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Ultimate Guide to Mastering Chart PatternsChart patterns are essential tools for traders looking to identify high-probability setups based on price action. Among the most reliable continuation and reversal patterns are triangles, wedges, and flags. These formations help traders anticipate market direction and make informed decisions based on breakout potential, trend strength, and volume confirmation. In this guide, we’ll explore the key characteristics, trading strategies, and confirmation techniques for each of these patterns to improve trade execution and risk management. Triangle Patterns Types of Triangle Patterns Triangles are consolidation patterns that indicate a period of indecision before price continues in the direction of the breakout. There are three main types of triangle patterns: Ascending Triangle – A bullish continuation pattern where the price forms higher lows while resistance remains flat. Descending Triangle – A bearish continuation pattern where the price forms lower highs while support remains flat. Symmetrical Triangle – A neutral pattern where price forms lower highs and higher lows, squeezing into an apex before breaking out. How to Trade Triangles Identify the Triangle Formation: Look for at least two touchpoints on each trendline (support and resistance) to confirm the pattern. Wait for Breakout Confirmation: The price should break above resistance (bullish) or below support (bearish) with strong volume. Set Entry & Stop-Loss Levels: Enter the trade after a candle closes beyond the breakout point. Set a stop-loss below the most recent swing low (for bullish trades) or above the swing high (for bearish trades). Measure Target Price: The expected move is typically equal to the height of the triangle measured from the widest part of the pattern. Wedge Patterns Types of Wedge Patterns Wedges are similar to triangles but are characterized by sloping trendlines that converge in the same direction. They indicate a potential trend reversal or continuation depending on the breakout direction. Rising Wedge – A bearish reversal pattern that forms during uptrends. The price makes higher highs and higher lows, but the slope narrows, signaling weakening momentum before a breakdown. Falling Wedge – A bullish reversal pattern that forms during downtrends. The price makes lower highs and lower lows within a narrowing channel before a breakout to the upside. How to Trade Wedges Identify the Wedge Pattern: Look for a contracting price range within two sloping trendlines. Watch for a Breakout: The price should break either above (for falling wedges) or below (for rising wedges) with increasing volume. Confirm the Breakout: Use additional indicators such as RSI divergence or moving average crossovers to validate the move. Set Entry, Stop-Loss, and Target: Enter after the breakout candle closes beyond the trendline, with a stop-loss outside the opposite side of the wedge. Target the height of the wedge projected from the breakout point. Flag Patterns Characteristics of Flag Patterns Flag patterns are continuation patterns that occur after a strong impulsive move (flagpole), followed by a period of consolidation (flag) before price resumes the trend. Flags can be classified as: Bullish Flag – Forms after a strong upward move, followed by a downward-sloping consolidation. Bearish Flag – Forms after a strong downward move, followed by an upward-sloping consolidation. How to Trade Flag Patterns Identify the Flagpole: Look for a sharp price move in one direction, which forms the base of the flag. Confirm the Flag Formation: Price consolidates within parallel trendlines that slightly slope against the prior trend. Wait for the Breakout: Enter when price breaks out of the flag pattern in the direction of the previous trend with strong volume. Measure Target Price: The price target is typically equal to the length of the flagpole projected from the breakout point. Set Stop-Loss: Place the stop-loss below the lower boundary of the flag (for bullish flags) or above the upper boundary (for bearish flags). Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them Trading Before Confirmation: Many traders enter too early without waiting for a breakout confirmation, leading to false signals. Ignoring Volume: Breakouts should be accompanied by a volume surge for validation; weak volume can indicate a fake breakout. Setting Tight Stop-Losses: Giving the trade enough room to breathe by placing stops outside key support/resistance levels prevents getting stopped out prematurely. Forgetting to Manage Risk: Always follow proper risk-reward ratios (at least 1:2) to ensure profitable long-term trading. Final Thoughts Triangle, wedge, and flag patterns are powerful tools for traders who understand their structure and breakout behavior. By combining these patterns with volume analysis, trend confirmation indicators, and proper risk management, traders can increase their chances of success. Whether you're trading stocks, forex, or crypto, mastering these patterns will enhance your ability to navigate the markets efficiently. __________________________________________ Thanks for your support! If you found this guide helpful or learned something new, drop a like 👍 and leave a comment, I’d love to hear your thoughts! 🚀 Make sure to follow me for more price action insights, free indicators, and trading strategies. Let’s grow and trade smarter together! 📈
Education
by TehThomas
88
Stock Market Dives into Correction? It Happens—Here's What to DoYou wake up, check your portfolio, and see a sea of red. The market’s down, your stocks are taking a nosedive, and CNBC is running apocalyptic headlines about an impending crash. Sounds familiar? It’s maybe because we’re in (or super close to) a correction right now — the S&P 500 SP:SPX was down 10% from its record high two weeks ago and a lot of people are unsure what to do. The truth of the matter is, stock market corrections are routine—not as often as the meeting that should’ve been an email, but also not as rare as a winning trade in the Japanese yen ( widow maker is real, yo ). And, most importantly, they’re usually not as catastrophic as they feel in the moment. So, before you hit the panic button (or worse, start revenge trading to “win it all back”), let’s talk about what’s shaking the market right now and how to navigate corrections like a pro. 🤔 First Things First: What’s a Correction? A stock market correction is a drop of 10% or more from a recent high. It’s not a crash, it’s not the end of capitalism, and it’s definitely not a sign that you should liquidate your entire portfolio and move to a remote cabin in the woods. Corrections happen regularly, typically once every year or two. They’re a natural part of market cycles, shaking out excessive speculation and resetting valuations to more reasonable levels. For the record, a drop of 20% is considered a bear market. 🤝 Why the Market’s Getting Jittery Markets don’t move in straight lines, and sometimes they hit turbulence. Lately, two big themes have been dominating headlines: Trump’s Hard-Line Tariffs Hit Hard (And Markets Are Nervous About It) If there’s anything Trump knows how to do is say things online or on-site and move markets. And his hostile and straight up combatant approach to handling international relations has sent traders scrambling to offload risk. With hiked tariffs on China, Europe, and Mexico and Canada, businesses are bracing for severe supply chain disruptions, higher costs, and tighter margins. When tariffs go up, corporate earnings tend to go down—and the market doesn’t like that math. Inflation Just Won’t Quit The Federal Reserve spent most of the last two years trying to tame inflation, and just when it seemed like things were cooling off, it’s creeping back up. The latest readout of the personal consumption expenditures (PCE) report showed prices ticked up more than expected at 2.8% in February. Higher inflation means the Fed might keep interest rates elevated for longer than expected, making borrowing more expensive and slowing down growth. Every new inflation release has investors guessing: Will the Fed cut rates, hold steady, or—worst case—hike again? Between trade wars and stubborn inflation, uncertainty is running high, and that dynamics breeds volatility. But a correction doesn’t mean the market is broken—it just means sentiment has shifted. ⚠️ How NOT to React (aka: Rookie Mistakes to Avoid) When corrections hit, bad decision-making is at an all-time high. Here’s what not to do: Panic selling – Selling at the bottom is a classic rookie move. If you weren’t planning to sell at the highs, why dump everything when it’s down? Trying to time the exact bottom – Good luck. Nobody, not even Warren Buffett, can catch the bottom (not that he’s trying). If you’re waiting for the “perfect” dip, you’ll likely miss the rebound. Going all-in on one asset – Thinking of putting everything into one stock or crypto because it’s “cheap” now? Please don’t. Diversification exists for a reason . Getting glued to financial news – Watching every market update during a correction is like doom-scrolling Google after a mild headache—you’ll only freak yourself out more. Now that we’ve covered what not to do, let’s focus on the smart plays. 💪 So, What Should You Do? If you want to come out of a correction with your sanity (and portfolio) intact, here’s your game plan: 1️⃣ Zoom Out—Corrections Are Temporary The market moves in cycles, and corrections are just part of the game. Historically, corrections last a few months, while bull markets last years. If you’re investing for the long term, a correction is a blip on the chart, not an extinction event. 2️⃣ Review Your Portfolio Like a Hedge Fund Manager Corrections are a great excuse to audit your holdings. Ask yourself: Is this stock/ETF/index still worth holding? Has anything fundamentally changed, or is this just temporary market noise? Do I have too much exposure to one sector? Think of it as spring cleaning for your investments. It's also an opportunity to make some good use of the handy Stock Screener or Stock Heatmap to spot the best (and worst) performers. If something was a FOMO buy and doesn’t belong in your portfolio, consider trimming it. 3️⃣ Buy Selectively, Not Blindly Corrections create opportunities, but that doesn’t mean you should just throw money at every stock that’s down. Some companies deserve their declines ( looking at you, Nikola )—others are just collateral damage in a broader selloff. Look for quality companies with strong earnings, manageable debt, and real growth potential. If they were solid before the correction, they’ll likely recover faster than the overhyped names. Example: Remember when Amazon stock NASDAQ:AMZN tanked 90% in 2000, the dot-com bubble? No, because you were too busy being 2 years old instead of loading up on Jeff Bezos’s dream. And look where the guy’s now. 4️⃣ Do Some Good Old DCA Instead of dumping all your cash into the market at once, use dollar-cost averaging (DCA). Buying in small increments at regular intervals helps you avoid the stress of trying to time the bottom. If prices drop further, you can buy more at an even better price. 5️⃣ Keep Emotions in Check Corrections test your patience and discipline. The best investors don’t let fear dictate their strategy. If you’re getting emotional about your trades, step away from the screen and take a breath. The market will be there when you come back. 👍 The Market Always Bounces Back—Eventually Every correction feels like the worst one while it’s happening. But let’s look at history: The S&P 500 has faced 30+ corrections since 1950. It survived them all. The average correction lasts four months before a recovery begins. After a correction, markets typically rally higher within a year. Unless you believe the global economy is permanently broken (hint: not yet, at least), every major downturn has eventually turned into a new bull run. 🦸‍♂ Final Thought: Be the Hero, Not the Victim Market corrections separate the professionals from the wannabes. The people who panic and sell at the bottom? They usually regret it. The ones who keep a level head, stick to their strategy, and take advantage of good opportunities? They come out stronger. And finally, if you need to take away one thing it’s this: Corrections aren’t the enemy. They’re the price of admission for long-term gains. 👉 Let’s hear it from you! How do you handle corrections, what’s your strategy when the market is in a downturn and what’s in your portfolio then? Share your experience in the comment section!
