BOS - Break of StructureBOS means Break of Structure . It happens when the price of an asset (like a stock or currency) breaks past a key support or resistance level, indicating a potential change in the market direction.
Key points:
Uptrend BOS: If the price breaks above a recent high, it could mean the start of an upward trend.
Downtrend BOS: If the price breaks below a recent low, it may signal the beginning of a downward trend.
Traders use BOS to spot potential trend changes and decide when to buy or sell.
X-indicator
CHoCH signalsa Change of Character (CHoCH) signals a potential shift in market dynamics, often indicating a reversal from the prevailing trend. This concept is particularly valuable as it helps traders discern when the momentum is shifting, offering a strategic point to consider adjusting their positions.
Reacting to Change Part 1: Consolidation PhasesWelcome to our 2-part series on adapting to change in trading, where we dive into the art of staying flexible in dynamic market environments. In Part 1, we’ll explore how traders can effectively navigate consolidation phases and avoid the pitfalls of rigid analysis.
The Trap of Over-Defining Consolidation: Price Action is Fluid, Not Fixed
One of the biggest challenges in trading is dealing with consolidation phases—those times when the market enters a short-term equilibrium, leading to a high degree of random price action. During these phases, it’s tempting to box price movements into neatly defined patterns like triangles or channels. While this can offer an initial framework, the reality is that consolidation patterns are constantly evolving. Trying to over-define these phases or stick rigidly to a single pattern often leads to frustration and missed opportunities.
In consolidation, price action is fluid, not fixed. What starts as a symmetrical triangle might morph into a flag, or a sideways range may develop into a wedge. These shifts are common because consolidation phases by definition are periods of indecision, where neither buyers nor sellers dominate, causing price to "walk" in a seemingly random manner. When we try to force the market into the confines of a rigid pattern, we risk missing these subtle changes and become despondent when the market doesn’t behave as expected.
Instead, successful traders stay adaptive. Don’t be afraid to re-draw the boundaries of a consolidation phase as new information emerges. You can begin with an initial hypothesis based on a recognisable price pattern, but it’s essential to remain open to the possibility that this pattern might evolve or even fail entirely. Flexibility allows you to adjust your parameters to reflect what the market is telling you rather than clinging to a fixed idea.
By embracing the fluid nature of consolidation phases and adjusting your approach as price action unfolds, you stay aligned with the market, increasing your chances of catching the eventual breakout or breakdown.
Real-World Example: FTSE 100
In this example, the FTSE 100 moves from a small initial consolidation phase into a sideways range with failures at the top and bottom, before eventually breaking out. Those who failed to adapt to the changing consolidation structure may have been caught out with false breakouts and missed the eventual breakout.
FTSE100 Daily Candle Chart: Phase 1
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
Phase 2
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
Phase 3
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
Breakout
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
Combine Flexibility with Core Principles
While flexibility is key, it’s essential to combine it with a solid foundation of core principles. Flexibility without a framework can lead to erratic decisions, but by grounding your adaptability in a few guiding rules, you’ll better navigate consolidation phases.
1. Aligning with the Dominant Trend: Consolidation phases have a tendency to resolve in line with the dominant trend. Hence, the first step is to define the dominant trend, which varies depending on your trading timeframe. Whether you're using moving averages or trendlines, having a clear sense of the overarching market direction can guide your expectations for a breakout.
2. Defining a Breakout: A breakout from consolidation is more than just price moving outside a range. Look for an expansion in trading ranges, backed by an increase in volume. The combination of these factors helps confirm that the market is truly breaking out, not just teasing false moves.
3. Watch for Changes in Volatility: Volatility often contracts during consolidation phases. One of the best indicators of an impending breakout is when volatility begins to contract. Pay attention to tightening price ranges and be on alert when those ranges start to widen.
Real-World Example: Nvidia (NVDA)
In this example we see the importance of using core principles to as a framework for flexibility. The 50 day moving average (MA) and 200MA clearly show the dominant trend is bullish. This is important during Phase 3 (below) in which the market appears to break lower. In Phase 4 we see clear volatility compression at the top end of the consolidation range – a clear indicator of an impending breakout.
NVDA Daily Candle Chart: Phase 1
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
Phase 2
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
Phase 3
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
Phase 4
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
Breakout
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
Avoiding Despondency Through Flexibility
Expecting a breakout or breakdown that never materialises can lead to frustration, especially if you’re locked into a rigid view of the market. By combining flexibility with your core principles, you’ll be better prepared to react when the market shifts—and avoid becoming despondent in the process.
The secret to successfully navigating consolidation phases isn’t about predicting the next move—it’s about reacting to change while being guided by solid principles. Patterns evolve, and so must your approach. By balancing flexibility with core rules around trend direction, breakouts, and volatility, you can capitalise when the market finally resolves its range.
In Part 2 of our series, we’ll explore how adapting to trend changes is just as crucial as navigating consolidations, and why flexibility is a trader’s most valuable asset in any market condition.
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. 83.51% 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.
EMOTIONS! Chapter-2In trading, emotions can easily become your biggest enemy, and it's crucial to understand that “you are your own opponent.” The market isn’t against you—it’s neutral, driven by global forces like supply and demand, economic policies, and geopolitical events. It doesn’t care whether you win or lose. The real battle is internal, and your success depends on your ability to manage your emotional responses. Emotions like fear, greed, frustration, and overconfidence are powerful forces that, if left unchecked, can lead to impulsive decisions and costly mistakes. The key to thriving in the forex market is learning how to control those emotions, because if you don’t, they will control you.
I learned this lesson the hard way back in 2016. At the time, I had just started gaining confidence after a string of successful trades. That confidence quickly turned into greed. I started taking bigger risks, convinced that I was riding a winning streak. Then, things turned. The market shifted, and I began losing trades. Instead of stepping back and re-evaluating, I panicked. I felt this urgent need to recover my losses, so I started chasing the market. Every time I saw an opportunity, I jumped on it without thinking, trading out of desperation rather than strategy. I kept telling myself I could make it all back with just one more trade, but the more I tried, the deeper I sank into losses. It felt like the market was conspiring against me, but the truth was, I was sabotaging myself. I was letting my emotions dictate my decisions, and that was the real problem.
Fear took over when I lost, and greed controlled me when I won. I wasn’t sticking to my trading plan, and I wasn’t thinking rationally. Instead of approaching the market with a clear, calm mindset, I was reacting emotionally to every price movement. It was a vicious cycle—each loss made me more desperate to win, and each win made me more overconfident. I was chasing quick fixes, but in reality, I was only digging a deeper hole. That experience was a painful reminder that in forex trading, the market isn’t there to beat you—it’s neutral. *You beat yourself* by letting emotions cloud your judgment and control your actions.
After that tough period in 2016, I knew something had to change. I realized that emotional control was not just a skill—it was a necessity if I wanted to succeed. I had to stop reacting impulsively and start trading with discipline. The first step was getting back to basics: sticking to my trading plan no matter what. I began to follow my risk management rules strictly, using stop-loss orders to protect myself from the emotional urge to "let a trade ride" in the hope of recovery. I also limited the amount of risk I was willing to take on each trade. Instead of chasing profits, I focused on preserving capital and managing risk.
One of the biggest changes I made was learning to step away when my emotions were running high. If I felt myself getting anxious, frustrated, or overexcited, I would close my trading platform and take a break. This gave me the space to regain perspective and come back with a clearer mind. I also started keeping a trading journal, documenting not just my trades but also how I felt during them. This helped me recognize emotional patterns—like when I was more prone to making impulsive decisions—and take steps to prevent them.
Over time, I developed a deeper understanding of how emotions influence trading. I came to realize that *success in forex isn’t about controlling the market—it’s about controlling yourself.* The market will always be unpredictable, but how you respond to that unpredictability determines your outcome. You can’t let fear make you exit a trade too early, nor can you let greed push you into taking unnecessary risks. By learning to control your emotions, you can make decisions based on logic and strategy rather than impulse. I also learned to embrace patience. Trading is a marathon, not a sprint. The best traders are those who wait for the right opportunities and don’t feel the need to constantly be in the market.
Looking back, that difficult year taught me a vital lesson: the market isn’t out to get you; it’s indifferent. You are the only one who can stand in your own way. By mastering your emotions, you can avoid self-sabotage and make rational, calculated decisions that will lead to long-term success. Now, when I trade, I do so with the understanding that my biggest challenge isn’t the market—it’s keeping my emotions in check. Trading with a clear, calm mind has made all the difference, and I know that no matter what the market throws at me, my success or failure depends on how well I manage myself.
Happy Trading!
-FxPocket
MINDSET! Chapter-1In trading, mindset is arguably one of the most critical factors that can determine whether a trader succeeds or fails over time. While many beginners focus intensely on mastering technical analysis, reading charts, or understanding fundamental market data, experienced traders recognize that none of this knowledge matters without the right mental approach. Forex trading is unique due to its high leverage and volatility, which can lead to large, quick gains but also equally substantial losses. The constant price fluctuations and 24-hour nature of the forex market mean that traders need to be mentally prepared to deal with a dynamic, often unpredictable environment. Therefore, cultivating a strong and resilient mindset is essential for achieving consistent results.
A key aspect of a forex trading mindset is emotional control . Markets are driven by the emotions of participants, and it is easy for novice traders to get caught up in the emotional rollercoaster of trading. Greed , fear , and impatience are the three most dangerous emotions for a trader. Greed can cause a trader to hold on to a winning position for too long, hoping for even bigger profits, only to watch those profits evaporate as the market reverses. Fear can paralyze a trader or cause them to exit trades prematurely, preventing them from realizing potential gains. Impatience, on the other hand, can lead to overtrading, where a trader enters too many positions in an attempt to recover losses or chase profits, often resulting in reckless decisions and further losses. Forex traders with a strong mindset learn to recognize these emotions, manage them, and make decisions based on logic and strategy rather than feelings.
