Trendline Liquidity Grabbing – Smart Money Tactics!🚀 What Just Happened?
A trendline was respected multiple times, creating a strong support level. However, instead of bouncing immediately, price broke below the trendline, grabbing liquidity before reversing with strong momentum!
🔍 Why Does This Happen?
📌 Retail Trap: Many traders place buy orders at the trendline and stop losses just below. Smart money hunts these stops to accumulate liquidity.
📌 Fake Breakout: The price temporarily dips below to trigger stop losses & weak hands before the real move begins.
📌 Confirmation Reversal: After liquidity is taken, strong buying pressure pushes the price back up!
📊 Lesson for Traders:
✅ Don't panic when a trendline breaks—watch for liquidity grabs!
✅ Wait for confirmation before entering trades.
✅ Use this as a sniper entry strategy for high RR trades.
🔥 Master this, and you'll stop falling for fake breakouts! 💰
X-indicator
10 Technical Indicators Every Trader Uses for Trading10 Technical Indicators Every Trader Uses for Trading
Technical analysis indicators are essential tools for traders to analyse every aspect of market movements, including market trends, momentum, volume, and volatility. This article explores ten key technical indicators you could add to your toolkit. Read detailing definitions, uses, and the signals they provide to potentially enhance trading strategies.
To get started with these indicators, head over to FXOpen.
Ichimoku Cloud
The Ichimoku Cloud, also known as Ichimoku Kinko Hyo, is a comprehensive technical analysis tool designed to provide a clear picture of market trends, momentum, and support and resistance levels. Considered one of the best stock market indicators, this Japanese tool is widely used for its ability to offer a panoramic view of the market.
Definition
The Ichimoku Cloud comprises five main components:
- Tenkan-sen (Conversion Line): The average of the highest high and the lowest low over the past 9 periods.
- Kijun-sen (Base Line): The average of the highest high and the lowest low over the past 26 periods.
- Senkou Span A (Leading Span A): The average of the Tenkan-sen/Conversion Line and Kijun-sen/Base Line, offset by 26 periods ahead.
- Senkou Span B (Leading Span B): The average of the highest high and lowest low over the past 52 periods, plotted 26 periods ahead.
- Chikou Span (Lagging Span): The most recent closing price positioned 26 periods behind.
These components create the "Kumo" or cloud, which projects future support and resistance levels.
Signals
1. TK Cross:
- Bullish Signal: Tenkan-sen crosses above Kijun-sen above the Kumo.
- Bearish Signal: Tenkan-sen crosses below Kijun-sen below the Kumo.
2. Kumo Breakout:
- Bullish Signal: Price breaks above the Kumo.
- Bearish Signal: Price breaks below the Kumo.
3. Chikou Span Confirmation:
- Bullish Signal: Chikou Span is above the price and Kumo.
- Bearish Signal: Chikou Span is below the price and Kumo.
4. Kumo Twist:
- Indicates a potential trend reversal when the cloud changes colour (from red to green for bullish, green to red for bearish).
For cryptocurrency* trading, the standard settings (9, 26, 52) are often adjusted to 20, 60, 120 to accommodate the 24/7 trading cycle. More details on using Ichimoku in crypto* markets can be found on the FXOpen dedicated page.
Fibonacci Retracements
Fibonacci retracements are a technical tool that helps traders identify potential areas of support and resistance in a given market. This method is based on the Fibonacci sequence, a series of numbers where each number is the sum of the two preceding ones. In trading, key Fibonacci levels are 38.2%, 50%, and 61.8%, which are used to analyse potential reversal points.
Definition
Fibonacci retracements are widely used stock chart indicators that help traders determine where the price might reverse during a correction in a prevailing trend. The tool involves plotting horizontal lines at these key levels, calculated from a significant high to a significant low when the price corrects after a strong downward movement or from a significant low to a significant high when the price corrects after a strong upward movement.
Signals
1. Support and Resistance Levels:
- 38.2%, 50%, and 61.8% Levels: These are the primary retracement levels where the price is likely to reverse.
2. Trend Identification:
- Uptrend: Place the tool from a swing low to a swing high.
- Downtrend: Place the tool from a swing high to a swing low.
3. Trade Setup:
- Entry Points: Traders often look for the price to reach and react at these levels before entering a trade.
- Stop Loss: Typically set just beyond the nearest Fibonacci level the price targets.
- Take Profit: Targets are often placed at the next Fibonacci level.
For cryptocurrency* trading, settings may vary. We provide a detailed explanation on using Fibonacci retracements in crypto markets with adjustments to fit this unique trading environment.
Volume Weighted Average Price (VWAP)
The Volume Weighted Average Price (VWAP) is a technical indicator that provides the average price an asset has traded at throughout a particular period (usually one day), weighted by volume. It offers a more comprehensive view than simple moving averages by incorporating both price and volume data and is considered one of the best intraday trading indicators.
Calculation
VWAP is calculated using the formula:
- VWAP = Sum(Typical Price * Volume) / SumVolume,
where Typical Price is the average of the high, low, and close prices for each period.
Signals
1. Assessing Fair Value: A price above VWAP indicates overvaluation, while a price below suggests undervaluation.
2. Market Sentiment and Trends:
- Bullish Trend: Price above VWAP.
- Bearish Trend: Price below VWAP.
3. Support and Resistance Levels:
- Support: VWAP acts as support in a bullish market.
- Resistance: VWAP acts as resistance in a bearish market.
4. Entry Quality:
- Entry near VWAP suggests buying or selling at a reasonable market value.
For cryptocurrency* trading, the VWAP settings remain similar to traditional markets, but the tool's application may vary due to the 24/7 nature of crypto* trading. Check out FXOpen’s page on how to use VWAP in crypto markets for more information.
Accumulation/Distribution Indicator (A/D)
The Accumulation/Distribution (A/D) indicator is a volume-based tool that assesses the cumulative flow of money into and out of an asset. It’s widely used as an indicator for day trading. It helps traders determine the underlying buying and selling pressure, making it one of the valuable forex and stock indicators for analysing potential price trends and reversals.
Calculation
The A/D indicator calculates the Money Flow Multiplier (MFM), which ranges from -1 to 1 based on the closing price's position within the period’s high-low range. If the closing price is in the upper half, the MFM is positive; if in the lower half, it is negative. This multiplier is then multiplied by the period’s volume to get the Money Flow Volume (MFV). The A/D line represents the cumulative sum of these MFVs over time, reflecting net volume flow.
Signals
Identifying Reversals:
- Bullish Divergence: Price makes lower lows while the A/D line makes higher lows, indicating waning selling pressure and a potential price increase.
- Bearish Divergence: Price makes higher highs while the A/D line makes lower highs, suggesting decreasing buying pressure and a possible price decline.
Trend Confirmation:
- Uptrend: Both price and A/D line rise, indicating sustained buying pressure.
- Downtrend: Both price and A/D line fall, showing continuous selling pressure.
Trading Breakouts:
- The A/D indicator can confirm breakouts beyond support or resistance levels. A breakout in price aligned with a similar movement in the A/D line signals the start of a new trend.
Average True Range (ATR)
The Average True Range (ATR) is a technical tool used to measure market volatility. It reflects the degree of price movement over a specified period, helping traders understand the level of volatility in an asset.
Calculation
ATR calculation includes several steps. Find more details in our article.
Signals
ATR does not indicate the price direction but rather the degree of price movement. Traders use ATR to make informed decisions about stop-loss levels and to gauge the potential for market moves. It’s one of the popular day trading indicators.
1. Volatility Measurement:
- A high ATR value indicates high volatility, while a low ATR suggests low volatility. This helps traders adjust their strategies based on market conditions.
2. Setting Stop-Loss Levels:
- Traders often set stop-loss orders at a multiple of the ATR value. For instance, a stop loss might be placed at twice the ATR below the entry price in a long position to account for volatility and reduce the risk of being stopped out prematurely.
3. Identifying Potential Breakouts:
- Sudden increases in ATR values can indicate the start of a new trend or a significant price move, alerting traders to potential trading opportunities.
Donchian Channel Indicator
The Donchian Channel is a technical analysis tool designed to identify volatility, market trends, price reversals, and potential breakout points. It consists of three lines based on the highest high and lowest low over a specified period, typically 20 periods.
Definition
- Upper Boundary: The highest high over N periods.
- Lower Boundary: The lowest low over N periods.
- Middle Line: The average of the upper and lower boundaries.
These lines help traders determine market volatility and identify potential buy and sell signals based on price movements.
Signals
1. Tracking Volatility:
- Widening Channel: Indicates high volatility.
- Narrowing Channel: Indicates low volatility.
2. Identifying Trends:
- Bullish Trend: The upper boundary rises while the lower boundary stays flat.
- Bearish Trend: The lower boundary falls while the upper boundary stays flat.
3. Trading Breakouts:
- Above Middle Line: Potential bullish signal.
- Below Middle Line: Potential bearish signal.
4. Trading Reversals:
- In range-bound markets, the upper boundary acts as resistance and the lower boundary as support, guiding traders to close or open positions accordingly.
Chaikin Money Flow (CMF)
The Chaikin Money Flow (CMF) is a volume-weighted average indicator measuring the buying and selling pressure on an asset over a specific period, typically 20 or 21 periods. It combines price and volume data to provide insights into market sentiment and potential price movements, making it one of the key forex and stock market technical indicators.
Calculation
The CMF calculation involves three main steps:
- Money Flow Multiplier (MFM): (Close - Low) - (High - Close) / High - Low. This value ranges from -1 to 1 and is positive when the closing price is in the upper half of the period's range and negative when in the lower half.
- Money Flow Volume (MFV): Calculated by multiplying the MFM by the period's volume.
- CMF Value: The sum of MFVs over the period divided by the sum of volumes over the same period.
The resulting CMF values fluctuate between -1 and +1, providing a visual representation of money flow into and out of the asset.
Signals
1. Trend Strength:
- Positive CMF: Indicates buying pressure, suggesting a bullish trend.
- Negative CMF: Indicates selling pressure, suggesting a bearish trend.
2. Trend Reversal:
- Bullish Divergence: Occurs when the price makes lower lows, but the CMF makes higher lows, indicating a potential reversal to the upside.
- Bearish Divergence: Occurs when the price makes higher highs, but the CMF makes lower highs, indicating a potential reversal to the downside.
3. Breakout Confirmation:
- A breakout in price above/below a key level accompanied by a breakout in the CMF value above/below previous highs/lows can confirm the strength of the move.
Average Directional Movement Index (ADX)
The Average Directional Movement Index (ADX) is an indicator traders apply on a chart to measure the strength of a trend. It is particularly useful for traders who want to determine whether a market is trending or ranging.
Definition
The ADX consists of a single line that fluctuates between 0 and 100. It does not indicate the direction of the trend but rather its strength. The standard ADX setting is a 14-period, but this can be adjusted to suit different trading styles.
- 0-25: Indicates a weak or non-existent trend.
- 25-50: Signals a strong trend.
- 50-75: Suggests a very strong trend.
- 75-100: Reflects an extremely strong trend.
Signals
1. Trend Strength:
- A rising ADX value above 25 indicates a strengthening trend, regardless of whether it is bullish or bearish.
- A falling ADX below 25 suggests a weakening trend or a ranging market.