SP:SPXEducation
by TradingView
8
Trump's Tariff Wars : What To Expect And How To Trade Them.I promised all of you I would create a Trump's Tariff Wars video and try to relate that is happening through the global economy into a rational explanation of HOW and WHY you need to be keenly away of the opportunities presented by the new Trump administration. Like Trump or not. I don't care. He is going to try to enact policies and efforts to move in a direction to support the US consumer, worker, business, and economy. He made that very clear while campaigning and while running for office (again). This video looks at the "free and fair" global tariffs imposed on US manufacturers and exports by global nations over the past 3+ decades. For more than 30+ years, global nations have imposed extreme tariffs on US goods/exports in order to try to protect and grow their economies. The purpose of these tariffs on US good was to protect THEIR workers/population, to protect THEIR business/economy, to protect THEIR manufacturing/products. Yes, the tariffs they imposed on US goods was directly responsible for THEIR economic growth over the past 30-50+ years and helped them build new manufacturing, distribution, consumer engagement, banking, wealth, and more. The entire purpose of their tariffs on US goods was to create an unfair advantage for their population to BUILD, MANUFACTURE, and BUY locally made products - avoiding US products as much as possible. As I suggested, that is why Apple, and many other US manufacturers moved to Asia and overseas. They could not compete in the US with China charging 67% tariffs on US goods. So they had to move to China to manufacture products because importing Chinese-made products into the US was cheaper than importing US-made products into China. Get it? The current foreign Tariffs create an incredibly unfair global marketplace/economy - and that has to STOP (or at least be re-negotiated so it is more fair for everyone). And I believe THAT is why Trump is raising tariffs on foreign nations. Ultimately, this will likely be resolved as I suggest in this video (unless many foreign nations continue to raise tariff levels trying to combat US tariffs). If other foreign nation simply say, "I won't stand for this, I'm raising my tariff levels to combat the new US tariffs", then we end up where we started - a grossly unfair global marketplace. This is the 21st century, not the 18th century. Step up to the table and realize we are not in the 1850s or 1950s any longer. We are in 2025. Many global economies are competing at levels nearly equal to the US economy in terms of population, GDP, manufacturing, and more. It's time to create a FREE and FAIR global economy, not some tariff-driven false economy on the backs of the US consumers. That has to end. Get some. #trading #research #investing #tradingalgos #tradingsignals #cycles #fibonacci #elliotwave #modelingsystems #stocks #bitcoin #btcusd #cryptos #spy #gold #nq #investing #trading #spytrading #spymarket #tradingmarket #stockmarket #silver
AMEX:SPYEducation
by BradMatheny
9
HOW FOREX BROKERS MANIPULATE YOU TRADING? Real Example Last month, I spotted a nice trading position on NZDCAD forex pair. I shared that with my TradingView subscribers immediately after I placed the trade. Though, the price moved exactly as it was predicted, the half of the members did not make any penny from this signal, while another half made a nice profit. It happened because of one rare thing that I absolutely hate in trading. Learn about a major frustration and market manipulation in trading, that no one will tell you about. Here is the trading position that I spotted. It was a classic price action trading setup based on a double top pattern. Trade was taken on a retest of a broken neckline aiming at the closest strong support and stop loss lying about the tops. Though, initially, the market started to fall rapidly. But it reversed, not being able to reach the target. Watching that bullish rally resumes, I send the signal to my students to close the trade on entry, and I also did that personally. I felt myself quite sad that I did not mange cash out from that trade. Later on in the evening, surprisingly, I started to receive multiple thank you messages from my members that they made a good profit with that signal. How could it be? I decided to anonymously ask the members, how did they close the trade. More than half of the members replied that the trade reached take profit. Can it be possible? My TP was not reached and it was still quite far from the lowest low. Now, examine the trading setup on NZDCAD on charts of different popular forex brokers. On these 6 charts, you can see NZDCAD pair on OANDA, CAPITALCOM, IC MARKETS, ICE, FXCM, FOREX.COM brokers. While in half of the instances TP was not reached, in other half, TP was reached and the price went even lower. Why it happened? There are the rare situations in Forex trading, when the price action on one broker can be very different from another. It happens because different brokers have different liquidity providers, spreads, order execution methods and so on. That is why the selection of a good broker is so vital in trading. If you use TradingView for chart analysis, make sure that you watch all the instruments of one broker. Moreover, once you start trading your strategy, always check how the price acted with different broker quotes. If you will see a lot of instances that your tp is not hit, while on another broker it would, it will be a signal for you to change the broker. When I started learning trading, no one told be that important nuance of Forex trading. But knowing that is a very significant step in your trading journey. ❤️Please, support my work with like, thank you!❤️ I am part of Trade Nation's Influencer program and receive a monthly fee for using their TradingView charts in my analysis.
TRADENATION:XAUUSDEducation
by VasilyTrader
3
Understanding Market Downturns: How to Navigate the StormLately, the markets have been in a downtrend, leaving many traders and investors wondering what comes next. Whether it’s stocks, crypto, or other financial assets, downturns are an inevitable part of the game. While they can be unsettling, they also present opportunities—if you know how to navigate them. Market declines happen for many reasons: economic slowdowns, geopolitical tensions, changes in interest rates, or even shifts in investor sentiment. Regardless of the cause, understanding the different types of market downturns, their impact, and the right strategies to handle them is key to making informed decisions. So, let’s break down market downturns, how they unfold, and what you can do to stay ahead. 📊 DOWNTURN #1: Down -2% — A Ripple of Volatility A -2% drop is like a minor speed bump—annoying but not alarming. These small dips are common and often part of natural market fluctuations. ✅ Key Characteristics: • Typically short-lived and often recovers quickly. • Can be triggered by minor news events, investor sentiment shifts, or profit-taking. • Provides opportunities to enter positions at a slightly better price. 💡 Strategy: • If you're a long-term investor, ignore these small movements. They are normal. • If you're a trader, these dips can be buying opportunities in an uptrend. ________________________________________ 🔄 DOWNTURN #2: Down -5% — The Pullback Perspective A 5% decline is often called a pullback—a temporary market retreat within an ongoing trend. ✅ Key Characteristics: • Pullbacks often occur after strong rallies as the market cools off. • Typically seen as healthy corrections in an overall uptrend. • Not necessarily a signal of long-term weakness. 💡 Strategy: • Long-term investors should hold steady and potentially add to positions. • Swing traders may look for a bounce at key support levels (moving averages, previous highs/lows). ________________________________________ 🛑 DOWNTURN #3: Down -10% — Entering Correction Territory When a market drops 10% from its recent high, it officially enters correction territory. ✅ Key Characteristics: • Often caused by changes in economic outlook, inflation concerns, or major geopolitical events. • Moving averages may start crossing downward, signaling caution. • Momentum shifts, and bearish traders begin to take control. 💡 Strategy: • If you’re a long-term investor, consider rebalancing your portfolio or hedging with defensive assets. • Traders may look for short opportunities or play reversals at support levels. • Be cautious with leverage—downturns can accelerate quickly. ________________________________________ 🐻 DOWNTURN #4: Down -20% — The Bear Market Looms A 20% drop or more marks a bear market, signaling a significant shift in market sentiment. ✅ Key Characteristics: • Confidence is shaken; investors turn risk-averse. • Defensive sectors (utilities, consumer staples, healthcare) tend to outperform. • Market psychology shifts from "buying the dip" to "protecting capital." 💡 Strategy: • Consider defensive positions, hedging strategies, or increasing cash reserves. • Avoid high-risk assets—stocks with weak fundamentals often fall the hardest. • If you’re a trader, look for short-selling opportunities or inverse ETFs. ________________________________________ ⚠️ DOWNTURN #5: Down -50% — The Market Crash Crisis A 50% market decline is rare but catastrophic, often fueled by deep economic crises. Historical Examples: • 2008 Financial Crisis: Banks collapsed, and global markets fell over 50%. • Dot-Com Bubble (2000): Tech stocks crashed after unsustainable hype. • Oil Crisis (1973-74): Economic stagnation and inflation led to severe losses. ✅ Key Characteristics: • Panic selling dominates the market. • Fear-driven liquidation leads to extreme undervaluation. • Long-term recovery often follows—but timing is uncertain. 💡 Strategy: • If you have cash reserves, these moments present once-in-a-decade buying opportunities (but patience is needed). • Dollar-cost averaging (DCA) can be effective for long-term investors. • Traders should expect extreme volatility—both to the downside and in sharp relief rallies. ________________________________________ 🌧️ DOWNTURN #6: Prolonged Downside — The Economic Depression Unlike a crash, a depression is a long-term, sustained downturn that deeply affects the economy. ✅ Key Characteristics: • Prolonged recession, lasting years rather than months. • Unemployment soars, economic activity collapses. • Investor confidence remains low for an extended period. Historical Example: The Great Depression (1930s) • U.S. unemployment hit 25%. • Stock markets stayed depressed for a decade. • Industrial production and wages plummeted. 💡 Strategy: • Preservation of capital is key—cash, gold, and defensive assets become crucial. • Income-producing investments (dividend stocks, bonds) provide stability. • Patience is essential; full recovery can take years. ________________________________________ 🧭 Conclusion: Navigating Market Downturns Like a Pro Downturns are an inevitable part of investing and trading. While they can be unsettling, being informed and prepared is the key to staying ahead. ✅ Key Takeaways: • Minor dips (-2% to -5%) are normal and often present opportunities. • Corrections (-10%) require caution, but markets usually recover. • Bear markets (-20%) signal broader economic concerns—risk management is crucial. • Crashes (-50%) are rare but can create massive buying opportunities for long-term investors. • Depressions are the most severe and require a long-term, defensive approach. No matter the downturn, the key is to stay calm, adjust your strategy, and use market cycles to your advantage. With the right approach, you won’t just survive market downturns—you’ll thrive in the long run. 🚀