Discipline is another crucial element of a successful trading mindset. Having a solid trading plan or strategy is important, but sticking to that plan with unwavering discipline is what separates professional traders from amateurs. Many traders know the importance of risk management, such as setting stop-loss orders and adhering to a specific risk-to-reward ratio, but when emotions take over, they may abandon their plans in the heat of the moment. For example, after a series of losing trades, a trader might be tempted to increase their position size to "make up" for their losses, often leading to larger risks and bigger losses. Alternatively, after a string of wins, a trader might become overconfident and take on more risk than their strategy allows, which can result in devastating losses when the market turns against them. A disciplined mindset ensures that a trader remains consistent, following their predefined rules no matter the market conditions or emotional state.
Patience is also a cornerstone of the forex trading mindset. Currency markets can be incredibly volatile in the short term, but successful traders understand that profits are generated over time, not by chasing every market move. In forex, it’s common to experience periods of drawdowns or market stagnation, where nothing seems to be happening. During such times, traders who lack patience may become frustrated and enter trades impulsively, often leading to mistakes and unnecessary losses. Those with a patient mindset , however, understand that waiting for high-probability setups is essential for long-term success. They accept that there will be times when it is better to sit on the sidelines than force a trade in unfavorable conditions. Patience also allows traders to wait for the market to confirm their trading ideas, rather than jumping in prematurely based on speculation or hope.
A growth mindset is particularly beneficial in forex trading, as it helps traders continuously improve their skills and adapt to market conditions. A trader with a fixed mindset might view losses as failures and feel discouraged, leading them to give up or stop learning from their mistakes. In contrast, a trader with a growth mindset understands that every trade, whether successful or not, is a learning opportunity. They review their trades, identify what went wrong or right, and adjust their strategy accordingly. This mindset fosters resilience, as traders understand that losses are inevitable in forex trading but can be valuable lessons if approached with the right attitude. Growth-minded traders also seek out continuous education, always looking for ways to refine their techniques, expand their knowledge, and improve their decision-making processes.
Adaptability is another essential trait of a strong forex trading mindset. The foreign exchange market is influenced by a wide range of factors, from global economic indicators to geopolitical events and central bank policies. This means that no single strategy or approach works all the time, and traders must be willing to adjust their tactics as market conditions change. Rigidly sticking to a strategy that worked in a particular market environment can lead to poor performance when those conditions shift. Traders with a flexible mindset remain open to evolving their strategies, using new tools, and experimenting with different approaches while maintaining a disciplined and patient approach.
Developing a successful mindset in forex trading is about much more than just controlling emotions or having a strategy. It involves cultivating discipline, emotional resilience, patience, and a commitment to continuous learning and adaptability. Traders who are able to master their mindset are better equipped to handle the volatility and challenges of the forex market, allowing them to make more rational decisions and, ultimately, achieve long-term profitability. While the technical and analytical aspects of forex trading are important, it is the psychological mastery that often determines who thrives and who struggles in the world of currency trading. By focusing on mindset, traders can improve not only their trading results but also their overall experience in navigating the ups and downs of the forex market.
Within the next few days we will discuss on more of the topics above.
Happy Trading!
-FxPocket
Types of traders 101Overview of types of traders
SCALPER
🔸Scalpers buy and sell securities quickly, usually within seconds, with the aim of achieving profits from minuscule price changes from large trade volumes.
🔸Scalper also refers to someone who buys up in-demand merchandise or event tickets to resell at a higher price.
🔸Scalpers buy and sell securities many times in a day with the objective of making consistent net profits from the aggregate of all these transactions.
🔸Scalpers must be highly disciplined, combative by nature, and astute decision makers in order to succeed.
EATRADER / Algo Trader
🔸Algorithmic trader will use process- and rules-based computational formulas for executing trades.
🔸 Algorithmic trader is performing statistical analysis on stocks, funds, or currencies and then writing algorithms and programs using computer languages like C# or Python or PineScript.
🔸While it provides advantages, such as faster execution time and reduced costs, algorithmic trading can also exacerbate the market's negative tendencies by causing flash crashes and immediate loss of liquidity.
Technical Trader
🔸Generally, a technician uses historical patterns of trading data to predict what might happen to market in the future.
🔸A technical trader prefers to study price patterns over time periods ranging from a few minutes to a month. This is usually done using a variety of tools, such as indicators, to understand which way price is moving in any given market.
Swing Trader
🔸Swing trading refers to a trading style that attempts to exploit short- to medium-term price movements in a security using favorable risk/reward metrics.
🔸 Swing traders primarily rely on technical analysis to determine suitable entry and exit points, but they may also use fundamental analysis as an added filter
Fundumental Trader
🔸Fundumental trader focuses on company-specific events to determine which stock to buy and when to buy it. Trading on fundamentals is more closely associated with a buy-and-hold strategy rather than short-term trading.
🔸Furthermore, fundumental traders must understand technical analysis to identify trends and price patterns supporting their fundamental analysis.
Money Manager
🔸A money manager is a person or financial firm that manages the securities portfolio of individual or institutional investors.
🔸 Professional money managers do not receive commissions on transactions; rather, they are paid based on a percentage of assets under management.
🎁Please hit the like button and
🎁Leave a comment to support our team!
RISK DISCLAIMER:
Trading Futures , Forex, CFDs and Stocks involves a risk of loss.
Please consider carefully if such trading is appropriate for you.
Past performance is not indicative of future results.
Always limit your leverage and use tight stop loss.
Options Blueprint Series [Advanced]: Reverse Time Iron Condors1. Introduction
In today’s advanced options trading discussion, we introduce a unique structure—"Reverse Time Iron Condors"—using Corn Futures Options (ZCH2025). This sophisticated strategy leverages options with different expiration dates, allowing traders to position themselves for a potential market move in the mid-term.
The Corn market has recently shown signs of slowing momentum, as indicated by technical indicators such as ADX (Average Directional Index) and RSI (Relative Strength Index) applied to ADX. Our analysis shows that RSI applied to ADX is oversold, and RSI is approaching a key crossover signal that could confirm an increase in volatility. Given this setup, the Reverse Diagonal Iron Condor (a.k.a. Reverse Time Iron Condor) structure aligns well with the market’s current conditions over two expiration cycles.
CME Product Specs (Corn Futures ZCH2025)
Contract Size: 5,000 bushels per contract.
Tick Size: 1/4 cent per bushel (0.0025), or $12.50 per tick.
Required Margin: USD $1,200 per contract at the time of producing this article.
2. Market Setup & Analysis
To understand why the Reverse Time Iron Condor is suitable for Corn Futures right now, let’s delve into the technical picture:
ADX Analysis: Corn Futures’ Daily ADX has been dropping, indicating weakening momentum. This signals a period of consolidation, where price volatility remains low.
RSI of ADX: By applying the RSI to the ADX values, we notice that ADX is now oversold, suggesting that momentum could soon pick up.
RSI Crossover: The RSI is nearing a crossover above its moving average, confirming that a new impulse in momentum would be in the process of potentially occur. This technical picture suggests the market could stay in a low-volatility phase for now but break out in the near future.
Based on this technical setup, the strategy we present is to capitalize on the short-term consolidation while preparing for a potential breakout, using the Reverse Diagonal Iron Condor structure.
3. Strategy Breakdown: Reverse Diagonal Iron Condor
The Reverse Diagonal Iron Condor is a unique options structure where you sell longer-term options and buy shorter-term options. This setup generates a negative theta position, meaning time decay works slightly against the trader. However, the strategy compensates for this through positive gamma, which accelerates the delta as the underlying market moves, especially during a breakout. This combination allows the position to profit from a sharp move in either direction, with relatively limited cost.
For this trade on Corn Futures (ZCH2025), the structure is as follows:
Sell 450 Call (21 Feb 2025), Buy 455 Call (27 Dec 2024): This creates a short diagonal call spread, where the February short call decays slowly due to the longer expiration, and the December long call acts as a short-term hedge against an early rise in prices.
Sell 410 Put (21 Feb 2025), Buy 405 Put (27 Dec 2024): Similarly, this forms a short diagonal put spread. The February short put is subject to less time decay, while the December long put protects against a sharp downward move before its expiration.
Key Mechanics:
Time Decay (Theta): Although the trade has negative theta, the impact of time decay is relatively small because the February options decay slowly due to their longer-term expiration.
Gamma and Delta: The positive gamma in this position means that if a breakout occurs before the December expiration, the delta will increase significantly, making the trade more sensitive to price changes. This could more than offset the negative theta, allowing the trade to capture large gains from a significant price move.
Objective:
The goal is for Corn prices to experience an impulsive move (either up or down) before the December 2024 expiration of the long legs, allowing the positive gamma to boost the position’s delta. If this breakout occurs, the potential profits from the price move will likely surpass the small losses due to time decay. The structure is ideal for markets in consolidation that may be on the verge of a volatility surge, as the falling ADX and oversold RSI suggest.
This strategy is particularly well-suited for Corn Futures (ZCH2025), given the current technical setup, where a near-term consolidation phase might be followed by an explosive move in either direction. The success of this trade relies on a timely breakout occurring before the December expiration, after which the position may need adjustment to manage risk.
4. Risk Profile at Initial Setup
The initial risk profile for this trade reminds us of an Iron Condor risk profile, with the best case being a range-bound corn market between 410 and 450.
Important Consideration: This risk profile does not reflect the final outcome because the trade spans two different options cycles. The December options will expire first, which means adjustments may be necessary after that expiration to maintain protection.
Note on Options Simulation Tool:
It's important to mention that the options simulation tool provided by TradingView is currently still in its beta stage. While it offers useful insights for analyzing and visualizing options strategies, traders should be aware that certain features may be limited, and results might not always reflect all real-world conditions. For a more comprehensive analysis, it is recommended to complement the simulation with other tools such as the Options Strategy Simulator available in the CME Group website.
5. Optional Trade Management After December Expiration
Once the December 2024 long options expire, you will face two possible scenarios. In both cases, managing the February 2025 short options is crucial:
o Scenario 1: Corn Prices Remain Range-Bound:
If Corn futures continue to trade within the 450-410 range, the December long options will expire worthless.
