GOLD READY FOR A BULLISH REBIRTH | Pullback Buy Setup Inside🧭 DAILY TRADING PLAN — GOLD (XAU/USD)
Date: Oct 30, 2025
Main timeframe: H1 – M30
Strategy: SMC + EMA Confluence + Trendline Reversal
🧩 MARKET CONTEXT
Gold has just completed a liquidity sweep below 3920 and is forming a bullish corrective structure along the rising trendline.
The short-term structure shows CHoCH → BOS confirmation around 3950–3970, signaling a potential reversal phase.
Price is currently testing the EMA zone (H1) and approaching the key supply at 4026–4028, where short-term profit-taking might appear.
Overall, market sentiment remains bullish toward 4020–4030, but a short retracement could occur before the next leg up.
🎯 TRADE PLAN
BUY SETUP #1
Entry: 3950 – 3948
SL: 3943
TP: 4018 → 4026
(R:R ≈ 1:3)
If price fails to hold above 3948, wait for a deeper liquidity grab:
BUY SETUP #2
Entry: 3921 – 3919
SL: 3913
TP: 3980 → 4020
(Liquidity sweep + trendline confluence)
SELL SETUP (Counter-trade)
Entry: 4026 – 4028 (rejection zone)
SL: 4033
TP: 3970 – 3950
(Only valid if bearish BOS appears on M15)
🔍 TECHNICAL INSIGHT
Structure flipped bullish after CHoCH & BOS on M30
Trendline support remains intact
EMA 34 crossing upward on H1 – confirming short-term momentum
Main liquidity pools sit around 3919 (below) and 4028 (above)
Expect pullback → bullish continuation as long as price stays above 3948
Choch
Latest Gold Price Update Today – The Downtrend Isn’t Over Yet👋Hello everyone , great to see you again — let’s take a look at OANDA:XAUUSD !
From a fundamental perspective, gold remains range-bound as the US dollar (USD) shows a strong recovery following remarks from Fed Chair Jerome Powell during Wednesday’s press conference.
On the technical chart, gold has formed a clear Double Top pattern on the 4H timeframe, breaking its previous bullish structure and confirming a Change of Character (CHOCH) from an uptrend to a downtrend. Additionally, the EMA 34 and EMA 89 have crossed downward, reinforcing the short-term bearish signal.
For now, the immediate support zone sits around the psychological level of $3,900. If this level is broken, I expect another Break of Structure (BOS) to follow.
What about you — do you think gold will rebound from this support zone or continue falling in the coming sessions? 💬 I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
Gold Setup: Bullish CHoCH From Discount Zone (Oct 22, 2025)🧭 DAILY TRADING PLAN – GOLD (XAU/USD) | Bullish CHoCH & Discount Entry Zones
Date: Oct 22, 2025
Main timeframe: M30 – H1
Strategy: SMC + CHoCH + Imbalance
1. Market Context
After a strong bearish leg, price formed a BOS at 4070 and a clear CHoCH confirming short-term bullish intent.
Current retracement is tapping into discount areas (40.87–40.46) for potential continuation to the upside.
As long as price holds above 4046, bullish bias remains valid.
2. Key Levels
BUY Zone 1: 4087 – 4085 → First mitigation area after CHoCH
BUY Zone 2: 4048 – 4046 → Extreme discount zone (potential sweep)
SELL Zone: 4264 – 4266 → Major supply zone from previous imbalance
3. Trading Plan
BUY SCENARIO
Entry: 4087 – 4085
Stop loss: 4079
Take profit 1: 4108
Take profit 2: 4128
Take profit 3: 4150
→ Look for bullish confirmation around 4085 zone. If invalidated, re-entry at 4048–4046.
BUY SCENARIO (Deeper Discount Entry)
Entry: 4048 – 4046
Stop loss: 4040
Take profit 1: 4085
Take profit 2: 4108
Take profit 3: 4128
→ Ideal entry for those waiting liquidity sweep before strong push.
4. Bias
🟢 Short-term bullish, aiming for continuation above 4120 while price stays above 4046
Gold (XAU/USD) M30 Smart Money Setup – Price Action Analysis📊 Current Structure:
On the M30 timeframe, CHOCH (Change of Character) has formed around 4186, confirming a possible bearish shift in market structure. The previous low stands at 4004, which acts as a major liquidity zone and final bearish target.
🧠 Smart Money Concept Overview
After the CHOCH at 4186, Gold is expected to retrace to premium zones before continuing its bearish move. The market has created two Fair Value Gaps (FVGs) — potential supply areas where price may react.
⚙️ Key Zones
1️⃣ 1st FVG (4231 – 4246) → Minor retracement zone 🟠
2️⃣ 2nd FVG (4302 – 4322) → Strong supply zone 🔴
📍 Stop Loss (SL): 4346
🎯 Target (TP): 4001
🧭 Trading Plan
Wait for price to tap into any FVG zone (4231–4322).