SP:SPXEducation
by Mihai_Iacob
Using The CRADLE Pattern To Time/Execute TradesThis simple video highlights one of my newest pattern definitions - the Cradle Pattern. In addition to the many other patterns my technology identified, this Cradle Pattern seems to be a constant type of price construct. I'm sharing it with all of you so you can learn how to identify it and use it for your trading. Ideally, this pattern represents FLAGGING after a trend phase. It is a consolidation of price within a flag after a broad trending phase. It usually resolves in the direction of the major trend, but can present a very solid reversal trigger if the upper/lower pullback range is broken (see the examples in this video). Learn it. Use it. Price is the ultimate indicator. Learn to read price data more efficiently to become a better trader. Get some. #trading #research #investing #tradingalgos #tradingsignals #cycles #fibonacci #elliotwave #modelingsystems #stocks #bitcoin #btcusd #cryptos #spy #gold #nq #investing #trading #spytrading #spymarket #tradingmarket #stockmarket #silver
AMEX:SPYEducation
by BradMatheny
2
What Is an ABCD Pattern, and How Can You Use It in Trading?What Is an ABCD Pattern, and How Can You Use It in Trading? Are you looking to improve your trading strategy and technical analysis skills? The ABCD trading pattern may be just what you need. This tool may help you identify potential market reversals and decide when to enter a trade. Keep reading to learn more about the ABCD pattern and how to apply it to your trading strategy. What Is an ABCD Pattern? The ABCD pattern is one of the basic harmonic patterns. It gives traders an idea of where the market might reverse. Therefore, when combined with other forms of technical analysis, it may be a great addition to your trading arsenal. The ABCD pattern comprises two legs, AB and CD, and one retracement, BC, with D as an entry point. More specifically, an ABCD can be identified by: - AB Leg: A trend starts at A and makes a high or low at B. - BC Retracement: The price retraces from B to C. - CD Leg: The trend continues from C to D. - D Entry Point: Once another high or low forms and traders enter at D. These price movements create the “zig-zag” or “lightning bolt” shapes. In fact, ABCD patterns are present across every market and every timeframe. The up-down movements in financial assets represent opportunities to identify and trade ABCD patterns. Why Use the ABCD Pattern in Your Trading Strategy? Before we move on to identifying and trading the ABCD pattern, it’s worth explaining why you might want to consider using it. Here are a few reasons traders favour the ABCD pattern: - It’s one of the harmonic patterns suitable for traders of all experience levels. - It’s versatile and works for stocks, commodities, and cryptocurrencies*, not just forex trading. - Traders use ABCD patterns to make informed decisions about potential turning points in the market. - It can form the basis of a working trading strategy if used correctly alongside other forms of technical analysis. - It provides quite an effective risk/reward ratio if reversals are caught. How Traders Identify an ABCD Trading Pattern The first step in finding ABCDs is to look for that classic zig-zag shape. Once you’ve found one, it’s time to apply Fibonacci ratios to confirm the pattern. If you’re struggling, you can consider using pre-made ABCD pattern indicators or scanners to help your eyes get used to spotting them. The ABCD pattern requires that the BC leg is between a 38.2% to 78.6% retracement of AB, ideally between 61.8% and 78.6%. This means that if you put a Fibonacci retracement tool at A and B, C should be between 0.382 and 0.786. The second CD leg should be a 127.2% to 161.8% extension of the BC retracement. For extra confirmation, consider specifying that AB is equal to the same length as CD. While it can be tempting to start trading based on these conditions, you’ll find that, in practice, identifying point D can be trickier than it seems. That’s why traders typically use Fibonacci ratios, key levels, candlestick patterns, and higher timeframe convergence to confirm their entries, which we will touch on shortly. ABCD Pattern Examples Now that we understand how to identify the ABCD pattern, we can start applying it to real price action. Note that the ratios won’t always be perfect, so allowing for slight variability above or below the defined ratios is acceptable. Bullish ABCD Pattern For a bullish formation, the following must be present: - The AB leg should be between the high A and low B. - The BC bullish retracement should be between the low B and high C, which is below the high A. - The CD leg should be between the high C and low D. - BC is a 38.2% to 78.6% retracement of AB, preferably between 61.8% and 78.6%. - CD is a 127.2% to 161.8% extension of BC. Additionally, you may look for AB to be an identical or similar length to CD. Entry: Traders set a buy order at D. Stop Loss: The theory suggests traders place a stop below a nearby support level or use a set number of pips. Take profit: Traders place take-profit orders at the 38.2%, 50%, or 61.8% retracement of CD or hold for higher prices if they believe there’s the potential for further bullishness. Bearish ABCD Pattern The bearish ABCD chart pattern is essentially the same, just with the reversed highs and lows. As such: - The AB leg should be between the low A and high B. - The BC bullish retracement should be between the high B and low C. - The CD leg should be between the low C and high D. - BC is a 38.2% to 78.6% retracement of AB, preferably between 61.8% and 78.6%. - CD is a 127.2% to 161.8% extension of BC. You can choose to apply the same AB = CD rules in a bearish ABCD pattern if desired. Entry: Traders typically place a sell order at D. Stop Loss: A stop may be placed above a nearby resistance level or at a set number of pips. Take profit: Traders often take profits at the 38.2%, 50%, or 61.8% retracement of CD or hold for lower prices if there’s a bearish trend on a higher timeframe. ABCD Pattern Strategy A momentum-based ABCD trading strategy can help traders confirm potential reversals by incorporating indicators like the RSI (Relative Strength Index). This approach often adds an extra layer of confluence. Entry - Traders may wait for point D to form and for the RSI to indicate overbought or oversold conditions, typically above 80 or below 20. - Additional confirmation can be sought if there is a divergence between price and RSI, signalling weakening momentum. - Once the RSI crosses back into normal territory, it can suggest a reversal, providing an opportunity to enter the market. Stop Loss - A stop loss is often placed slightly above or below point D, depending on whether the formation is bearish or bullish, respectively. This helps potentially manage risk in case the reversal doesn’t hold. Take Profit - Traders can consider taking profits at Fibonacci retracement levels of leg CD, such as 38.2%, 50%, or 61.8%. - Another common target is point C, but traders may also hold the position for longer if further price movement is anticipated. Looking for Additional Confluence Given that trading the ABCDs usually relies on setting orders at specific reversal points, consider looking for extra confirmation to filter potential losing trades. Below, you’ll find three factors of confluence you can use to confirm your entries. Key Levels If your analysis shows that D is projected to be in an area of significant support or resistance, there’s a greater chance that the level will hold and the price will reverse in the way you expect. ABCD Timeframe Convergence One technique to potentially enhance the reliability of ABCD chart patterns is to check for multiple timeframes. When you identify the formation on a lower timeframe—say, the 5-minute chart—you can then look to a higher timeframe chart, such as the 30-minute or 1-hour chart to see the overall trend. If the pattern converges with the longer-term trend, it strengthens the analysis and increases the likelihood of an effective trade. Candlestick Patterns Some traders look for particular candlestick patterns to appear. The hammer and shooting star patterns are commonly used by ABCD traders for extra confirmation, as are tweezer tops/bottoms and engulfing candles. You could choose to wait for one of these candlesticks to form before entering with a market order. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Identifying an ABCD Chart Pattern Of course, ABCD patterns aren’t a silver bullet when it comes to effective trading. There are several common mistakes made by inexperienced traders when trading these types of patterns, such as: - Confusing the ABCD with other harmonic patterns, like the Gartley or three-drive pattern. - Trading every potential ABCD formation they see. It’s preferable to be selective with entries and look for confirmation. - Not being patient. ABCDs on higher timeframes can take days, even weeks, to play out. Experienced traders wait for the pattern to develop before making a trading decision. - Ignoring key levels. Instead, you could allow them to guide your trades and look for the ABCD pattern in these areas. The Bottom Line The ABCD pattern is a versatile tool that can enhance a trader’s ability to identify potential market reversals and refine their overall strategy. When combined with other forms of technical analysis, such as momentum indicators, an ABCD trading strategy can be an invaluable addition to your trading arsenal. For traders looking to apply the ABCD pattern in forex, stock, commodity, and crypto* markets, consider opening an FXOpen account and take advantage of low-cost, high-speed trading across more than 600 assets. Good luck! FAQ What Is an ABCD Trading Pattern? The ABCD trading pattern is a simple harmonic pattern used by traders to identify potential market reversals. It consists of three price movements: the AB leg, BC retracement, and CD leg, with point D marking a potential entry for a reversal trade. It helps identify changes in trend direction. How Can You Use the ABCD Pattern in Trading? Traders identify the ABCD pattern by finding the characteristic zig-zag shape and using Fibonacci ratios to confirm it. Entry points are typically placed at point D, with stop losses and profit targets based on the formation’s structure. Confluence with other technical analysis tools improves its reliability. Is the ABCD Pattern Bearish or Bullish? The ABCD pattern can be either bearish or bullish. A bullish ABCD indicates a potential upward reversal, while a bearish ABCD suggests a downward reversal. The structure remains the same, but the highs and lows are reversed. What Is the ABCD Strategy? The ABCD strategy revolves around identifying trend reversals using the formation and confirming entry points through tools like Fibonacci retracements or momentum indicators like the RSI for added accuracy. *At FXOpen UK, Cryptocurrency CFDs are only available for trading by those clients categorised as Professional clients under FCA Rules. They are not available for trading by Retail clients. This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.