2. Trend Momentum:
- When ADX peaks and starts to decline, it can signal a potential weakening of the current trend, indicating that traders might consider closing or reducing positions.
Combining ADX with DI Lines
The ADX is often used in conjunction with the Positive Directional Indicator (+DI) and Negative Directional Indicator (-DI) lines:
- +DI > -DI: Suggests a bullish trend.
- -DI > +DI: Indicates a bearish trend.
A rising ADX alongside these signals confirms the strength of the current trend.
Traders use this indicator to enter trades. For this, they look for ADX to rise above 25 to confirm the beginning of a strong trend before entering trades in the direction of the trend indicated by the +DI and -DI lines.
Commodity Channel Index (CCI)
The Commodity Channel Index (CCI) is a momentum-based indicator that measures the deviation of an asset's price from its historical average. It helps traders identify potential overbought or oversold conditions, trend reversals, and divergence signals.
Calculation
- CCI is calculated using the formula:
CCI = (Typical Price − SMA) / 0.015 * Mean Deviation,
where:
- Typical Price = (High + Low + Close) / 3
- SMA = Simple Moving Average of the Typical Price
- Mean Deviation = Average of the absolute differences between the Typical Price and its SMA
The constant 0.015 normalises the CCI values, ensuring that approximately 70-80% of the values fall between -100 and +100.
Signals
1. Overbought and Oversold Conditions:
- Above +100: Indicates the asset is overbought, suggesting a potential price pullback or a downward reversal.
- Below -100: Indicates the asset is oversold, suggesting a potential pullback or an upward reversal.
2. Trend Reversals:
- Bullish Divergence: When the market is making lower lows while the CCI makes higher lows, potentially preceding a bullish reversal.
- Bearish Divergence: When the market is making higher highs while the CCI makes lower highs, potentially preceding a bullish reversal.
3. Trade Entries:
- Traders consider entering long positions when CCI breaks above -100 from below.
- Conversely, traders might enter short positions when CCI moves below +100 from above.
Keltner Channel
The Keltner Channel is a popular technical analysis tool used to determine market trends, price volatility, and potential reversal points. It consists of three lines: an exponential moving average (EMA) in the middle, and upper and lower bands calculated by adding and subtracting a multiple of the Average True Range (ATR) to the EMA.
Definition
The standard settings for Keltner Channels typically use a 20-period EMA and an ATR multiplier of 2. These settings can be adjusted to suit different trading styles and timeframes, making Keltner Channels effective technical indicators for day trading. The EMA provides a smoothed average price, while the ATR measures volatility. The bands expand and contract based on market volatility, creating a channel around the price.
Signals
1. Trend Identification:
- Upward-Sloping Channel: Indicates a bullish trend.
- Downward-Sloping Channel: Indicates a bearish trend.
- Flat Channel: Suggests a ranging market.
2. Dynamic Support and Resistance:
- The upper and lower bands of the Channels serve as dynamic levels of support and resistance. Price action within these bands can help traders identify potential entry and exit points.
3. Breakout Signals:
- Bullish Breakout: Price closing above the upper band.
- Bearish Breakout: Price closing below the lower band.
The Bottom Line
These ten technical indicators could be added to your toolkit to potentially enhance your trading strategies. By understanding their signals and applications, traders can better navigate the worlds of forex, stocks, commodities, and cryptocurrencies*. Open an FXOpen account today to access advanced trading tools and start implementing these indicators in live markets.
FAQs
Which Types of Trading Indicators Are Common to Use?
4 common types of technical indicators include trend (Moving Averages, ADX), momentum (RSI, Stochastic Oscillator), volume (On-Balance Volume, VWAP), and volatility (Bollinger Bands, ATR) indicators. These help traders analyse trends, momentum, volume, and volatility.
How Many Indicators Should a Trader Use?
Traders often use 2-3 indicators to avoid overcomplication and conflicting signals. Combining different types of indicators can provide a more comprehensive analysis.
Why Do Indicators Fail?
Indicators can fail due to market volatility, news events, and their inherent lag. They may also produce false signals in choppy markets. Combining indicators with risk management can potentially improve reliability.
Is It Better to Trade Without Indicators?
Trading without indicators, known as price action trading, can be effective for experienced traders. However, using a few indicators can provide valuable insights and confirm price movements for most traders.
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.
*At FXOpen UK, Cryptocurrency CFDs are only available for trading by those clients categorised as Professional clients under FCA Rules. They are not available for trading by Retail clients.
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.
What I think trading is...
Hello, traders.
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🚨 Bitcoin update! 🚨 BTC rejected at MA50 (4h) inside a Channel Down pattern. If history repeats, we could see a Lower Low at 95K (-10.7%), aligning with MA100 (1d) support. RSI (4h) is confirming bearish momentum.
🔥 Trading Plan: Sell now before further downside!
I was thinking about how to say it, and I came up with this idea.
Thank you again.
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#BTCUSDT 1M
As shown in the chart, it has risen a lot, so it is natural to feel downward pressure.
No one knows how big this downward pressure will be.
However, what I can tell you is the flow of funds.
To see a more detailed flow, you need to look at the gap occurrence status on the 1D chart, but when looking at the overall flow of funds, it is true that a lot of funds are flowing into the coin market.
Selling all of this inflow of funds means that you will not be able to overcome the volatility in the upcoming bull market and will rather increase the probability of suffering losses.
The reason is that the average purchase price is likely to be set too high and is likely to be located in the volatility range.
Therefore, you need to respond according to your investment style.
In other words, if your investment style is one that wants to trade quickly and urgently, a strategy that sells whenever it shows signs of falling would be appropriate to gain profits.
If not, if you have a longer-term outlook or trade mainly in spot transactions, I think it would be better to leave coins (tokens) corresponding to profits rather than selling all of them so that you can more easily purchase them in the future bull market.
Leaving a coin (token) corresponding to the profit means a coin (token) with a purchase principal of 0.
In other words, it means that when the price rises after purchase, the purchase principal is sold.
In that sense, when looking at the BTCUSDT 1M chart, you can see that the Fibonacci ratio point of 1.618 (89050.0) is a very important support and resistance area.
#BTCUSDT 1D
This volatility period is expected to continue until January 31.
Therefore, it is expected that the key will be whether there is support near 101947.24 after this volatility period.
If it falls without support near 101947.24, it is expected that the trend will be determined again by touching the M-Signal indicator on the 1W chart.
If you have been reading my ideas, you will understand that you should not try to create a trading strategy by analyzing charts.
As I mentioned earlier, you should create a trading strategy that suits your investment style with the information obtained from chart analysis.
That is why the opinion that it will fall now and sell everything can be interpreted differently by different people, so you need to be careful.
Some people are currently making profits and others are losing money.
Those who are making profits will have the luxury of waiting even if the price falls, and those who are losing money may be suffering from psychological pressure.
The information I am giving you is to provide information on how to respond to all of these people.
In that sense, you need to focus on the price that I am talking about, that is, the support and resistance points or sections.
If your average purchase price is below the support and resistance points or sections that I am talking about, you can check the downward trend and intensity and judge the situation.
If not, you need to create a response strategy based on how much cash you currently have.
If your current cash holding is less than 20% of your total investment and you feel unstable psychologically, it is a good idea to sell some of it to secure cash.
This will allow you to secure the ability to purchase more even if the price falls, so you will be able to secure a certain level of psychological stability even if the price falls.
I think trading is about responding to your investment style and psychological state in this way.
Therefore, you should calmly look at your current psychological state, check your cash holdings, and create a response strategy that suits your investment style.
This is the strategy I can tell you.
-
Thank you for reading to the end.
I hope you have a successful trade.
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Pivot Points Part 1: Understanding the PivotWelcome to this two-part series on one of the oldest and most reliable tools in short-term trading: pivot points .
First developed in the trading pits of Chicago, pivot points gave traders a quick and consistent way to identify potential turning points for the trading day. Despite the evolution of markets from open-outcry to electronic trading, pivot points have stood the test of time. They remain a valuable tool for traders, providing a clear roadmap to navigate intraday price action.
In Part 1, we’ll focus on the pivot point itself—what it is, why it’s so effective, and three ways to incorporate it into your trading. In Part 2, we’ll build on this foundation by delving into the support and resistance levels derived from the pivot.
What Is the Pivot Point?
At its core, the pivot point is a calculated price level based on the previous session’s high, low, and close:
Pivot Point (PP) = (High + Low + Close) / 3
This level acts as the day’s central reference point, dividing the market into two zones. Prices trading above the pivot point generally suggest bullish sentiment, while prices below it indicate bearish sentiment.
Day traders use the pivot point to gauge market bias for the session. If the price opens above the pivot and holds there, it often signals that buyers are in control. Conversely, if the price opens below the pivot and stays below it, sellers likely dominate.
The pivot point frequently acts as a magnet for price action, with the market often testing it multiple times during the day. This dynamic adaptation to the prior session’s activity makes it especially useful for short-term traders seeking actionable levels.
Pivot Point: S&P 500 5min Candle Chart
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
The Key Advantage: Objectivity
One of the standout features of pivot points is their objectivity. Unlike other technical tools that rely on subjective settings or interpretations, pivot points are calculated using a straightforward formula. This standardisation is a crucial advantage because it ensures that many traders are watching the same levels.
This widespread attention gives pivot points their strength. They act as a universal benchmark, creating a self-reinforcing cycle: when many traders anticipate reactions around a pivot point, the likelihood of significant price action at that level increases.
This objectivity also benefits newer traders by providing a clear, consistent framework for interpreting price movements. Pivot points eliminate guesswork, allowing traders to focus on developing strategies around reliable levels.
Three Ways to Use the Pivot Point in Your Trading
1. Developing a Bias
Where the price opens relative to the pivot point can set the tone for the session. In markets with a defined open and close, such as equities, the opening price’s position above or below the pivot point is a key indicator of sentiment.
For 24-hour markets like forex, the calculation is based on the high, low, and close from the New York session—the most significant closing price. While the opening price in these markets is less critical, understanding where the Asian session has traded relative to the pivot can provide valuable insights into sentiment and potential momentum for the day ahead.
Example: Tesla
In the below example, Tesla opens the session by gapping through the pivot point on the open. This is then followed by a period of consolidation above the pivot point – setting a bullish bias for the session.
Tesla 5min Candle Chart
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
2. Recognising Price Patterns Around the Pivot
Price action around the pivot point can reveal important trading opportunities:
• Bounce: A strong bounce off the pivot suggests it’s being respected as a significant level, often leading to continuation in the direction of the bounce.
• Break and Retest: If the price breaks through the pivot and then retests it as support (in an uptrend) or resistance (in a downtrend), it can offer a reliable entry point.
• Choppy Action: Repeated crossings of the pivot without clear direction indicate indecision—often a signal to step back and wait for clearer trends to emerge.
Combining these price patterns with candlestick signals, like bullish engulfing patterns or bearish pin bars, can add further confidence to your setups.
Example:
Here we see a classic ‘break and retest’ pattern form around the pivot on the FTSE 100 5min candle chart. Having initially held the pivot as support, the market breaks below the pivot and the retraces to retest – using the pivot as resistance and creating a well-defined short setup.
FTSE 100 5min Candle Chart
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
3. Enhancing Context with VWAP
Combining pivot points with the Volume-Weighted Average Price (VWAP) can give traders an additional layer of confirmation. Both tools are objective, widely used, and calculated from historical price data, making them a natural pairing.