Confirm bearish reaction using candlestick rejection or CHOCH on lower TFs (M5–M15).
Enter short positions aiming for the 4001 target.
Risk management: keep SL tight above 4346.
📉 Conclusion
Gold currently shows strong bearish pressure after CHOCH confirmation. Smart money traders will be looking for short entries from FVG zones toward the 4001 liquidity target. Manage your trade wisely and follow structure confirmation before entry. 🧩
💡 Disclaimer: This analysis is for educational purposes only. Always do your own research before trading. 📚
XAUUSD Bearish Structure Breakdown and Retest SetupSimple Analysis & Description:
The chart shows a Change of Character (CHOCH) at the top, signaling a possible end to the bullish trend.
Two major breakdowns occurred after price failed to maintain the ascending trendline, confirming bearish momentum.
A clear Break of Structure (BOS) formed, shifting market direction from bullish to bearish.
Price made a retest of the broken structure (highlighted yellow zone), which often acts as a new supply zone.
The gray zone below marks the next potential demand area or target zone, where price could react or find support.
The Ichimoku Cloud is now above the candles, indicating bearish pressure and potential continuation to the downside.
Summary:
➡️ Trend: Bearish
➡️ Key Zone: 4,297–4,329 (supply / retest zone)
➡️ Target Zone: 4,221 area (potential demand/support)
Bearish CHoCH in Play – Gold Retracement Plan (XAU/USD)🧭 DAILY TRADING PLAN – GOLD (XAU/USD)
Date: Oct 21, 2025
Main timeframe: M30 – H1
Strategy: SMC + CHoCH + Imbalance
1. Market Context
Price formed a short-term bearish CHoCH after failing to hold above 4370 area.
Current momentum shows liquidity sweep above 4378, followed by a shift in structure to the downside.
We expect price to rebalance lower FVG zones before any new bullish leg.
2. Key Levels
BUY Zone 1: 4349 – 4351 → Reaction zone after CHoCH
BUY Zone 2: 4369 – 4371 → Mitigation of minor FVG
BUY Zone 3: 4378 – 4380 → Extreme high liquidity zone
SELL Zone: 4300 – 4298 → Demand-to-supply flip
3. Trading Plan
BUY SCENARIO
Entry: 4349 – 4351
Stop loss: 4343
Take profit 1: 4369
Take profit 2: 4378
Take profit 3 (runner): 4388
→ If price respects 4349–4351 and forms bullish CHoCH, target upper FVGs.
SELL SCENARIO
Entry: 4378 – 4380
Stop loss: 4386
Take profit 1: 4350
Take profit 2: 4330
Take profit 3: 4300
→ Short at premium zone after BOS confirmation.
4. Bias
🔻 Short-term bearish, expecting retracement before continuation toward 4300.
GBPUSD Bullish or Bearish?Hi Traders!
When analyzing this chart, price made a move to the downside making a low at 1.34000, came up to test 1.36000 to then revisit a daily OB at 1.32000 creating a bearish BOS. However, price didn't close below the previous daily OB low, and pushed back up to the resistance level at 1.36000. Price is now sitting in a range.
If a long presents itself, I would like to see a daily CHOCH happen, price closed above 1.36000 with strength (not just a wick), follow through with bullish confirmation, and 1.36000 retest/new support. Therefore, IMO, this move can still be viewed as a retracement within a bearish structure. For now, I'm waiting for price to show me a solid direction.
Good Luck to all!
*DISCLAIMER: I am not a financial advisor. The ideas and trades I take on my page are for educational and entertainment purposes only. I'm just showing you guys how I trade. Remember, trading of any kind involves risk. Your investments are solely your responsibility and not mine.*
Is the Retracement Over?Hi Traders!
GJ dipped in the 50% fib this past week, and bounced off the previous weekly OB again at 198.500. The retracement might be over, and I'm looking to enter a long swing trade. However, I'd like to see it bounce off the 4HR OB sitting at 199.500/.600 and make a return to the 4HR CHOCH around 199.000/.200 to determine my entry. If so, based on the Daily, I'd be swinging this trade to around 202 and 203. That'd also hit around a Weekly bearish OB.
*DISCLAIMER: I am not a financial advisor. The ideas and trades I take on my page are for educational and entertainment purposes only. I'm just showing you guys how I trade. Remember, trading of any kind involves risk. Your investments are solely your responsibility and not mine.*
BTC.D , Bitcoin Dominance Ready to RiseAfter a descending wedge pattern, Bitcoin Dominance has shown the first signs of an upward move. A CHoCH (Change of Character) has formed on the 4-hour timeframe, signaling a potential trend reversal.
We are now awaiting a retest of the broken resistance level before continuation of the bullish trend. However, the price might skip the retest and proceed directly higher.