In this case, the strategy shifts to managing the February short options, which will benefit from time decay. Monitor the market closely and consider whether to buy new protection for the remaining February short options.
o Scenario 2: Corn Prices Break Out:
If Corn futures break above 450 or below 410 prior to the December expiration, the February short options could expose the position to significant risk if we allow them to expire.
One potential action is to purchase new long options within the range (for example, buy the 445 call and the 415 put using 21 February 2025 expiration). While many other actions could be valid, a common and probably the simplest approach could be to close all legs in time for a likely profit at this moment.
6. Risk Management
Effective risk management is essential in any options strategy, especially one as advanced as a Reverse Diagonal Iron Condor. Below are key points to ensure this trade stays within your risk tolerance:
o Position Sizing:
Given the complexity of this trade, ensure that the size of your position fits within your overall risk management plan. Avoid over-leveraging, as unexpected price movements can lead to significant losses once the December long options expire.
o Monitor Key Levels:
Keep an eye on the 450 strike (resistance) and 410 strike (support). If Corn breaks these levels early in the trade, consider closing the position or making adjustments.
o Volatility Management:
The success of this trade hinges on an increase in market momentum.
7. Conclusion
The Reverse Diagonal Iron Condor is an advanced options strategy where the long positions have a shorter expiration than the short positions, creating a negative theta position. Instead of benefiting from time decay as in a traditional Iron Condor, this strategy is designed to take advantage of expected volatility increases over time. By selling longer-term options and buying shorter-term options, traders are positioning themselves for a volatility breakout or significant price movement before the near-term options expire.
In this setup, time decay has a limited negative impact on the position, but the key advantage lies in the positive gamma. This means that if a breakout occurs, the position’s delta will accelerate, potentially outpacing the slight negative effect of theta. Traders should closely monitor the December expiration, as the success of the trade hinges on the anticipated large move happening before this date. This structure is particularly well-suited for Corn Futures (ZCH2025), given the falling ADX and RSI, which suggest a potential momentum shift. The strategy is designed to benefit from a significant price move with limited cost, assuming the breakout occurs within the timeframe of the December long options.
When charting futures, the data provided could be delayed. Traders working with the ticker symbols discussed in this idea may prefer to use CME Group real-time data plan on TradingView: www.tradingview.com - This consideration is particularly important for shorter-term traders, whereas it may be less critical for those focused on longer-term trading strategies.
General Disclaimer:
The trade ideas presented herein are solely for illustrative purposes forming a part of a case study intended to demonstrate key principles in risk management within the context of the specific market scenarios discussed. These ideas are not to be interpreted as investment recommendations or financial advice. They do not endorse or promote any specific trading strategies, financial products, or services. The information provided is based on data believed to be reliable; however, its accuracy or completeness cannot be guaranteed. Trading in financial markets involves risks, including the potential loss of principal. Each individual should conduct their own research and consult with professional financial advisors before making any investment decisions. The author or publisher of this content bears no responsibility for any actions taken based on the information provided or for any resultant financial or other losses.
THE MUST-SEE CHART YOU DIDN'T KNOW YOU NEEDED!The TVC:VIX VIX (Volatility Index), often referred to as the "Fear Gauge," measures market volatility expectations based on options prices for the SP:SPX S&P 500 index over the next 30 days. It reflects the sentiment of market participants about future volatility, with higher values indicating more anticipated volatility (often associated with market fear or uncertainty) and lower values reflecting calm market conditions.
Investors frequently use the TVC:VIX VIX as a tool for assessing market risk, especially during periods of market turbulence or significant economic events. Since it tends to rise when the stock market declines, it is often seen as a hedge against market downturns. It's important for traders and analysts, particularly in the context of options trading and for assessing overall market sentiment.
The TVC:VIX VIX's relationship with the cryptocurrency market, particularly with BNC:BLX Bitcoin and other major assets, can offer insights into market sentiment across traditional and digital financial spaces. While the TVC:VIX VIX primarily reflects volatility in the U.S. equity market, changes in its level can indirectly impact cryptocurrencies in the following ways:
1. Market Sentiment Correlation:
High VIX: A rising VIX indicates fear or uncertainty in traditional markets. In times of high volatility, investors tend to move away from risky assets, including cryptocurrencies, leading to potential sell-offs in both markets. However, some may consider Bitcoin a hedge during extreme cases of fear, driving demand as a "digital gold" asset.
Low VIX: A lower VIX reflects calm and stability, which may encourage investors to take on more risk. This could benefit high-risk, high-reward assets like cryptocurrencies, potentially driving capital into Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptos.
2. Liquidity and Risk-Off/Risk-On Dynamics:
In a risk-off environment (high VIX), institutional and retail investors often reduce exposure to volatile assets like crypto, leading to a potential liquidity crunch and sell-offs.
Conversely, a risk-on environment (low VIX) may signal that investors are more willing to take risks, increasing liquidity and driving up crypto prices.
3. Crypto's Evolving Correlation with Equities:
Over time, there has been an evolving correlation between the S&P 500 and Bitcoin, particularly during times of high macroeconomic stress (e.g., during the COVID-19 pandemic or interest rate hikes). As VIX tracks equity market sentiment, rising volatility in equities often spills into crypto markets.
In bull markets or periods of equity recovery, crypto markets may also benefit from an inflow of capital, reducing VIX levels and increasing crypto prices simultaneously.
4. Hedging and Diversification:
Some institutional investors use the VIX as part of their hedging strategy when managing portfolios with exposure to equities and cryptocurrencies. For example, a high VIX may prompt them to move into stablecoins or reduce exposure to speculative assets.
In the future, more sophisticated products like a "crypto volatility index" may emerge, mirroring the role of the VIX but for digital assets.
5. Macro Events:
Major macroeconomic events, such as central bank decisions or geopolitical events, can cause both the VIX to rise and have similar effects on crypto volatility. During such periods, correlations between traditional and digital markets may strengthen.
feargreedmeter.com
The VIX (Volatility Index) and the Crypto Fear and Greed Index serve similar purposes by gauging market sentiment, but they do so in different ways and in distinct markets. Below is a comparison between the two:
1. Purpose and Market Focus
VIX (Volatility Index):
Market: Traditional financial markets, specifically the S&P 500.
Purpose: Measures expected volatility in the S&P 500 over the next 30 days based on options prices. It’s often used as an indicator of fear or complacency in the U.S. stock market.
Focus: Short-term volatility expectations, acting as a “fear gauge” for equity market participants.
Crypto Fear and Greed Index:
Market: Cryptocurrency markets, with a strong emphasis on Bitcoin.
Purpose: Measures the emotional sentiment of the crypto market by analysing multiple factors to determine whether the market is driven by fear or greed.
Focus: Broader emotional sentiment rather than technical market volatility. It tracks how much fear or optimism is present among crypto traders.
2. Inputs and Calculation
VIX:
Derived from the implied volatility of options on the S&P 500. It looks at a range of call and put options to estimate expected price swings in the market.
Key Factors: Options market data, specifically the prices investors are willing to pay to hedge against future volatility in the stock market.
Crypto Fear and Greed Index:
Combines various inputs to capture overall market sentiment. These include:
Volatility: Tracks Bitcoin volatility and compares it with historical trends. Increased volatility is associated with fear.
Market Momentum/Volume: Rising buying volumes signal greed while declining volumes suggest fear.
Social Media Sentiment: Analyses mentions, hashtags, and engagement on social media related to crypto topics, reflecting hype or panic.
Surveys : Sometimes include survey data from market participants.
Dominance: Focuses on Bitcoin’s dominance in the market. Rising dominance suggests fear (as investors flock to Bitcoin for safety) while decreasing dominance implies a risk-on environment.
Google Trends: Looks at search query trends for cryptocurrency terms, reflecting public interest and sentiment.
3. Interpretation
VIX:
Higher VIX (>20): Indicates high expected volatility, often interpreted as fear in the market. Investors are anticipating larger price swings, usually in a negative direction.
Lower VIX (<20): Suggests a calm market with lower expected volatility, often indicating complacency or a bullish outlook in the equity markets.
Crypto Fear and Greed Index:
0-24 (Extreme Fear): Indicates significant fear in the crypto market. Traders may be overly concerned about price drops, which could lead to buying opportunities based on contrarian strategies.
25-49 (Fear): The market is still cautious, with more sellers than buyers.
50-74 (Greed): Optimism and confidence are high, with traders taking on more risk.
75-100 (Extreme Greed): Overconfidence or euphoria in the market. This is often seen as a warning that the market may be overbought, making a correction likely.
4. Time Horizon
VIX:
It focuses on expected short-term volatility (the next 30 days), meaning it's more of a short-term indicator of market swings.
Crypto Fear and Greed Index:
A broader measure of overall sentiment, not specifically tied to volatility or timeframes, it captures emotional extremes in the market that could persist for days, weeks, or longer.
5. Use Cases for Investors
VIX:
Used by traditional investors to gauge risk in the stock market. When the VIX is high, it can be a signal to hedge positions, reduce exposure to equities, or take advantage of volatility-driven strategies like options trading.
During periods of low volatility, investors may become complacent and could be blindsided by sudden spikes in the VIX, often driven by external events (e.g., geopolitical issues or economic reports).
Crypto Fear and Greed Index:
Helps crypto traders assess the general market mood. Extreme fear can signal potential buying opportunities (contrarian strategy), while extreme greed may indicate an overheated market, possibly a time to sell or de-risk.
Useful for emotional market analysis in a space that is known for strong, irrational sentiment swings, making it a helpful tool for timing market entries and exits.
6. Impact on Price
VIX:
Typically inversely correlated with stock prices. A rising VIX often accompanies a falling stock market, and vice versa.
Crypto Fear and Greed Index:
A sentiment indicator is not directly tied to price movements, but extreme readings can signal turning points or potential corrections in crypto prices due to market overreactions.
If you have any questions, please reach out!