If both the pivot point and VWAP align as support or resistance, it strengthens the level’s importance.
Divergence between the two can provide insight into whether short-term momentum might conflict with longer-term trends.
By blending these tools, traders gain a more comprehensive view of market dynamics.
Example:
In this example we see price action on EUR/USD across two days. The first day sees the market make steady gains as prices hold above the daily pivot and VWAP. The second day shows a more mixed start with prices chopping back and forth on either side before finally establishing a foothold above VWAP and the daily pivot – leading to steady gains during European trading.
EUR/USD 5min Candle Chart
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
Final Thoughts
The pivot point is more than just a calculated level—it’s a bridge between historical price action and current sentiment. Its simplicity, objectivity, and widespread use make it an indispensable tool for day traders. Whether you’re gauging market bias, identifying key price patterns, or combining it with other tools like VWAP, the pivot point provides a solid foundation for making informed decisions.
In Part 2 of this series, we’ll explore how the support and resistance levels derived from the pivot point have the potential to add further precision to your short-term trading.
Disclaimer: This is for information and learning purposes only. The information provided does not constitute investment advice nor take into account the individual financial circumstances or objectives of any investor. Any information that may be provided relating to past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results or performance. Social media channels are not relevant for UK residents.
Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 83% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how spread bets and CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
what is the most effective indicator?There isn’t a single "most effective" trading indicator that works for everyone, as effectiveness depends on your trading style, strategy, and the market conditions. However, some indicators are considered more versatile or reliable when used correctly. Here's a breakdown to help you choose:
Most Effective for Trends:
Moving Averages (EMA or SMA):
Simple and effective for identifying trends.
Works well in trending markets but less reliable in sideways or choppy markets.
Pro Tip: Combine short-term and long-term moving averages for crossovers.
Ichimoku Cloud:
A comprehensive indicator that provides trend direction, support/resistance, and momentum.
Effective but requires practice to interpret correctly.
Most Effective for Overbought/Oversold Levels:
Relative Strength Index (RSI):
One of the most popular and effective indicators for spotting overbought or oversold conditions.
Works well in both trending and range-bound markets when combined with other tools.
Stochastic Oscillator:
Similar to RSI but includes %K and %D lines for crossovers.
Effective for momentum confirmation.
Most Effective for Volatility:
Bollinger Bands:
Great for identifying periods of high or low volatility and potential breakout zones.
Useful for sideways (range-bound) markets and trend reversals.
Average True Range (ATR):
Excellent for setting stop-loss levels and identifying market volatility trends.
Works well in conjunction with trend indicators.
Most Effective for Momentum:
Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD):
Ideal for spotting trend reversals and momentum shifts.
Effective when used with a confirmation indicator like RSI.
Parabolic SAR:
Simple for identifying trend direction and potential exit points.
Works best in trending markets.
Combination for Higher Effectiveness:
Trend + Momentum: Combine EMA with MACD to identify trends and entry/exit points.
Overbought/Oversold + Volume: Use RSI with Volume Indicators (e.g., OBV) to confirm breakouts or reversals.
Volatility + Trend: Use Bollinger Bands with Ichimoku Cloud to spot breakout opportunities with clear trend guidance.
How to Trade Commodities? Five Popular StrategiesHow to Trade Commodities? Five Popular Strategies
Whether you're a seasoned trader or new to the world of commodities, understanding the various available strategies can play an important role in building an effective trading plan. In this article, we’ll explain five commodity trading strategies that you can get started with today.
Commodity Trading Explained
Commodity trading refers to the buying and selling of raw materials and industrial components in the financial markets. While forex trading deals with currencies, commodities trading primarily deals with physical goods. Typically, commodities fall into four broad categories: energy, metals, agricultural, and environmental.
There are many reasons why people buy and sell commodities. Some trade them as a way of hedging against inflation, particularly precious metals. Others might use them to take advantage of a booming economy, as demand for energy, metal, and food usually increases in times of economic growth.
Commodity trading is a practice that dates back thousands of years. In the past, early civilisations had to physically buy and store these goods, but nowadays, there are many types of commodity trading available.
If you’re speculating on commodities in the 21st century, you’re much more likely to be trading contracts for difference (CFDs), the same as we offer at FXOpen. Additionally, you can gain exposure to commodities through stock and exchange-traded fund CFDs, which you’ll also find on our platform.
Understanding CFD Trading in Commodities
Commodity Contracts for Difference (CFDs) are financial derivatives that allow traders to speculate on the price movements of commodities, such as oil, gold, or wheat. They offer traders a way to engage with the commodity market without the need to physically own the underlying assets.
When trading commodity CFDs, traders are essentially entering into an agreement with a broker to exchange the difference in price of a commodity from the time the contract is opened to when it is closed. This method offers the flexibility to take advantage of price movements in both rising and falling markets.
Likewise, CFDs offer leveraged commodities trading. However, it's crucial to note that while leverage is a double-edged sword: it can magnify both potential returns and losses.
How to Create a Commodity Trading Strategy
Creating effective commodity trading strategies requires a deep understanding of the specific market dynamics and fundamental factors influencing commodity prices. Insightful commodity traders scrutinise supply and demand trends, monitor geopolitical events that could impact global trade, and pay close attention to agricultural reports or energy production data.
For instance, weather patterns play a pivotal role in agricultural commodities, affecting crop yields and, consequently, prices. Similarly, political instability in oil-rich regions can lead to fluctuations in oil prices. Understanding these fundamental aspects can help traders anticipate market movements.
Moreover, economic indicators such as inflation rates, currency strength, and GDP growth must be considered, as these can indirectly influence commodity prices. For example, copper is a key component in housing. It’s estimated that around 30% of the global copper supply is used in house construction in China; therefore, Chinese housing data can significantly impact copper trading strategies.
By integrating this knowledge with technical analysis, traders can identify potential entry and exit points. Technical-based strategies, like those below, can complement fundamental analysis and offer a well-rounded approach to commodity markets.
5 Examples of Commodity Trading Strategies
Below, we’ll discuss five technical-based commodity trading techniques.
Trading Breakouts: Stop Orders
A breakout refers to the rapid price movements seen after an area of support or resistance is broken. However, trading it is harder than it seems. Often, a “fakeout” - a move beyond a support or resistance level that quickly reverses - can trap traders and put them in the red. Therefore, traders prefer to wait for confirmation and enter with a stop-limit order.
- Entry: Once an area of support or resistance has formed (A), traders wait for the price to break through and create a swing high or low (1). When the price returns to the level, they then wait for an opposing high or low to form (2). Then, they can set a stop-limit order at the previous high or low (1) to catch the confirmed breakout.
- Stop Loss: Traders may set a stop above the swing high or low that creates the retest.
- Take Profit: Traders may take profit at a level that gives them a 1:2 risk/reward ratio. Some prefer to trail their stop, while others might move it to breakeven and manually take profits at the closest areas of support and resistance.
Trading Breakouts: Keltner Channels and Bollinger Bands
However, breakouts can also be captured using two well-known indicators, Keltner Channels and Bollinger Bands, both set with a multiplier of 2. A key signal for traders occurs when Bollinger Bands, an indicator of market volatility, contract within the broader Keltner Channels, suggesting a looming phase of high volatility following a period of consolidation.
- Indicators: Keltner Channels (20, 2) and Bollinger Bands (20, 2).
- Entry: Traders often monitor for a scenario where the Bollinger Bands narrow inside the Keltner Channels, indicating low volatility. A decisive close above or below the Bollinger Band, accompanied by high trading volume and a strong bullish or bearish candle, suggests the initiation of a breakout. An additional confirmation is seen if the price also closes outside the Keltner Channel, reinforcing the breakout's validity.
- Stop Loss: A common approach is to set a stop loss beyond the opposite band or channel line, offering a potential safeguard against reversals.
- Take Profit: Traders might consider taking returns when a reverse setup occurs, e.g., if in a long trade, closing when the price closes below the Bollinger Band after a period of low volatility. Alternatively, employing a trailing stop above or below the band/channel may allow traders to secure the majority of the trend's movement.
Trading Trends: RSI and EMA
Trend-following strategies can work especially well with commodities, given that their trends can last weeks and even months. This specific strategy uses moving averages to confirm the direction of the trend with additional confluence from the Relative Strength Index (RSI).
- Indicators: RSI (14), Exponential Moving Averages (EMA) of 21 (grey) and 50 (orange).
- Entry: When EMA 21 crosses above EMA 50 and RSI is above 50 (showing bullishness), the first retest of EMA 21 may be considered a long entry point (2). When EMA 21 crosses below EMA 50 and RSI is below 50 (showing bearishness), the first retest of EMA 21 may be considered a short entry point (1).
- Stop Loss: For longs, you could set a stop just below EMA 50 and trail it as the moving average moves up. For shorts, you could set a stop just above EMA 50 and trail it as the moving average moves down.
- Take Profit: Traders may start taking profits at a level that gives them a 1:2 risk/reward ratio. Alternatively, they might take profits when RSI dips below 50 for a long trade or rises above 50 for a short trade.
Trading Trends: Donchian Channels and EMA
Commodity trading strategies that leverage both trend identification and momentum are highly valued for their potential to capture significant movements. One such strategy incorporates Donchian Channels alongside an EMA to discern the trend's direction and strength. Donchian Channels simply plot the highest high and lowest low over x periods, 20 candles in this case.
The EMA's slope is a trend indicator: an upward slope suggests a bullish trend, while a downward slope indicates bearish conditions. Conversely, a flat EMA means traders remain on the sidelines and await clearer signals.
- Indicators: Donchian Channels (20), EMA (100).
- Entry: Traders often look for the commodity's price to close beyond the last high or low of the Donchian Channel, aligned with the trend indicated by the EMA. A strong close beyond the high or low reflects that the commodity is making a new high or low compared to the past 20 candles, potentially signalling a continuation of the trend.
- Stop Loss: You may place a stop loss beyond the opposite side of the channel to protect against sudden reversals. Another option may be to place it beyond a midpoint line or a nearby swing high or low for a tighter risk management strategy.
- Take Profit: Traders typically consider taking returns when the price touches the opposing band of the Donchian Channel. This touch could indicate that the trend might be losing momentum or reversing, prompting a strategic exit.
Trading Ranges: Bollinger Bands and ADX
While commodities can be exceptionally volatile, like other assets, they also experience ranges. Using volatility-based indicators, like Bollinger Bands, alongside an indicator that tells you whether the price is trending or ranging, like the Average Directional Index (ADX), may help you effectively trade ranges in commodities.
- Indicators: Bollinger Bands (20, 2) and ADX (14, 14).
- Entry: The theory says a trader goes long when ADX is below 20 and the price touches the lower Bollinger Band and goes short when ADX is below 20, but the price touches the upper band.
- Stop Loss: There are a couple of ways to set a stop loss here. One way might be to use a set number of pips. Alternatively, a trader could set a standard deviation of the Bollinger Bands to 3 and use the newly-formed bands as a stop.
- Take Profit: Since this is a range trading strategy, positions could be closed on touching the opposing band, but a trader may choose to leave some in and move their stop at breakeven to potentially be involved when the range breaks out.
Ready to Start Your Commodities Trading Journey?
