engage in arbitrage, exploiting price differences between related financial instruments or markets. This helps ensure that the prices of the same or similar securities are consistent across different trading venues. Maintaining Orderly Markets: Market makers contribute to the overall stability and efficiency of financial markets by preventing excessive volatility and ensuring a continuous flow of trading. It's important to note that market makers profit from the bid-ask spread and trading volumes. While they facilitate trading and provide liquidity, they also manage their own risks. Market makers can be institutions like investment banks or specialized firms with expertise in particular markets. They play a crucial role in the smooth functioning of financial markets by facilitating the buying and selling of securities. ============================================= Market makers have been referred to another type of Composite Man. The term "Composite Man" is associated with the Wyckoff Method, a technical analysis approach to understanding the stock market. The Wyckoff Method was developed by Richard D. Wyckoff, a stock market trader and educator from the early to mid-20th century. According to this method, the Composite Man represents a hypothetical market manipulator or a group of large market participants who have the power to influence the market. In Wyckoff's view, the Composite Man is an entity that accumulates or distributes stocks in a way that leaves footprints on the price and volume charts. The actions of the Composite Man are believed to be observable through the analysis of price and volume patterns, helping traders and investors anticipate potential future price movements. Here are the key ideas associated with the Composite Man in the Wyckoff Method: Accumulation and Distribution: The Composite Man is thought to go through phases of accumulating or distributing a particular stock or market. During accumulation, the Composite Man is buying, and during distribution, they are selling. Wyckoff Price Cycle: The Wyckoff Method outlines a price cycle that includes phases such as Accumulation, Markup, Distribution, and Markdown. Traders using this method attempt to identify these phases on price charts to make more informed decisions. Smart Money: The Composite Man is sometimes referred to as the "smart money" because it is assumed to have more information and resources than individual retail traders. Monitoring the actions of the smart money is believed to provide insights into potential market trends. When I posted posts like this from the 65k high, it was due to these footprints being visible from space. As the price moved up from the 28k region to the current ATH. Similar thing. I am not here trying to drag it or you down, I am here trying to help see logic in the charts. As the move moved up, we had a fake ETF release, in essence thus pricing in the actual ETF. This is why for me, this scenario is the most likely in the current environment. Composite Man/Market makers are happy to use the fear and greed index, which is currently tilting heavy towards the greed side. Against retail traders who see ONLY UP as the only scenario available. The space is becoming more like a cult and it's feel more and more like the simple definition of a pyramid scheme. Again, I am not saying that's what it is - I am in at the bottom my cards are on the table. The space has become "if your friends join, they also need to invite more people, and the cycle continues. The person at the top gets money from everyone below, and the people at the bottom hope to make money by bringing in more people." The problem is, there's no real product or service being sold. The only way people make money is by getting others to join. Eventually, it becomes harder for everyone to find new people, and those at the bottom end up losing money because there aren't enough new members to support the structure. This kind of scheme is not fair or sustainable and can cause a lot of people to lose their money. Especially when the big boys get involved with very little regulation covering the people at the bottom. Just remember everyone was saying "anti banks, anti institutional yet celebrating the ETF's like a win" the issue here is it's likely to stabilise the asset, slowing the phases and cycles down to a more mellow growth curve over the next 20 years. In the grand scheme of things, it's great for the industry, but we can expect more manipulation prior to regulation, post regulation the percentage gains will narrow. Keep all of this in mind and remember it's what the majority wanted. Stay safe! have fun and see you on the next post. Hate comments always welcome - just please back them up with some logic and show you have more than 3 brain cells. 😉 Disclaimer This idea does not constitute as financial advice. It is for educational purposes only, our principle trader has over 20 years’ experience in stocks, ETF’s, and Forex. Hence each trade setup might have different hold times, entry or exit conditions, and will vary from the post/idea shared here. You can use the information from this post to make your own trading plan for the instrument discussed. Trading carries a risk; a high percentage of retail traders lose money. Please keep this in mind when entering any trade. Stay safe.