Trading is a waiting game🔸Trading is a waiting game. Stop forcing trades. Learn waiting for your setups. A trader who can't wait is not a successful trader.
🔸Waiting is the hardest part of trading. And also the least talked about. If you can improve your waiting you will improve your trading.
🔸Trading is a waiting game. You sit, you wait, and you make a lot of money all at once. Profits come in bunches. The trick when going sideways between home runs is not to lose too much in between.
🔸Overtrading is the number one reason why traders blow their entire accounts because it exposes them to unnecessary risks and costs that vanish their capital. Some studies show that overtrading accounts for more than 75% of trading losses among retail traders.
🎁Please hit the like button and
🎁Leave a comment to support our team!
RISK DISCLAIMER:
Trading Futures , Forex, CFDs and Stocks involves a risk of loss.
Please consider carefully if such trading is appropriate for you.
Past performance is not indicative of future results.
Trading Psychological Levels 101What are psychological levels?
🔸Psychological levels are price points in financial markets that hold significant meaning for traders and investors, mainly due to their simplicity and ease.
🔸Typically, these levels are round numbers, ending in 00 or halfway points like 50.
🔸With currency pairs, the exchange rate of 1.0” or parity is also a major psychological level.
🔸Traders tend to anchor their decisions around these levels, leading to increased buying and selling pressure when prices approach or surpass them.
How to Trade Psychological Levels
🔸Identify Key levels: The first step in incorporating psychological levels into your trading is to identify the key levels relevant to the financial instrument (e.g. currency pair) you are trading. This can be done by observing historical price action and noting round numbers where the price has previously shown significant reactions.
🔸Monitor Price Action: Keep a close eye on how the price behaves as it approaches a psychological level. Look for signs of increased price volatility, as this can indicate heightened interest from market participants.
🔸Set Entry and Exit Points: Once you have identified a psychological level and observed price action around it, use this information to set entry and exit points for your trades. For example, if the price has bounced off a psychological support level, you might enter a long position just above the level and set a stop loss slightly below it.
🎁Please hit the like button and
🎁Leave a comment to support our team!
RISK DISCLAIMER:
Trading Futures , Forex, CFDs and Stocks involves a risk of loss.
Please consider carefully if such trading is appropriate for you.
Past performance is not indicative of future results.
A Video Explaining how to use the Greer Invest StrategyGreer Invest Strategy Overview:
The Greer Invest strategy is designed to assist investors in making long-term investment decisions through a structured approach to buying and managing investments over time.
Key Features:
Invest: Indicator to pinpoint optimal entry points for investments.
Investment Management: Includes an additional feature for strategic selling, allowing investors to rebalance their portfolio or generate cash for other purposes without full liquidation.
Precision and Alerts: Offers precise buy signals within BuyZones and customizable alerts for proactive investment management.
Purpose:
This tool aims to simplify the decision-making process for when to enter or adjust positions in stocks, ETFs, cryptocurrencies, or other assets, focusing on long-term wealth accumulation rather than short-term speculation.
Usage:
Backtesting: Investors can use TradingView's strategy tester to evaluate the performance of this strategy over historical data.
Alerts: Set up notifications to be alerted on potential buy or sell opportunities across your watchlist.
Backtesting Results:
The Greer Invest Strategy was backtested against the top 50 companies in the U.S. by market capitalization. Here are the key results from this comprehensive test:
Total number of trades: 470 trades were executed.
Total invested over time: $470,000, with each trade amounting to $1,000.
Total Net Profit: The strategy yielded a profit of $162,344.59.
Total Net Profit %: Overall, the strategy achieved a 35% return on the total investment.
% Trade wins: A notable 82.33% of all trades ended profitably.
% Trade loss: 17.67% of trades resulted in losses.
Average Max Draw Down per $1000: The strategy experienced an average maximum drawdown of $550.74 per $1,000 invested, indicating potential risk levels.
Average Trade Profit per $1000: Each trade, on average, profited $497.93 per $1,000.
Average # bars in trade: Trades were held for an average of 396 bars, reflecting a medium-term to long-term trade duration.
Detailed Results for Selected Companies:
Apple (AAPL): Profit of $6,752 (67.53% return) from 10 trades.
Microsoft (MSFT): Profit of $3,294.13 (32.94% return) from 8 trades.
NVIDIA (NVDA): Profit of $7,743.43 (77.43% return) from 5 trades.
Alphabet (GOOG): Profit of $338.22 (3.38% return) from 2 trades.
Amazon (AMZN): Profit of $3,580.17 (35.80% return) from 6 trades.
Meta Platforms (META): Profit of $731.04 (7.31% return) from 2 trades.
Berkshire Hathaway (BRK.B): Profit of $1,902.01 (19.02% return) from 4 trades.
Broadcom (AVGO): Profit of $1,089.64 (10.89% return) from 2 trades.
Eli Lilly (LLY): Profit of $1,408.76 (14.09% return) from 12 trades.
Tesla (TSLA): Profit of $10,263.41 (102.63% return) from 2 trades.
Key Observations:
High Win Rate: An impressive 82.33% of trades were winners, suggesting the strategy was effective in picking winning trades.
Profitability: The strategy was profitable across various companies, with some like TSLA, NVDA, and AAPL showing particularly high returns.
Drawdown: The average maximum drawdown of $550.74 per $1,000 could be a concern for risk management, indicating significant fluctuations in equity.
Trade Duration: With an average of 396 bars in trade, the strategy seems to hold positions for a considerable duration, suggesting a medium to long-term approach.
This analysis indicates that the strategy performs well across a diversified set of top U.S. companies by market cap, with some standout performers. However, the drawdown and long trade duration might require careful risk management and could impact liquidity or opportunity cost considerations.
Credit:
Credit to Tushar Chande who invented the Aroon indicator.
Credit to Carl Friedrich Gauss who invented the Gaussian process.
Credit to Donovan Wall who created the script that has the math for the Gaussian Channel.
Disclaimer:
The Greer Invest strategy is for educational and informational use only. It does not constitute financial or investment advice. Users should perform their due diligence and consider consulting a financial advisor. There's no guarantee of profit or protection against loss. The creator of this script is not liable for any outcomes from its use.
A Detailed Guide for New Traders!Technical Analysis: A Detailed Guide for New Traders
Technical analysis (TA) is a trading method used to evaluate and predict the future price movements of assets like stocks, cryptocurrencies, commodities, or forex, by analyzing past market data, primarily price and volume. It differs from fundamental analysis, which looks at financial metrics like earnings, revenue, and overall economic conditions. For beginners, here’s a breakdown of technical analysis and its essential tools and concepts:
1. Price Charts: The Foundation of TA
Price charts are visual representations of an asset’s price over a specific period. There are different types of charts, but the most common are:
Line Charts: Show the closing prices over time.
Bar Charts: Display the open, high, low, and close prices (OHLC) for each period.
Candlestick Charts: Similar to bar charts but more visually intuitive, displaying the same OHLC data with colored “candles” for up or down movements.
Candlestick charts are the most popular among traders because they provide more information and are easier to interpret visually.
2. Key Concepts in Technical Analysis
a. Trends
A trend is the general direction in which the price of an asset is moving. Understanding trends is crucial in technical analysis because traders aim to follow the market’s momentum. There are three types of trends:
Uptrend: Prices are generally increasing, making higher highs and higher lows.
Downtrend: Prices are decreasing, making lower highs and lower lows.
Sideways Trend (Range): Prices move within a specific range without a clear upward or downward direction.
b. Support and Resistance
Support: A price level where an asset tends to stop falling due to increased buying demand.
Resistance: A price level where an asset tends to stop rising due to increased selling pressure.
These levels are essential for identifying potential entry and exit points for trades.
c. Moving Averages
Moving averages (MAs) are a simple way to smooth out price data over a specified time period to identify trends more easily. There are two main types:
Simple Moving Average (SMA): The average price over a set number of periods (e.g., 50-day or 200-day SMA).
Exponential Moving Average (EMA): Gives more weight to recent prices, making it more responsive to new information.
Traders use MAs to determine the overall trend, and crossovers (e.g., when a short-term MA crosses a long-term MA) are often seen as buy or sell signals.
3. Indicators and Oscillators
Indicators and oscillators are tools derived from price and volume data to help identify potential trends, reversals, and overbought or oversold conditions.
a. Relative Strength Index (RSI)
The RSI measures the magnitude of recent price changes to evaluate whether an asset is overbought or oversold. It ranges from 0 to 100:
Above 70: Overbought (price might be too high, possible reversal).
Below 30: Oversold (price might be too low, possible reversal).
b. Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD)
The MACD is a trend-following momentum indicator that shows the relationship between two moving averages of an asset’s price. It helps traders identify changes in the strength, direction, and momentum of a trend.
MACD Line: The difference between the 12-day and 26-day EMA.
Signal Line: A 9-day EMA of the MACD Line.
Histogram: Shows the difference between the MACD Line and the Signal Line.
A crossover between the MACD Line and the Signal Line can signal buying or selling opportunities.
c. Bollinger Bands
Bollinger Bands consist of a moving average (middle band) and two outer bands that are two standard deviations away from the middle. The bands expand and contract based on market volatility. When the price moves toward the upper band, the asset might be overbought, and when it moves toward the lower band, it might be oversold.
4. Chart Patterns
Chart patterns are formations created by the price movement of an asset, and traders use them to predict future price movements. Some common patterns include:
Head and Shoulders: A reversal pattern that signals a change from bullish to bearish or vice versa.
Triangles (Ascending, Descending, Symmetrical): Continuation patterns that suggest the price will break out in the direction of the current trend.
Double Top and Double Bottom: Reversal patterns indicating that the price may reverse its current trend after testing a support or resistance level twice.
5. Volume Analysis
Volume refers to the number of shares, contracts, or lots traded during a particular period. It can confirm trends or warn of potential reversals:
Rising volume during an uptrend confirms the strength of the trend.
Decreasing volume in a rising trend can indicate a weakening trend and potential reversal.