Now that you have five potential strategies under your belt, it’s time to start thinking about your next steps. If you’re considering testing these strategies in a live market, why not open an FXOpen account? You’ll gain access to a wealth of trading tools in our TickTrader platform, low-cost trading, and lightning-fast execution speeds.
FAQ
How to Trade Commodities?
Trading commodities involves buying and selling raw materials like oil, gold, or wheat on exchanges or through derivatives like futures and CFDs. Traders analyse market trends, supply-demand dynamics, and global economic indicators to make informed decisions. It's crucial to understand the specific factors that influence commodity prices, including geopolitical events, weather patterns, and policy changes.
How to Start Commodity Trading?
To begin trading commodities, it’s best to start by educating yourself about the commodity markets and the factors that influence prices. Opening an account with a broker that offers commodity trading, like FXOpen, and potentially practising with a demo account can provide the ideal environment to practise commodity trading strategies. Lastly, commodity traders continuously monitor market news and analysis to stay informed.
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.
Let's talk about the MACD components, signals and strategies The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) is a powerful technical indicator widely used in crypto trading to identify trends, momentum shifts, and potential entry or exit points.
Here's how to effectively use MACD in your crypto trading strategy:
Understanding MACD Components
The MACD consists of three main elements:
MACD Line: Calculated by subtracting the 5-period Exponential Moving Average (EMA) from the 20-period EMA
Signal Line: A 9-period EMA of the MACD line
Histogram: Represents the difference between the MACD line and the signal line
Key MACD Trading Signals
Signal Line Crossovers
Buy Signal: When the MACD line crosses above the signal line
Sell Signal: When the MACD line crosses below the signal line.
Zero Line Crossovers
Bullish Signal: MACD crosses above the zero line
Bearish Signal: MACD crosses below the zero line
Divergences
Bullish Divergence: Price makes lower lows while MACD makes higher lows
Bearish Divergence: Price makes higher highs while MACD makes lower highs
MACD Trading Strategies
Trend Following
Use MACD to identify and follow strong trends. When the MACD line is above the signal line, it indicates an uptrend, while the opposite suggests a downtrend
Momentum Trading
The MACD histogram can help identify building momentum. Increasing histogram bars suggest strengthening momentum in the current direction
Divergence Trading
Look for divergences between price action and MACD to spot potential trend reversals
Multiple Timeframe Analysis
Combine MACD readings from different timeframes to get a more comprehensive view of the market
Best Practices
Confirm Signals: Use MACD in conjunction with other indicators like RSI or Bollinger Bands for stronger confirmation
Avoid Choppy Markets: MACD is less effective in ranging or sideways markets, potentially generating false signals
Risk Management: Always use stop-loss orders and proper position sizing to manage risk
Timeframe Selection: Choose an appropriate timeframe based on your trading style (e.g., intraday, swing, or long-term)
Default Settings: Stick to the default MACD settings (12, 20, 5) as most traders use these, potentially creating self-fulfilling prophecies in the market
Is Ripple the best cryptocurrency in the world right now?Hello and greetings to all the crypto enthusiasts, ✌
Reading this educational material will require approximately 10 minutes of your time . For your convenience, I have summarized the key points in 10 concise lines at the end . I trust this information will prove to be insightful and valuable in enhancing your understanding of Ripple and its role in the global financial landscape.
Personal Insights and Technical Analysis of Ripple:
Ripple stands out as an innovative solution for interbank communication and a glimpse into the future of global financial transactions. Its vast potential has caught my attention for several years, and I’ve been following its development closely. From a technical standpoint, I believe Ripple’s price could initially hit targets of $4, $6, and even $10 . Looking further ahead, there's potential for even higher valuations in the long run.
That being said, please take note of the disclaimer section at the bottom of each post provided by the website, this is merely my personal opinion and should not be interpreted as financial advice.
Understanding Ripple’s True Nature:
When most people hear "Ripple," they immediately think of cryptocurrency. However, many overlook that Ripple is not just a digital currency, but mainly a digital payment network. This is a key distinction because Ripple’s goal is much broader than simply being a cryptocurrency. While Bitcoin is mainly a store of value and a form of digital money, Ripple’s primary focus is on facilitating global money transfers.
XRP, often called Ripple, is the currency used within this payment system, mostly for paying transaction fees. Ripple runs on the XRP Ledger (XRPL), an open-source, decentralized blockchain built to enable fast, secure transactions through Ripple's protocol, RTXP.
Ripple’s network is often confused with blockchain, but it’s more accurately a type of distributed ledger technology (DLT). Ripple uses a unique consensus method known as the Ripple Protocol Consensus Algorithm (RPCA), based on the Federated Byzantine Agreement (FBA) protocol. This approach differs from Bitcoin’s, allowing Ripple to offer quicker transactions and lower fees than traditional banking systems.
Ripple's Consensus Mechanism:
Ripple’s RPCA is designed to quickly and securely verify transactions. A group of independent nodes within the network work together to reach a consensus on whether transactions are valid. This process is central to Ripple’s mission of enhancing transaction speed and cutting costs, making it a real alternative to traditional financial systems.
XRP Supply and Distribution:
XRP is integral to Ripple’s network. The total supply of XRP is capped at 100 billion tokens, all of which were pre-mined before Ripple’s official launch in June 2012. Here’s how they were distributed:
20 billion XRP went to Ripple’s founding team and early investors.
55 billion XRP were locked in an escrow account, with 1 billion XRP released each month according to a set plan.
The rest was sold to early investors during the initial coin offering (ICO).
Ripple vs. SEC Legal Dispute:
The legal battle between Ripple and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) started in late 2020 and became one of the most high-profile cases in cryptocurrency history. The SEC argued that XRP should be classified as an unregistered security, claiming Ripple Labs raised over $1.3 billion from XRP sales. Ripple denied this, stating that XRP is a utility token with multiple use cases beyond being a security.
In June 2023, a judge ruled that while XRP sales to institutional investors counted as unregistered securities, the “blind bid” method (where buyers' identities are hidden) allowed Ripple to win partially. This ruling was a significant step in the case, though legal challenges were far from over.
By October 2023, the SEC expanded its lawsuit to include claims that Ripple executives Garlinghouse and Larsen had violated securities laws. However, in August 2024, the court ruled with Ripple, fining the company $125.023 million—much less than the $1.9 billion the SEC had initially sought. The most important takeaway was that XRP itself was not considered a security.
Ripple’s Main Products:
Ripple offers three key products for banks and financial institutions, collectively known as RippleNet:
xCurrent
xRapid
xVia
Each of these solutions addresses different problems in the financial industry, but it’s important to note that only xRapid directly uses XRP. The other two, xCurrent and xVia, don’t require XRP to function.
xCurrent:
xCurrent allows financial institutions to process real-time, cross-border payments. It uses a distributed ledger called Interledger, which was created by Ripple’s team but is managed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). Unlike Ripple’s proprietary XRP Ledger, Interledger’s role is to facilitate seamless and secure exchanges between currencies, not just digital assets like XRP. XRP is not needed for xCurrent.
xRapid:
xRapid solves liquidity problems in cross-border transactions by using XRP. This service enables financial institutions to convert fiat currency into XRP for transfer, and then back into the local currency when it reaches the destination. This eliminates the need for intermediary banks and makes international payments faster and more cost-effective. However, XRP’s liquidity across global exchanges is crucial to xRapid’s success.
xVia:
xVia is an interface that connects Ripple’s products, xCurrent and xRapid, to streamline how businesses integrate Ripple’s solutions. Launched in 2018 and still in testing, xVia aims to simplify payments for businesses around the world.
Ripple’s Team and Evolution:
Ripple’s journey began in 2004 when Ryan Fugger created RipplePay, a system meant to enable global peer-to-peer payments. Although it had potential, it didn’t gain much traction, with fewer than 10,000 users by 2011.
In 2011, Jed McCaleb, a well-known figure in the Bitcoin community, took over the project. He convinced Fugger to hand him control, setting the stage for Ripple’s transformation.
Chris Larsen’s Role and Ripple’s Rebranding:
In 2012, McCaleb brought on Chris Larsen, a successful tech entrepreneur, to help drive Ripple’s development. Together, they rebranded the company as Opencoin, which was the first of three name changes before it became Ripple Labs.
That same year, Jesse Powell, the founder of a major cryptocurrency exchange, invested $200,000 in Ripple, helping propel the company’s growth, along with backing from early investors like Roger Ver, Bitcoin Cash’s creator.
McCaleb’s Departure and Stellar:
In 2014, McCaleb left Ripple due to internal differences, feeling the company was moving away from his original vision. Soon after, he co-founded Stellar, another blockchain project focused on financial inclusion and cross-border payments.
🧨 Our team's main opinion is: 🧨
Ripple is an innovative digital payment network, not just a cryptocurrency. Its primary focus is enabling global money transfers, with XRP acting as the utility token for transaction fees. Operating on the XRP Ledger, Ripple uses a distinct consensus mechanism (RPCA) to ensure fast and cost-efficient transactions. The total XRP supply is capped at 100 billion, with a large portion kept in escrow. Despite facing legal challenges, particularly with the SEC, key rulings, including one in 2024, affirmed that XRP itself isn't considered a security. Ripple offers three main products: xCurrent (for cross-border payments), xRapid (providing liquidity through XRP), and xVia (for easy integration). Ripple's journey began in 2004, but it took a pivotal turn in 2012 when Chris Larsen and Jed McCaleb rebranded the company. McCaleb eventually left in 2014 to co-found Stellar, another blockchain project focused on similar goals.
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Cheers, Mad Whale. 🐋
Mastering Bearish Patterns: Trade Like a ProMastering Bearish Patterns: Trade Like a Pro
Bearish patterns are critical tools for traders aiming to anticipate potential downward price movements in financial markets. Here's a complete explanation of some key bearish patterns:
1. Descending Triangle
Definition:
The descending triangle is a bearish continuation pattern that forms when the price makes lower highs while maintaining a horizontal support level. This indicates that sellers are gaining strength, and buyers are struggling to maintain the price.
Key Features:
Lower highs form a descending trendline.
A flat support line at the bottom.
Typically breaks downward when support is breached.
How to Trade:
Enter a short trade when the price breaks below the horizontal support with significant volume.
Place a stop-loss above the most recent lower high.
Target the height of the triangle projected downward from the breakout point.
2. Head & Shoulders Pattern
Definition:
This classic reversal pattern signals a shift from an uptrend to a downtrend. It consists of three peaks: a higher central peak (head) flanked by two lower peaks (shoulders) and a neckline acting as support.
Key Features:
Left shoulder, head, and right shoulder.
Neckline connects the lows of the shoulders and head.
A break below the neckline confirms the pattern.
How to Trade:
Enter a short trade when the price breaks below the neckline.
Place a stop-loss above the right shoulder.
Measure the height from the head to the neckline and project it downward for the profit target.
3. Bearish Flag Pattern
Definition:
The bearish flag is a continuation pattern that occurs after a strong downward move. The "flag" represents a period of consolidation, and the breakout typically continues in the direction of the prior trend.
Key Features:
A steep downward move (flagpole).
A parallel, upward-sloping consolidation channel (flag).
Breaks downward from the flag.
How to Trade:
Enter a short trade when the price breaks below the flag’s lower boundary.
Place a stop-loss above the flag’s upper boundary.
Target the length of the flagpole projected downward.