Education
by FXOpen
1
$100, $1,000, $100,000 — When Numbers Become Turning PointsHey! Have you ever wondered why 100 feels... special? 🤔 Round numbers are like hidden magnets in the market. 100. 500. 1,000. They feel complete. They stand out. They grab our attention and make us pause. In financial markets, these are the levels where price often slows down, stalls, or makes a surprising turn. I’ll admit, once I confused the market with real life. I hoped a round number would cause a reversal in any situation. Like when I stepped on the scale and saw a clean 100 staring back at me, a level often known as strong resistance. I waited for a bounce, a sudden reversal... but nothing. The market reacts. My body? Not so much. 🤷‍♂️ The market reacts. But why? What makes these numbers so powerful? The answer lies in our minds, in market dynamics, and in our human tendency to crave simplicity. ------------------------------------- Psychology: Why our brain loves round numbers The human mind is designed to create structure. Round numbers are like lighthouses in the chaos — simple, memorable, and logical. If someone asks how much your sofa cost, you’re more likely to say "a grand" than "963.40 dollars." That’s normal. It’s your brain seeking clarity with minimal effort. In financial markets, round numbers become key reference points. Traders, investors, even algorithms gravitate toward them. If enough people believe 100 is important, they start acting around that level — buying, selling, waiting. That belief becomes reality, whether it's rational or not. We anchor decisions to familiar numbers because they feel safe, clean, and "right." Walmart (WMT) and the $100 mark Round numbers also carry emotional weight. 100 feels like a milestone, a finish line. It’s not just a number, it’s both an ending and a beginning. ------------------------------------- Round numbers in the market: Resistance and support Round number as a resistance Imagine a stock climbing steadily: 85, 92, 98... and then it hits 100. Suddenly, it stalls. Why? Investors who bought earlier see 100 as a "perfect" profit point. "A hundred bucks. Time to sell." Many pre-set sell orders are already waiting. Most people don’t place orders at $96.73. They aim for 100. A strong and symbolic. At the same time, speculators and short sellers may step in, viewing 100 as too high. This creates pressure, slowing the rally or pushing the price back down. If a stock begins its journey at, say, $35, the next key round levels for me are: 50, 100, 150, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000… Slide from my training materials These levels have proven themselves again and again — often causing sideways movement or corrections. When I recently reviewed the entire S&P 500 list, for example $200 showed up consistently as a resistance point. It’s pure psychology. Round numbers feel "high" — and it's often the perfect moment to lock in profits and reallocate capital. Bitcoin at $100,000. Netflix at $1,000. Tesla at $500. Walmart at $100. Palantir at $100. These are just a few recent examples. Round number support: A lifeline for buyers The same logic works in reverse. When price falls through 130, 115, 105... and lands near 100, buyers often step in. "100 looks like a good entry," they say. It feels like solid ground after a drop. We love comeback stories. Phoenix moments. Underdogs rising. Buy orders stack up and the price drop pauses. Some examples: Meta Platforms (META) Amazon.com (AMZN) — $100 acted as resistance for years, then became support after a breakout Tesla (TSLA) ------------------------------------- Why round numbers work for both buyers and sellers Buyers and the illusion of a bargain If a stock falls from 137 to 110 and approaches 100, buyers feel like it’s hit bottom. Psychologically, 100 feels cheap and safe. Even if the company’s fundamentals haven’t changed, 100 just "feels right." It’s like seeing a price tag of $9.99 — our brain rounds it down and feels like we got an epic deal. Sellers and the "perfect" exit When a stock rises from 180 to 195 and nears 200, many sellers place orders right at 200. "That’s a nice round number, I’ll exit there." There’s emotional satisfaction. The gain feels cleaner, more meaningful, when it ends on a round note. To be fair, I always suggest not waiting for an exact level like 200. If your stock moved through 145 > 165 > 185, don’t expect perfection. Leave room. A $190 target zone makes more sense. Often, greed kills profit before it can be realized. Don’t squeeze the lemon dry. Example: My Tesla analysis on TradingView with a $500 target — TESLA: Money On Your Screen 2.0 | Lock in Fully… Before & After: As you see there, the zone is important, not the exact number. ------------------------------------- Round numbers in breakout trades When price reaches a round number, the market often enters a kind of standoff. Buyers and sellers hesitate. The price moves sideways, say between 90 and 110. Psychologically, it’s a zone of indecision. The number is too important to ignore, but the direction isn’t clear until news or momentum pushes it. When the direction is up and the market breaks above a key level, round numbers work brilliantly for breakout trades or strength-based entries. Slide from my training materials People are willing to pay more once they see the price break through a familiar barrier. FOMO kicks in. Those who sold earlier feel regret and jump back in. And just like that, momentum builds again — until the next round-number milestone. Berkshire Hathaway (BRK.B) — every round number so far has caused mild corrections or sideways action. I’d think $500 won’t be any different. ------------------------------------- Conclusion: Simplicity rules the market Round numbers aren’t magic. They work because we, the people, make the market. We love simplicity, patterns, and emotional anchors. These price levels are where the market breathes, pauses, thinks, and decides. When you learn to recognize them, you gain an edge — not because the numbers do something, but because crowds do. A round number alone is never a reason to act. If a stock drops to 100, it doesn’t mean it’s time to buy. No single number works in isolation. You need a strategy — a set of supporting criteria that together increase the odds. Round numbers are powerful psychological levels, but the real advantage appears when they align with structure and signals. Keep round numbers on your radar. They’re the market’s psychological mirror, and just like us, the market loves beautiful numbers. If this article made you see price behavior differently, or gave you something to think about, feel free to share it. 🙌 So, that's it! A brief overview and hopefully, you found this informative. If this article made you see price behavior differently, or gave you something to think about, feel free to share it & leave a comment with your thoughts! Before you leave - Like & Boost if you find this useful! 🚀 Trade smart, Vaido
NASDAQ:TSLAEducation
by VaidoVeek
Bonds Don’t Lie: The Signal is ClearU.S. 10-year Treasuries are a crucial cog in the global financial machine, serving as a benchmark borrowing rate, a tool for asset valuation, and a gauge of the longer-term outlook for U.S. economic growth and inflation. As such, I keep a close eye on 10-year note futures, as they can offer clues on directional risks for bond prices and yields. The price action over the past few days has sent a clear and obvious signal as to where the risks lie: prices higher, yields lower. Futures had been grinding lower within a falling wedge for several weeks but broke higher last Friday on decent volumes following soft U.S. household spending data. It has since extended bullish the move, reclaiming the 200-day moving average before surging above key resistance at 115’09’0 after Trump’s reciprocal tariff announcement on Wednesday. RSI (14) is trending higher but isn’t yet overbought, while MACD has crossed the signal line above 0, confirming the bullish momentum signal. That favours further upside, putting resistance at 116’11’0 and 118’12’0 on the immediate radar. For those who prefer it expressed in yield terms, that’s around 4% and 3.8% respectively. Good luck! DS
CBOT:TN1!Education
by FOREXcom
Calibrating Trading Indicators for Different MarketsCalibrating Trading Indicators for Different Markets: A Beginner's Guide (Simple Steps to Adjust RSI , MACD , and Other Tools for Better Results) Key Idea : Just like you'd tune a guitar differently for rock vs. classical music, trading tools like RSI or MACD need adjustments depending on what you're trading (stocks, crypto, forex) and how it moves. This guide shows you how to tweak these tools using price swings (pivot points) to make them work better for your specific asset. --- Why "One Size Fits All" Doesn't Work Most traders use default settings for indicators (like RSI's 14-day period). But these defaults were created for "average " markets. Real markets aren't average! Example: - Crypto ( CME:BTC1! ) : Super volatile → Needs faster, more sensitive indicators. - Blue-Chip Stocks ( NASDAQ:AAPL ) : Less wild swings → Needs slower, smoother indicators. If you use the same RSI settings for both, you'll get bad signals. Calibration fixes this. --- The Pivot Point Method for Calibration One effective approach to calibration is measuring the natural rhythm of price swings between high and low points. Here's how to do it step by step: Step 1: Find Pivot Points on Your Chart Pivot points are like "price turning points." Use TradingView's ZigZag indicator (or draw them manually) to spot these swings. How to Add ZigZag on TradingView : 1. Open your chart. 2. Click "Indicators" → Search " ZigZag " → Select it. 3. Adjust settings (defaults work fine for starters). The ZigZag will draw lines between significant highs (peaks) and lows (valleys). --- Step 2: Measure the "Rhythm" of the Market Count the bars (candles) between pivot points to find the market's natural cycle. Example : - If Bitcoin swings from peak to peak every 14 bars on average, its "cycle" is 14 bars. - If Apple does this every 16 bars, its cycle is 16 bars. In the picture above, we used the Williams Fractal to identify pivots. Formula for Indicator Settings : - RSI Period = Half the average cycle → If cycle = 16 bars → RSI = 8 days. - MACD Settings : Fast EMA = ¼ cycle, Slow EMA = ½ cycle → Cycle = 16 → Fast EMA = 4, Slow EMA = 8 --- Step 3: Test Your Calibrated Indicators Backtest on TradingView : 1. Add your indicator (e.g., RSI) with the new settings. 2. Use the Strategy Tester (click "Add to Chart" → " RSI Strategy ") to see if signals improve. Look For : - Fewer false signals (e.g., RSI saying "oversold" too early). - Clearer trends (MACD crossovers matching price moves). --- Calibrating Popular Indicators (Simple Rules) 1. RSI (Relative Strength Index) - Default : 14 days. - Calibrated : Half the average cycle length. - Example : Cycle = 16 bars → RSI = 8 days. Why It Works : Shorter RSI reacts faster to volatile markets (like crypto). 2. MACD - Default : 12, 26, 9. - Calibrated : - Fast EMA = ¼ of cycle. - Slow EMA = ½ of cycle. - Signal Line = ⅙ of cycle. - Example : Cycle = 20 → Fast = 5, Slow = 10, Signal = 3. Why It Works : Matches the asset's natural momentum shifts. 3. Williams %R - Default : 14 days. - Calibrated : Same as RSI (half the cycle). --- How to Avoid Common Mistakes Mistake 1 : Overfitting (Making It Too Perfect for the Past) - Problem : If you calibrate too precisely to old data, it might fail in the future. - Fix : Test on 2 types of data: 1. Training Data : First 70% of your chart (to calibrate). 2. Testing Data : Last 30% (to check if it still works). Mistake 2 : Ignoring Market Changes - Problem : What works today might not work next month. - Fix : Recheck your settings every 3 months or after big news (e.g., Fed rate hikes). --- Free Tools to Help (No Coding Needed) 1. TradingView's "Auto-Detect Cycle" Scripts Search for indicators like "Cycle", "RSI Adaptive" or " Rainbow Adaptive RSI " in TradingView's public library. These automatically calculate cycle lengths (Not tested). 2. Adaptive MACD/RSI Indicators Try pre-built adaptive indicators like: - Adaptive MACD : Adjusts itself based on volatility. - Dynamic Pivot : Uses pivots to set stop-loss and take-profit levels. --- Building a Simple Pivot Calibration System Basic ZigZag Calibrator Method : 1. Add ZigZag to your chart. 2. Manually count the bars between 5 recent swings. 3. Calculate the average → Divide by 2 → Use that number for your RSI/MACD. Example : - Swings: 12, 14, 16, 10, 8 bars → Average = 12. - Calibrated RSI = 6 days. --- Why This Works (Without the Math) Markets move in waves. By matching your indicator's speed to the wave length, you "surf" the trend instead of fighting it. Research shows adaptive methods like this beat default settings. The Science Behind It When you calibrate to an instrument's natural rhythm: - Oscillators (RSI, %R) catch extremes at the right time - Trend indicators (MACD) signal changes faster - Volatility bands (Bollinger Bands) expand and contract appropriately --- A Step Further: Multi-Timeframe Calibration For even better results, calibrate across timeframes: 1. Calculate cycles on daily charts for swing trading 2. Calculate cycles on 4-hour charts for day trading 3. Use both calibrated indicators together for confirmation --- Final Tips for Beginners 1. Start Small : Calibrate one indicator (like RSI) first. 2. Use Free Tools : TradingView has thousands of free scripts to automate calculations. 3. Keep Records : Document what settings work for which assets. 4. Be Patient : Finding the right calibration takes time, but the results are worth it. Calibration isn't about being perfect—it's about making your tools work better for specific markets . Happy trading!
NASDAQ:AAPLEducation
by TradeVizion
US Tariffs Global Stock Market Crash and International Reactions Hello, I am Forex Trader Andrea Russo and today I am talking to you about what happened yesterday, Liberation Day. Yesterday, US President Donald Trump announced new "reciprocal" customs duties against several countries, including the European Union, China, the United Kingdom and many others. This announcement, called "Liberation Day" by the White House, has triggered a series of chain reactions on global markets. The new tariffs, ranging from 10% to 46%, have been justified as a measure to rebalance international trade practices and protect the American economy. However, the immediate impact has been a significant collapse of global stock markets. Investors, worried about possible retaliation and the escalation of trade tensions, have reacted by massively selling their shares. In Europe, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the EU was ready to respond with appropriate measures, while Italian President Sergio Mattarella called the new tariffs a "profound mistake." The oil market also took a hit, with the price of WTI falling to $69.87 a barrel. The impact on financial markets was devastating. On Wall Street, the Dow Jones closed down 3.5%, while the Nasdaq lost 4.2%. European stocks were not far behind, with London's FTSE 100 losing 3.8% and Frankfurt's DAX falling 4.1%. Asian stocks also suffered sharp declines, with Japan's Nikkei closing down 3.7%. For forex traders, these dynamics represent both a challenge and an opportunity. Market volatility can offer opportunities for profit, but it also requires careful risk management. It is essential to closely monitor geopolitical news and market reactions to make informed decisions. In conclusion, the global economic landscape is in a phase of great uncertainty. As a trader, it is essential to stay updated and ready to react quickly to changes. Keep following my updates for more analysis and trading tips. Happy trading everyone!
