Stop Losses: A Trader's Best DefenseIn a perfect world, every trade would go our way, but alas this is usually not the case. A stop loss is a risk management tool used by traders and investors to minimize their losses when trading. It is a predetermined price level at which a trader's position will automatically exit the market, causing the loss to be realized. Stop losses are crucial to any trading strategy, as they help traders limit their losses and stay disciplined. In this blog, we will look at what stop losses are, why they are important, how to set realistic stop losses, and five different examples of stop losses with a description of how to set the stop loss.
What are Stop Losses?
A stop loss is an order to sell a security when it reaches a particular price. It is a predetermined price level at which a trader's position will automatically exit the market, causing the loss to be realized. This means that if the price of the security falls to the stop loss level, the trader's position is automatically closed, and any losses incurred are limited to that level. Stop losses are essential because they help traders limit their losses and stay disciplined.
Why are Stop Losses Important?
Stop losses are important because they help traders limit their losses and stay disciplined. In trading, it is easy to become emotional and let your losses run. Stop losses help traders avoid this situation by automatically exiting the market when the price reaches a predetermined level. This ensures that losses are limited, and traders can move on to the next trade without being emotionally affected by the previous loss.
Setting Realistic Stop Losses
Setting realistic stop losses is crucial to any trading strategy. A trader needs to consider the volatility of the security, the trading style, and the risk-reward ratio when setting stop losses. The stop loss should be set at a level where the loss is acceptable but not too close to the current price level, as this may result in the stop loss being triggered prematurely. A stop loss should also not be set too far away from the current price level, as this may result in the trader losing more than they are willing to risk.
Stop Loss Examples
Below we will list five examples of setting effective stop losses. For consistency, we are going to use the same long stop loss example, but these same examples can be set for stop losses for short positions as well.
Percentage-Based Stop Loss: A percentage-based stop loss is a stop loss that is set at a specific percentage below the purchase price. For example, if a trader wants to place a long at $0.088602 and sets a 0.5% stop loss, the stop loss would be triggered at $0.88160. For a short stop loss at 0.5%, you would add the value instead and have a 0.89035 stop loss. To set a percentage-based stop loss, the trader needs to determine the percentage they are willing to risk and place the stop loss order at that level.
ATR-Based Stop Loss: An ATR-based stop loss is a stop loss that is set based on the average true range of the security. The average true range is a measure of volatility and is calculated by taking the average of the high and low prices for a particular period. To set an ATR-based stop loss, the trader needs to determine the number of ATRs they are willing to risk and place the stop loss order at that level. For a long stop loss, you would subtract the ATR times its multiplier from the current price. For a short-stop loss, you would add the ATR times its multiplier to the current price. The unique upside to this stop-loss style is the ATR accounts for market volatility which can aid your risk management and help set more appropriate stop losses.
Using Moving Averages or Super Trend: Moving averages and super trend are technical indicators that can be used to set stop losses. Moving averages are calculated by taking the average price over a specific period, while the super trend is a trend-following indicator that uses the average true range to calculate the stop loss level. To set a stop loss using moving averages or super trend, the trader needs to identify the period and place the stop loss order at the appropriate level. The Moving Average or Supertrend can then act as a moving stop loss as it trails the price.
1. Moving Average:
2. SuperTrend:
Donchian Channels: Donchian channels are a technical indicator that can be used to set stop losses. Donchian channels are created by taking the highest high and lowest low over a specific period and plotting them on a chart. To set a stop loss using Donchian channels, the trader needs to identify the period and place the stop loss order at the appropriate level. In the example below we use a more standard 20-period Donchian level to identify areas of lowest low interest that would be a good place for a stop loss. If we were setting a short order we would look to recent highest highs as potential stop-loss areas
Conclusion
Stop losses are crucial to any trading strategy, as they help traders limit their losses and stay disciplined. When setting stop losses, traders need to consider the volatility of the security, the trading style, and the risk-reward ratio. Stop losses can be set using many different techniques, including percentage-based, ATR-based, using moving averages or super trend, and Donchian channels. By setting realistic stop losses, traders can minimize their losses and stay disciplined, which is essential for long-term success in trading.