Education

by Mayfair_Ventures

Market Algo or pain trades I was reading another trading book today and much like watching the dumb money movie the other day, it prompted me to write another post. So, you may have heard the expression "the market is an Algorithm" whilst this is somewhat true, it's actually more a sequence, Ralph Elliott, Richard Wyckoff and Edward Jones knew this. In simple terms, the larger operators or what's known as sophisticated money - chase liquidity pools that are often areas Dumb Money have taken entries or placed stops. Now if it was as simple as this, you could simply write an indicator or be on the winning side 100% of the time. Unfortunately, there's a lot more to it! When I say the smart kids are taking the dinner money of the dumb kids, you need to appreciate the fact that winning whilst playing against retail traders is like putting the Patriots against your local under 12's side. Or like having the New Zealand All Blacks play against an old people's home in Pakistan. (I am not sure if Pakistan even have a 1st team in rugby). To gain some understanding, you need to appreciate there's such a thing as "pain trading". A "pain trade" refers to a situation in financial markets where a significant number of investors or traders find themselves on the wrong side of the market, leading to losses or discomfort. In other words, it describes a scenario in which the market moves in a way that causes the most amount of pain or financial losses to the largest number of participants. For example, if a majority of traders are positioned for a market to go up, a pain trade would be a sharp and unexpected decline in prices, catching those traders off guard and causing them losses. The term reflects the idea that markets often move in ways that inflict the most damage on the greatest number of participants. Understanding pain trades is important for investors and traders, as it highlights the potential risks of crowded trades and the importance of risk management strategies to mitigate unexpected market movements. Investors and traders often use various indicators, market sentiment analysis, and risk management techniques to try to avoid being caught on the wrong side of a pain trade. (Thanks ChatGPT for the summary). ====================================================== So take a company like Carvana for example... This type of move happens over and over again - creating cycles (But not always the same). In this image above you can see it's likely to have swept long stop losses and then rallied hard. You probably know about the Gamestop Saga. I wrote a post on that film recently. I talked about being on the wrong side - I can't get over how someone could be up $500,000 and still go broke? But it's all in the mindset. Liquidity is the name of the game. How do these things fit together? Well, Bitcoin is a prime example - retail mindset is "HODL, Buy the Dip, Diamond hands & Lambo" - whilst as a professional trader, it's enjoying your profits and buying/selling at the expense of the dumb money. These moves are shown as the last post, buy momentum. Here is the summary image from that post. Since we had a move up - retail seem to think it's up only, they seem to put all the eggs in the hope Blackrock and a halving will make them rich... I have read articles like this recently. After watching the Dumb Money film - you know where following the crowd goes. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Why is this an important lesson? It's all to do with pain, where is the maximum pain? Retail sentiment would suggest pain comes in the form of little movement, grinding prices in up moves and fast aggressive drops. Some context from Blackrock themselves: What is Blackrocks Biggest ETF? So again, let's add a little logic. Where is liquidity sitting? If and it's a big if - Blackrock get an ETF approved and it's half the size of their biggest ETF to date, let's then assume Retail flood in and match it dollar for dollar. That market cap would still put us roughly at the current ATH, given coins in circulation. This again just amplifies, why we are simply - NOT READY, YET!!! The move I didn't want in 2022, looks to be the biggest liquidity grab we are likely to see in the Bitcoin chart. We are very, very likely still in an A-B move up for the slow pain of coming back to build sustainable momentum. Have a Happy New Year all! Stay safe and see you in 2024! Disclaimer This idea does not constitute as financial advice. It is for educational purposes only, our principle trader has over 20 years’ experience in stocks, ETF’s, and Forex. Hence each trade setup might have different hold times, entry or exit conditions, and will vary from the post/idea shared here. You can use the information from this post to make your own trading plan for the instrument discussed. Trading carries a risk; a high percentage of retail traders lose money. Please keep this in mind when entering any trade. Stay safe.