4. Symmetrical Triangle
Definition:
A symmetrical triangle forms when the price consolidates with lower highs and higher lows, creating a triangle shape. Though this pattern can break in either direction, it often signals a continuation of the prior trend, making it bearish in a downtrend.
Key Features:
Converging trendlines.
Price oscillates within the triangle.
Breaks in the direction of the prevailing trend.
How to Trade:
Enter a short trade when the price breaks below the lower trendline.
Place a stop-loss above the upper trendline.
Target the height of the triangle projected downward.
5. Double Top Pattern
Definition:
The double top is a bearish reversal pattern that forms after an uptrend. It features two peaks at roughly the same level, separated by a trough.
Key Features:
Two similar highs.
A neckline at the trough level.
A break below the neckline confirms the pattern.
How to Trade:
Enter a short trade when the price breaks below the neckline.
Place a stop-loss above the second peak.
Measure the height between the peaks and the neckline and project it downward for the target.
6. Up Channel Pattern
Definition:
An up channel, also known as a rising channel, is a bearish reversal pattern when it forms in a larger downtrend. The price moves within two upward-sloping parallel trendlines before breaking downward.
Key Features:
Parallel upward trendlines.
Lower lows and higher highs within the channel.
Breaks below the lower trendline.
How to Trade:
Enter a short trade when the price breaks below the lower boundary of the channel.
Place a stop-loss above the upper boundary.
Target the height of the channel projected downward.
7. Triple Top Pattern
Definition:
This bearish reversal pattern forms after an uptrend and consists of three peaks at roughly the same level, indicating that buyers are unable to push the price higher.
Key Features:
Three similar highs.
A neckline at the lowest trough between the peaks.
Breaks below the neckline to confirm.
How to Trade:
Enter a short trade when the price breaks below the neckline.
Place a stop-loss above the highest peak.
Measure the height from the peaks to the neckline and project it downward for the target.
8. Bearish Rectangle Pattern
Definition:
A bearish rectangle is a continuation pattern where the price consolidates between two horizontal levels before breaking downward.
Key Features:
Horizontal support and resistance lines.
Price oscillates within the rectangle.
Breaks below the support line.
How to Trade:
Enter a short trade when the price breaks below the support line with volume.
Place a stop-loss above the resistance line.
Target the height of the rectangle projected downward.
9. Inverted Cup & Handle Pattern
Definition:
This bearish reversal pattern resembles an upside-down cup with a handle. The "cup" forms a rounded top, and the "handle" represents a consolidation phase before the breakdown.
Key Features:
Rounded top (cup).
Slight upward-sloping consolidation (handle).
Breaks downward from the handle.
How to Trade:
Enter a short trade when the price breaks below the handle’s lower boundary.
Place a stop-loss above the handle.
Measure the height of the cup and project it downward for the target.
By mastering these bearish patterns, traders can anticipate price movements and execute informed trades with confidence. Practice identifying these patterns on charts and combine them with other technical tools for optimal results.
COFORGE Options Trading Strategy: Breakout and Momentum-BasedIn this post, we’ll explore a couple of options strategies for COFORGE using the data for strike price 9000 . By closely monitoring the price action and key option data, we can make informed decisions that align with market trends. Here’s how we can approach trading this stock’s options effectively:
Key Option Data Breakdown
Call Short Covering: Indicates that the market sentiment is bullish as traders are closing their call positions, signaling a potential upward movement.
Put Writing: A strong sign of bullishness as traders are actively writing puts, expecting the price to stay above the 9000 strike.
Call and Put LTP (Last Traded Price):
Calls LTP: 278.8 (indicating that calls are gaining traction).
Puts LTP: 100.7 (a lower LTP for puts suggests lower demand).
Open Interest (OI) and Change in OI:
Calls OI Change: -47,850 (indicating a reduction in call positions due to short covering).
Puts OI Change: +123,975 (signifying an increase in put writing, which reinforces the bullish sentiment).
Strategy 1: Buying the Call or Put Based on the First 5-Minute Candle
This strategy involves observing the price movement in the initial 5 minutes after the market opens and deciding whether to buy a call or put, depending on the price action and option data.
When to Buy the Call or Put:
If the first 5-minute candle shows a bullish move, consider buying the call option as the market sentiment appears to be in favor of upward movement.
If the first 5-minute candle shows a bearish move, consider buying the put option. However, given the overall data showing strong put writing, this could be less likely.
Why It Works:
The first 5 minutes are crucial for gauging market sentiment, and with the data indicating strong bullishness (due to call short covering and put writing), a call option is likely to perform well.
Considerations:
This strategy requires watching for clear momentum during the first 5 minutes. If the market remains indecisive, it may be better to stay on the sidelines to avoid wasting premium.
Strategy 2: Breakout Strategy – Buy Calls or Puts on the Break of Highs
This strategy involves waiting for a breakout of the call or put’s high price. The breakout indicates a shift in momentum, and we’ll enter the trade based on whichever direction triggers first.
When to Buy the Call:
Watch for the call’s high price (389.85). If the call option breaks this level, it signals that the upward momentum is gaining strength. Buy the call to capitalize on the breakout.
When to Buy the Put:
If the call option doesn’t break its high and the price starts to show weakness, consider buying the put once it breaks its high (360.6). However, the data suggests that the market bias is bullish, so a call breakout is more likely.
Why It Works:
Breakouts are powerful signals of market momentum. Since the data shows heavy put writing, the call option is more likely to break its high first. This creates an opportunity to buy calls in a bullish trend.
Considerations:
Always monitor the volume and the price action for confirmation of the breakout. If both calls and puts test their highs without clear direction, consider waiting for a clearer signal.
Conclusion:
Given the strong bullish sentiment reflected in the options data—call short covering and put writing—the most reliable strategy is Strategy 2. Watch for a call breakout above 389.85 or a put breakout above 360.6 (if the call fails to break its high). The bullish bias suggests that the call option is more likely to outperform, but a breakout in either direction can trigger the strategy.
Pro-Tip: Set a stop loss just below the breakout level to manage risk effectively. The market sentiment is heavily tilted towards bullishness, so a call option breakout is the most probable outcome.
How To Navigate: Breakouts with Tools, Indicators & StrategyHaving a Clear and Precise understanding of whether you're dealing with a Breakout or False Breakout can help you:
1) Find potentially profitable opportunities
&
2) Avoid making risky investment moves!
Also knowing how to Confirm Trend Change can:
1) Rise probability of profitable trades
&
2) Limit the total # taken!
So today, I lay out the tools, indicators and tips I use to visualize and to make a decision!
Examples:
COINBASE:XLMUSD & BITSTAMP:XRPUSD
Tools:
- Trendline
- Parallel Channel
- Rectangle
Indicators:
- Volume
- RSI
- "True or False" Formula : Close + 20-25% Break + 5-6 Days Outside of Break = Breakout
Mastering the Indecision Candle Strategy: Trade with MomentumHave you ever wondered how to spot high-probability trade setups that align with momentum and can quickly deliver solid risk-to-reward ratios? 📊
Candlesticks are one of the most critical tools for traders, second only to volume. Today, I’m sharing one of my go-to setups— the Indecision Candle Strategy —a momentum-based approach that I personally use in my trades. This strategy is built around recognizing indecision candles formed during the second wave of price movement. Let’s dive into how this strategy works, the rules for executing it, and some real market examples.
🔍 What is the Indecision Candle Setup?
The indecision candle forms during the second wave of a price movement and reflects a tug-of-war between buyers and sellers. Here's how to identify it:
- In an uptrend:
The lower shadow of the candle is ≥ 1.5x the body size, indicating strong buyer presence.
The upper shadow is smaller than the body, showing limited seller pressure.
- In a downtrend:
The upper shadow is ≥ 1.5x the body size, showing strong seller dominance.
The lower shadow is smaller than the body, reflecting weak buyer activity.
This setup gains its edge by combining candlestick analysis with momentum indicators, such as the SMA (7), to confirm the strength of the trend.\
Rules for Trading the Indecision Candle Setup
This strategy is momentum-based and requires discipline to follow these specific rules:
📈 Uptrend Setup
1.Candle Characteristics:
Green candle: Lower shadow is at least 1.5x the body size.
Upper shadow is smaller than the body.
2.Momentum Confirmation:
The SMA (7) is below the candle, sloping upward, and either touching or slightly below the shadow.
3.Entry:
Use a stop-buy order above the upper shadow of the candle.
4.Stop-Loss:
Place your stop-loss below the lower shadow or at the SMA if it's slightly below.
5.Ideal Conditions (Optional):
Low volume or momentum before the setup, but this isn’t mandatory.
📉 Downtrend Setup
1.Candle Characteristics:
Red candle: Upper shadow is at least 1.5x the body size.
Lower shadow is smaller than the body.
2.Momentum Confirmation:
The SMA (7) is above the candle, sloping downward, and either touching or slightly above the shadow.
3.Entry:
Use a stop-sell order below the lower shadow of the candle.
4.Stop-Loss:
Place your stop-loss above the upper shadow or at the SMA if it's slightly above.
5.Ideal Conditions (Optional):
Low volume or momentum before the setup, but this isn’t mandatory.
Optimize Entries:
For both uptrend and downtrend setups, consider using the order book to refine your entry and stop-loss levels. This can improve your precision and reduce risk.
🎯 Real-World Example from the Market
Let’s look at a real example:
1.Scenario: Second wave of a downtrend.
2.Candle Setup:
- Red candle with a large upper shadow (≥ 1.5x body size).
- Strong bearish momentum confirmed by the SMA (7) sloping downward and positioned above the body.
3.Trade Setup:
4.Entry: A stop-sell order placed below the lower shadow.
5.Stop-Loss: Above the upper shadow.
Why it Works:
The bearish momentum combined with the indecision candle's characteristics creates a high-probability setup for continuation in the downtrend.
Key Tips for Success
Backtesting is Essential:
Before applying this strategy in a live account, ensure you backtest it thoroughly across multiple markets and timeframes. This will help you gain confidence and understand its performance in different conditions.
Risk Management:
Stick to your capital management plan. Avoid risking more than 1-2% of your account per trade.
Never chase the market out of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out).
Ignore Noise During News Events:
If the market creates large wicks or volatile candles due to news, focus on candles before and after the event for clarity.
The Indecision Candle Strategy is a powerful tool for capturing momentum-driven moves with high risk-to-reward ratios. However, like any strategy, it requires patience, discipline, and proper backtesting before use.
💬 Have you used similar candlestick strategies in your trading? Share your experiences and let’s discuss in the comments!
I’m Skeptic , here to simplify trading and share actionable strategies to help you grow as a trader. Let’s master the markets together !
Trading EURUSD and NZDUSD | Judas Swing Strategy 17/01/2024Last Friday was an exciting day trading the Judas Swing strategy! We were fortunate to spot two solid opportunities, one on EURUSD and the other on NZDUSD. Both trades presented similar setups, and once they ticked all the boxes on our trading checklist, we didn’t hesitate to execute. In this post, we’ll walk you through the entire process, from setup to outcome and share key insights from these trades.
By 8:25 EST, we were at our trading desk, prepping for the session to kick off at 8:30 EST. During that brief wait, we marked our trading zones and patiently watched for liquidity resting at the highs or lows of the zones to be breached. It didn’t take long, NZDUSD breached its low within 20 minutes, while EURUSD followed suit just 40 minutes into the session. With the liquidity sweep at the lows complete, we quickly shifted our focus to spotting potential buying opportunities for the session ahead.