Education
by Andrea_Russo_SwipeUP
VISUAL INVESTOR: An Investing Tutorial for EveryoneToday is a wonderful day! I am overwhelmed with positive emotions, like a racer who has crossed the finish line. My first book, The Visual Investor, is out on TradingView. It's written for everyone, from those just starting out in the stock market to experienced investors. You could say you're holding it in your hands now. The idea for this book came to me a long time ago, thanks to the influence of one person, as well as my invisible teachers: Benjamin Graham, Warren Buffett, Charles Munger, Peter Lynch and Mohnish Pabrai. Day after day, I worked on the content of chapters, charts, tables, and drawings to take you from theoretical foundations to applied knowledge that allows you to answer the key questions of any investor: What? When? And how much? My motivators, namely you, dear subscribers and the TradingView editorial team, also made an invaluable contribution to the creation of this book. Every kind word, constructive criticism and award in the form of “Editors’ Picks” made me happier and helped me to create further. Why “Visual Investor”? This is my reverence for the technologies we have come to now. The modern investor has incredible opportunities compared to our colleagues, even from the beginning of the 21st century. Access to companies' financial data has become an order of magnitude easier, and their visualization allows for fundamental analysis to be done much faster than before. Global financial centers are now much closer to investors from different countries, thanks to the development of local regulation, active work of financial institutions and services. All this has expanded the range of investment instruments and formed a new way of life for our savings. A modern person may not be a passive observer of fluctuations in the purchasing power of his own capital. On the contrary, he can independently make decisions to increase this capacity, using technology and a systematic approach. Unfortunately, unmanaged savings will suffer the unenviable fate of the hundred dollar bill from the beginning of the last century. This chart shows how the $100 bill has depreciated since 1914 due to inflation. By the beginning of the First World War, the monthly salary of a highly skilled worker or employee could reach exactly this amount. If your super-rich great-great-grandfather buried a chest of these bills, and you found it, you'd probably be furious with him. Because $100 now is like $2 then. “Dear Grandpa, why didn’t you buy something from that list ?” you might say in your heart. However, we must give credit to our hero, as the propensity to save is a skill that any investor should start with, and something I talk about in the early chapters of my book. As Charles Munger said, “I was a cautious little squirrel who hoarded more nuts than I needed and didn’t climb into my own pile of nuts.” The book is divided into three parts, allowing you to start with any of them, depending on your current level of knowledge. Part One This part will be interesting to anyone who wants to understand why we need investments, what a joint-stock company and a stock exchange are, how the price and its schedule are formed. Duration of study: 3 hours 15 minutes. Part two This part will be of interest to anyone who already knows the basics of stock trading but wants to understand the fundamental analysis of a company's business. Duration of study: 5 hours. Part three This part will be of interest to anyone who understands the financial statements of companies and wants to build a decision-making system on the stock market based on this knowledge. Duration of study: 11 hours. I recommend reading the book “Visual Investor” thoughtfully, with pauses to understand each chapter. It is precisely with this measured pace in mind that the estimated duration of study for each block and each article has been calculated. You can move faster if you like. If you devote 1 hour a day to the book, then after 20 days you will be able to master the entire theory. Don't rush to apply the knowledge immediately you've gained in real life. TradingView has great tools for hands-on research, such as the Market Simulator and Paper Trading, that will help you solidify your knowledge without risking your capital. Similarly, civil aviation pilots train on a flight simulator before their first flight. Remember that your knowledge, systematic approach, persistence and a pinch of luck can transform everything around you. But if you still need my support, I'm here. Yours, Capy. Part One 1. Investing is the ability to say "no" so that you can say "yes" The reader will learn that investing is a conscious skill of foregoing immediate spending in favor of greater value in the future, based on strategy, patience, and an understanding of the difference between investing and speculation. Duration of study: 15 minutes. 2. Raising initial capital: 4 approaches, of which one is not good The reader will learn about four ways to form start-up capital for investments, and why borrowed money is the least sensible of them. Duration of study: 10 minutes. 3. The lifestyle of your savings, and why Big Mac? The reader will learn that investing is a conscious way to preserve and increase the purchasing power of savings, in which the level of potential profit is always proportional to the risk taken. Duration of study: 10 minutes. 4. What is a stock? Let me tell you a story Using the example of a shoe workshop owner, the reader will learn how companies issue shares to raise capital and expand their business. Duration of study: 15 minutes.​​ 5. Stock Company. Selling something that no one will buy piecemeal Using the same example, the reader is explained the process of transforming a company into a joint-stock company and conducting an IPO to attract investment. Duration of study: 10 minutes. 6. I dream of entering the stock market. The question is: What for? The reader learns that going public is a way for a company to make its shares available to a wider range of investors, increase liquidity, and simplify the process of raising capital. Duration of study: 10 minutes. 7. How is the share price formed on the stock exchange? We do it The reader will learn how the price of a stock is formed on the stock exchange through the mechanism of bids from buyers and sellers, reflecting the balance of supply and demand. Duration of study: 20 minutes. 8. Bid/Offer: The Yin and Yang of Stock Prices The reader will learn how buy (bid) and sell (offer) orders from the order book on the exchange, determining the mechanism for concluding transactions and the formation of the market price. Duration of study: 20 minutes. 9. Market order or the hunger games of stock trading The reader will learn that market orders allow shares to be bought or sold immediately without specifying a price, satisfying the current demand or offer at prices available in the order book. Duration of study: 15 minutes. 10. The birth of the chart. The evolution of the tape The reader will learn how price movement charts are formed from the stock exchange quotes feed and will see historical examples of the evolution of methods for displaying market data. Duration of study: 10 minutes. 11. Japanese Candlesticks: Game of Body and Shadows The reader will learn how Japanese candlesticks are constructed, including determining the opening, closing, high, and low prices for a selected time interval, as well as the importance of the candlestick body and shadows in analyzing price movements.​ Duration of study: 20 minutes. 12. A little bit about volumes and the master of all averages The reader will learn how to analyze trading volumes and use a 252-day moving average to evaluate stock price movements. Duration of study: 10 minutes. 13. My Three Comrades: the Chart, the Screener, and the Watchlist The reader will learn step-by-step how to use the TradingView platform's chart, screener, and watchlist features to find and track stocks even if he doesn't know the company's ticker. Duration of study: 15 minutes. 14. Two captains of the same ship The reader will learn how to use fundamental analysis to assess a company's financial strength by adding financial indicators to a chart in TradingView, and why the author prefers this method over technical analysis. Duration of study: 15 minutes. Part two 15. My crazy partner is Mr. Market! The reader will learn about the concept of "Mr. Market" introduced by Benjamin Graham, which illustrates the irrationality of market behavior and emphasizes the importance of fundamental analysis in making sound investment decisions. Duration of study: 10 minutes. 16. Picking rules - the Lynch method The reader will learn about Peter Lynch's investment principles, including the benefits of private investors, the importance of a financial safety net, the need to understand a company's performance before investing, and the importance of analyzing its earnings.​ Duration of study: 15 minutes. 17. A pill for missed opportunities The reader will learn how to set up alerts in TradingView to react promptly to changes in stock prices, thereby avoiding missing profitable opportunities to buy or sell. Duration of study: 15 minutes. 18. Man on the shoulders of giants The reader learns the story of an Indian engineer who, after starting to invest in his 30s, achieved significant success, emphasizing the importance of self-education and inspiration from eminent investors. Duration of study: 10 minutes. 19. Price is what you pay, but value is what you get The reader will learn about Warren Buffett's approach to investing based on the difference between price and the intrinsic value of a company, and the importance of fundamental analysis in making investment decisions. Duration of study: 10 minutes. 20. Balance sheet: taking the first steps The reader will learn about the structure of the balance sheet, including the concepts of assets, liabilities, and equity. Duration of study: 30 minutes. 21. Assets I prioritize The reader will learn which balance sheet items are most important for assessing a company's sales performance, and why the author focuses on cash, accounts receivable, and inventory when analyzing current assets. Duration of study: 20 minutes. 22. A sense of debt The reader will learn about the structure of liabilities and shareholders' equity on a company's balance sheet, including the differences between short-term and long-term debt, and will understand how to analyze debt burden when assessing a company's financial health. Duration of study: 20 minutes. 23. At the beginning was the Equity The reader will learn about a company's capital structure, including the concepts of retained earnings and return on investment, and will understand how these items are reflected in the balance sheet. Duration of study: 20 minutes. 24. The income statement: the place where profit lives The reader will learn about the structure of a company's income statement, including key indicators: revenue, cost, gross and operating profit, as well as the importance of these metrics for assessing the financial condition of the enterprise and their impact on the dynamics of stock prices. Duration of study: 30 minutes. 25. My precious-s-s-s EPS The reader learns that earnings per share (EPS) is calculated as net income available to common shareholders divided by the number of common shares outstanding, and that diluted EPS considers potential increases in the share count due to employee options and other factors that affect earnings distributions. Duration of study: 20 minutes. 26. What should I look at in the Income statement? The reader will learn which key income statement metrics — such as revenue, gross profit, operating expenses, debt service expense, net income, and diluted earnings per share (EPS Diluted) — the author believes are most important for assessing a company's financial health. Duration of study: 10 minutes. 27. Cash flow statement or Three great rivers The reader will learn about the structure of the cash flow statement, which includes three main flows: operating, financial and investing, and will understand how these cash flows affect the financial condition of the company. Duration of study: 20 minutes. 28. Cash flow vibrations The reader will learn how to analyze a company's operating, investment, and financial cash flows to assess its sustainability, strategy, and ability to effectively manage resources. Duration of study: 20 minutes. 29. Financial ratios: digesting them together The reader will learn that financial ratios are relations between various financial reporting indicators that allow an objective assessment of the financial condition and value of a company, and will understand how to use key multiples to analyze the investment attractiveness of a business. Duration of study: 25 minutes. 