Volume spikes often occur at trend reversals.
6. Risk Management
No trading strategy is foolproof, and technical analysis is not a crystal ball. To succeed, you must manage your risk:
Stop-Loss Orders: Automatically sell a position if the price moves against you by a certain amount, limiting your losses.
Risk-Reward Ratio: Determine the amount you're willing to risk for a potential reward. A typical ratio is 1:2, meaning for every $1 risked, you aim to make $2 in profit.
Position Sizing: Only risk a small percentage of your total capital (e.g., 1-2%) on a single trade to prevent significant losses.
7. Combining TA with Fundamental Analysis
While technical analysis is valuable, many traders combine it with fundamental analysis to get a complete picture. For instance, in the stock market, technical analysis might show that a stock is oversold, but if the company’s fundamentals (earnings, revenue) are strong, it could be a buying opportunity.
8. Conclusion
Technical analysis is a powerful tool for traders to predict price movements and make informed trading decisions. However, it requires practice and patience. Start with the basics, use demo accounts to test your skills, and never forget to manage your risk.
For beginners, mastering the key concepts like trends, support and resistance, moving averages, and common indicators like RSI and MACD will set you on the path to becoming a successful trader.
Like and follow if you found this helpful!
#Crypto #Bitcoin #bullrun
Cracking the Forex Code: Trader’s Complete Guide to Market SlangForex is the vast universe of currency pairs floating against each other—sometimes sitting at parity, sometimes shooting for the stars and sometimes just plain nosediving. And because forex has a mind of its own (kind of), it also speaks its own language. This is why this Idea exists—to help you make sense of the jargon by breaking down key terms, phrases, and slang used in everyday forex trading. Let’s get into it!
1. Ask
The price the market is willing to sell a currency at. It’s the price you’ll pay if you’re buying.
2. Arbitrage
Simultaneous buying and selling across different markets to exploit price differences.
3. Aussie
Trader slang for the AUD/USD currency pair.
4. Bagholder
Someone stuck holding a losing position long after everyone else has exited. Don’t be a bagholder. (Are you secretly a bagholder?)
5. Base Currency
The first currency in a pair (e.g., in EUR/USD , EUR is the base). You’re buying or selling this one.
6. Bearish
Expecting the market to fall. Depicts a bear attack—swiping its paws downward.
7. Bid
The price at which the market is willing to buy a currency. If you’re selling, this is the price you’ll get.
8. Black Gold
A nickname for oil. Watch the price of this commodity—it moves entire currencies.
9. Bottom Fishing
Buying a currency or stock at what you hope is its lowest point. It’s risky—sometimes the bottom keeps falling.
10. Breakout
When price moves out of a defined range, smashing through support or resistance, signaling a potential strong move.
11. Buck
Trader slang for the U.S. dollar. Simple, direct, and everyone knows it.
12. Bullion
Physical gold or silver. When traders want the real stuff, they go for bullion.
13. Bullish
Betting on the market to rise. Depicts a bull attack—thrusting its horns upward.
14. Cable
Forex slang for the GBP/USD pair, named after the old transatlantic cable.
15. Candlestick
A visual representation of price movement showing the open, high, low, and close in a specific time period.
16. Carry Trade
Borrowing in a low-interest-rate currency and investing in a higher-interest one to pocket the interest difference.
17. Choppy
Describes a market with no clear direction and lots of erratic movement. A tough one to trade in.
18. Chunnel
Slang for the EUR/GBP pair, referring to the English Channel that connects Europe and the UK. Gotta love that geographical flair.
19. Cross Currency Pair
A currency pair that doesn’t involve the USD (e.g., EUR/JPY ). They have a life of their own, not tied to the greenback.
20. Dip
A temporary decline in price during an uptrend. Smart traders "buy the dip" to get in. But sometimes the dip keeps dippin’.
21. Dragon
The GBP/JPY currency pair. Known for its volatility and wild price swings—trade carefully!
22. Drawdown
The loss from peak to trough in your account balance during a trading period. It’s inevitable—just don’t let it take you out.
23. Exotic Pairs
Currency pairs that include one major currency and one from an emerging or less liquid market (e.g., USD/TRY ). Exotic in name, but not always in your best interest—volatile and wide spreads.
24. Fedspeak
The carefully crafted language of the Federal Reserve. One vague speech from Fed Chair JPow can send markets into a frenzy.
25. Fibonacci Retracement
A technical tool to identify possible support and resistance levels, based on the Fibonacci sequence. Traders love these numbers.
26. Fill or Kill
A type of order where it must be filled immediately at the requested price, or canceled. No waiting around here.
27. Forex (FX)
The foreign exchange market—where currencies are traded 24/5. The biggest, baddest market in the world with $7 trillion moving daily.
28. FOMO
Fear of Missing Out. The emotional trap where traders chase the market late—usually leading to bad trades. Don’t fall for it.
29. Fundamental Analysis
Analyzing economic factors (e.g., GDP, employment, inflation) to predict currency movements. It’s all about the big picture here.
30. Gopher
Slang for the USD/JPY pair. A less common term, but you’ll see it in the trading trenches.
31. Greenback
Another classic slang term for the US dollar, referring to the green color of American bills.
32. Hawkish
A central bank policy favoring higher interest rates to control inflation. Hawkish policy = stronger currency.
33. Kiwi
Slang for the NZD/USD currency pair. Named after New Zealand’s famous bird—not the fruit!
34. Leverage
Trading with borrowed capital. It magnifies gains, but it can also blow up your account faster than you think. Use wisely.
35. Liquidity
The ease with which a currency can be traded without affecting its price. High liquidity means tight spreads and fast trades.
36. Loonie
The nickname for the USD/CAD pair. Named after the loon, a bird featured on Canada’s $1 coin.
37. Lot
The size of your trade. A Standard Lot is 100,000 units, a Mini Lot is 10,000, and a Micro Lot is 1,000.
38. Margin
The amount of money needed to open a leveraged trade. It’s essentially your broker’s “deposit.”
39. Margin Call
When your broker demands more funds because your account can no longer support open positions. Not answering could mean automatic liquidation. New phone who dis?
40. Market Maker
An entity (usually a bank or broker) that provides liquidity to the market by always being willing to buy or sell at certain prices.
41. Moving Average
A technical indicator that smooths price data over a specific period to identify trends. Think of it as the market’s heartbeat.
42. Ninja
Slang for the USD/JPY pair. This one’s fast and stealthy, like a true ninja.
43. Old Lady
A nickname for the Bank of England (BoE). When the “Old Lady” speaks, the GBP moves.
44. Overbought
When a currency has been bought excessively, leading to a potential reversal. Usually spotted with indicators like RSI.
45. Oversold
The opposite of overbought. It means the currency has been sold off too quickly, signaling a potential price bounce.
46. Permabear
A trader who is always bearish, no matter what the market does. They believe the sky is always falling. “I knew BTC was going to zero.”
47. Pips
The smallest price move in a currency pair. In most pairs, it’s the fourth decimal place (0.0001). Collecting pips is how you build profit.
48. Pivot Point
A key level used by traders to identify potential support and resistance levels. Great for spotting reversals.
49. Position Trading
Holding a trade for weeks or months, focusing on long-term trends. You’ll need patience for this one.
50. Price Action
Trading based solely on price movement, ignoring indicators and fundamentals. It’s all about reading the market’s raw behavior.
51. Pump and Dump
A scheme where traders hype up a currency or stock, inflate its price, then sell out for a profit while everyone else is left holding the bag. Sketchy stuff.
52. Pullback
A temporary dip or rise in price within a larger trend. It’s an opportunity to buy in or sell the rally.
53. Ranging Market
When prices are moving sideways in a tight range, with no clear trend. Boring, but there are still trades to be made.
54. Resistance
A price level where selling pressure tends to prevent further rises. If it breaks, a big move could be coming.
55. Rollover
Interest earned or paid for holding a position overnight, based on the interest rate differential between the currencies.
56. Scalping
A fast-paced strategy that involves making quick trades to grab small profits from tiny price moves. Not for the faint-hearted.
57. Shill
Someone who promotes or hypes up a stock, currency, or crypto for personal gain, often misleading others. Watch out for these on social media.
58. Short Squeeze
When a heavily shorted asset rises in price quickly, forcing short sellers to buy back their positions at higher prices, fueling the rally even further.
59. Slippage
When your trade is executed at a different price than expected, usually during high volatility or low liquidity.
60. Spread
The difference between the bid and ask prices. Tighter spreads are better—lower costs for getting into a trade.
61. Stop-Loss
An order that automatically closes a trade when it hits a specified loss level. Protect yourself, set that stop!
62. Support
A price level where buying appetite tends to prevent further drops. Break below it, and things could get ugly.
63. Swissy
Slang for the USD/CHF currency pair. Traders often turn to the Swissy for safety in volatile times.
64. Swap
The interest earned or paid for holding a position overnight. Positive swaps are a nice bonus, negative swaps? Not so much.
65. Swing Trading
Holding trades for days or weeks to capture short- to medium-term market moves. It’s a balanced approach between day trading and long-term investing.
66. Take-Profit
An order that closes your trade automatically when it reaches your target profit. Lock in those gains before the market turns!
67. Tenbagger
A stock or currency that increases tenfold in value. Rare, but when it happens, it’s legendary.
68. Trend
The general direction the market is moving—either bullish, bearish, or sideways. The trend is your friend—until it isn’t.
69. Volatility
The amount of price fluctuation in the market. High volatility means more potential for profits—or losses. Buckle up! (Hint: Anticipate volatility by knowing the market-moving events .)
70. Whipsaw
When the market moves quickly in one direction, stops you out, and then reverses back. It’s the ultimate trader frustration.
71. Widow Maker
A trade with huge risks that’s known for wiping out accounts, especially when shorting the Japanese yen in a strong trend or betting against the Bank of Japan.