Stay tuned for confirmation and manage your positions accordingly.
Ethereum (ETH/USDT) – Key Reversal Zone RetestAfter a major CHoCH (Change of Character) on the 4H timeframe, Ethereum has shown a strong bullish move from a high-probability demand zone and is now retesting a critical resistance area aligned with the Left Shoulder of a classic RTM pattern.
⸻
🔍 Key Technical Elements:
• CHoCH confirms the shift from a distribution phase to accumulation.
• Strong reaction from a demand zone near $3,340–$3,380.
• Price is now testing the Left Shoulder, which often acts as a reaction zone before continuation.
⸻
📌 Potential Scenarios:
🔼 Bullish Case (Primary):
If ETH breaks and closes above $3,870, a move toward the next liquidity pool around $4,010–$4,050 is likely.
🔽 Bearish Case (Alternative):
Failure to hold above the current resistance may lead to a pullback toward the $3,340–$3,380 demand zone for another accumulation attempt.
⸻
💡 Educational Note:
In RTM methodology, retests of the Left Shoulder after CHoCH are considered one of the most efficient entry zones — especially when confluence with liquidity voids or imbalance exists.
Follow for more Smart Money & RTM insights.
XAUUSD Smart Money Technical Analysis – Bullish Potential XAUUSD Smart Money Technical Analysis – Bullish Potential from Strong Support
Gold (XAUUSD) is currently trading around $3,291.780, showing a potential bullish reversal setup from the strong support zone after a clear liquidity sweep and market structure shifts.
🔍 Key Technical Highlights:
✅ Strong Support Zone (Demand)
Price is reacting from a major demand zone (Strong Low) between $3,275 – $3,225, a level that previously triggered bullish rallies.
Multiple Breaks of Structure (BOS) and CHoCH indicate previous bullish control and a possible re-accumulation phase.
✅ CHoCH Near Support
A recent Change of Character (CHoCH) around the support area shows the first signs of smart money accumulation.
Liquidity below recent lows has been swept, triggering possible bullish intent.
✅ Bullish FVG (Fair Value Gap)
A clear Bullish FVG remains unmitigated around the mid-range, offering target confluence at $3,349.560.
Price may aim to rebalance inefficiency and fill the FVG as part of the bullish move.
✅ Resistance Zone Above
The resistance area near $3,325 – $3,350 acts as a short-term target for long positions.
Further resistance lies at the Buy-Side Liquidity & Weak High zone around $3,450 if momentum sustains.
🧠 Smart Money Concept Interpretation:
Liquidity Grab: Price dipped into strong demand to collect sell-side liquidity before potential reversal.
CHoCH + BOS Alignment: Indicates the market may now transition into a bullish phase.
FVG as Magnet: Price is drawn toward unfilled value zones—ideal for bullish target projection.
🎯 Trade Idea (Educational Purposes Only):
Bias: Bullish
Entry: Around current zone ($3,290)
Target: $3,349.560 (FVG zone)
Invalidation/SL: Below strong low (~$3,225)
Trend Exhaustion Detected – Bearish Structure AheadUS100 (NASDAQ) 30-minute chart as of July 26, 2025, with technical insights based on the visible elements.
🔍 1. Trend Analysis
Primary Trend: Uptrend (bullish structure)
The price has been respecting a rising parallel channel, marked by:
Ascending support (lower boundary)
Ascending resistance (upper boundary)
Market structure shows:
Higher Highs (HH)
Higher Lows (HL)
✅ This indicates continuation of bullish momentum until structure breaks.
📐 2. Market Structure Elements
Structure Type Label on Chart Price Zone (approx.)
Break of Structure (BOS) BOS (center-left) ~22,950
Higher Low (HL) HL (2x) ~22,700 (1st), ~23,050 (2nd)
Higher High (HH) HH (2x) ~23,150 and ~23,300
Resistance Labelled ~23,300–23,320
Demand Zones Labelled ~22,450–22,700
🔁 Break of Structure (BOS)
The BOS occurred after a prior swing low was broken, followed by a new higher high, confirming a bullish shift.