30. What can financial ratios tell us? The reader will learn about key financial ratios such as Diluted EPS, Price/Earnings Ratio (P/E), Gross Margin, Operating Expense Ratio, Return on Equity (ROE), Days Payable and Days Sales Outstanding, and Inventory to Revenue Ratio, and will understand how to use these metrics to assess a company's financial health and investment attractiveness. Duration of study: 30 minutes. Part three 31. Price / Earnings: Interpretation #1 The reader will learn how the P/E (price to earnings) ratio helps assess the value of a company by determining how many dollars an investor pays for each dollar of earnings, and will understand why a lower P/E may indicate that a company is undervalued. Duration of study: 25 minutes. 32. Price/Earnings: amazing interpretation #2 The reader will learn an alternative approach to interpreting the P/E ratio by viewing it as the number of years it takes to break even on an investment, assuming the company's earnings are stable. Duration of study: 30 minutes. 33. How to apply an indicator that is only available upon request? The reader will learn how scripts written in Pine Script work on the TradingView platform and what levels of access there are to them: from completely open to requiring an invitation from the author. The article explains how to request access to an indicator if it is restricted, and what steps to take to add it to a chart once permission is granted. Duration of study: 15 minutes. 34. How to assess the fundamental strength of the company? The reader will learn about the approach to assessing the financial stability of a company through the aggregation of key financial indicators and multipliers, allowing a visual and quantitative assessment of the dynamics and current state of the business. Duration of study: 30 minutes. 35. How to evaluate the work of company management? The reader will learn about the approach to assessing the effectiveness of a company's management through the prism of the concept described by Eliyahu Goldratt in his book "The Goal", which focuses on three key indicators: throughput, inventory and operational expenses, and will understand how these indicators affect the financial results of the enterprise. Duration of study: 30 minutes. 36. How to evaluate the state of a company's cash flows? The reader will learn about the importance of cash flow analysis in assessing a company's financial health, including the interpretation of operating, investing, and financing flows. Duration of study: 25 minutes. 37. How to catch the rainbow by the tail? The reader will learn how to determine optimal price ranges for buying stocks based on the principles of fundamental analysis and the idea of investing with a margin of safety. Duration of study: 40 minutes. 38. How to convert craziness into results? The reader will learn how to navigate market volatility, make smart stock selling decisions, and use a fundamental approach to turn emotional market swings into rational investment actions. Duration of study: 35 minutes. 39. How to use Replay to study indicators? The reader will learn how to use the Market Simulator feature on the TradingView platform to analyze historical data and test indicators, including step-by-step instructions for activating the simulator, selecting the start date, adjusting the playback speed, and interpreting the results when analyzing NVIDIA Corporation stock. Duration of study: 30 minutes. 40. How to explain my decision-making system? The reader will learn about the author's approach to choosing stocks for investment, which includes an analysis of the fundamental strength of the company, cash flow dynamics, news, P/E multiple and other aspects of the decision-making system. Duration of study: 35 minutes. 41. The most subjective facet of my decision-making system The reader will learn how news, although difficult to formalize, influences the investment decision-making process and why its interpretation is the most subjective aspect in stock evaluation. Duration of study: 35 minutes. 42. Full instructions for studying the fundamental strength of a company The reader will learn how to use applied tools to evaluate a company's financial results, visually track their dynamics over time, and analyze the movement of key cash flows, which accelerates the process of selecting companies with strong fundamental indicators. Duration of study: 90 minutes. 43. Full instructions for determining price ranges for opening and closing positions The reader will learn how to determine optimal price ranges and trade sizes when investing in stocks, based on the principles of value investing and Benjamin Graham's "margin of safety" concept. Duration of study: 120 minutes. 44. 10 tricks for developing discipline or here was Warren The reader will learn ten practical methods to help investors develop discipline, including using alerts, keeping a trading journal, and developing good habits, and will understand how discipline affects the achievement of investment goals. Duration of study: 40 minutes. 45. The Inside Out Investor The reader will learn how emotional states such as fear, excitement, and fear of missing out (FOMO) influence investment decisions and will understand how awareness of these emotions helps an investor stick to their chosen strategy and make informed decisions. Duration of study: 20 minutes. 46. Effective inefficiency The reader will learn about the different approaches to using Stop Losses in investment strategies, their impact on the profit/loss ratio, as well as the concept of market efficiency and strategies in it. Duration of study: 30 minutes. 47. Institute of Intermediation and 24 Coffee Lovers The reader will learn about the factors that create market inefficiencies, such as delays in the dissemination of information, high volatility, the actions of large players and participant errors, as well as the role of intermediaries - brokers and exchanges - in ensuring the efficiency and convenience of trading in financial markets. Duration of study: 25 minutes. 48. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind The reader will learn about the life of Charles Munger, vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, his investment philosophy based on common sense and discipline, as well as his views on the importance of personal relationships and moderation in achieving success. Duration of study: 5 minutes.
AMEX:SPYEducation
by Be_Capy
2 April Liberation Day: USA-Europe War Impact on ForexHi, I'm Forex Trader Andrea Russo and today I want to talk to you about an event that is shaking global markets: the tariff war between the United States and Europe. Sunday, April 2, we started in force and new American news, celebrating "Liberation Day" by President Donald Trump. These data, which include 25% tariffs on your steel, aluminum and automobiles, look to rebalance the trade deficit of the United States. However, Europe is not ready to be saved. Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, has said that Europe has not started this matter, but is ready to defend its interests with a strong plan for control2. The tension between the economic power has caused a significant impact on the market. The European stock exchange has not recorded consistent losses, with Milan having lost 16.4 million euros. Europe has responded with tariffs to its strategic American products, such as whiskey, motorcycles and legumes, and is evaluating further measures to protect its own industry4. Forex Impact This commercial war will bring about repercussions directly on the Forex market. Here's what to expect: Removal of the American Dollar (USD): Protectionist tariffs tend to reforce the dollar, as they reduce the command of foreign currencies for imports. In addition, the increase in the price could lead the Federal Reserve to modify its own monetary policy, increasing interest rates. Volatility of European Currencies: The euro (EUR) may rise in pressures due to economic uncertainties and European constraints. Also the value of the Swedish crown (SEK) may be negatively influenced. Opportunity for the Trader: The volatility generated by these tensions offers opportunities for the Forex trader. Significant movements and exchange rates can be completed with trading strategies soon, but fundamentally adopt rigorous risk management. Conclusion The tariff war between the United States and Europe represents a significant loss for the global economy and the Forex market. Tomorrow will be a crucial day, and the trader will not carefully monitor the resources to adapt their own strategy. Always advise me to do my own analysis and operate with prudence. Happy trading everyone!
Education
by Andrea_Russo_SwipeUP
What Is the Difference Between ETFs and Index Funds?What Is the Difference Between ETFs and Index Funds? ETFs and index funds are designed to provide access to diversified portfolios of assets, often tracking the performance of a specific market index. But while they may appear similar at first glance, they have distinct characteristics that cater to different types of investors and strategies. This article breaks down the key differences between ETFs vs index funds, explores how they work, and explains why traders and investors might choose one over the other. What Are ETFs? Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are investment vehicles that trade on stock exchanges, much like individual shares. They’re structured to replicate the performance of a particular benchmark, sector, commodity, or a combination of asset classes. What sets ETFs apart is their flexibility. Traders and investors buy and sell ETFs throughout the trading day at market prices. This makes them particularly appealing to active traders who value liquidity and the ability to react quickly to price movements. Another key advantage is their typically low cost. Most ETFs are passively managed, meaning they aim to replicate a benchmark rather than beat it. This reduces management fees, making ETFs a cost-effective choice compared to actively managed offerings. ETFs also offer diversification in a single transaction. By trading one ETF, investors can gain exposure to hundreds or even thousands of underlying securities. This makes them a popular choice for spreading risk across multiple assets. What Are Index Funds? Index funds are investment vehicles designed to mirror the performance of a specific index, like the FTSE 100 or the S&P 500. An index fund provides broad exposure by holding a portfolio of assets that closely matches the composition of the benchmark it tracks. An index vehicle tracking the S&P 500 would invest in the 500 largest companies in the US, in the same proportions as the index. This passive strategy keeps costs low, as there’s no need for active management or frequent trading decisions. So, how is an index fund different from an exchange-traded fund? The index fund can take the form of either an ETF or a mutual fund; for instance, the SPDR S&P 500 ETF, or SPY, is an index fund. Mutual fund versions of index funds are traded at the end-of-day net asset value (NAV), while ETF versions are bought and sold throughout the trading day like individual shares. This distinction is important for traders considering factors like liquidity and pricing flexibility. Low-cost index funds are popular for their relative simplicity compared to some other financial instruments, cost efficiency, and diversification. By investing in a single product, investors can gain exposure to an entire market, reducing the need for extensive research or active management. Is an ETF an index fund? Not necessarily. An ETF can be an index fund if it tracks an index, but ETFs can also track different sectors, assets, or geographies without being one. Differences Between ETFs and Index Funds ETFs and index funds share a common purpose: to track the performance of an underlying benchmark. However, the debate of ETFs vs mutual funds vs index funds often comes down to trading mechanisms and investment strategies, which can influence their suitability for different types of traders and investors. Trading Mechanism One of the most noticeable differences between ETFs vs index funds is how they’re traded. ETFs trade on stock exchanges, allowing them to be bought and sold throughout the trading day at market prices. This means their value fluctuates based on demand, similar to individual shares. In contrast, mutual fund indices are priced and traded only once a day, at the net asset value (NAV) calculated after markets close. Variety ETFs encompass diverse assets like stocks, bonds, and commodities, covering sectors, regions, or mixed asset classes. Index funds, on the other hand, only track a specific market index, like the S&P 500, FTSE 100, or Nasdaq 100. Cost Structure Both ETFs and mutual fund indices are known for low fees, but there are nuances. ETFs typically have slightly lower expense ratios, as they incur fewer administrative costs. However, trading ETFs may involve brokerage fees or bid-ask spreads, which can add up for frequent traders. Mutual fund vehicles often require no trading fees but may impose a minimum investment amount. Tax