And there you have it— the ultimate Forex slang dictionary that prepares you to take a deep dive in the sea of forex trading . Did we catch everything? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
A Beginner's Guide for New TradersIntroduction to Cryptocurrency:
Cryptocurrency has become a major financial trend in recent years, attracting both experienced traders and newcomers alike. If you're just starting out, this guide will help you understand the basics of cryptocurrency and what it takes to start trading.
1. What is Cryptocurrency?
Cryptocurrency is a type of digital or virtual currency that uses cryptography for security. Unlike traditional currencies like the US dollar or Euro, cryptocurrencies operate on decentralized networks based on blockchain technology. This means that they are not controlled by any central authority, such as a government or bank.
The most well-known cryptocurrency is Bitcoin (BTC), but there are thousands of others, including Ethereum (ETH), Ripple (XRP), and Litecoin (LTC).
2. How Does Cryptocurrency Work?
Cryptocurrencies operate on blockchain technology, which is essentially a distributed ledger that records all transactions across a network of computers (nodes). These transactions are grouped into blocks and added to the blockchain, ensuring transparency and security. Since every transaction is verified by the network, there is no need for a middleman (like a bank), reducing transaction costs and increasing efficiency.
3. Common Types of Cryptocurrencies
Bitcoin (BTC): The first and most widely recognized cryptocurrency, often referred to as "digital gold."
Ethereum (ETH): Known for its smart contract functionality, Ethereum is a platform for building decentralized applications (dApps).
Stablecoins (USDT, USDC): Cryptocurrencies pegged to the value of traditional currencies like the US dollar, offering stability and reducing price volatility.
Altcoins: A broad term for any cryptocurrency other than Bitcoin. These include a wide range of coins like Litecoin (LTC), Ripple (XRP), and more niche coins such as Dogecoin (DOGE).
4. Why Trade Cryptocurrency?
High Volatility: Cryptocurrency prices can fluctuate dramatically, providing opportunities for traders to profit from price movements.
24/7 Market: Unlike traditional stock markets, cryptocurrency markets are open 24/7, allowing traders to trade at any time.
Global Accessibility: Cryptocurrencies are accessible to anyone with an internet connection, making it possible to trade from anywhere in the world.
5. How to Start Trading Cryptocurrency
To start trading cryptocurrencies, follow these steps:
Step 1: Choose a Cryptocurrency Exchange
A cryptocurrency exchange is an online platform where you can buy, sell, and trade cryptocurrencies. Some popular exchanges include:
Binance: One of the largest exchanges, offering a wide range of coins and trading pairs.
Coinbase: Known for its user-friendly interface, making it ideal for beginners.
Kraken: Offers a variety of coins and advanced trading tools.
Step 2: Create an Account
Once you've chosen an exchange, you'll need to sign up by providing your email and personal information. Most exchanges will require you to verify your identity before you can start trading.
Step 3: Deposit Funds
After creating your account, you can deposit funds into your exchange wallet. Most exchanges accept deposits via bank transfer, credit/debit cards, or other cryptocurrencies.
Step 4: Choose a Trading Pair
In cryptocurrency trading, you'll often be trading pairs, such as BTC/USDT (Bitcoin/US Dollar Tether). You'll be buying one currency while selling another. For example, if you believe Bitcoin will rise in value against the US dollar, you'd buy BTC/USDT.
Step 5: Place a Trade
There are two main types of trades:
Market Order: This is an order to buy or sell immediately at the current market price.
Limit Order: This is an order to buy or sell at a specific price. The trade will only execute when the price reaches your target.
6. Basic Trading Strategies
There are several strategies traders use to make profits in the cryptocurrency market. Here are a few basic ones:
HODLing: This refers to holding onto your cryptocurrency for a long period, regardless of market fluctuations, expecting it to rise in value over time.
Day Trading: Buying and selling within a single day, aiming to profit from small price movements.
Swing Trading: Holding onto an asset for several days or weeks, attempting to profit from short- to medium-term price movements.
Scalping: Making quick trades for small profits over a very short time period, often minutes or seconds.
7. Key Concepts for New Traders
Volatility: Cryptocurrency is known for its wild price swings. As a trader, you'll need to understand that prices can go up and down very quickly.
Liquidity: This refers to how easily an asset can be bought or sold without affecting the market price. High liquidity means you can trade larger amounts without causing significant price changes.
Market Capitalization (Market Cap): This is the total value of a cryptocurrency, calculated by multiplying the price by the total supply of coins. It gives a rough indication of the size and popularity of a coin.
8. Risks of Cryptocurrency Trading
Market Volatility: Prices can swing dramatically, leading to significant gains or losses.
Security Risks: Cryptocurrency exchanges and wallets are often targeted by hackers. Always use secure exchanges, enable two-factor authentication (2FA), and store your assets in a secure wallet (e.g., hardware wallet).
Regulatory Risks: Governments may impose regulations on cryptocurrency trading, which could affect the market.
9. Security and Wallets
When you're trading cryptocurrency, it's important to know how to secure your assets:
Exchange Wallets: These are provided by the exchange where you trade, but they can be vulnerable to hacks.
Software Wallets: Apps or programs where you store your cryptocurrency. They're more secure than exchange wallets but still vulnerable to online threats.
Hardware Wallets: Physical devices, such as Ledger or Trezor, that store your crypto offline, offering the highest level of security.
10. Tax Implications
In most countries, cryptocurrency profits are subject to taxes. Be sure to check your local tax laws and keep track of your trades for tax reporting purposes.
11. Start Small and Learn
If you're a beginner, it’s important to start small. Trade with an amount you're comfortable losing, as the cryptocurrency market can be unpredictable. As you gain more experience and understand how the market works, you can gradually increase your investments.
Conclusion
Cryptocurrency trading offers exciting opportunities, but it also comes with risks. Understanding the basics, choosing the right strategies, and being cautious are essential to becoming a successful trader. Keep learning, stay updated with market trends, and don’t rush into decisions without proper research.
#Crypto #Bitcoin #learn #Altseason #Bullrun2025
How to Trade with the Island Reversal PatternHow to Trade with the Island Reversal Pattern
Price action analysis serves as a pivotal methodology in financial markets, offering a means to assess and determine the future price movements of various assets, including stocks, currencies, and commodities. Among the many tools employed within this method, the Island Reversal pattern stands out as a significant indicator of potential trend reversals.
What Is an Island Reversal Pattern?
The Island Reversal is a technical analysis pattern that signals a potential trend reversal. It typically occurs after a strong uptrend or downtrend and is characterised by a gap in price action, isolating a group of candlesticks. The pattern suggests a shift in market sentiment, indicating that the previous trend may be losing momentum.
How to Spot an Island Reversal in the Chart
To identify the setup, traders pay close attention to the following characteristics, which can manifest in both bullish and bearish market conditions:
Strong Trend:
- Bullish: This pattern often materialises after a prolonged downtrend. It signifies a potential price change to the upside.
- Bearish: Conversely, in a bullish market, the pattern emerges following a sustained uptrend, suggesting a possible change in a trend to the downside.
Gap in Island Reversal:
- Bottom Island Reversal: In a bullish context, there is a gap down, creating an "island" of isolated candlesticks, indicating a shift from bearish sentiment to potential bullish momentum.
- Top Island Reversal: For a bearish reversal, there is a gap up, isolating a group of candlesticks, signalling a transition from bullish to potentially bearish market sentiment.
Isolation:
- Bullish Island Reversal: The gap is created by an upward movement that is isolated from the surrounding price action, forming the characteristic island formation.
- Bearish Island Reversal: In a bearish context, the gap is formed by a downward movement that does not overlap with the previous, creating a distinctive island formation.
How to Trade the Island Reversal
Traders employing the setup adhere to a systematic strategy for identifying and capitalising on a potential change in a trend. Patiently awaiting confirmation of the reversal through subsequent price action, traders enter the market upon the break of isolation, where the price decisively moves below (for a bearish scenario) or above (for a bullish scenario) the isolated island. Profit targets may be set by considering key support and resistance levels to potentially enhance precision.
The placement of stop-loss orders just above or below the pattern is a critical risk management component. Traders carefully assess the risk-reward ratio to align potential profits with associated risks. This holistic approach reflects a commitment to disciplined decision-making, combining technical analysis and prudent risk management in navigating the complexities of financial markets.
Live Market Example
The TickTrader chart by FXOpen below shows a bearish setup. The trader takes the short at the opening of the new candle below the Island. Their stop loss is above the setup with a take profit at the next support level.
The Bottom Line
Although the Island Reversal is a popular technical analysis tool, it's crucial to wait for confirmation and consider other technical indicators to potentially increase the probability of an effective trade. As with any trading strategy, risk management is key to mitigating potential losses. Always adapt your approach based on the specific conditions of the market and use the pattern as one of several tools in your trading arsenal. To develop your expertise, open an FXOpen account to trade in numerous markets with exciting trading conditions.
FAQs
Why Is Risk Management Important When Trading the Island Reversal?
The pattern is considered a strong signal of a change in the price direction, but like all technical patterns, it is not infallible. There is always a risk that the pattern may fail to lead to the expected price movement. Effective risk management helps limit losses in case the trade doesn't play out as anticipated.
Should Traders Solely Rely on the Island Reversal for Trading Decisions?
No, traders always wait for confirmation and incorporate other technical indicators to potentially enhance the probability of an effective trade. The pattern should be regarded as just one of several tools in a trader's toolkit.
Is There a Platform Where Traders Can Apply Their Knowledge of the Pattern in Live Markets?
Yes, traders can explore FXOpen’s free TickTrader trading platform to trade in over 600 markets and apply their understanding of the pattern in practical trading scenarios.
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.
Fibonacci Retracement ExplainedWhat Are Fibonacci Retracement Levels?
In simple terms, Fibonacci Retracement Levels are horizontal lines on a chart that represent price levels. These price levels help identify where support or resistance may likely occur on a chart.
Each retracement level corresponds to a specific percentage, indicating how much of a pullback has taken place from a previous high or low. These percentages are derived from the Fibonacci sequence and include 23.6%, 38.2%, 61.8%, and 78.6%. Although not an official Fibonacci ratio, the 50% level is also commonly used.