Even though we had a bullish bias for the session, we never jump into trades blindly. Instead, we wait for confirmation—a break of structure to the upside, accompanied by the formation of a Fair Value Gap (FVG). A retrace into the FVG serves as our signal to enter the trade. On this occasion, both currency pairs we were monitoring met these criteria perfectly. All that remained was for price to retrace into the FVG, setting us up to execute the trade with confidence.
Price retraced into the FVG on both EURUSD and NZDUSD, meeting all our entry requirements. We executed the trades risking 1% on each setup, putting a total of 2% on the line. Our target? A solid 4% return. The setup was clear, the risk was calculated, and we were ready to let the trades play out
After executing the NZDUSD trade, it was pure momentum—zero drawdown as the trade went straight into profit without hesitation. The same was true for EURUSD, which also faced minimal to no drawdown and quickly hit our take-profit target. Both trades wrapped up in just 25 minutes, netting us a solid 4% return. These are the kinds of sniper entries traders dream of!
But let’s be real, trading isn’t always this smooth. There will be times when you face deep drawdowns and even losses. The key is ensuring your strategy wins more often than it loses. And if your losses outweigh your wins, make sure your winners are big enough to cover those losses. Consistency and proper risk management are what keep traders in the game for the long haul
Bollinger Bands — Enhanced Classic Tool for Technical AnalysisBollinger Bands — Enhanced Classic Tool for Technical Analysis
Bollinger Bands are a classic technical analysis tool designed to identify short-term trends and gauge market volatility. We’ve upgraded their functionality to make them even more intuitive and precise for trading decisions.
What’s New in Our Bollinger Bands:
Color-Coded Trend Identification
The band color automatically shifts with short-term trend reversals. This allows traders to quickly spot trend direction and decide when to enter trades.
Band Width
Reflects current volatility levels and price momentum. Narrow bands signal consolidation (accumulation/distribution), while wide bands indicate high volatility and potential trend initiation.
Dynamic Support & Resistance Levels
The outer bands, calculated as standard deviations from the moving average, act as dynamic reference points for entry and exit levels.
Gradient Zones
The bands are divided into four gradient zones, highlighting optimal areas for position sizing. Buy near the lower zones, sell near the upper zones—simple yet effective.
How to Use Bollinger Bands in Trading:
1. Identify Short-Term Trends
Bullish Trend: Green bands signal a bullish market.
Bearish Trend: Red bands indicate bearish sentiment.
2. Assess Volatility & Choose Strategies
Wide Bands: High volatility, strong trend initiation. Consider breakout strategies.
Medium Bands: Range-bound markets. Trade bounces from band boundaries.
Narrow Bands: Consolidation (accumulation/distribution), often preceding strong price impulses.
Pro Tip: A sharp band contraction often precedes explosive price movements.
Volatility Assessment Examples
High Volatility + Trend:
Wide band expansion signals a strong bullish trend (green bands).
Medium Volatility + Range:
Moderate band width and frequent color shifts suggest choppy markets—ideal for boundary bounce trades.
Low Volatility + Breakouts:
A narrow band breakout (green bands) confirms a strong bullish impulse.
Trading Bounces from Band Boundaries
Prices tend to revert to the moving average (midline). This makes Bollinger Bands a powerful tool for swing traders:
Lower Band (Support): Oversold zone—consider long positions.
Upper Band (Resistance): Overbought zone—consider short positions.
Bounce trades work best in sideways markets or unclear trends. Avoid bounce strategies during band expansion (new trend formation).
Example Trades
Short on Upper Band Rejection:
Price stalls at the upper band in a bearish macro trend, offering a high-probability short entry.
Long on Lower Band Rebound:
Price bounces from the lower band in a bullish macro trend, confirming a long opportunity.
Additional Confirmation Tips
Combine Bollinger Bounce signals with:
Midas Multi-Indicator: Whale activity detection, trend ribbon reversals.
Oscillator Overextension: RSI, Stochastic, or MACD divergence.
Price Momentum: Volume spikes or candlestick patterns.
Refine entries by aligning band signals with broader market context and multi-timeframe analysis.
Notes on the Correct Use of Technical IndicatorsTrend Indicators : Moving Averages, Ichimoku Cloud, Bollinger Bands, Keltner Channels.
Oscillator Indicators: MACD, RSI, Stochastic, DMI, Fisher Transform.
All these instruments were created to recognize points of equilibrium and disequilibrium (inflection points) in the market. Essentially, they are tools designed to detect the optimal times to buy or sell. The profession of trading can be summarized as follows: people creating theories, tools, indicators, and systems to know when to buy and sell based on the historical record of price.
Keys to Using Technical Indicators
1-Indicators Do Not Predict the Future
Indicators alone lack predictive capability; they are just mathematical formulas based on historical data. However, their correct or incorrect use can significantly impact your success rate.
2-The Importance of Harmony with Price Structure
If your tools or indicators do not show a clear and harmonious pattern aligned with the price structure, you are probably making decisions based on randomness. Avoid erratic movements.
3-Using Trend Indicators Correctly
These indicators detect trends and points of continuity. Your success rate will increase if you avoid looking for trend reversals with them, unless there is a structural or historical pattern in a higher timeframe that justifies such a reversal.
4-Resolving Contradictory Readings
If an indicator shows contradictory readings across various timeframes, give more weight to those harmoniously aligned with the historical price structure.
5-Risk-Reward Ratio
When price fluctuations aligned with your indicators show a risk-reward ratio of at least 1:2, the probability of success in your trades increases, attracting more participants.
6-Conflicting Signals
When trend indicators and oscillators in the same timeframe send contradictory signals, the market is uncertain. Consider moving to a higher timeframe for clarity or avoid entering at that timeframe.
7-Indicator Confluences
Confluences of indicators of the same type in one timeframe do not add value since the signals will be very similar. Aligning multiple indicators does not necessarily improve your success rate.
8-Reversal Signals in Oscillators
Divergences in oscillators show weakness in price action but do not justify a trend reversal unless there is an aligned historical structure or pattern.
9-20-day Moving Average
It is the most used indicator by investors due to its accuracy in revealing trend strength and equilibrium points. It's fundamental in indicators like Bollinger Bands, Donchian Channels, and Keltner Channels.
10-Price Action vs. Technical Indicators
You can make good decisions based solely on price action, but not solely on technical indicators.
Practical Examples:
•MACD : The more erratic, the more randomness. In a trend, if it accompanies continuations harmonically, its predictive capability increases, identifying reliable inflection points.
•Ichimoku Cloud: Useless in range-bound markets; its function is to show strong trends and equilibrium zones.
•EMA 20: If the price reacts strongly when touching it in a trend, it is likely that many market participants are watching it, making it an opportunity zone.
•Crosses of Moving Averages and MACD: If the 20-day and 50-day moving averages cross above a declining price while the MACD crosses upwards, it indicates a contradictory signal of market doubt.
Conclusions:
No single indicator is superior by itself; all have strengths and weaknesses. The key lies in how, where, and when to interpret their signals. Avoiding randomness by relying on structure and historical records improves your success rate.
Remember to study more about mass psychology than psychotrading, do not buy courses (especially scalping courses), respect the ancients, and above all, question everything except your own capabilities.
Using Volume to Validate Market MovesVolume is one of those metrics that often sits quietly at the bottom of your chart, unnoticed by many traders. Yet, it plays a critical role in understanding the market’s behaviour. Think of volume as the fuel behind price movements—without it, even the most promising breakout can fizzle out. But, just like with fuel, more isn’t always better.
Today, we’re focusing on the simple volume histogram that appears at the bottom of most charts. While there are countless indicators built around volume—like On-Balance Volume (OBV) or the Volume-Weighted Average Price (VWAP)—the histogram is a straightforward, effective tool for gauging participation in the market. Let’s explore how to use it, how to put volume into context, and how it behaves with different price patterns, including the concept of volume divergence.
Simple Volume Histogram
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
Why Volume Matters (and Why More Isn’t Always Better)
Volume measures how many shares or contracts change hands during a given period. When volume spikes, it signifies heightened interest—buyers and sellers actively engaging. However, it’s not as simple as “more volume equals better signals.”
For instance, a breakout on high volume often reflects strong conviction, but it can also indicate exhaustion at the end of a trend. Conversely, a low-volume breakout might lack the interest needed to sustain the move. Understanding the relationship between volume and price action is key to avoiding false signals.
A Simple Trick: The Volume Moving Average
One of the easiest ways to contextualise volume is by applying a moving average to the volume histogram. Platforms like TradingView make this simple: double-click the volume histogram, select ‘Style,’ tick the Volume MA box, and adjust the average length under ‘Inputs.’
A 9-period moving average, for example, acts as a baseline. When volume spikes significantly above the average, it suggests increased participation and potentially more meaningful price moves. Conversely, volume below the average often reflects quieter market phases.
Adding MA to Your Volume Histogram
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
Volume Divergence: When Volume and Price Don’t Align
Volume divergence occurs when price action and volume move in opposite directions, often hinting at weakening trends or potential reversals.
Imagine an uptrend where the price makes higher highs, but volume decreases at each new peak. This divergence signals fading participation, suggesting the trend may be losing steam.
On the other hand, if the price trends lower while volume rises, sellers could be gaining momentum, increasing the likelihood of further downside.
Take the example below, where volume divergence on the FTSE 100 preceded a period of sideways consolidation.
Volume Divergence: FTSE 100 Daily Candle Chart
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
Patterns That Thrive on High Volume
Certain price patterns rely on strong volume to confirm their validity. A classic example is a triangle breakout. As the price consolidates within the triangle, volume often contracts. When the breakout finally occurs, you want to see a surge in volume, confirming that participants are backing the move. Without it, the breakout might lack the conviction needed to sustain the trend.
Patterns That Prefer Lower Volume
Other patterns work best with subdued volume. A pullback within a trend is a great example. Let’s say a stock is in a strong uptrend and starts to retrace slightly. Ideally, you want to see declining volume during the pullback. This suggests the selling is more about profit-taking than aggressive distribution.
Once the pullback completes and the trend resumes, volume should pick up again. If the pullback occurs on high volume, it could indicate stronger selling pressure, signalling that the uptrend might be in trouble.
A Practical Example: DXY Pullback and Breakout
Let’s apply these concepts to a real-world case. In October, the dollar index (DXY) formed a steady uptrend followed by a pullback, creating a descending channel or bull flag.
During the flag formation, average volume declined, indicating reduced selling pressure. When the price broke out, volume surged to nearly triple the 20-day average—a clear signal of strong buying interest. This breakout led to a multi-week uptrend.
DXY Daily Candle Chart
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
Final Thoughts
The volume histogram is a simple yet invaluable tool for traders. By applying a moving average to identify volume trends and watching for divergences between price and volume, you can gain a clearer understanding of market dynamics.
Volume isn’t just about how much activity is happening—it’s about when and how it aligns with price action. Whether you’re trading breakouts, pullbacks, or reversals, understanding volume can provide an essential layer of confirmation and help you spot potential warning signs.
Keep in mind, volume is just one piece of the puzzle. But when used correctly, it can give you a better sense of whether a price move has the backing it needs to succeed—or if it’s running on empty.