🧱 3. Support / Resistance Analysis
🔼 Resistance Zone
The price is testing strong resistance around 23,300–23,320
Multiple rejections in this area
Trendline resistance also aligns here
A rejection arrow is drawn, indicating potential bearish reaction
🔽 Support Zone (Immediate)
23,180–23,220: highlighted green box is a local support block
If broken, likely to revisit 23,000–23,050, or even down to 22,900 range
🟩 4. Demand Zones
Zone 1:
22,450–22,600: Strong bullish reaction historically — likely to act as a key demand if a deeper pullback occurs
Zone 2:
22,850–22,950: Validated with prior accumulation & BOS event
🧠 5. Key Observations
Price is at a critical inflection zone:
Testing a resistance zone
At the upper trendline of an ascending channel
A bearish reaction is projected (black arrow)
Possibly targeting the green support zone around 23,180–23,220
If that fails, demand at ~23,000 will likely be tested
Ichimoku Cloud:
Currently price is above the cloud → still bullish
Cloud is thin → potential weakness or upcoming consolidation
⚠️ 6. Trading Bias & Setup Ideas
✅ Bullish Bias (if price holds above ~23,180)
Long entries can be considered on bullish reaction from support
Target: retest of 23,300–23,350 or even breakout continuation
❌ Bearish Bias (if breakdown below support)
Short entry valid below 23,180 with:
TP1: 23,050
TP2: 22,900
A breakdown from the ascending channel would signal trend exhaustion
🔚 Conclusion
Current Price: 23,298.4
Trend: Bullish, but at resistance
Next move: Watch for reaction at resistance and support box below
Bias: Neutral-to-bullish unless the structure breaks below ~23,180
GBP/USD – Bearish Structure with Possible Short-Term Pullback📊 GBP/USD – Bearish Structure with Possible Short-Term Pullback
Timeframe: 30-Minute | Date: July 29, 2025
Price action recently broke down from a well-respected ascending channel, confirming a shift in market structure with a Change of Character (CHOCH) followed by a Break of Structure (BOS). Since then, GBP/USD has been respecting a descending trend channel, forming consistent lower highs and lower lows.
🔍 Current Setup:
Price is testing a major support area around 1.3300–1.3320.
A minor pullback is expected as indicated by the bullish wick rejections.
However, the overall bias remains bearish unless we break and hold above the 1.3353–1.3406 resistance zone and the descending trendline.
The Ichimoku Cloud and Supertrend both show bearish momentum.
📈 Potential Scenario:
Price may bounce from the support area and retest the upper boundary of the descending channel before resuming the bearish trend.
⚠️ Key Levels to Watch:
Resistance: 1.33530 / 1.34063 / 1.34738
Support: 1.33200 / 1.33000
💡 Structure Notes:
CHOCH = Trend Reversal Signal
BOS = Confirmation of Downtrend
Cloud = Dynamic Resistance
Gold 29 July – H4 Demand Holds, M15 Structure ShiftsGold (XAUUSD) Analysis – 29 July
The Mirror is Forming at 3310: Structure + Reaction in Focus
The market has successfully held the H4 demand zone, particularly near the critical level around 3310. This level is not just another number on the chart — it’s an inflection point. A possible first higher low or swing low, from which the next directional leg in gold could emerge.
Yesterday’s price action swept liquidity beneath this zone and then showed a strong bullish reaction. This isn’t just a bounce. It’s a behavioral shift — one that hints at absorption of selling pressure and the re-entry of aggressive buyers.
🔍 Structure Alignment: H4 + M15
On the H4 timeframe, price has stabilized within the demand zone.
Zooming into M15, we now see internal price action beginning to shift:
• First, a Change of Character (ChoCH) — the earliest clue that momentum is starting to turn.
• Then, a Break of Structure (BoS) to the upside — signaling potential bullish intent.
This multi-timeframe alignment — H4 support holding + M15 structure shifting — builds a strong case for a potential reversal and continuation of the uptrend.
📍 What Next?
The next step is to mark a refined M15 Point of Interest (POI) — a zone where price may pull back before making its next move upward.
We don’t chase price. We let it come to us.
✅ Look for Lower Timeframe Confirmation
Once price returns to your POI, it’s time to observe.
You’re not looking for obvious signals. You’re watching for subtle behavior —
a sharp reaction, a psychological flush, or a precise candle footprint that reveals intent.
The deeper signals aren’t always visible to the untrained eye — but they’re there for those who’ve studied the mirror.
( For those who know what to look for — this is where the sniper entry reveals itself. )
🎯 Summary
• Bias: Bullish — structure and reaction support long setups
• Plan: Wait for price to retest the M15 POI
• Execution: Only enter on confirmed lower timeframe intent and confluence
• Target: 120 pips (fixed, as per system)
• Stop Loss: 40 pips (always 1:3 R:R minimum)
📚 This is the kind of structure-based clarity we teach in The Chart is the Mirror .
Let the chart speak.
Let the structure guide you — not your emotion.
📘 Shared by @ChartIsMirror
ChoCH: The Quiet Shift Most Traders Ignore“Most traders chase price. Few notice when price quietly turns around.”
Before a trend ends, before a breakout fails, before a setup forms —
There’s often a silent clue: Change of Character (ChoCH) .
What is ChoCH?
Change of Character marks the first structural sign that the market may be reversing — not continuing.
It’s a break in the internal rhythm of price, often happening after a liquidity sweep or inside a key zone.
In simpler terms:
BoS = Continuation
ChoCH = Potential Reversal
Most traders treat ChoCH like a green light to enter... but that’s a mistake.
ChoCH alone doesn’t mean a trend is ready to reverse.