Efficiency ETFs tend to be more tax-efficient than mutual fund indices. This is due to how they handle capital gains. ETFs generally use an “in-kind” redemption process, which minimises taxable events. Mutual fund index funds, on the other hand, may trigger taxable capital gains distributions, even if you haven’t sold your shares. Liquidity and Accessibility ETFs can be bought in small quantities, often for the price of a single share, making them more accessible to retail investors. Mutual fund vehicles may require higher minimum investments, which could limit access for some investors. Additionally, ETFs offer instant trade execution, while mutual vehicles require you to wait until the end of the trading day to complete transactions. ETF CFD Trading ETF CFD (Contract for Difference) trading is a versatile way to speculate on the price movements of ETFs without actually owning the underlying assets. When trading ETF CFDs, you’re entering into an agreement with a broker to exchange the price difference of an ETF between the time the position is opened and closed. Unlike traditional ETF investing, where you purchase shares on an exchange, CFD trading allows you to take positions on price movements—whether upwards or downwards. Leverage and Lower Capital Requirements One major advantage of ETF CFD trading is leverage. With CFDs, you only need to put down a fraction of the trade’s total value as margin, allowing you to control larger positions with less capital. However, leverage amplifies both potential gains and losses, so careful risk management is essential. Potential Short-Term Opportunities ETF CFDs add a layer of flexibility for traders exploring the difference between ETFs, mutual funds, and index funds by focusing on short-term speculation rather than long-term holding. Traders can react quickly to news, economic events, or trends without the constraints of traditional ETF investing, such as settlement times or the need to meet minimum investment requirements. Since ETF CFDs can be traded with intraday precision, they allow traders to capitalise on smaller price movements. A Complement to Long-Term Investing For those who already invest in traditional ETFs or indices, ETF CFD trading can serve as a complementary strategy. While long-term investments focus on gradual wealth-building, CFDs enable active traders to seize potential short-term opportunities, hedge against risks, or diversify their trading activities. Flexibility Across Markets With ETF CFDs, traders gain access to a wide range of markets, from equity indices to commodities and sectors. This diversity allows for tailored trading strategies that align with market conditions or specific interests, such as tech or energy ETFs. Uses for ETFs and Index Funds The differences between index funds and ETFs mean they play distinct but complementary roles in financial markets, offering tools for various investment and trading strategies. Whether focusing on long-term goals or seeking potential short-term opportunities, these products provide flexibility and diversification. Portfolio Diversification Both are popular for spreading risk across a broad range of assets. For example, instead of buying shares in individual companies, a single investment in an ETF tracking the S&P 500 provides exposure to hundreds of large US firms. This diversification may help reduce the impact of poor performance of any single asset. Cost-Effective Market Exposure Both types offer relatively low-cost access to markets. Passive management strategies mean lower fees compared to actively managed products, making them efficient choices for building portfolios or gaining exposure to specific sectors, regions, or asset classes. Tactical Market Moves ETFs, with their intraday trading capability, are particularly suited to tactical adjustments. For instance, a trader looking to quickly increase exposure to the tech sector might buy a technology-focused ETF, while potentially reducing risk by selling it as conditions change. Long-Term Wealth Building Index funds, particularly in their mutual fund format, are designed for patient investors. By tracking broad indices with minimal turnover, they offer a way to potentially accumulate wealth over time, making them popular instruments for retirement savings or other long-term objectives. How to Choose Between Index Funds vs ETFs Choosing between an index fund vs ETF depends on your trading style, investment goals, and how you plan to engage with the markets. While both offer relatively cost-effective access to diverse portfolios, your choice will hinge on a few key factors. - Trading Flexibility: ETFs are popular among active traders looking for potential intraday opportunities. Their ability to trade throughout the day allows for precision and quick responses to market changes. Index funds, whether ETFs or mutual products, are usually chosen by long-term investors who are less concerned about daily price movements. - Fees and Costs: While both options are low-cost, ETFs often have slightly lower expense ratios but may incur trading fees or bid-ask spreads. Mutual fund products typically skip trading fees but may have higher management costs or minimum investment requirements. - Tax Considerations: ETFs often provide better tax efficiency due to their structure, particularly when compared to mutual fund indices. For investors concerned about capital gains distributions, this could be a deciding factor. - Strategy: If you’re targeting specific themes, sectors, or commodities, ETFs that aren’t tied to an index can provide unique exposure. For broad, passive market tracking, index funds—whether ETFs or mutual funds—offer simplicity and consistency. The Bottom Line ETFs and index funds are powerful instruments for traders and investors, each with unique strengths suited to different strategies. Whether you’re focused on long-term growth or short-term price moves, understanding their differences is key. For those looking to trade ETFs with flexibility, ETF CFDs offer a dynamic option. Open an FXOpen account today to access a range of ETF CFDs and start exploring potential trading opportunities with competitive costs and four advanced trading platforms. FAQ What Is an Index Fund? An index fund is an investment vehicle designed to replicate the performance of a specific market index, such as the S&P 500 or FTSE 100. It achieves this by holding the same securities as the index in similar proportions. These vehicles can be either mutual funds or ETFs, offering investors broad market exposure and low costs through passive management. What Is the Difference Between an ETF and an Index Fund? An ETF trades like a stock on an exchange throughout the day, with prices fluctuating based on market demand. They track various assets across different sectors, markets, and asset classes. Index funds track indices, like the S&P 500 or FTSE 100, and can be traded as an ETF or mutual fund. What Is Better, an S&P 500 ETF or Mutual Fund? The choice depends on your needs. ETFs offer intraday trading, lower fees, and no minimum investment, making them popular among those who look for flexibility. Mutual funds often waive trading costs and are chosen by long-term investors comfortable with end-of-day pricing. Are ETFs as Safe as Index Funds? ETFs and index funds carry similar risks since both track market performance. So-called safety depends on the underlying assets, overall conditions, and your investment strategy, not the type itself. What Is the Difference Between a Mutual Fund and an Index Fund? A mutual fund is a broad investment vehicle managed actively or passively, while an index fund is a type of mutual fund or ETF specifically designed to replicate an index. What Are Index Funds vs Equity Funds? Index funds are designed to track the performance of an index. Equity funds, on the other hand, focus on stocks and can be actively or passively managed. While all index funds are equity funds, not all equity funds track indices. This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.
AMEX:SPYEducation
by FXOpen
1
Starting over in trading- A short guideThe internet has made it easier than ever to learn trading for free. You have access to blogs, videos, books, podcasts, and more. Yet, most traders still fail. Why? Because there’s too much information. It’s overwhelming, confusing, and filled with conflicting advice. So, if I had to start over from scratch, here’s exactly how I’d do it—step by step. ________________________________________ Step 1: Master Risk Management No matter what type of trader you become—day trader, swing trader, options trader, quantitative trader, etc.—risk management is the foundation of long-term success. It’s also one of the easiest things to master, and once you do, it will pay off for the rest of your trading career. Risk Management Essentials: ✅ Never risk more than 1-2% of your account per trade. ✅ Always use stop losses to protect your capital. ✅ Focus on risk-to-reward ratios (aim for at least 1:2 or better). ✅ Manage position sizing properly to avoid blowing up your account. Once you understand how to protect your capital, it’s time to expose yourself to the trading world. ________________________________________ Step 2: Learn & Explore Different Trading Styles When you're just starting, you don’t know what you don’t know. Your goal at this stage is to explore different trading strategies, tools, and methods. What to Learn: 🔹 Candlestick patterns & price action 🔹 Indicators (moving averages, RSI , MACD , etc.) 🔹 Chart patterns (head & shoulders, triangles, etc.) 🔹 Market structures (support/resistance, trends, ranges) 🔹 Different trading styles (day trading, swing trading, scalping, momentum trading, etc.) Mindset for This Phase: 🚀 Keep an open mind—don’t judge strategies too early. 🚀 Focus on learning rather than making money right away. 🚀 Accept that not everything will work for you—and that’s okay. At this stage, your goal is not to become an expert in everything but to discover what resonates with you. ________________________________________ Step 3: Pick ONE Strategy & Go Deep After exploring different strategies, you need to commit to ONE. This eliminates information overload and allows you to focus on mastering a single trading method. How to Choose a Strategy: 🔹 Does it fit your personality? (e.g., If you hate fast decision-making, avoid scalping.) 🔹 Does it match your lifestyle? (e.g., If you have a full-time job, swing trading might be better than day trading.) 🔹 Can you understand the logic behind it? (A good strategy should be simple, not overly complicated.) Example: Mean Reversion Strategy in Stocks • Identify stocks in an uptrend 📈 • Wait for a pullback (price moves lower) • Enter when the stock shows signs of resuming the trend • Sell on the next rally By focusing on one strategy, you eliminate confusion and make faster progress. ________________________________________ Step 4: Create & Refine Your Trading Plan Now that you have a strategy, it’s time to turn it into a structured trading plan. Your trading plan should include: ✅ Market Conditions – When will you trade? Trending or ranging markets? ✅ Entry Rules – What signals will you use to enter a trade? ✅ Exit Rules – When will you take profits or cut losses? ✅ Risk Management – How much will you risk per trade? 💡 Example Trading Plan (Momentum Trading): • Market: Trade only in strong uptrends. • Entry: Buy when the price breaks above a key resistance level. • Exit: Take profit at 2x risk, cut losses at a 1x risk. • Risk Management: Risk only 1% of the account per trade. A clear, structured plan removes emotion from trading and keeps you disciplined. ________________________________________ Step 5: Test Your Strategy (Before Risking Real Money) You never know if a strategy works until you test it. How to Test a Trading Strategy: 🔹 Backtesting – Analyze past data to see if the strategy has worked historically. 🔹 Forward Testing (Paper Trading) – Trade in a demo account without real money. What You’ll Learn from Testing: ✔️ Does the strategy make money over time? ✔️ How often does it win vs. lose? ✔️ How big are the drawdowns? ✔️ Does it match your risk tolerance? If the strategy performs well in testing, you now have a solid foundation to trade with real money. If it doesn’t work, tweak and improve it—this is part of the process. ________________________________________ Final Thoughts: The Key to Long-Term Success Starting over isn’t about finding the “perfect” system —it’s about following a structured approach. Here’s the Path to Trading Success: 1️⃣ Master Risk Management – Protect your capital first. 2️⃣ Learn & Explore – Understand different strategies & tools. 3️⃣ Pick ONE Strategy – Focus on a proven method. 4️⃣ Create a Trading Plan – Define your rules clearly. 5️⃣ Test & Improve – Validate your strategy before going live. 🔥 Bonus Tip: Trading success is 80% psychology and 20% strategy. Stay patient, disciplined, and treat trading like a business—not a get-rich-quick scheme.