Education

by Mayfair_Ventures

Trading Automation I am just going to put it out there, as you know I have said time and time again in my streams. Personally, the whole automated trading concept is not for me. However, that’s not to say there are not some good strategies, tools and instruments that could work for some people. Risk tolerance, time frames, bull vs bear markets all play a role in trading. This is emphasised when the trading is automated. A few weeks back, myself and @Paul_Varcoe starting streaming about shorter timeframes and automation. We said we were working on something in the background – mostly to do with trading via prop firms. Here’s on of my streams on that topic. So, the next part was automation. Here's one of these streams: www.tradingview.com I have been lurking around a couple of services, tools and platforms – one of these is a company/product called 3Commas. A few things I found interesting. One of which is that it supports multiple cryptocurrency exchanges, allowing users to trade on various platforms using a single interface. For the Tradingview community this is a very useful option. You can even go as far as connecting your bot to one or more TradingView indicators of your choice, and the bot will automatically receive alerts and open trades accordingly. My reluctance of automation has always been, if a bot can do it – we won’t need Doctors or Police officers as they will all want to be professional traders. I have also spent some time in the money management sector and know the investment and effort some very large operators have put into the automation game. What I liked about this 3commas platform, is that it opens the door for retail to play in this world. Having access to trading bots that can execute trades automatically based on predefined strategies is one factor, it still requires users to set up custom trading strategies or choose from a marketplace of existing strategies developed by other users. So, what this means is if you have a specific trading strategy you can link directly from Tradingview and just allow it to open trades. I have taken this image as an example from their site, it’s easier than trying to write it myself. There also seems to be a lot of open-source code, literature and information readily available online. All beneficial factors if you’re planning on going down the automation route. Myself and Paul have been more conventional traders, operating in well established markets. But of course we have had our dabbles in alt coins, Bitcoin and so on. It seems to be the way the world is shifting. I have been using webhooks on Tradingview recently to trade Aussie dollar and Euro on smaller timeframes just sending an alert to one of my channels – but the ability to take out the execution stage is a new one on me. If you’re a crypto fanatic I can say this is worth a look for sure! When looking at this automation, I found another editors pick here on @TradingView So, although I know very little about the strategy or the individual trader @Bjorgum who wrote the article, it’s a great example of the type of power mixing things like 3Commas and Tradingview can yield. Throughout 2023 I have shown and shared several articles on Prop firm trading, shorter timeframes and even how to use Chat GPT to write Tradingview indicators. Link to one of them: www.tradingview.com My next step is to use chat GPT to program an indicator I can fully automate (market condition depending) to link to 3Commas using TV as the glue. Here’s an example of what I mean: I literally asked ChatGPT this question “can you write a pinescript version 4 code to enter trades based on pivot point breakouts taking profits at S2 and R2 with stop losses in the other direction at R1 and S1.” I got a reply; Before you ask - The code will probably get rejected to put out as an indicator as Pinescript will say “Pivot point indicators are readily available” but copy and paste my question above and you should get a similar result. Of course, this is only an example. Feel free to play around with your own strategies and concepts. The idea then is to take this through the papertesting and backtesting to refine a strategy that you feel comfortable with in terms of plugging into a bot and connecting to your broker. The whole concept for me is mind blowing, the fact that anyone can have a Tradingview account, use ChatGPT to build and indicator and execute a trade via your broker on a platform like 3Commas. Over the next couple of weeks I intend on digging a little deeper with these and either start with using ChatGPT to link a strategy via Tradingview into 3Commas or take a strategy or indicator off the shelf and test drive it in a stream or sequence of streams. Maybe give me some ideas, if you like? what timeframes? What instruments etc... This will be part of the educational, how to make trading automation a real thing series. Anyways! Enjoy the Holidays - Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all! Disclaimer This idea does not constitute as financial advice. It is for educational purposes only, our principle trader has over 20 years’ experience in stocks, ETF’s, and Forex. Hence each trade setup might have different hold times, entry or exit conditions, and will vary from the post/idea shared here. You can use the information from this post to make your own trading plan for the instrument discussed. Trading carries a risk; a high percentage of retail traders lose money. Please keep this in mind when entering any trade. Stay safe.