ATR
WHAT IS ATR AND HOW TO USE IT?Investing and trading in the stock market can be a daunting task, especially for those new to the game. With so many different indicators and metrics to consider, it can be difficult to know which ones to focus on. One key metric that traders often use to measure market volatility is Average True Range (ATR). In this blog post, we’ll explore what ATR is, how it’s calculated, why it’s important for analysis, and how it can be used as an exit strategy. We’ll compare ATR with other popular technical indicators as well, so you have all the information you need to make informed decisions about your trading strategies.
Defining ATR
Average True Range (ATR) is an important metric used by traders to measure market volatility. It’s a technical indicator that can provide insight into strength or weakness in the markets, and can be used to identify breakouts and set stop-loss points for trades.
ATR is calculated as an exponential moving average of true range values over a given period. True range is defined as the maximum of three values: the current high minus the current low, the absolute value of the current high minus the previous close, and the absolute value of the current low minus the previous close. This calculation provides a more accurate reading than simply measuring one day’s trading range or attempting to track changes in individual stock prices.
ATR values are generally presented in decimal form (e.g. 0.1 or 0.3) rather than percentage form (e.g. 10% or 30%). This allows for more precise measurements when tracking market movement, which can be especially important for day traders who need to act quickly on market changes and opportunities.
Traders use ATR to gauge overall market volatility as well as individual stock movements over time; it can also be used for trend identification and momentum strategies when combined with other technical indicators such as moving averages and Bollinger bands. And because ATR takes into account both recent highs and lows, it can also help traders set stop-loss points for their trades – at least until they become comfortable enough with markets to make decisions without them.
Whether you’re new to trading or seasoned professional, ATR is an invaluable tool that should be incorporated into your analysis strategy if you want to stay ahead of markets and take advantage of opportunities when they present themselves.
How to Calculate ATR
In conclusion, ATR is a valuable tool for traders and investors alike. It helps measure market volatility and can be used to set stop-loss points as well as combine with other technical indicators to get a more accurate picture of where the markets are headed. Understanding and employing ATR can help traders become better informed about their investments, allowing them to make more informed decisions when entering or exiting positions.
Analyzing ATR in Trading
When it comes to analyzing the markets for trading decisions, Average True Range (ATR) is an invaluable tool that helps traders gain insight into market volatility. By understanding how ATR works, investors can measure the current conditions of a stock or index in comparison to its past performance, allowing them to identify trends and set stop losses accordingly. It also provides them with an effective exit strategy so they can take advantage of opportunities while minimizing their risk exposure. Ultimately, having a good grasp of this indicator will allow traders to make more informed decisions when engaging in securities markets globally.
Using ATR as an Exit Strategy
Using ATR as an Exit Strategy Average True Range (ATR) is a powerful technical indicator that can be used to measure market volatility and identify trends. It can also be employed as an exit strategy in trading, allowing traders to determine when the best time is to exit their positions and take profits or minimize losses. When using ATR as an exit strategy, it is important for traders to set the parameters for their strategy correctly. The most common approach is to set a multiple of ATR for both profit taking and stop loss levels. For example, if a trader sets the multiple at two times ATR, then they will take profits when the price moves by two times the average true range from their entry point and cut their losses if it moves against them by two times the average true range. In addition to setting up these parameters in advance, traders should also consider any potential rewards and risks associated with using ATR as an exit strategy. On one hand, it can help protect capital from large losses due to quick market movements, but on the other hand, it may cause traders to miss out on larger gains if prices move further than expected. There are various types of ATR-based exit strategies that traders can employ. Some of these include: fixed percentage or dollar exits; trailing stops; dynamic exits; time-based exits; or support/resistance exits based on chart patterns or technical indicators such as moving averages. Each type of strategy has its own advantages and disadvantages depending on market conditions so it is important for traders to understand which one will work best for them before implementing it into their trading system. Finally, traders should look at real-world examples of profitable trades made using ATR as an exit strategy. By studying these examples they can gain insight into how successful trades were managed and use this knowledge when formulating their own strategies going forward. With enough practice and experience, traders will eventually become adept at using ATR as part of their trading system and be able to capitalize on profitable opportunities more effectively in future investments.