It only tells you the current trend has paused or cracked — not ended.
What matters more is:
– Where the ChoCH happens
– Why it happens
– What came before it
This is where context matters.
How I Use ChoCH in My Trading Framework:
My approach is built around multi-timeframe structure:
✅ H4 – Bias
✅ M15 – Setup Alignment
✅ M1 – Sniper Entry
So when I see a ChoCH on M15 , I ask:
Does this align with my H4 bias ?
Has price entered a key zone or swept liquidity before the shift?
If yes — I start watching closely.
If no — it’s likely just noise.
ChoCH without narrative is just confusion.
BoS vs ChoCH – Know the Difference:
• BoS (Break of Structure) confirms trend continuation
• ChoCH (Change of Character) hints at a trend shift
• They look similar on a chart — but their implications are opposite
Mistake to avoid: Entering just because ChoCH appeared
Better approach: Let it warn you , not trap you
🪞 Final Thought:
ChoCH is not an entry. It’s an invitation.
A quiet shift the market offers only to those still enough to see it.
Some notice it.
Fewer understand it.
Even fewer know what to do after.
That’s the difference between recognizing a change… and trading it with conviction.
💬 If this spoke to you, share your thoughts below.
There’s more beneath the surface — tell me what direction you'd like to explore next.
Some of the most powerful methods I use aren’t shared openly — but those who’ve seen them know why.
You’ll know where to look if it’s meant for you.
📘 Shared by @ChartIsMirror
Smart Money Sell Setup on Gold (15-Min TF)# Smart Money Sell Setup on Gold (15-Min TF)
### 🔍 Market Context:
Gold has recently formed a strong bullish retracement after a sharp impulsive bearish move. Now, price has returned to a critical zone — the **Equilibrium level (EQ)** — which also aligns with a **valid supply zone** and **bearish trendline resistance**.
This zone is often considered the "decision point" where Smart Money evaluates whether to continue upward or resume the previous bearish trend.
---
## 📉 Strategy: Sell Limit Based on Structure + Liquidity
### ✅ Entry Zone:
**3341.500 – 3343.000**
(At the EQ zone + premium pricing area)
### 🛑 Stop Loss:
**Above 3345.000**
(Just beyond the last liquidity wick and top of supply)
### 🎯 Take Profit Targets:
- **TP1:** 3338.000 → First demand zone
- **TP2:** 3332.500 → Liquidity sweep target under previous lows
### 📐 Risk to Reward Ratio:
**1:3 or higher**, depending on execution precision.
---
## 🔎 Confluences Supporting the Setup:
| Factor | Confirmation |
|--------|--------------|
| EQ Zone (50% of previous move) | ✅ |
| Supply Zone | ✅ |
| Bearish Trendline Resistance | ✅ |
| Liquidity above EQ | ✅ |
| CHoCH + BOS (Market Structure Shift) | ✅ |
---
## 🧠 Why This Setup Works:
This is a classic **"Premium Price Rejection"** in a bearish environment, combining:
- Institutional logic (EQ level)
- Structural resistance (previous BOS)
- Liquidity traps above
---
## 🧵 Summary:
- **Sell Limit:** 3341.5 – 3343
- **SL:** 3345
- **TP1:** 3338
- **TP2:** 3332.5
- **RR:** 1:3+
- **Style:** Smart Money / Liquidity + Structure Based
---
🔔 **Disclaimer:** This is not financial advice. Always do your own analysis and manage risk accordingly.
#gold #XAUUSD #smartmoney #tradingview #liquidity #supplydemand #priceaction #forex #structure
EURJPY Break of Structure, Retest and Fly5m - Monthly timeframes Bullish.
Price body candle closed and retested a 1H BB on 1H Timeframe.
Also retesting a 5M Bullish OB.
I want to wait for price to body candle close above the 15m BoS, create 3m/5m ChoCh, retest and look for Buys towards 172.665 (at the 1H OB or potentially 172.829, top of the 1H OB. SL under the 15m ChoCh.
How to Trade Smart Money Concepts (SMC)\ How to Trade Smart Money Concepts (SMC)\
\ This article explores the foundation, key tools, and practical insights of Smart Money Concepts — and why it’s worth your attention.\
In today's fast-changing financial landscape, Smart Money Concepts (SMC) has become a popular strategy among modern traders. But what is SMC exactly, and how can it improve your trading decisions? This article breaks it down in a simple, professional way for traders at all levels.
---
\ What Are Smart Money Concepts?\
SMC is a trading approach based on the belief that large institutions ("smart money") like banks and hedge funds control most of the market's movements. These institutions often move the market in ways that confuse or trap retail traders. The goal of SMC is to understand and follow the footsteps of these big players.
Instead of relying on simple patterns or indicators, SMC focuses on:
\ - Market structure\
\ - Supply and demand zones\
\ - Liquidity pools\
By aligning your trades with the behavior of smart money, you can position yourself more strategically in the market.