Education

by Mayfair_Ventures

The World of ETFs In the vast landscape of investments, Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) stand as a unique bridge, merging the best of both stocks and mutual funds. While traditional managed funds pool investors' money into assets managed by professionals, ETFs introduce a compelling twist, allowing for the flexibility of stock trading. Unlike managed funds, ETFs are akin to stocks, enabling investors to buy and sell them at any time during market hours . This accessibility aligns ETFs more closely with the dynamic nature of stocks, catering to the on-demand needs of modern investors. However, just like any investment, ETFs come with their nuances and risks. Diversification, often touted as an investment safety net, does mitigate some risks but can't fully shield against market volatility. Different ETFs carry varying levels of risk, making understanding these distinctions vital before investing. Additionally, the past performance of ETFs isn't always a reliable indicator of future results, underlining the importance of comprehensive research and sound decision-making. Bitcoin ETFs: The Gateway to Crypto Investments In recent years, the advent of Bitcoin ETFs has added an intriguing chapter to the investment narrative. These financial instruments enable investors to engage with Bitcoin's price movements without directly owning the cryptocurrency. Bitcoin ETFs, traded on conventional stock exchanges, provide an accessible avenue for traditional investors to venture into the crypto sphere. Within the realm of Bitcoin ETFs, there are two primary types: spot and futures-based ETFs: Spot Bitcoin ETFs offer direct exposure to Bitcoin's real-time market price, involving the actual cryptocurrency. On the other hand, futures-based ETFs utilize Bitcoin futures contracts, enabling speculation on the asset's future price without owning the underlying asset. The interest in Bitcoin ETFs can be attributed to several factors. First and foremost, they offer unparalleled ease of access. Trading on mainstream stock exchanges simplifies the process, allowing investors to leverage existing brokerage accounts without delving into the complexities of crypto exchanges. Moreover, the regulatory oversight accompanying ETFs adds a layer of security, easing concerns related to fraud and market manipulation prevalent in unregulated crypto markets. Additionally, the introduction of Bitcoin ETFs signifies a significant shift, indicating the integration of cryptocurrencies into traditional financial systems. While the United States has yet to approve a spot Bitcoin ETF, several Bitcoin futures-linked ETFs have gained regulatory approval , broadening investment horizons. Beyond Bitcoin: Exploring the Crypto ETF Spectrum While Bitcoin has seized the spotlight, the crypto ETF landscape is not confined to it alone. Outside the United States, various Cryptocurrency Exchange-Traded Products (ETPs) encompass a spectrum of digital assets beyond Bitcoin. These offerings enable diversification within the digital asset space, catering to investors keen on exploring a range of cryptocurrencies. In the United States, ETFs linked to cryptocurrencies like Ether also exist, albeit in the futures-related domain. Although spot-based crypto ETFs are yet to make their debut, the evolving regulatory landscape and market demand may pave the way for these in the future. As the financial world continues its digital transformation, understanding ETFs and their crypto counterparts becomes paramount. By bridging the gap between traditional stocks and the dynamic crypto sphere, ETFs empower investors with newfound opportunities and avenues for portfolio growth. Stay tuned for the evolving of crypto ETFs, where the world of investments meets the future of finance.