Disclaimer: This is for information and learning purposes only. The information provided does not constitute investment advice nor take into account the individual financial circumstances or objectives of any investor. Any information that may be provided relating to past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results or performance. Social media channels are not relevant for UK residents.
Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 83% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how spread bets and CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
Example of explanation of chart analysis and trading strategy
Hello, traders.
If you "Follow", you can always get new information quickly.
Please click "Boost" as well.
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There was an inquiry asking for detailed information on how to analyze charts and create trading strategies accordingly, so I will take the time to explain it.
Before reading this article, you need a basic understanding of charts.
That is, you need to understand candles and price moving averages.
If you study this first and then read this content, I think you will have some understanding of trading.
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Whether you are trading spot or futures, marking support and resistance points according to the arrangement of candles on the 1M, 1W, and 1D charts is the first task you need to do before trading.
To do this, you need to understand the arrangement of candles.
Therefore, before using my indicator, it is better to study candles first and understand the arrangement of candles.
When studying candles, it is better not to try to memorize the names or shapes of various patterns.
This is because the overall understanding of candles is important, not the various patterns of candles.
If you study with a book or video, you will be able to understand candles after reading or watching them at least 3 times.
We study charts to trade, not to analyze charts and teach them to others, so we need to study efficiently and save time.
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If you study candles, you will naturally understand the price moving average.
The indicator corresponding to the price moving average is the MS-Signal indicator.
This MS-Signal indicator consists of the M-Signal indicator and the S-Signal indicator, and the main indicator is the M-Signal indicator.
Therefore, we added the M-Signal indicator of the 1W chart and the M-Signal indicator of the 1M chart to the 1D chart so that we can see the overall trend.
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You can see the arrangement of the MS-Signal (M-Signal of 1M, 1W, 1D charts) indicators in the example chart.
Currently, since the M-Signal of the 1M chart > the M-Signal of the 1W chart, we can see that it is a reverse array.
If you understand the price moving average, you will understand that we should not trade when it is a reverse array, but when it is a regular array.
Therefore, since the current state of the example chart is a reverse array, it is not suitable for trading.
However, the reason we brought this chart in this state is because the M-Signal indicators of the 1M and 1W charts are converging.
As convergence progresses, it will eventually diverge.
Therefore, since the possibility of price volatility increases, the possibility of capturing the timing for trading increases depending on whether there is support at the support and resistance points.
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The indicators included in the example chart are drawn as horizontal lines to indicate support and resistance points.
This work performs the same role as the support and resistance points drawn on the 1M, 1W, and 1D charts according to the arrangement of the candles mentioned above.
Therefore, on the 1M, 1W, and 1D charts, horizontal lines are drawn on the indicators to indicate support and resistance points.
You can draw horizontal lines on indicators that are horizontal for at least 3 candles, and if possible, 5 candles.
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Among the HA-MS indicators, the important indicators are the HA-Low and HA-High indicators.
The HA-Low and HA-High indicators are indicators created for trading on the Heikin-Ashi chart.
Therefore, it is the next most important indicator after the MS-Signal (M-Signal on 1M, 1W, 1D charts) indicator that can tell the trend.
You can create a trading strategy depending on whether there is support near the HA-Low, HA-High indicators.
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The next most important indicator is the BW(0), BW(100) indicator.
When this indicator is created or touched, it is time to respond in detail.
That is, when you are trading with a trading strategy created from the HA-Low, HA-High indicators, when the BW(0), BW(100) indicators are created or touched, you can choose whether to proceed with a split transaction.
In addition, you can understand the OBV, +100, -100 indicators as response points for split transactions.
Therefore, you do not need to indicate support and resistance points for the OBV, +100, -100 indicators.
However, it is recommended to mark support and resistance points for the HA-Low, HA-High, BW(0), BW(100) indicators.
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If you look at the price position in the example chart, you can see that it is located in the 0.03347-0.03485 range.
And, the M-Signal indicator of the 1W chart is passing through this range, and the HA-High indicator of the 1W chart is acting as support and resistance.
Therefore, whether there is support near 0.03485 is an important key point.
If support is confirmed near 0.03485, it is a time to buy.
However, since the MS-Signal (M-Signal on the 1D chart) indicator is passing between 0.03485-0.03814, the point to watch is whether the MS-Signal (M-Signal on the 1D chart) indicator can break through upward.
As I mentioned earlier, if the MS-Signal indicator passes, a trend change will occur, so it is significant.
Therefore, in order to turn into a short-term uptrend, it is likely to be supported around 0.03814-0.03982.
Therefore, the first split selling section will be around 0.03814-0.03982.
At this time, whether to sell or hold depends on your investment style and investment period.
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Since the M-Signal indicator on the 1M chart is passing around 0.04341, it is likely to start when the price is maintained above the M-Signal indicator on the 1M chart in order to turn into a long-term uptrend.
Therefore, the second split selling period will be around the M-Signal indicator on the 1M chart.
This is also something you can choose.
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An important volume profile section is formed around 0.03038.
Therefore, the 0.03038 point corresponds to a strong support section.
-
(30m chart)
When the time frame chart you are trading is below the 1D chart, it is recommended to activate the 5EMA indicator on the 1D chart.
(I just used the 30m chart as an example. The same principle applies to any time frame chart you usually use.)
This is because there is a high possibility of volatility when the 5EMA of the 1D chart and the M-Signal indicator of the 1M, 1W, and 1D charts are touched.
In other words, you can understand that it plays a certain role of support and resistance.
If it touches the HA-High, BW(100) indicator and falls and falls below the MS-Signal indicator, it will basically touch the HA-Low or BW(0) indicator.
On the other hand, if it touches the HA-Low, BW(0) indicator and rises and rises above the MS-Signal indicator, it will basically touch the HA-High or BW(100) indicator.
However, since it may not do so and may rise or fall in the middle, it is necessary for the support and resistance points drawn on the 1M, 1W, and 1D charts as mentioned earlier.
The support and resistance points drawn on the 1D chart are currently indicated at the 0.03347 point.
Therefore, even if it falls below the MS-Signal indicator, you can understand that there is a possibility of rising again around 0.03347.
Since the 5EMA of the 1D chart and the M-Signal indicator of the 1W chart are passing around 0.03485, we can see that the area around 0.03485 is an important support and resistance zone.
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Since the StochRSI indicator is currently above 50, we should focus on finding a time to sell.
Since it has fallen below the BW(100) and HA-High indicators, it has fallen too much to start trading with a sell (SHORT) position.
However, if you can respond quickly, you can enter a sell (SHORT) position when it falls from the 0.03411 point where the MS-Signal indicator is passing.
When the StochRSI indicator falls below 50, we should focus on finding a time to buy.
At this time, you can trade based on whether there is support or resistance at the support and resistance points drawn on the 1M, 1W, and 1D charts or around the MS-Signal (M-Signal on the 1M, 1W, and 1D charts), 5EMA, HA-Low, HA-High, BW(0), and BW(100) indicators on the 1D chart.
As mentioned earlier, you should not forget that trading strategies can be created based on whether there is support at the HA-Low and HA-High indicators.
Therefore, if possible, it is recommended to trade based on whether there is support near the HA-High indicator point of 0.03443.
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Thank you for reading to the end.
I hope you have a successful trade.
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Using Volume to Validate Market MovesVolume is one of those metrics that often sits quietly at the bottom of your chart, unnoticed by many traders. Yet, it plays a critical role in understanding the market’s behaviour. Think of volume as the fuel behind price movements—without it, even the most promising breakout can fizzle out. But, just like with fuel, more isn’t always better.
Today, we’re focusing on the simple volume histogram that appears at the bottom of most charts. While there are countless indicators built around volume—like On-Balance Volume (OBV) or the Volume-Weighted Average Price (VWAP)—the histogram is a straightforward, effective tool for gauging participation in the market. Let’s explore how to use it, how to put volume into context, and how it behaves with different price patterns, including the concept of volume divergence.
Simple Volume Histogram
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
Why Volume Matters (and Why More Isn’t Always Better)
Volume measures how many shares or contracts change hands during a given period. When volume spikes, it signifies heightened interest—buyers and sellers actively engaging. However, it’s not as simple as “more volume equals better signals.”
For instance, a breakout on high volume often reflects strong conviction, but it can also indicate exhaustion at the end of a trend. Conversely, a low-volume breakout might lack the interest needed to sustain the move. Understanding the relationship between volume and price action is key to avoiding false signals.
A Simple Trick: The Volume Moving Average
One of the easiest ways to contextualise volume is by applying a moving average to the volume histogram. Platforms like TradingView make this simple: double-click the volume histogram, select ‘Style,’ tick the Volume MA box, and adjust the average length under ‘Inputs.’
A 9-period moving average, for example, acts as a baseline. When volume spikes significantly above the average, it suggests increased participation and potentially more meaningful price moves. Conversely, volume below the average often reflects quieter market phases.
Adding MA to Your Volume Histogram
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
Volume Divergence: When Volume and Price Don’t Align
Volume divergence occurs when price action and volume move in opposite directions, often hinting at weakening trends or potential reversals.
Imagine an uptrend where the price makes higher highs, but volume decreases at each new peak. This divergence signals fading participation, suggesting the trend may be losing steam.
On the other hand, if the price trends lower while volume rises, sellers could be gaining momentum, increasing the likelihood of further downside.
Take the example below, where volume divergence on the FTSE 100 preceded a period of sideways consolidation.
Volume Divergence: FTSE 100 Daily Candle Chart
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
Patterns That Thrive on High Volume
Certain price patterns rely on strong volume to confirm their validity. A classic example is a triangle breakout. As the price consolidates within the triangle, volume often contracts. When the breakout finally occurs, you want to see a surge in volume, confirming that participants are backing the move. Without it, the breakout might lack the conviction needed to sustain the trend.
Patterns That Prefer Lower Volume
Other patterns work best with subdued volume. A pullback within a trend is a great example. Let’s say a stock is in a strong uptrend and starts to retrace slightly. Ideally, you want to see declining volume during the pullback. This suggests the selling is more about profit-taking than aggressive distribution.
Once the pullback completes and the trend resumes, volume should pick up again. If the pullback occurs on high volume, it could indicate stronger selling pressure, signalling that the uptrend might be in trouble.
A Practical Example: DXY Pullback and Breakout
Let’s apply these concepts to a real-world case. In October, the dollar index (DXY) formed a steady uptrend followed by a pullback, creating a descending channel or bull flag.
During the flag formation, average volume declined, indicating reduced selling pressure. When the price broke out, volume surged to nearly triple the 20-day average—a clear signal of strong buying interest. This breakout led to a multi-week uptrend.
DXY Daily Candle Chart
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
Final Thoughts
The volume histogram is a simple yet invaluable tool for traders. By applying a moving average to identify volume trends and watching for divergences between price and volume, you can gain a clearer understanding of market dynamics.
Volume isn’t just about how much activity is happening—it’s about when and how it aligns with price action. Whether you’re trading breakouts, pullbacks, or reversals, understanding volume can provide an essential layer of confirmation and help you spot potential warning signs.
Keep in mind, volume is just one piece of the puzzle. But when used correctly, it can give you a better sense of whether a price move has the backing it needs to succeed—or if it’s running on empty.