---
\ Key SMC Concepts Explained\
\ Order Blocks\
Order blocks are zones on the chart where large institutions have placed significant buy or sell orders. These zones often lead to strong price reactions and act as hidden support or resistance levels. Order blocks are considered more precise than traditional supply and demand areas.
Example: ()
\ Fair Value Gap (FVG)\
A Fair Value Gap occurs when price moves sharply in one direction, leaving a gap or imbalance in the price action. These areas often get filled later and can act as magnets for price.
In a bearish move, the FVG is the gap between the low of the previous candle and the high of the next one. In a bullish move, it's the reverse.
Example: ()
\ Timeframe Consideration\
If you can’t monitor charts during the day, avoid relying on 5–30 minute setups. Consider 4H or daily timeframes for clearer signals and more manageable trading decisions.
\ Liquidity\
Liquidity refers to price zones where lots of pending orders exist. These are usually at obvious highs, lows, or trendlines. Smart money often targets these areas to trigger stop-losses and generate movement.
One common tool to identify liquidity is a "pivot point," which is a candle with a lower low or higher high than its neighbors.
Example: ()
\ Break of Structure (BOS)\
BOS occurs when price breaks above or below a previous high or low, signaling a possible trend continuation.
Example: ()
\ Change of Character (ChoCH)\
ChoCH happens when the market changes direction. For example, if price breaks a higher low in an uptrend, it may signal a reversal.
Example: ()
Combined with BOS: ()
---
\ How SMC Compares to Wyckoff\
The idea of "smart money" isn't new. Richard D. Wyckoff, a pioneer in technical analysis, laid the foundation for understanding market cycles driven by institutions. His price cycle theory includes four phases:
\ 1. Accumulation\
Smart money buys while the public is unaware.
\ 2. Markup\
Price rises as smart money pushes the market.
\ 3. Distribution\
Smart money sells into public buying.
\ 4. Markdown\
Price falls as the cycle completes.
SMC borrows from this logic but focuses more on structure and liquidity zones. Still, the core idea is the same: understand what big players are doing, and follow them.
\ For deeper insights into Wyckoff, explore additional resources focused on accumulation/distribution cycles.\
---
\ Summary\
Smart Money Concepts give traders a deeper look into market mechanics. By focusing on order blocks, fair value gaps, liquidity, and structure breaks, SMC helps identify high-probability trade setups based on institutional behavior.
It may seem complex at first, but once you understand the basics, SMC can become a powerful tool in your trading strategy. Whether you’re new or experienced, aligning with smart money can improve your edge in the market.
What Is a Change of Character (CHoCH) and How Can You Trade It?What Is a Change of Character (CHoCH) and How Can You Trade It?
Navigating the nuances of Smart Money Concept (SMC) trading requires a keen understanding of market signals like the Change of Character (CHoCH). This concept can help traders detect and react to potential trend reversals. Today, we’ll delve into the mechanics of CHoCHs, explaining how they manifest in different market conditions and how they can be strategically leveraged for trading decisions.
Understanding Breaks of Structure
Understanding Breaks of Structure (BOS) is essential for traders before delving into concepts like Change of Character (CHoCH). A BOS in trading signifies a continuation within the current trend and is marked by a clear deviation from established swing points that indicate previous highs and lows.
In the context of an uptrend, a BOS is identified when the price exceeds a previous high without moving below the most recent higher low. This action confirms that the upward momentum is still strong and likely to continue as buyers push the market to new heights.
Similarly, in a downtrend, a BOS occurs when prices drop below a previous low without breaking the prior lower high, suggesting that sellers remain in control and the downward trend is set to persist.
By recognising these points where the market extends beyond its former bounds, traders can confirm that the current trend is robust and act accordingly. This foundational concept of BOS not only helps in assessing trend strength but also sets the stage for understanding more complex patterns like CHoCH, where the focus shifts from trend continuation to potential trend reversals.
CHoCH Trading Meaning
In trading, a Change of Character (CHoCH) signals a potential shift in market dynamics, often indicating a reversal from the prevailing trend. This concept is particularly valuable as it helps traders discern when the momentum is shifting, offering a strategic point to consider adjusting their positions.
A CHoCH occurs when there's a noticeable deviation in the market's price trend. For example, in a bullish trend characterised by a series of higher highs and higher lows, a CHoCH is indicated by the price failing to set a new high and subsequently falling below a recent higher low. This suggests that buyers are losing control, and a bearish trend could be emerging.
Similarly, during a bearish trend marked by lower highs and lower lows, a bullish CHoCH would occur if the price unexpectedly breaks above a recent lower high. This break indicates that sellers are losing their grip, and a bullish trend may be starting.
