The End of Meme Coin Scams: A New UpdateWith the latest update, we are witnessing a shift in how meme coins operate in the crypto world, effectively putting an end to scams that have plagued the meme coin space.
Hello✌
Spend 3 minutes ⏰ reading this educational material. The main points are summarized in 3 clear lines at the end 📋 This will help you level up your understanding of the market 📊 and Bitcoin💰.
🎯 Analytical Insight on Bitcoin: A Personal Perspective:
Bitcoin is currently near a strong trendline and a solid daily support level. I’m expecting it to break the $90,000 mark, a key psychological level, within the next few days. My main target is at least a 7% increase, reaching $90,500.
📈
Now , let's dive into the educational section, which builds upon last week's lesson (linked in the tags of this analysis). Many of you have been eagerly waiting for this, as I have received multiple messages about it on Telegram.
A Recap of Meme Coin Creation and Scams
In a previous educational analysis, I walked you through the step-by-step process of how meme coins are created and, most importantly, how scammers often exploit these coins for personal gain. I explained the mechanics behind the manipulation of meme coins, where bad actors would create a coin, pump its price, and then abandon it once they made a profit, leaving countless investors in financial ruin.
The Hidden Aspect: How Creators Profited from Commissions
However, there was one critical aspect I did not discuss—how meme coin creators were profiting through transaction fees, also known as commissions. Prior to this update, many small-scale creators were incentivized to sell portions of their holdings at high prices, ensuring they made a profit, often at the cost of the coin's long-term stability. This led to price crashes, the collapse of the coin's market, and devastating losses for thousands of investors. 🚨
The Previous Model: 2 important platform one for creating the mem coin and second for transactions and fees
Under the previous system, meme coins were typically launched on platforms like P p .F n, which helped boost the coin’s liquidity through in-app promotions and social media outreach. This initial momentum would attract many investors, and then the coin would be listed on various exchanges for wider visibility.
To ensure that creators could continue to profit, the transactions would eventually shift to a new platform, which took all of the transaction fees, further enriching the platform but leaving creators with limited sustainable profits.
The New Update: Introducing new version for enring fees directly
With the latest update, the creator introduces a revolutionary feature. This addition fundamentally changes how meme coin creators can profit. Instead of relying on external platforms that take all the transaction fees, allows creators to receive a significant percentage of trading fees directly. This ensures that creators who are genuinely committed to the long-term success of their coin can continue to benefit from it without destroying the project once the coin gains traction.
A Sustainable Future for Meme Coins
This update paves the way for a new era where meme coins are not just tools for short-term profit but are sustainable and beneficial in the long run for both creators and investors. Creators who have the genuine intention to build and maintain their projects will now have the opportunity to continuously profit from them as the coin grows stronger and attracts more users. 🌱
Why This Matters for Investors
For investors, this is a game-changer. As meme coins become more reliable and profitable for creators, they also become safer and more promising for long-term investment. The more successful these meme coins become, the more lucrative it will be for investors in both the short and long term. 📈
By fostering a system that rewards creators based on the coin's success and longevity, this update helps eliminate the risk of sudden crashes. As a result, meme coins have the potential to evolve into solid, dependable projects rather than speculative assets that leave many in financial distress.
However , this analysis should be seen as a personal viewpoint, not as financial advice ⚠️. The crypto market carries high risks 📉, so always conduct your own research before making investment decisions. That being said, please take note of the disclaimer section at the bottom of each post for further details 📜✅.
🧨 Our team's main opinion is: 🧨
With the latest update, meme coin scams are effectively ending. creator website of meme coin now introduces new direct update for fees, which allows creators to earn a fair share of trading fees, ensuring they benefit long-term without abandoning the project. This makes meme coins more sustainable, rewarding both creators and investors. It’s a major shift towards stability and profitability in the meme coin space. 🚀
Give me some energy !!
✨We invest countless hours researching opportunities and crafting valuable ideas. Your support means the world to us! If you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comment box.
Cheers, Mad Whale. 🐋
Fundamental Analysis
QE vs QT: The Invisible Force Behind Every Pump and Dump !Hello Traders 🐺
In this idea, I want to talk about macroeconomics and how QE and QT actually impact the economy and financial markets — and more importantly, how both pro traders and even non-professionals can benefit from understanding these basic concepts in their trading journey and even their everyday life.
So make sure to stick with me until the very end, because if you still don't know about these key metrics, this is going to be extremely helpful — and I promise I’ll keep it simple.
🔄 First... What Are QE and QT Anyway?
It’s simple:
QE (Quantitative Easing) = Pumping money into the system 💸
QT (Quantitative Tightening) = Sucking money out of the system 💀
That’s it.
The Fed either injects liquidity — or pulls it back.
And that liquidity is the real fuel of the market —
Not your RSI, not your fib levels, not your favorite influencer's altcoin pick.
🟩 What Is QE?
When the Fed wants to support the economy (like during a crash or recession), it prints money and buys government bonds, mortgage-backed securities, and more.
This increases liquidity → makes borrowing easier → and drives people toward risky assets like stocks and crypto.
✅ Benefits of QE:
Boosts markets (stocks, crypto, real estate — all of it)
Supports employment and economic growth
Weakens the dollar → makes exports stronger
❌ Downsides of QE:
Can lead to inflation or even hyperinflation if overused
Creates asset bubbles (aka pumps with no real fundamentals)
Weakens long-term purchasing power
In short:
QE = Bullish AF for markets — but dangerous if left unchecked.
🟥 What Is QT?
QT is the opposite.
When the economy overheats or inflation gets out of control, the Fed stops printing — and even starts removing liquidity from the system.