This indicator is useful because it can be drawn between a high and a low price point, creating levels that indicate potential retracement areas between those two prices.
The basic Fibonacci Retracement amongst many trading platforms would normally look like this:
While this is okay, I would recommend changing the settings to my suggested format to improve clarity and comprehension. The revised version would look like this:
To copy this, the revised Fibonacci Retracement Settings are bellow:
By doing this, it shows you the “Golden Zone.” This spot is considered one of the most important areas because price often pulls back into this zone right before “extending” in a bullish pattern.
>>>>>NERDY INFO AHEAD<<<<<
Calculating Fibonacci Retracement Levels
The origin of the Fibonacci numbers is fascinating. They are based on something called the Golden Ratio.
This is a sequence of numbers starting with zero and one. Then, keep adding the prior two numbers to get the third number. This will eventually produce a number string looking like this:
• 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 55, 89, 144, 233, 377, 610, 987...with the string continuing indefinitely.
Fibonacci retracement levels are derived from the Fibonacci number sequence. As the sequence progresses, dividing one number by the next number yields 0.618, or 61.8% (233 divided by 377 gives you 0.618037.
Divide a number by the second number to its right; the result is 0.382 or 38.2% (233 divided by 610 gives you 0.381967.
All these ratios, apart from 50% (which is not officially part of the Fibonacci sequence), are calculated based on relationships within this number sequence.
The golden ratio can be found in various places in nature as well. This includes spiral patterns of seashells (like nautilus shells), the arrangement of leaves on a plant stem, the petals of certain flowers, and the structure of pinecones; it's also often observed in art and architecture, such as in the proportions of the Mona Lisa and the Parthenon, where artists intentionally incorporated it for aesthetic appeal.
Now, as you can tell, the Fibonacci isn’t just some lines and numbers someone made up. It’s in everything you encounter. It’s on charts. It’s in nature. It’s in geometry. It’s even in HUMAN DNA.
Fibonacci Retracements vs. Fibonacci Extensions
Remember when I said, “price often pulls back into this zone right before extending in a bullish pattern.” ???
That’s because Fibonacci Retracement, sometimes confused with Fibonacci Extension, is the act of price level pulling back to the Golden Zone. The Fibonacci Extension is when price level continues to move in a bullish pattern after pulling back to the Golden Zone.
For example, if a stock goes from $10 to $20, then back to $13. The move from $20 to $13 is the retracement. If the price starts rallying again and goes to $30, that is the extension.
Limitations of Using Fibonacci Retracement Levels
While the retracement levels suggest potential areas for support or resistance, there’s no guarantee that the price will reverse to these levels. This is why traders often look for additional confirmation signals such as price action and patterns. A double bottom in this Golden Zone coupled with an RSI divergence is a very good indication the price will move after entering the Golden Zone.
!!!Fun Fact!!!
Fibonacci retracement levels were named after Italian mathematician Leonardo Pisano Bigollo, famously known as Leonardo Fibonacci. However, Fibonacci did not create the Fibonacci sequence. Instead, Fibonacci introduced these numbers to western Europe after learning about them from Indian merchants. Some scholars suggest Fibonacci retracement levels were formulated in ancient India between 700 BCE and 100 AD, while others estimate between 480-410 BCE.2
Cheers everyone!!! Happy Trading 😊
Swing Trade Set UPA simple, Swing Trade Set UP. Often it is simple trade setup that make lots of money. This is one such set up. Here trend is captured with alignment of MA's . 3 MAs are plotted EMA-10, EAM-21 and SMA 50. To pick the trend, first condition is EMA-10 > EMA-21 > SMA 50. Second condition is price above all these MAs. In the chart it is marked wherever this occurred.
Now to make entry you have to wait till the stock out performs the Index. It can be captured through plotting a indicator named RS or Relative strength. use Bench mark index as #NIFTY50 or #CNX500.
You can see that there are areas where MAs aligned but RS was negative and trend failed. But when all these aligned price moved up nicely. You can exit the trade on deceive break of EMA 21 or SMA 50.
Try this on many charts and lean the nuance before making actual trade.
The Multitimeframe Bias method for enjoyable trend tradingUnlock the power of Multitimeframe Bias trading! This approach aims to identify and trade with the prevailing trend and momentum by assessing the bias across different timeframes. By determining the alignment of various timeframes, you can anticipate potential rollovers and make more informed trading decisions. Fully aligned and integrated with SB Style trading, this method offers a mechanical system that prevents impulsive trades, ensuring a disciplined and strategic approach to the market. Learn how to leverage Multitimeframe Bias to enhance your trading strategy today!
Top 5 Books Every Trader Should Have on Their ShelfLet’s face it: there is more to trading than blindly smashing the buy and sell button after you’ve picked up the latest buzz on Reddit’s messaging boards. What’s happening between your ears is just as important as what’s happening on your charts. And sometimes, it might as well help you make sense of it all. So, where do you start if you want to sharpen your edge?
Books . Real, old-fashioned, mind-expanding books. The kind of reads that will school you in both the mechanics and mindset of trading. Forget the social media noise—we’re listing five books that will hand you the wisdom, strategies and mental toughness you need to not just survive but thrive in the seemingly chaotic world of markets. Let’s get into it.
📖 1. Reminiscences of a Stock Operator
✍️ by Edwin Lefèvre
🧐 What’s it about : This is the OG of trading books. A classic that was first published in 1923, it follows the life of the legendary trader Jesse Livermore, who made and lost millions more times than most traders have had profitable months. It's less of a step-by-step guide and more of a philosophical deep dive into what drives traders to win, lose, and repeat the cycle.
💡 What’s the takeaway : You’ll find yourself nodding along, thinking, “Yep, been there” every few chapters. And trust us, Livermore’s lessons on greed, fear and market timing are still as relevant today as they were a century ago.
📖 2. Trading in the Zone
✍️ by Mark Douglas
🧐 What’s it about : If there’s one book that will help you stop blowing up your account because you’re caught in emotional trades, this is it. Mark Douglas breaks down the psychological barriers traders face and teaches you how to think in probabilities. Spoiler alert: The market owes you nothing. Douglas teaches you how to embrace the uncertainty of trading and act probabilistically—playing the odds, not emotions.
💡 What’s the takeaway : If you're constantly getting blindsided by your feelings, there is a high probability that this book will snap you out of that spiral and teach you how to approach the market with a level head.
📖 3. Market Wizards
✍️ by Jack D. Schwager
🧐 What’s it about : Ever wish you could pick the brains of the world’s greatest traders? Jack Schwager did it for you. This book is essentially a collection of interviews with the top traders of the 80s (think Paul Tudor Jones, Bruce Kovner, and Richard Dennis). Schwager’s interviewing style makes it feel like you’re sitting in on private conversations, absorbing their secrets, strategies and market philosophies.
💡 What’s the takeaway : There’s no single “right way” to trade. Whether you're a scalper or a trend follower, you’ll find someone here who matches your vibe. Plus, these stories prove that anyone—from a college dropout to a former blackjack player—can conquer the market with the right mindset and persistence.
📖 4. Technical Analysis of Stock Trends
✍️ by Robert D. Edwards and John Magee
🧐 What’s it about : If you’re serious about technical analysis, this is the trading bible. Originally published in 1948, this book largely introduced the world to concepts like trend lines , support and resistance , head-and-shoulders patterns , and much more. Edwards and Magee laid the foundation for almost every technical analysis tool you see around today.
💡 What’s the takeaway : This gem will teach you how to recognize trend changes, continuation patterns, and reversal signals that can sharpen your trading entries and exits.
📖 5. The Alchemy of Finance
✍️ by George Soros
🧐 What’s it about : If you want to understand not only how to trade but also how the world of finance operates, this is the book. Written by one of the most successful (and controversial) investors and currency speculators of all time, George Soros, The Alchemy of Finance is part autobiography, part deep dive into Soros' legendary "reflexivity" theory. It's not just about looking at price action—it's about understanding how traders' perceptions affect markets, often driving them in irrational directions.
💡 What’s the takeaway : Soros teaches you to think bigger than charts and numbers—to anticipate shifts in market psychology and position yourself accordingly.
Wrapping Up
You can binge all the videos, tutorials and online courses you want, but nothing beats the distilled wisdom found in a great trading book. These five reads are the perfect balance of trading psychology, real-life stories, and technical analysis insights that will help you become a better, more knowledgeable trader.
Bonus tip : if you start now, you’ve got a couple of months until Thanksgiving when you can brag about how many pages you read.
📚 Additional Picks for the Avid Trader
If you’re hungry for more insight, we’ve got a few additional picks for you. Of course, they offer a wealth of knowledge from market titans and cautionary tales from the trading trenches:
📖 More Money Than God by Sebastian Mallaby
A brilliant history of the hedge fund industry, revealing the strategies and personalities behind some of the greatest trades ever made—and showing you how the masters manage risk and opportunity.
📖 When Genius Failed by Roger Lowenstein
A cautionary tale of Long-Term Capital Management, the "genius" hedge fund that imploded in spectacular fashion. Learn what happens when ego and leverage collide in the financial world.
📖 The Man Who Solved the Market by Gregory Zuckerman
This is the story of Jim Simons and his secretive firm, Renaissance Technologies, which revolutionized trading with quantitative models. It’s a must-read for anyone intrigued by the world of algorithmic trading.
📖 Big Mistakes by Michael Batnick
Everyone makes mistakes—especially traders. This book dives into the biggest blunders made by history’s top investors and traders, showing you that even the greats are human—and how to avoid repeating their costly errors.
📖 Confusion de Confusiones by Joseph de la Vega
Originally written in 1688, this is one of the first books ever on trading (to many, the first ever), set during the time of the Dutch stock market bubble. It may be old but its lessons on speculation, greed and market psychology are as timeless as they come.