Education

People want to earn but not learn The issue is everyone wants to make money (well, maybe not everyone) but nobody wants to take the time to learn how to do it properly. This is NOT a sales pitch by the way! it's FACT!! People often ask why I bash influencers so much, it's mainly for this reason. Majority of noobs, come into trading expecting to make a fortune. If only it was that easy, every man and his dog would be a professional trader. Over the years, I have talked about things like Bots and AI that are programmed to make you money - think logically, if again it is this easy wouldn't the founders go to the bank, loan $10million based on their results and just not bother selling and shilling to customers and retail. NOBODY wants to provide customer service, especially to the world's population. Unfortunately, regardless of the market. Trust me if you stick around long enough you get to see this behaviour in Forex, Commodities, Stocks and more recently crypto with a splash of A.I. The story goes pretty much the same way. "man (or woman) hears about an opportunity to make money through a thing called trading, they do their research which leads to the old You of Tube and that leads to "Lamborghini promises from kids with fake watches, drawing random trendlines on 3 minute charts" There's often a "sign-up" bonus if you click their shill link. So let's get this straight, they make money on watch time and those links you click. The reason I chose fish in the image above, is that most people have memories that last about 2 seconds. Mark Cuban said "everyone is a genius in a bull market" Algorithms work and influencers claim to be experts with 3 months of experience. Easy to show in a market only going one way. Trading is hard enough, let alone having the ability to lose money from scams. If a trading algorithms promises a 90% win rate - run and don't buy it. ============================================================== There are fundamental things to do and you can deploy to get you off on the right track. Firstly think of the obvious. 90% of new traders lose 90% of their money in only 90 days. Hence a 50% sign-up bonus whereby you think you gained "free cash" often has small print that you can't access it until you lost your original investment. Affiliates tend to get 25% or more of the deposit - the exchanges know full well, your about to lose your money. Second thing I try to emphasis for newer traders, is that you need to treat trading as a profession. You wouldn't watch a video and expect to be a doctor, you also wouldn't buy an algorithm or Artificial Intelligence software and expect to become New York's latest Hot Shot Lawyer You see where this is going? There is no secret sauce, no silver bullet and no short cuts. If you want to trade and make money trading, you need the basics. You need to keep doing the basics well and evolve your mindset more than a strategy. Areas that will really help you include proper risk management. If your willing to be sat in negative 20, 30 or even 50% equity positions. This won't take you long to lose your entire trading pot. Instead risking 1-2% with a risk strategy of 2 -1 or greater. it's a slower game, but it keeps you playing the game. If you take a 3 or even a 4 reward trade with only 1 risk. For every time you are right, it's giving you 4 times as much as when you are wrong. Imagine winning 20% of your trading days and still being at breakeven... simple 1:4 ratio. This is only one small aspect to keep in mind. As I mentioned above, if strategies or software is pitched with high percentage win rates - run. You need to understand the market acts differently and past results do not indicate future performance. Everyone is a genius in a bull market, remember. You do not need to go looking for the silver bullet. These strategies do not exist, instead spend the time working on strategies that can be consistent in various market conditions. This is no small task, your strategy might identify entries in a counter trend differently than it would in say a ranging market. The answer to resolve this, is BACKTESTING Don't just run your strategy on replay mode, although @TradingView has a great little tool for this. Spend the time to look at things such as "repainting" this means that when your strategy triggers an entry, does it disappear and reappear. If so, do some manual back testing. Then Dig deeper and analyse the type of market condition it was more profitable or less profitable. This could be things like "I lose more on a Monday, compared to other days" or when the market goes sideways, It triggers too many trades. I've written several articles here on pure education. Here's a few examples. In this post (worth clicking on) it has a whole bunch of lessons inside. Think of trading like you would a university course, there's plenty to learn but you can have some fun along the way! Stay safe! Disclaimer This idea does not constitute as financial advice. It is for educational purposes only, our principle trader has over 20 years’ experience in stocks, ETF’s, and Forex. Hence each trade setup might have different hold times, entry or exit conditions, and will vary from the post/idea shared here. You can use the information from this post to make your own trading plan for the instrument discussed. Trading carries a risk; a high percentage of retail traders lose money. Please keep this in mind when entering any trade. Stay safe.