The Significance of CHoCHs Across Timeframes
The fractal nature of financial markets means that patterns and behaviours recur across various timeframes, each providing unique insights and implications for trading. Understanding CHoCHs in different timeframes is crucial for traders to effectively align their strategies with both short-term opportunities and long-term trend shifts.
In intraday trading, where decisions are made on lower timeframes (like minutes or hours), a CHoCH can signal a possible short-term trend reversal. For example, if a currency pair in a downtrend on a 15-minute chart suddenly posts a higher high, this could indicate a weakening of the bearish momentum, suggesting a potential bullish reversal.
Traders might use this information to close short positions or to consider a long position, capitalising on the emerging upward trend. These short-term CHoCHs allow traders to respond quickly to market changes, potentially securing returns before larger market shifts occur.
Conversely, CHoCHs observed on higher timeframes, such as daily or weekly charts, are particularly significant because they can indicate a shift in the broader market trend that might last days, weeks, or even months. Such changes can then be used by both long and short-term traders to adjust their positioning and directional bias.
How to Identify a CHoCH
The initial step to identify a CHoCH in trading involves clearly defining the existing trend on a specific timeframe. This is done by marking the significant swing highs and lows that delineate the trend's progress. These points should represent somewhat meaningful retracements in the price, providing clear markers of trend continuity or potential reversal points.
According to the Smart Money Concept (SMC) theory, the integrity of an uptrend is maintained as long as the price does not trade through the most recent significant higher low. Conversely, a downtrend is considered intact if the price does not surpass the most recent significant lower high. Therefore, traders focus their attention on these critical points.
To identify a CHoCH, traders watch for a break in these crucial high or low points. For instance, in an uptrend, a bearish CHoCH is indicated when the price achieves a higher high but then reverses to descend below the previous significant higher low.
Similarly, in a downtrend, a bullish CHoCH occurs when the price drops to a lower low before reversing to break above the previous significant lower high, setting a new high. Both types of breaks signal a potential reversal in the trend direction.
How to Trade a CHoCH
When trading a CHoCH, it’s essential to recognise that it should be integrated with other aspects of the SMC framework to get the best results. This includes the use of order blocks and imbalances, which are key components in identifying potential reversals.
Order Blocks and Imbalances
An order block is essentially a substantial consolidation area where significant buying or selling has occurred, and prices often revisit these zones before reversing. These blocks can be seen as levels where institutional orders were previously concentrated.
An imbalance, also known as a fair value gap, occurs when the price moves sharply up or down, leaving a zone that has not been traded extensively. Price often returns to these gaps to 'fill' them, establishing equilibrium before a potential reversal happens.
In practice, traders can look for a sequence where the price first approaches an order block and begins to fill any existing imbalances. This setup increases confidence in a potential reversal. As the price meets these criteria and a CHoCH occurs, this indicates that the influence of the order block is likely to initiate a price reversal.
Practical Example on GBP/USD
Consider the 4-hour chart of the GBP/USD pair above. We see the pair encounter an order block on the left, one that’s visible on the daily chart. As the price interacts with this block, it begins to retrace, attempting to fill the imbalance but moves away. Eventually, the price completes the fill of the imbalance and meets the previously established order block.
Switching to a 1-hour timeframe, this scenario unfolds similarly. After reaching the order block on the 4-hour chart, another CHoCH occurs, signalling the start of a new uptrend. This lower timeframe CHoCH, following the meeting of the order block, corroborates the potential for a reversal initiated by the higher timeframe dynamics.
This example illustrates how CHoCHs can be effectively utilised across different timeframes, tying back to the fractal nature of markets discussed earlier. By recognising these patterns and understanding their interaction with order blocks and imbalances, traders can strategically position themselves to capitalise on potential market reversals, aligning their trades with deeper market forces at play.
CHoCH vs Market Structure Shift
A Market Structure Shift (MSS) is a specific type of Change of Character that includes additional signals suggesting a potential trend reversal. Unlike a straightforward CHoCH that typically indicates a trend is shifting but may also be a false break, an MSS can be seen as a higher confluence CHoCH. An MSS occurs after the market first makes a key movement contrary to the established trend—forming a lower high in an uptrend or a higher low in a downtrend—without plotting a higher high or lower low.
Following these preliminary signals, an MSS is confirmed when there is a decisive break through a significant swing point accompanied by a strong displacement (i.e. impulse) move, creating a CHoCH in the process. This sequence not only reflects that the prevailing trend has paused but also that a new trend in the opposite direction is establishing itself.
Due to these additional confirmations, an MSS can offer added confirmation for traders, indicating a stronger likelihood that a new, sustainable trend has begun. This makes the MSS particularly valuable for traders looking for more substantiated signals in their trading strategy.
The Bottom Line
The concept of a CHoCH is instrumental in navigating the complexities of SMC trading. By identifying these crucial market signals, traders may align their strategies to capitalise on market movements efficiently.