Disclaimer: This is for information and learning purposes only. The information provided does not constitute investment advice nor take into account the individual financial circumstances or objectives of any investor. Any information that may be provided relating to past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results or performance. Social media channels are not relevant for UK residents.
Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 83% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how spread bets and CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
How to Avoid Falsa Breakouts and Breakdowns?Avoiding False Breakouts and False Breakdowns: A Guide for Traders
Have you ever seen a significant resistance level break and then opened a long trade, only for the market to make a sharp move to the downside? Or perhaps you've entered a short position after the price broke support, only to watch the market rebound?
If so, you're not alone. Many traders have fallen victim to false breakouts, so don't feel bad. Recognizing these situations can be challenging, but it's crucial to learn how to identify them.
In this article, we'll discuss false breakouts and breakdowns, and share two powerful strategies from the CRYPTOMOJO_TA team that can help you stay on the right side of the market and avoid unnecessary losses.
Understanding False Breakouts
The solution to avoiding false breakouts is quite simple: wait for the candle to close before acting on a breakout. Jumping into a trade as soon as the price breaks a key level can often lead to failure. Therefore, avoid placing entry orders above or below support and resistance levels to automatically enter a breakout. These orders can result in getting "wicked" into trades that never materialize.
The only way to successfully trade breakouts is to monitor the market closely and be prepared to act as soon as the candle closes in the breakout zone. Only then can you determine the breakout's strength.
How to Avoid a False Breakout
It can be almost impossible to tell a true breakout from a false one if you're not careful. Here are four ways to avoid falling for a failed breakout:
1. Take It Slow
One of the simplest yet most challenging ways to avoid a false breakout is simply to wait. Instead of rushing to enter a trade when the price breaks through support or resistance, take a step back. Depending on your trading style, give the market a few days to reveal whether the breakout is genuine. Often, the false breakouts will become apparent after some time.
2. Watch Your Candles
A more advanced version of waiting is to use candlestick charts to confirm the breakout. Wait until the candle closes to assess the strength of the breakout. The stronger the breakout appears, the more likely it is genuine.
Many traders lack the time to monitor their charts constantly, but with us, you can set alerts to notify you when specific market conditions are met. For a breakout, create an alert based on the candle's close price to ensure you're only entering after a true breakout.
3. Use Multiple Timeframe Analysis
Multiple timeframe analysis is an efficient way to identify potential breakouts and distinguish between genuine and false ones. Watch your chosen market across various timeframes. For instance, you might spot a potential breakout in the short term and then "zoom out" to analyze the market over a longer period, like a week or a month.
This broader perspective helps identify whether a breakout is significant in the long term or merely a short-term movement that may soon reverse.
4. Know the Usual Suspects
Some chart patterns can indicate the likelihood of a false breakout. These include ascending triangles, the head and shoulders pattern, and flag formations. Familiarizing yourself with these patterns can help you identify when a breakout is more likely to fail.
For example, ascending triangles often indicate a temporary market correction rather than a true breakout.
How to Trade a False Breakout
If you're a trader, you can use a false breakout as an opportunity to go short. Predict that the market will drop after the failed breakout and profit from the decline. Alternatively, you could hedge by opening both a long and a short position—going long in case the breakout is true, and short if it fails.
To trade a false breakout, follow these steps:
Create a live CFD trading account.
Perform technical analysis to identify potential false breakouts.
Manage your risk by using stop orders and limit orders.
Open and monitor your first trade.
How to Trade Breakouts
If you prefer to trade actual breakouts, here's how you can do it:
Create a live account or practice with a demo account.
Learn the signs of a potential breakout. You can find in-depth resources about breakouts on IG Academy to upskill yourself.
Open your first position.
Plan your exit strategy carefully, including setting stop orders and limit orders.
Take steps to manage your risk.
False Breakouts Summed Up
A false breakout occurs when the price moves beyond the normal support or resistance levels but fails to sustain the momentum, leading to a reversal. Traders may mistakenly go long during these events, only to see the price lose momentum shortly after.
You can avoid false breakouts or trade them intentionally by studying the market, learning chart patterns, analyzing timeframes, and using the right tools. With us, you can trade both breakouts and false breakouts using CFDs.
This chart is for informational purposes only.
Never Stop Learning
I would love to hear your thoughts, charts, and views in the comment section. Keep learning, stay patient, and keep improving your trading skills!
Thank you!
Analyzing the Market Performance of Dr. Reddy's Laboratories:Analyzing the Market Performance of Dr. Reddy's Laboratories: Trends, Support, and Resistance
Introduction
Lets delve into the recent market performance of Dr. Reddy's Laboratories (DRREDDY), a prominent player in the global pharmaceutical industry. We will examine the stock's technical aspects, incorporating support and resistance levels, trading volume, and options data to provide a comprehensive view of potential trading opportunities and risk factors.
Technical Analysis
Current Price: ₹1288.15
Resistance Levels:
Resistance 1: ₹1305.52
Resistance 2: ₹1322.88
Resistance 3: ₹1332.82
Support Levels:
Support 1: ₹1278.22
Support 2: ₹1268.28
Support 3: ₹1250.92
The trading volume for the current period stands at 738.79K, indicating moderate market activity. Higher volume often signifies strong investor interest and can be an early indicator of significant price changes.
The chart reveals critical resistance and support zones. The resistance zone around ₹1420.00 serves as a potential barrier to upward price movement, while the support zone around ₹1140.00 provides a safety net against significant downward trends. These zones are crucial for traders to make informed decisions regarding entry and exit points.
Options Data Analysis
The options data provide a detailed view of the current market sentiment and possible future price movements of DRREDDY's stock.
Key Observations:
Call and Put Activities:
Significant call writing activity across various strike prices (1300, 1310, 1320, 1330, 1340, 1360, 1380, 1400) indicates bearish sentiment. Investors are selling call options, expecting the stock not to rise above these levels.
Put short covering is observed at most strike prices, suggesting that investors who had previously sold put options are buying them back, possibly anticipating that the stock's decline might be limited.
At strike prices 1350, 1370, and 1390, there is call long covering, implying that traders are closing their long call positions, which could signal an expectation of decreased upward momentum.
LTP (Last Traded Price) and OI (Open Interest):
Higher LTP for puts compared to calls at lower strike prices indicates a higher demand for put options, reinforcing the bearish sentiment.
Substantial changes in open interest (OI) for calls at various strike prices suggest that traders are actively adjusting their positions in response to market conditions. Increased OI in calls generally signifies a buildup of new positions, while decreased OI indicates position closures.
For puts, the changes in OI also reflect market dynamics, with decreases in OI suggesting that traders are closing their bearish positions.
Strategy - DRREDDY 1300 Strike
DRREDDY is showing signs of action – here’s how you can make the most of it!
Strike Price : 1300 Call Option High: ₹35 Put Option High: ₹36.6
Plan of Action:
Focus on the side (Call or Put) that breaks its high first.
Quick Profits : Lock in gains based on your comfort level and market conditions.
Risk Management : Always implement a strict stop loss to safeguard your capital.
Why This Trade?
This strategy is designed to capture sharp price movements, offering potential opportunities in both upward and downward directions. Ideal for traders prepared to act swiftly on breakout levels.
Stay Ready – Don’t Miss Out! Be prepared to execute when the breakout happens!
Investment Implications
Based on the technical and options data analysis, DRREDDY's stock exhibits a balanced risk-reward ratio. Investors should closely monitor the support and resistance levels for potential breakout or breakdown scenarios. Additionally, keeping an eye on options data such as strike prices, built-up positions, and changes in open interest will aid in identifying the stock's future trajectory and potential trading opportunities.
Conclusion
Dr. Reddy's Laboratories' stock chart and options data offer valuable insights for investors and analysts. By understanding the support and resistance levels, volume trends, market sentiment, and options data, stakeholders can make informed investment decisions. As always, it is crucial to consider external factors and conduct thorough research before making any trading decisions.
Understanding Average True Range (ATR): A Measure of Market VolaThe Average True Range (ATR) is a technical analysis indicator that measures market volatility. Developed by J. Welles Wilder Jr., the ATR provides traders with insights into price fluctuations, helping them set stop-loss levels, identify breakout opportunities, and assess market conditions.
What is ATR?
ATR represents the average range of price movement over a specified period, capturing the level of volatility rather than the direction of price movement. A higher ATR indicates greater volatility, while a lower ATR suggests a calmer market.
How is ATR Calculated?
The ATR calculation involves three steps:
1. Determine the True Range (TR):
The True Range is the greatest of:
- The current high minus the current low.
- The absolute value of the current high minus the previous close.
- The absolute value of the current low minus the previous close.
2. Calculate the Average True Range:
- ATR is the moving average of the True Range over a specified period (typically 14 periods).
How to Use ATR in Trading
1.Set Stop-Loss Levels:
- Use ATR to place stop-loss orders at a distance that accounts for market volatility. For instance, set a stop-loss at 1.5x the ATR below the entry price in an uptrend.
2.Identify Breakouts:
- Compare current ATR values to historical ATR levels. A sudden spike in ATR often signals a breakout, indicating increased volatility and potential price movement.
3. Determine Market Conditions:
- High ATR values suggest volatile markets, often seen during major news events or market openings.
- Low ATR values indicate a period of consolidation or range-bound conditions.
4. Position Sizing:
- ATR can help calculate position sizes based on volatility, allowing traders to adjust their risk exposure accordingly.
Strengths of ATR
-Versatility:Can be applied to any asset class or timeframe.
- Adaptability:Works in trending and range-bound markets to measure volatility.
- Enhances Risk Management:Helps traders set realistic stop-loss levels based on market conditions.
Limitations of ATR
-Lagging Indicator:ATR is based on historical data and doesn’t predict future price movements.
-No Directional Bias:ATR measures volatility, not the direction of the trend.
-Context Needed:ATR values alone don’t provide actionable signals without additional analysis.
Best Practices for Using ATR
1. Combine with Other Indicators:
- Pair ATR with trend-following tools like moving averages or MACD to validate signals.
2.Adjust Periods:
- The default 14-period setting works well for most markets, but traders can adjust it based on their strategy and timeframe.
3.Use with Breakout Strategies:
- Monitor ATR spikes to identify potential breakout opportunities.
Example of ATR in Action
Imagine Ethereum (ETH) has an ATR value of $50 on a daily chart. A trader planning to enter a long position at $1,800 might set a stop-loss at $1,725 ($1,800 - 1.5x ATR) to account for typical price fluctuations. As the ATR increases to $75 during a volatile period, the trader adjusts their stop-loss level to $1,687.50 ($1,800 - 1.5x ATR), ensuring it reflects the heightened volatility.
Conclusion
The Average True Range is an invaluable tool for traders seeking to understand market volatility and manage risk effectively. While it doesn’t predict price direction, its ability to quantify volatility makes it a key component of any robust trading strategy. Practice incorporating ATR into your analysis to refine your approach and improve decision-making.
Commitment of Traders Modelled as Stratified Poissant Processes Hey! This video theorizes about the relevance of the poissant process in predicting areas of support and resistance in a way that accounts for temporal and probabilistic grounding. Essentially, the commitment of traders is modelled as a poissant process. Lambda is remeasured at each time step and the stratas' opacity reflects the strength of the probability, modelling trader capitulation as a time decay function. The recency and recurrence of information is intuitive and visible at a glance. Enjoy!