Education

by Mayfair_Ventures

Five Reasons and Six Ways to Invest in Gold "Gold is money. Everything else is credit.", said John Pierpont Morgan. When borrowers default, markets collapse and banks run into crisis, gold prices skyrocket. Gold is trading at a 12-month high on March 18th. Gold has been valued for thousands of years. Gold has unique properties. It has been enchanting women and men since humans set foot on the planet. Polycrisis. That aptly describes the current times. The US regional bank crisis haunts markets. Credit Suisse - the bank to the wealthiest was so frail that Swiss National Bank had to step in to provide liquidity backstop. Regulators worked over the weekend to broker an acquisition by UBS to prevent a banking crisis from spreading. Inflation is raging hot at levels unseen in 40+ years. Compounding Chair Powell's quagmire, the US Fed has been forced to switch from QT to QE by providing support to its regional banks from collapsing under crisis of confidence. Geo-politics remains tricky. In times of crisis, investors seek flight to safety. Safest of all assets since civilisation began has been gold. This educational piece provides an overview of (a) physical gold market dynamics, (b) largest holders of gold reserves, and (c) gold price behaviour against other asset classes. It also describes five primary reasons for investing in gold, contrasts six methods of doing so, and highlights the downsides of holding gold. PHYSICAL GOLD DYNAMICS Gold performs multiple functions. It is a currency to some. Store of wealth to others. It is an industrial metal used in consumer electronics. The rich love gold in clothing and food. A bird's eye view of physical gold can be summarily described in three parts: 1. Consumers : Gold is used in consumer electronics due to its high conductivity and low corrosive properties. Gold used as industrial metal represents 6%-8% of total demand. Unsurprisingly, >50% of global gold demand is for jewellery. Jewellery is a multi-tasker. It meets aesthetic goals, serves as a status symbol while also being a form of investment. 2. Gold Reserves : Central banks hold gold as reserves. They are the most significant holders of gold. The haven nature of gold compels central banks to increase holdings during economic uncertainty, high inflation, or currency devaluation. Central Banks added >382 tonnes to their reserves in 2022. 3. Producers : Gold mining is a cyclical industry. Mining output has been in decline over the past decade as major gold producers shift to mining minerals and other metals like copper with the proliferation of lithium-ion batteries in EVs. Gold mining took a huge output hit during the pandemic and may not recover any time soon as capital expenditure into new gold mines is limited. GOLD RESERVES - THE MOVERS AND SHAKERS According to the World Gold Council, as of end 2022, central banks in Western European (11.8k tons) have the largest gold reserves followed by North Americans (8.1k tons), Central & Eastern Europeans (3.5k tons), and East Asians (3.4k tons). Last year, central banks of Turkey, China, Egypt, Qatar, and Uzbekistan were the largest buyers of gold. FIVE REASONS WHY GOLD SHOULD BE IN INVESTMENT PORTFOLIOS Gold is a resilient store of wealth, provides meaningful portfolio diversification, has limited price volatility, extends benefits of hedge against inflation & currency debasement, and is limited in supply. 1. Resilient Store of Wealth Gold outperforms equities during periods of economic instability. Due to its material properties and scarcity, it can even become more valuable during such periods as investors seek shelter in classic risk-off assets such as gold. 2. Portfolio Diversification Gold can have both positive and negative correlation with other asset classes during different periods. This makes it an attractive addition to a diversified portfolio. 3. Limited Volatility Due to its large market size and diverse supply origins, gold is less volatile than equities and other asset classes making it a safer asset class for investors. 4. Inflation Hedge Gold is often seen as an inflation hedge. Which means that it can maintain its value or appreciate during periods of high inflation due to its scarcity and safety. However, in some cases monetary policy changes like interest rate hikes may make gold a less attractive investment compared to treasury yields during inflationary periods. 5. Limited in supply Gold is a finite resource, that too, one of the rarest precious metals in the world. Moreover, more than 200,000 tonnes of gold have already been dug up. This represents more than half of the total reserves. The gold that is yet to be mined is much more difficult to extract economically. Scarcity creates rarity, which in turn drives the value of the existing gold higher. Many governments, banks, and people also use gold as a long-term investment, which means a huge portion of the gold supply is taken out of circulation, shrinking available supply even more. SIX WAYS OF INVESTING IN GOLD There are multiple ways of investing in gold. Six primary ones are: 1. Physical Gold : Gold can be bought and stored in the form of jewellery or gold bars. Costs of storage, insurance and making charges can be substantial and also inconvenient. Investing in physical gold is not optimal for reasons of poor convenience and higher transaction costs. 2. Gold ETF : Exposure to gold can also be acquired through buying exchange traded funds (ETF) backed by physical gold. There are multiple ETFs that track physical gold prices. The SPDR Gold Shares ETF (GLD) was the pioneer and began trading in 2004. It has an expense ratio of 0.4% and tracks gold bullion prices. GLD holds both physical gold bullion and cash. GLD provides a liquid lower-cost method to buy and hold gold. Gold can be bought and sold during the trading day at market price. Investors must pay heed to taxation as gains from ETFs in some jurisdictions can be treated differently compared to other forms of gold. 3. Gold Futures : CME’s COMEX Gold futures is the world’s most liquid derivatives which enables capital efficient exposure to Gold. With round the clock liquidity, tight bid-ask spread and benefits of a cleared contract, investing through COMEX Gold futures is widely popular. Each lot of COMEX Gold Futures provides exposure to 100 oz of Gold. Enabling affordable access to investors and to facilitate accurate granular hedging, CME also offers Micro Gold Futures. Each lot of Micro Gold contract provides exposure to 10 oz of Gold. 4. Gold Options : CME also offers options on Gold Futures. Gold options is a useful investing and hedging tool. Using options, investors can lock in unlimited upside potential of price moves while limiting the adverse impact of downside price moves. 