ATR vs Other Technical Indicators
Average True Range (ATR) is a technical indicator used to measure market volatility and identify trends. Unlike other indicators, ATR measures the degree of price movement instead of the strength or weakness of a trend; this makes it ideal for spotting trading opportunities in volatile markets. Compared to indicators like Relative Strength Index (RSI) and Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD), ATR offers traders a greater understanding of market volatility so they can more easily recognize good entry and exit points.
In addition, ATR allows traders to set stop-loss points that are tailored to their individual risk tolerance levels. This helps them reduce losses when prices move against them but still provides an opportunity for profits if prices turn back in their favour. Ultimately, ATR is not meant to be used as an isolated indicator when making decisions about trades, but combining it with other indicators will improve accuracy when entering and exiting positions.
Overall, ATR is a powerful tool designed for those looking to gain insight into market volatility and make informed decisions about their trades. By using this indicator in combination with others, such as RSI and MACD, traders can better understand the kind of environment they are working with which can help them maximize profits while minimizing losses.
Traders, if you liked this idea or if you have your own opinion about it, write in the comments. I will be glad 👩💻
Introducing the Volatility Adjusted ADX (VADX)In this video, Stock Justice introduces you to the Volatility Adjusted ADX (VADX), a powerful tool that combines trend strength and market volatility. Learn how to customize your settings for optimal analysis and how this indicator, with its proprietary mathematical formulation, offers a nuanced perspective on market dynamics. Discover the benefits of normalized data and how to read and interpret the VADX line in conjunction with other indicators. All of this, delivered in Stock Justice's engaging style, will empower your technical analysis toolkit. Be ready to trade safe, trade smart!
Live Trading Session 211: Trade ManagementIn this live trading session video, we are looking at how we are managing our short trade position on GBPUSD based on stop taking and continuation move patterns. We also take a slight look on the stretch principle and how it correlates onto the higher timeframes for the bar range to form.
NYSE: F (FORD) - HARMONIC GARTLEY - LIMIT BUY - ATR SLHarmonic gartley completed a few days ago and was identified today. The systems criteria is still being respected so an entry was taken at the price that would originally have hit the buy limit a few days ago using the same SL that the original harmonic setup rules call for. Lets see if it plays out
Top 10 Technical Indicators for Successful TradingTop 10 technical indicators for successful trading
Introduction:
Technical indicators are essential tools for traders to analyze market trends, identify potential trading opportunities, and manage risk. These indicators are mathematical calculations based on past price and volume data that can help traders make informed decisions about buying or selling assets. In this article, we'll discuss the top technical indicators that traders can use to enhance their trading strategies.
Moving Average:
A moving average is a widely used technical indicator that helps traders identify market trends. A moving average is calculated by averaging the price of an asset over a specific period, such as 10 days or 50 days. This indicator smooths out the price data and makes it easier for traders to identify the direction of the trend. When the price is above the moving average, it's considered a bullish trend, and when the price is below the moving average, it's considered a bearish trend.
Relative Strength Index (RSI):
The Relative Strength Index (RSI) is a momentum oscillator that measures the strength of a price trend. The RSI is calculated by comparing the average gains and losses over a specific period, typically 14 days. The RSI value ranges from 0 to 100, with values above 70 indicating an overbought market, and values below 30 indicating an oversold market. Traders can use the RSI to identify potential trend reversals and overbought or oversold conditions in the market.
Bollinger Bands:
Bollinger Bands are another widely used technical indicator that helps traders identify potential trend reversals and price volatility. Bollinger Bands consist of three lines: a moving average in the center, and two outer bands that represent the standard deviation of the price data. When the price is within the bands, it's considered normal market volatility. However, when the price reaches the outer bands, it's considered an overbought or oversold condition, and a potential reversal may be imminent.
MACD (Moving Average Convergence Divergence):
The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) is a trend-following momentum indicator that helps traders identify changes in momentum and trend reversals. The MACD is calculated by subtracting the 26-day exponential moving average (EMA) from the 12-day EMA. A signal line, which is a 9-day EMA of the MACD, is also plotted on the chart. Traders can use the MACD to identify potential buy and sell signals, as well as divergences between the MACD and the price of the asset.