🙋♂️ What's your favorite book on trading and did it make our list? Comment below! 👇
The Fair Value Gap (FVG)The term "fair value gap" is known by various names among price action traders, including imbalance, inefficiency, and liquidity void. But what do these imbalances mean? They arise when the forces of buying and selling exert considerable pressure, resulting in sharp and rapid price movements.
On a chart, a Fair Value Gap appears as a three-candlestick pattern. In a bullish context, an FVG forms when the top wick of the first candlestick does not connect with the bottom wick of the third candlestick. Conversely, in a bearish scenario, the FVG is created when the bottom wick of the first candlestick fails to connect with the top wick of the third candlestick. The gap on the middle candlestick, created by the wicks of the first and third candlesticks, represents the Fair Value Gap.
The concept of FVG trading is based on the idea that the market has a natural tendency to self-correct. These price discrepancies or inefficiencies are generally not sustainable over time, and the market often returns to these gaps before continuing in the same direction as the original impulsive move.
What are the Types of Fair Value Gaps?
1. Bearish Fair Value Gap
A bearish Fair Value Gap occurs when there is a space between the bottom wick of the first candlestick and the top wick of the third candlestick. This gap typically appears on the body of the middle candlestick, and the individual characteristics of each candlestick are not particularly important. What’s crucial in a bearish scenario is that the gap on the middle candlestick results from the wicks of the surrounding candlesticks not connecting.
2. Bullish Fair Value Gap
A bullish Fair Value Gap occurs when the top wick of the first candlestick does not connect with the bottom wick of the third candlestick. In this case, the specific direction of each candlestick is not as important. What really matters is that there is a gap in the middle candlestick, where the wicks of the first and third candlesticks have not linked.
3. Inverse Fair Value Gap
An Inverse Fair Value Gap is an FVG that has lost its validity in one direction but remains significant enough to influence price movement in the opposite direction. For example, a bullish FVG is deemed invalid if it fails to act as a demand zone. However, it then transforms into an inverse bearish FVG, which may serve as a supply zone capable of holding the price.
4. Implied Fair Value Gap
The Implied Fair Value Gap is also a three-candlestick pattern, but it does not feature a gap on the middle candlestick, which is why it’s called an “implied FVG.” Instead, it consists of a larger middle candle flanked by two relatively long wicks from the first and third candles.
The “gap” is defined by marking the midpoint of the wick of the first candlestick that touches the middle candle and the midpoint of the wick of the third candle that also touches the middle candle. These two midpoints create the gap.
Here are some factors that can lead to the formation of fair value gaps:
1. Economic Data Releases
Key economic data releases, such as changes in interest rates or unemployment statistics, can similarly create imbalances. If the data surprises the market, it can trigger a swift price movement in one direction, resulting in a gap.
2. Sudden News Events
Unexpected news that significantly affects market sentiment can lead to a rapid increase in buying or selling activity, resulting in a gap as prices adjust to the new information. For instance, if a company unexpectedly reports strong earnings, its stock price may surge, creating a gap on the chart.
3. Market Openings or Closings
Gaps may form during periods of low liquidity, such as at market openings or closings. With fewer market participants, even a small amount of buying or selling can cause a noticeable price jump that isn’t quickly countered.
4. Large Institutional Trades
Significant trades by institutional investors can also lead to fair value gaps (FVGs). When a hedge fund or financial institution executes a large buy or sell order, it can overwhelm the existing order book, causing a rapid price shift and leaving a gap behind.
5. Weekend Gaps
FVG's are often observed between the close on Friday and the open on Monday, reflecting news or events that occurred over the weekend.
KEY POINTS TO KNOW
- Fair Value Gaps (FVGs) are powerful tools traders use to identify market imbalances and inefficiencies.
- FVGs occur when buying or selling pressure leads to significant price movements, leaving behind gaps on price charts.
- FVGs can be identified through technical analysis involving the analysis of candlestick patterns and price chart patterns.
- Traders can categorize FVGs into two types: Undervalued FVGs, where prices are lower than fair value, and Overrated FVGs, where prices are higher.
Unveiling the Nuances: Logarithmic vs. Linear Scales Technical analysis is a cornerstone for navigating the dynamic world of financial markets. A crucial element of this analysis is interpreting price movements depicted on charts. However, the way these movements are displayed can significantly impact your understanding. This article delves into the two primary price scaling methods employed in financial charts: linear and logarithmic.
Linear Scale: A Straightforward Approach
A linear scale presents price movements with an equal distance allocated to each absolute price change. This method offers a clear picture of price movements over time, particularly for short-term analysis. For instance, a $10 price increase from $100 to $110 would occupy the same chart space as a $10 price increase from $10,000 to $10,010.
Benefits for Beginners:
Linear scales are often easier to grasp for beginners as they provide a clear visualization of absolute price movements. Imagine tracking a stock price. A linear scale shows you exactly how much the price has moved in dollars, whether it's $10 from $100 or $10 from $1,000.
Drawbacks for Volatile Assets:
However, linear scales can distort the significance of percentage changes, particularly for volatile assets. A $10 increase might seem like a big deal for a low-priced stock, but barely a blip for a high-priced one. This is where logarithmic scales come in.
Logarithmic Scale: Unveiling the Percentage Play
A logarithmic scale prioritizes the relative change in price, depicting movements as a percentage of the current price. This approach offers a clearer picture of the effort (percentage change) behind each price movement. Think of a stock that jumps from $10 to $15. On a linear scale, this might appear insignificant. However, on a logarithmic scale, the significant percentage increase (50%) would be more visually apparent.
Benefits for Long-Term Analysis:
Logarithmic scales are generally preferred by experienced traders for long-term analysis. They emphasize the relative importance of price movements, especially for volatile assets like stocks and commodities. This allows for easier identification of significant percentage changes, regardless of the asset's current price.
Drawbacks for Beginners:
However, logarithmic scales can be less intuitive for beginners due to the compressed scale at lower price points. They might also be less suitable for short-term analysis where absolute price changes might hold more significance.
Choosing the Right Tool
The optimal choice depends on your trading goals and risk tolerance:
Logarithmic Scale: For experienced traders focused on long-term analysis of percentage changes and volatility assessment in stocks and commodities.
Linear Scale: A suitable starting point for beginners due to its straightforward nature. However, it's crucial to be aware of its limitations when interpreting percentage changes.
The Straightforward Scale: Linear
Think of a ruler. A linear scale on a stock chart works similarly. Each price change, regardless of how big or small in dollar amount, gets the same amount of space on the chart. This can be helpful for beginners because it clearly shows how much a stock's price has moved in dollars and cents.
For example, if a stock price goes from $10 to $15, that $5 increase takes up the same space on the chart as a jump from $100 to $105. This makes it easy to see how much a stock's price has gone up or down in absolute terms.
Benefits:
Easy to understand, especially for beginners.
Shows clear dollar-for-dollar price movements.
Drawbacks:
Can be misleading for percentage changes. A $5 jump might seem like a big deal for a low-priced stock, but barely a blip for a high-priced one. For example, a $5 increase for a $10 stock is a huge 50% jump, but for a $100 stock, it's only a 5% increase. Linear scales don't show this difference clearly.
Zooming in on Percentages: Logarithmic Scale
Imagine a special ruler that stretches out the vertical scale. This is kind of like a logarithmic scale. It focuses on how much the price is changing as a percentage, not just the raw dollar amount. This can be super helpful for spotting big swings, especially for stocks that have soared in price or taken a nosedive.
Here's how it works: The space between $10 and $15 on the chart would be much bigger than the space between $100 and $105 because the first jump is a much steeper climb in percentage terms (50% vs. 5%).
Conclusion
Understanding linear and logarithmic scales empowers you to extract richer insights from financial charts. Experiment with both to determine which approach best aligns with your trading strategy and risk profile. Remember, effective technical analysis requires a combination of tools and knowledge. By mastering these scales, you'll be well on your way to unlocking the secrets hidden within those squiggly lines and navigating the ever-evolving financial landscape with greater confidence.
Activate the alarm function when touching the set indicator
Hello, traders.
If you "Follow", you can always get new information quickly.
Please click "Boost" as well.
Have a nice day today.
-------------------------------------
One of the good things about using TradingView charts is that you can use the alarm function.
This alarm function has a limit on the number depending on the plan you use, so please check it out.
I will take the time to explain the alarm function using my chart.
It is hard, boring, and tedious to just look at the chart until you meet the desired trading point or criteria.
If you do that, you may end up making a wrong trade or missing the trading period while doing something else.
If you create an alarm and change the Value section to the HA-MS_BW indicator, multiple indicators will be displayed.
The indicators currently activated on the chart are HA-Low, HA-High, BW, and M-Signal indicators on the 1D chart, so you can select BW or HA-Low, LH, LL and check if the alarm turns on when they cross.
When looking at the 15m chart, since it is moving sideways in the box section of the HA-Low indicator, if you set it to LH, LL indicator, the alarm will come when you touch the upper or lower point of the box.
Then, you can use it conveniently when you want to trade within the box section.
If you want to trade in a large trend, I think it would be good to set the alarm to turn on when you touch the 5EMA on the 1D chart.
Or, you can set the alarm to turn on when the OBV indicator breaks through the high (HH) or low (LL) line upward.
If you are a paid member of TradingView, I highly recommend using the alarm function.
-
Have a good time.
Thank you.
--------------------------------------------------
- Big picture
The real uptrend is expected to start after it rises above 29K.
The area expected to be touched in the next bull market is 81K-95K.
#BTCUSD 12M
1st: 44234.54
2nd: 61383.23
3rd: 89126.41
101875.70-106275.10 (overshooting)
4th: 134018.28
151166.97-157451.83 (overshooting)
5th: 178910.15
These are points where resistance is likely to occur in the future.
We need to check if these points can be broken upward.
We need to check the movement when this section is touched because I think a new trend can be created in the overshooting section.
#BTCUSD 1M
If the major uptrend continues until 2025, it is expected to start forming a pull back pattern after rising to around 57014.33.
1st: 43833.05
2nd: 32992.55
-----------------