5. Shares of Gold Producers : Gold mining is an international business. Gold is mined on every continent except Antarctica. Top gold miners include Newmont (USA), Barrick (Canada), Anglogold Ashanti (South Africa), Kinross (Canada), Gold Fields (South Africa), Newcrest (Australia), Agnica Eagle (Canada), Polyus (Russia), Polymetal (Russia), and Harmony (South Africa). As is evident from the chart above, investing in gold miners for exposure to gold is a poor proxy as most of them have underperformed relative to gold prices. Furthermore, FX exposures must be hedged separately for some stocks which trade in emerging markets. In summary, securing gold exposure through miners is not optimal relative to other alternatives. 6. Gold CFDs : CFDs also known as contract for differences allows for synthetic access to the price of spot gold. These CFDs are OTC derivatives contracts which carry non-trivial counterparty risk with investors being exposed to the credit risk of the CFD provider. The table below summarises the merits of various gold investment instruments across key investment attributes. GOLD TOO HAS ITS DOWNSIDES Gold is a non-yielding asset. Shares of profitable companies pay dividends. Holding debt earns interest. Real estate delivers rents. But gold provides zero yield. For every problem, innovation in markets provides a solution. In a future paper, Mint Finance will demonstrate how gold can be transformed into a yield generating asset. Rising interest rates are headwinds to gold. As rates on treasury, bonds and deposits rise, investors rotate their money out of gold and into yield generating assets. Not only is gold non-yielding, but the returns also fade into insignificance relative to gains from innovation. In times of crisis, gold is a great hedge. However, while positioning portfolios for the long term, investors must astutely balance between safety versus growth. GOLD RETURNS IN RELATION TO OTHER ASSET CLASSES 1. US Equities and Emerging Markets Gold outperforms equities during periods of crisis. During equity bull runs, gold underperforms equities. Cumulatively, over the last 20 years, Gold has outperformed Dow Jones, S&P 500, and MSCI Emerging Markets. Only Nasdaq, which represents tech, innovation and growth has surpassed gold returns. 2. Treasuries with 2-Year and 10-Year Maturities Unsurprisingly, when sovereign risks rise and treasury yields fall to zero, gold shines. Between two non-yielding assets, investors prefer to take shelter in gold as a preferred haven. However, when rates rise, investors rotate out of gold and into treasuries. 3. Crude Oil, Copper, and Silver Over the last two decades, Gold has outperformed crude oil, copper, and silver. 4. Dollar Index, Bitcoin and Ethereum While US Dollar and gold are both global reserves, gold has outperformed the Dollar Index which is the value of the USD against a basket of six international currencies. However, relative to bitcoin and ethereum, gold pales into insignificance. Bitcoin is perceived as millennial gold and ethereum is the millennial oil. Both assets have obliterated gold in terms of price returns. 5. Major Currencies Over the last 3 years, as markets emerged out of the pandemic, gold has outperformed all the major currencies. Yen, under the influence of Governor Kuroda’s liberal QE program, has depreciated 63% against gold. Indian Rupee has deflated 47% while Euro and Sterling have shed 38% and 32% against gold. The US Dollar, Chinese Renminbi, and Aussie Dollar have depreciated 31%, 29% and 20% against gold, respectively. Key Takeaways Gold is money. Everything else is credit. Gold glows in crisis. It is a knight in shining armour for investors. Gold is the only asset which exhibits negative correlation. These are times of polycrisis. As investors seek flight to safety from banks even, gold is the safest among the few remaining alternatives. Gold is a resilient store of wealth, offers durable diversification within a portfolio, exhibits much lower volatility relative to equities, and serves as an inflation hedge albeit with less than a perfect record. Clients can invest in gold in multiple ways. Gold futures is the most convenient and optimal among the six alternatives. Gold has its downsides. It is a non-yielding asset and performs dismally against innovation and growth. Except for Nasdaq, bitcoin and ethereum, gold has outperformed currency majors, equity indices, US treasury, and commodities. In a future paper, Mint Finance will explore ways in which gold can be transformed into a yield generating asset. MARKET DATA CME Real-time Market Data helps identify trading set-ups and express market views better. If you have futures in your trading portfolio, you can check out on CME Group data plans available that suit your trading needs www.tradingview.com DISCLAIMER Trade ideas cited above are for illustration only, as an integral part of a case study to demonstrate the fundamental concepts in risk management under the market scenarios being discussed. They shall not be construed as investment recommendations or advice. Nor are they used to promote any specific products, or services. This material has been published for general education and circulation only. It does not offer or solicit to buy or sell and does not address specific investment or risk management objectives, financial situation, or needs of any person. Advice should be sought from a financial advisor regarding the suitability of any investment or risk management product before investing or adopting any investment or hedging strategies. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. All examples used in this workshop are hypothetical and are used for explanation purposes only. Contents in this material is not investment advice and/or may or may not be the results of actual market experience. Mint Finance does not endorse or shall not be liable for the content of information provided by third parties. Use of and/or reliance on such information is entirely at the reader’s own risk. These materials are not intended for distribution to, or for use by or to be acted on by any person or entity located in any jurisdiction where such distribution, use or action would be contrary to applicable laws or regulations or would subject Mint Finance to any registration or licensing requirement.