Fibonacci Retracements:
Fibonacci Retracements are a popular technical indicator that helps traders identify potential support and resistance levels. Fibonacci Retracements are based on the idea that prices tend to retrace a predictable portion of a move, after which they may continue in the original direction. Traders can use Fibonacci retracements to identify potential entry and exit points, as well as stop-loss levels.
Stochastic Oscillator:
The Stochastic Oscillator is another momentum oscillator that helps traders identify overbought and oversold conditions in the market. The Stochastic Oscillator is calculated by comparing the closing price of an asset to its price range over a specific period. The Stochastic Oscillator value ranges from 0 to 100, with values above 80 indicating an overbought market, and values below 20 indicating an oversold market. Traders can use the Stochastic Oscillator to identify potential trend reversals and overbought or oversold conditions in the market.
Average True Range (ATR):
Average True Range (ATR) is a technical indicator that measures the volatility of a stock or currency. Developed by J. Welles Wilder Jr., ATR calculates the average range of price movements over a specific period, taking into account gaps in price movements. ATR is typically calculated over a period of 14 days, but traders can adjust this period to fit their specific trading strategy.
To calculate ATR, traders first calculate the true range (TR), which is the greatest of the following:
Current high minus the current low
Absolute value of the current high minus the previous close
Absolute value of the current low minus the previous close
Once the true range is calculated, traders can calculate the ATR by taking an average of the true range over a specific period.
ATR can be used to measure volatility in the market, helping traders to identify potential trading opportunities. When ATR is high, it indicates that there is a lot of volatility in the market, which can present opportunities for traders to profit. Conversely, when ATR is low, it indicates that the market is relatively stable, and traders may want to avoid entering trades at that time.
Ichimoku Cloud:
The Ichimoku Cloud, also known as Ichimoku Kinko Hyo, is a technical indicator that provides a comprehensive view of potential support and resistance levels, trend direction, and momentum. The indicator was developed by Japanese journalist Goichi Hosoda in the late 1930s and has gained popularity among traders in recent years.
The Ichimoku Cloud consists of five lines, each providing a different view of the market:
Tenkan-Sen: This line represents the average of the highest high and the lowest low over the past nine periods.
Kijun-Sen: This line represents the average of the highest high and the lowest low over the past 26 periods.
Chikou Span: This line represents the current closing price shifted back 26 periods.
Senkou Span A: This line represents the average of the Tenkan-Sen and Kijun-Sen, shifted forward 26 periods.
Senkou Span B: This line represents the average of the highest high and the lowest low over the past 52 periods, shifted forward 26 periods.
The area between Senkou Span A and Senkou Span B is referred to as the "cloud" and is used to identify potential support and resistance levels. When the price is above the cloud, it indicates a bullish trend, and when the price is below the cloud, it indicates a bearish trend.
Traders can also use the Tenkan-Sen and Kijun-Sen lines to identify potential entry and exit points, with a bullish crossover of the Tenkan-Sen above the Kijun-Sen indicating a potential buying opportunity, and a bearish crossover of the Tenkan-Sen below the Kijun-Sen indicating a potential selling opportunity.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, technical indicators are valuable tools for traders in the financial markets. The Average True Range (ATR) can be used to measure volatility in the market, while the Ichimoku Cloud provides a comprehensive view of potential support and resistance levels, trend direction, and momentum. By using these indicators in combination with other technical analysis tools and market knowledge, traders can make informed trading decisions and improve their chances of success. It's important for traders to experiment with different indicators and find the ones that work best for their trading strategy.
Bullish Swing On EURCHFEIGHTCAP:EURCHF
We have a nice reversal setting-up on EURCHF so I'm watching for price to possibly pierce a previous swing low, which is at ATR and the bottom of the wedge, and ideally close as an SFP.
My target will be today's ATR hight to close the position before the weekend.
Enjoy,
The Meditrader
NY: EUR/USD HARMONIC LIMIT - ATR SLWhile we are going against what it seems like the market is doing, our setups could give the opportunity to entre at a great price while majority of traders are in fear of getting stopped out or faked out. But we cannot predict, only execute. Let’s see what happens






