FAQs
What Is CHoCH in Trading?
In trading, CHoCH is a technical observation that signifies a change in the trend's character, where the price movement breaks from its established pattern of highs and lows, suggesting a potential reversal or substantial shift in the market's direction.
What Is CHoCH in SMC Trading?
In Smart Money Concept (SMC) trading, a Change of Character (CHoCH) refers to a clear shift in market behaviour that indicates a potential reversal of the prevailing trend. This concept is used by traders to detect early signs of a momentum shift that might lead to significant changes in price direction, enabling strategic adjustments to their trading positions.
What Is a CHoCH in the Market Structure?
A CHoCH in market structure is identified when there is an observable deviation from established price patterns — specifically when new highs or lows contradict the current trend. It signifies that the previous market sentiment is weakening, and a new opposite trend may be starting, prompting traders to reassess their strategies.
How Do You Identify a CHoCH?
Identifying a CHoCH involves monitoring significant swing highs and lows for breaks that are contrary to the existing trend. For instance, in an uptrend, a CHoCH would be indicated by a failure to reach a new high followed by a drop below the recent higher low, suggesting a shift to a bearish outlook.
What Is ChoCH vs BOS in Trading?
While both CHoCH and Break of Structure (BOS) are critical in assessing market dynamics, they serve different purposes. CHoCH indicates a potential trend reversal by highlighting a significant change in the price pattern. In contrast, a BOS indicates a continuation of the current trend by showing the price surpassing previous significant highs or lows, reinforcing the ongoing direction.
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Learn Best Change of Character CHoCH Model in Trading with SMC
Most of the SMC traders get Change of Character CHoCH WRONG!
In this article, I will share with you Change of Character models that have a low accuracy and better to be avoided.
I will teach you the best CHoCH model for Forex Gold trading and show you how to identify it easily.
Let's start with the basic theory first and discuss what Change of Character signifies.
Change of Character in Bearish Trend
In a downtrend, Change of Character CHoCH is an important event that signifies a violation of a bearish trend.
CHoCH is confirmed when the price breaks and closes above the level of the last lower high.
Above, is a text book Change of Character model in a bearish trend.
For the newbie traders, such a price action provides a strong signal to buy while it fact it is NOT .
One crucial thing is missing in this model to confirm a bullish reversal.
According to basic trend analysis rules, we say that the market trend is bullish if the price forms a bullish impulse, retraces and sets a Higher Low HH , forms a new bullish impulse with a new Higher High HH.
Only then, we can say that the market is trading in up trend.
CHoCH model above confirms a bearish trend violation BUT it does not confirm a trend change.
Such a model may easily signify a deeper correction.
Look what happened with GBPNZD.
Though the price formed a confirmed bearish CHoCH, it was a false signal and just an extended correction.
That's a perfect bullish reversal model.
It combines CHoCH and conditions for a bullish trend.
Such a union is extremely accurate in predicting up movements.
Examine a price action on USDJPY.
Not only the price formed a confirmed CHoCH but also we see a start of a new bullish trend.
Change of Character in Bullish Trend
In an uptrend, Change of Character CHoCH is a significant event that signifies a violation of a bullish trend.
CHoCH is confirmed when the price breaks and closes below the level of the last higher low.
Above is a typical model of a bearish CHoCH.
For many traders, that is the signal to open short.
However, it is not that accurate and one important component is missing there.
According to basic price action rules, the market trend is bearish
if the price forms at least 2 bearish impulses with Lower Lows LL and a pullback between them with a Lower High LH.
Only when these 3 conditions are met, a bearish trend is confirmed .
Perfect bearish Change of Character model should include both CHoCH and a bearish trend price action. That will confirm a violation of a bullish trend and start of a new bearish trend.
EURCAD has a very strong potential to continue falling:
not only we see a valid bearish Change of Character but also
a start of a new bearish trend based on a price action.
Next time when you identify CHoCH on forex market, make sure that you check the preceding price action. It will help you to more accurate assess reversal probabilities and make a wiser trading decision.
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AAVEUSDT → A false breakdown provokes a change of characterBINANCE:AAVEUSDT.P maintains a bullish market structure. The coin is consolidating, with bulls trying to hold their ground above the key support line.
Against the backdrop of a correction, the price is testing liquidity, with a false breakdown of support provoking a change in character to bullish within the local timeframe. Bulls are trying to maintain the bullish structure.
The price is breaking through the resistance of local consolidation, forming a change in character, but before growth, the market may close the gestalt in the form of an order block or liquidity located in the 249.5 zone.
Support levels: 249.11, 240.0
Resistance levels: 274.27, 280.47
Technically, the coin looks quite good and promising overall. If the bulls hold their ground in the 249-250 zone, then in the short to medium term, we could see good movement with the possibility of new highs...
Best regards, R. Linda!






