Education

by mintdotfinance

Updated

What is an ETF? (exchange traded fund) An exchange traded fund (ETF) is an investment fund that invests in a basket of stocks, bonds, or other assets. ETFs are traded on a stock exchange, just like stocks. Investors are drawn to ETFs because of their low price, tax efficiency and ease of trading. ETFs seek to provide the performance of a specified index, such as the S&P 500, and typically have low fees. Like mutual funds, ETFs offer investors diversified exposure to a portfolio of securities, such as stocks, bonds, commodities and real estate. Why are ETFs popular? While investors often associate ETFs with large stock indexes, such as the S&P 500, ETFs provide access to virtually every asset class, sector, region, theme and investment style. ETFs are popular because of their low fees, tax efficiency, liquidity and transparency. Since the first ETF was launched in 1993, the ETF industry has grown substantially, with more than $3 trillion now invested in ETFs. What are the benefits of ETFs? ETFs cost significantly less than comparable active mutual funds — and that savings can add up over time. Other benefits include: Access and liquidity. Because ETFs are traded on stock exchanges, they are easily bought or sold. Transparency. Just like mutual funds, ETFs report performance quarterly and fees daily. Diversification. ETFs provide access to a wide range of investment options, covering a broad range of asset classes, sectors and geographies. They also make it easy to select specific themes or investment styles. What are the risks associated with ETFs? Like mutual funds, ETFs carry investment risk depending on their asset class, strategy and region. Some ETFs are riskier than others. In addition, if you invest in an ETF that holds securities in a currency other than your own, movements in the foreign exchange rate may affect your returns.

Education

by TopTradingSignals

Nifty ETF investment strategy Here is the best strategy for ETF Investment. In the daily timeframes, when the RSI period 3 goes below the 20 value, then just buy the ETF in good amount. The return is very good. For example in the above chart I have marked some of the signals. You can also set the alert on RSI to get the signals.

Education

Select market data provided by ICE Data Services. Select reference data provided by FactSet. Copyright © 2026 FactSet Research Systems Inc.Copyright © 2026, American Bankers Association. CUSIP Database provided by FactSet Research Systems Inc. All rights reserved. SEC fillings and other documents provided by Quartr.© 2026 TradingView, Inc.

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