Education
by Mihai_Iacob
Book keepingWhat is Bookkeeping? Bookkeeping is simply keeping track of all the money coming in and going out. Businesses use it to record their income, expenses, and profits, but traders can use it too. In trading, bookkeeping means recording every trade you take—wins, losses, fees, and even your emotions during the trade. How to Apply Bookkeeping in Trading Record Every Trade: Write down details like: 1. The currency pair you traded. 2. Entry and exit prices. 3. Stop loss and take profit. 4. Win or loss amount. The reason for taking the trade. Track Your Emotions: Were you confident, scared, or overexcited? Noting this down helps you spot patterns in your mindset. Review Weekly and Monthly: At the end of the week/month, check your stats: What’s your win rate? Which setups work best for you? Are you making more than you’re losing? How This Improves Trading Identifies Strengths & Weaknesses: You’ll see what works and what doesn’t. Stops Emotional Trading: Tracking emotions helps you avoid revenge trading. Helps Adjust Risk Management: If losses are too big, you’ll see it early and adjust. Increases Consistency: The more data you have, the easier it is to refine your strategy. A simple trading journal (even in a notebook or spreadsheet) can make a big difference over time. As for me I do all my book keeping in notion
Education
by Michael_ict_jr
Weekly bias (weekly price action)What is Weekly Bias in Trading? Weekly bias is just a way of figuring out which direction the market is likely to move over the course of a week. It helps traders decide whether they should be looking for buys or sells, making their trades more in sync with the market’s momentum. How to Figure Out Weekly Bias 1. Last Week’s Close: - If last week’s candle closed bullish, the market might continue up. - If it closed bearish, there’s a good chance it keeps dropping. 2. Market Structure: - Uptrend (higher highs & higher lows) = Bullish bias. - Downtrend (lower highs & lower lows) = Bearish bias. 3. Support & Resistance: - Price bouncing off a strong support? Buyers might step in. - Price rejecting a major resistance? Sellers could take control. 4. Moving Averages (MAs): - i dont use indicators but some traders use them and they work 5. News & Fundamentals: - Big economic events (like interest rate decisions or inflation reports) can shift the market’s direction for the week. Why Does Weekly Bias Matter? - Intraday traders can use it to confirm trades on smaller timeframes. - Swing traders rely on it to hold positions for days. - Scalpers might not need it as much, but trading in the same direction as the weekly bias can improve win rates. focusing on the bigger picture can help to identify quality trades
Education
by Michael_ict_jr
FUNUSDT CHART ANALYSİS - EDUCATIONAL POSTThe NFT Concept You may already know that each unit of value in a blockchain is called a token. In an open blockchain, all tokens are equal and interchangeable. For example, one bitcoin can be easily replaced with another, and nothing will change. Non-fungible tokens are a game-changer, which work differently. An NFT is a digital asset that cannot be replaced with another token without changing the value and basis of the object. Like cryptocurrency, NFTs are created on a blockchain, which acts as a database to record all transactions. The blockchain guarantees the uniqueness, safety, and anonymity of non-fungible tokens. Thanks to this system, any user can verify the originality and transparency of the history of a particular NFT through the blockchain. When you buy an NFT token, you are obtaining a certificate for a digital or real object. However, the work itself doesn’t move anywhere. You only use its digitized file or a certificate of ownership. Once created or purchased, the token sits in perpetual storage. This certificate is just lines of code that confirm it is the token owner who has the original copy of the object. An NFT token can be compared to a painting, which may belong to a gallery, museum, or individual, but the audience can see it in a catalog or exhibition. NFT tokens are sold in online marketplaces that operate like Amazon. The creators put them on marketplaces and wait for bids from buyers. An NFT token can be created by you or by anyone for that matter. To do this, you need to take a digital object (picture, music, photo, etc.), register in a particular marketplace on a platform such as Rarible or OpenSea, and upload the object with a description and price. You will have to pay a fee for creating a blockchain entry on many platforms. However, the costs pay off in most cases, as NFTs are #1 in the crypto world today.
Education
by EngineeringRobo
EDUCATION: The $5 Drop: How Trump’s Tariffs Sent Oil TumblingOil markets don’t move in a vacuum. Politics, trade wars, and global economic shifts all play a role in price action. Case in point: the recent $5 drop in oil prices following Trump’s latest tariff announcement. What Happened? Markets reacted swiftly to Trump’s renewed push for tariffs, targeting key trading partners. The result? A ripple effect that sent oil prices tumbling as traders anticipated lower global demand. The logic is simple—higher tariffs slow trade, slowing trade weakens economies, and weaker economies use less oil. Why It Matters to Traders For traders, this kind of volatility is both an opportunity and a risk. Sharp price drops like this shake out weak hands while rewarding those who position themselves with clear strategies. If you trade crude oil, understanding the macro picture—beyond just supply and demand—can make or break your positions. The Next Move Is this just a knee-jerk reaction, or the start of a larger trend? Smart traders are watching key levels, tracking institutional order flow, and looking for confirmation before making their next move. How do you react when headlines move the market? Do you panic, or do you position yourself with a plan? Drop a comment and let’s talk strategy.
Education
by TLTurnerTV
Understanding MACD In TradingThe Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) is a trend-following momentum indicator that measures the relationship between two moving averages of an asset’s price. Developed by Gerald Appel in the late 1970s, MACD is designed to provide insights into both trend strength and momentum. Unlike simple moving averages, which merely smooth price data over a specific period, MACD goes a step further by identifying when short-term momentum is shifting in relation to the long-term trend. This makes it a valuable tool for traders looking to enter or exit positions at optimal points. 1. Why is MACD important in trading? Trend Confirmation: Identifies whether an asset is in an uptrend or downtrend. Momentum Strength: Measures how strong a price movement is. Reversal Signals: Detects potential changes in trend direction. Entry and Exit Points: Helps traders determine when to buy and sell. 2. MACD Components The MACD Line: Identifies whether an asset is in an uptrend or downtrend. This line is derived by subtracting the 26-period Exponential Moving Average (EMA) from the 12-period EMA. When the MACD Line is positive, it indicates bullish momentum; when negative, it suggests bearish momentum. The Signal Line: Measures how strong a price movement is. A 9-period EMA of the MACD Line. It smooths out MACD fluctuations, making it easier to identify crossovers. The Histogram: Detects potential changes in trend direction. The difference between the MACD Line and the Signal Line. A positive histogram suggests increasing bullish momentum, while a negative histogram suggests growing bearish momentum. 3. MACD Formula The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) is one of the most widely used technical indicators in trading. It helps traders identify trends, momentum shifts, and potential buy or sell opportunities by analyzing the relationship between two moving averages. By calculating the difference between a short-term and long-term exponential moving average (EMA), MACD provides insight into market direction and strength. //@version=6 indicator("MACD Indicator", overlay=false) // MACD parameters shortLength = 12 longLength = 26 signalLength = 9 // Calculate MACD macdLine = ta.ema(close, shortLength) - ta.ema(close, longLength) signalLine = ta.ema(macdLine, signalLength) histogram = macdLine - signalLine // Plot MACD components plot(macdLine, color=color.blue, title="MACD Line") plot(signalLine, color=color.red, title="Signal Line") plot(histogram, color=color.green, style=plot.style_columns, title="Histogram") Explanation: Short EMA (12-period) and Long EMA (26-period) are calculated. The MACD Line is the difference between these EMAs. A Signal Line (9-period EMA of MACD Line) is calculated. The Histogram represents the difference between the MACD Line and the Signal Line. 4. Interpreting MACD signals MACD Crossovers A crossover occurs when the MACD Line and Signal Line intersect: Bullish Crossover: When the MACD Line crosses above the Signal Line, it signals a potential uptrend and a buying opportunity. Bearish Crossover: When the MACD Line crosses below the Signal Line, it suggests a potential downtrend and a selling opportunity. MACD Divergences Divergences occur when MACD moves in the opposite direction of the price, signaling a potential reversal: Bullish Divergence: If price makes lower lows, but MACD makes higher lows, it suggests weakening downward momentum and a possible bullish reversal. Bearish Divergence: If price makes higher highs, but MACD makes lower highs, it signals weakening upward momentum and a potential bearish reversal. Histogram Interpretation The MACD histogram visually represents momentum shifts: When bars are increasing in height, momentum is strengthening. When bars shrink, it suggests momentum is weakening. Zero Line Crossings The MACD crossing the zero line indicates momentum shifts: MACD crossing above zero → Bullish trend initiation. MACD crossing below zero → Bearish trend initiation. 5. Trend & Momentum Analysis Traders use MACD to confirm trends and analyze market momentum: If MACD Line is above the Signal Line, an uptrend is in place. If MACD Line is below the Signal Line, a downtrend is dominant. A widening histogram confirms strong momentum in the trend’s direction. A narrowing histogram warns of potential trend weakening. MACD works best in trending markets and should be used cautiously in sideways markets. 6. MACD Based Trading Strategies Entry Strategies Buy when MACD Line crosses above the Signal Line in an uptrend. Sell when MACD Line crosses below the Signal Line in a downtrend. Exit Strategies Exit long trades when a bearish crossover occurs. Close short positions when a bullish crossover occurs. Position Management If the histogram is expanding, traders can hold positions. If the histogram is contracting, it may signal weakening momentum. 7. Limitations of MACD While MACD is a powerful tool, traders must consider: It lags behind price movements (since it is based on moving averages). It can generate false signals in choppy markets. Customization is required to suit different trading styles. 8. Optimization Optimizing MACD for Different Market Conditions Day Traders & Scalpers: Use faster settings like (5, 13, 6) for quick signals. Swing Traders: Stick with the default (12, 26, 9) setting for balanced signals. Long-Term Investors: Use slower settings like (24, 52, 18) for a broader market perspective. 9. Key Takeaways MACD is a momentum and trend-following indicator that helps traders identify market direction, strength, and potential reversals. Since MACD is a lagging indicator, it may generate false signals, especially in sideways markets. Combining MACD with RSI, moving averages, and volume indicators improves accuracy and reduces risk. MACD should be used alongside risk management strategies and other confirmation tools for best results. MACD remains one of the most effective technical indicators, widely used across different markets. It helps traders identify trends, confirm momentum, and optimize trade entries and exits. However, it should always be used with additional tools to minimize false signals. Stay sharp, stay ahead, and let’s make those moves. Until next time, happy trading!
CME_MINI:ES1!Education
by CandelaCharts
Trading GBPUSD | Judas Swing Strategy 25/03/2025We had a good trading session with the Judas Swing Strategy two weeks ago, as the strategy delivered 3 solid setups, 2 on FX:EURUSD and 1 on $GBPUSD. And guess what? All three hit their targets! That’s a massive 6% gain for the week! And with these impressive results we wanted to see how the strategy will perform last week. The strategy did not produce any setups on the currency pair we monitor ( FX:EURUSD , FX:GBPUSD , FX:AUDUSD , OANDA:NZDUSD ) on Monday 24th March and instead of forcing setups like other traders would we sat that day out. Why was this possible? we had backtested the strategy and had enough data to prove that when we stick to this strategy long term we'd be in putting ourselves in a profitable position. On Tuesday, we returned to the trading desk, scouting for setups, when we noticed a potential opportunity on $GBPUSD. The currency pair had swept liquidity at the high of our zone, signaling a possible shift in direction. We then shifted our focus to selling opportunities for the session. Our strategy required waiting for a break of structure to the downside, followed by a retracement into the FVG before executing a trade After waiting for an hour and 15 minutes, we finally got the break of structure to the downside. The only step left was a retrace into the FVG. After some patience, the retrace materialized, meeting all the criteria on our entry checklist. We executed the trade, risking 1% of our account with a target return of 2% Trade Details: Entry: 1.29513 Stop Loss: 1.29611 Take Profit: 1.29311 After entering the trade, price consolidated around our entry point for a while, showing no clear direction. However, we remained unfazed, trusting our well-backtested strategy, which has a 50% win rate. With a 1:2 risk-reward ratio, we know that consistently following our strategy will yield profits in the long run. Since we had risked only what we could afford to lose, the slow price movement didn’t shake our confidence Unfortunately, this trade didn’t go in our favor and ended up hitting our stop loss. This serves as a reminder that not every trade will reach take profit and that’s perfectly okay. Losses are an inevitable part of trading, but what truly matters is maintaining a solid risk management strategy, sticking to a proven system, and thinking long-term. As traders, our edge comes not from winning every trade, but from executing consistently and letting probabilities play out over time
Education
by CleoFinance