They let bonds expire or sell them off, reducing the amount of money circulating.
✅ Benefits of QT:
Helps bring inflation down
Cools off overheated markets
Restores balance after aggressive QE periods
❌ Downsides of QT:
Slows down the economy
Crashes risk assets (like BTC, tech stocks, etc.)
Can trigger a recession if done too fast or too long
QT = Bearish pressure for almost every chart you trade.
💡 Now that you understand QT and QE, let's talk about how we can use this in our trading.
To help you visualize it better, I’ve marked the QT and QE periods on the chart.
And as you’ll see, there’s a perfect correlation between Fed policy decisions and the BTC chart.
It almost looks like their policies decide exactly where and even when the tops and bottoms happen!
Let me explain it step by step — because while it might sound complicated, it’s actually very easy to understand:
📉 Example: The QT Period from 2017 to 2019
From October 2017 to September 2019, the Fed was in full QT mode — and we had three major phases in the market.
Phase 1:
When the Fed first announced QT, BTC was around a red monthly resistance line after a huge parabolic run-up.
Right after the announcement, BTC entered a sharp correction — all the way down to the monthly support.
(Shown with a red ellipse on the chart)
Phase 2:
BTC started to prepare for its next move — it accumulated below a bullish structure and slowly positioned itself for the next wave.
📉📈 Phase 3: The Big Corona Dump + QE Restart
Then came the third and most important phase of QT in the BTC chart:
The COVID crash — a sudden, brutal dump across all markets.
Sound familiar? Yeh, same pattern…
Immediately after the crash, the Fed announced QE and started pumping liquidity again → and we saw that huge parabolic run everyone remembers.
🔁 Now Here’s the Plot Twist... We’re Repeating the Same Pattern
Let’s break it down:
A huge crash after QT announcement (phase 1)
Market accumulation below a bullish structure (phase 2)
One final shakeout — just like the COVID dump — which I personally call Black Monday 2025 👀
And now… the Fed has hinted that they're ready to step in to stabilize the markets if needed ( phase three )
Guess what? Another round of QE could be coming...
In this idea, I tried to explain how QE and QT work — and show you the hidden forces behind every bull and bear cycle.
If you enjoyed this, make sure to follow and stay tuned for more.
And as always, never forget our rule:
🐺 Discipline is rarely enjoyable, but almost always profitable 🐺
🐺 KIU_COIN 🐺
Fear and Greed: How Extreme Emotions Can Wreck Your TradesThere’s an old saying on Wall Street: Markets are driven by just two emotions — fear and greed. It’s been quoted so many times it’s practically cliché, but like most clichés, it’s got a thick slice of truth baked in.
Fear makes you sell the bottom. Greed makes you buy the top. Together, they’re the dysfunctional couple that wrecks your portfolio, sets your confidence on fire, and leaves you staring at your trading screen, wallowing in disappointment.
But here’s the good news: you’re not alone. Everyone — from the newbie scalper with a $500 account to the fund manager with a Bloomberg terminal and a caffeine drip — fights these exact same emotional demons.
Let’s break down how fear and greed mess with your trades, and more importantly, what to do about it.
The Greed Trap: From Champagne Dreams to Margin Calls
Add some more to this one… this one’s going to the moon . Suddenly, you’re maxing out leverage on a hot altcoin because your cousin’s barber said it's “the next Solana.”
This is how traders end up buying tops. Not because they lack information — we’ve got more charts, market data , and indicators than ever before — but because they chase the feeling. The high. The fantasy of catching a once-in-a-lifetime move. Safe to say that’s not investing, that’s fantasy trading.
Greed doesn’t show up in your P&L right away. At first, it may reward you. You get a few wins. Maybe you double your account in a week. You start browsing the million-dollar houses. You post a couple of wins on X. You’re unstoppable… until you’re not.
Then comes the inevitable slap. The market reverses. You didn’t take profits because “it’s just a pullback.” Your unrealized gains evaporate. You panic. You sell the bottom. And just like that, you’re back where you started — only now with a bruised ego and fewer chips on the table.
The Fear Spiral: Paralysis, Panic, and the Art of Missing Every Rally
Fear doesn’t need a market crash to show up. Sometimes all it takes is a bad night’s sleep and a red candle.
Fear tells you to cut winners early — just in case. Fear reminds you of every losing trade you’ve ever taken, every blown stop loss, every time you told yourself, “I knew I should’ve stayed out.”
It’s what makes you exit a long position at break-even, only to watch it rip 20% after you’re out. It’s what keeps you on the sidelines during the best days of the year. It’s what turns potential gains into chronic hesitation.
And the worst part? Fear disguises itself as “discipline.” You think you’re being cautious, but you’re really just self-sabotaging under the banner of risk management. Yes, there's a difference between being prudent and being petrified. One saves your capital. The other strangles it.
The Greed-Fear Cycle: The Emotional Roundabout That Never Ends
Here’s how the emotional hamster wheel usually goes:
You start with greed. You chase something because it looks like easy money.
You get smacked by the market. Now you’re afraid.
You hesitate. You miss the recovery.
You get FOMO. You jump back in… late.
The cycle repeats. Only now your account is lighter, and your confidence is shot.
Wash. Rinse. Regret. Repeat.
This cycle is what turns many promising traders into burnt-out bagholders. It’s not a lack of intelligence or strategy — it’s the inability to manage emotions in a game where emotions are everything.
The Emotional Gym
You can’t eliminate fear and greed — they’re wired into our monkey brain. But you can train your emotional responses the same way you train a muscle.
How? Structure, repetition, and brutal honesty.
Start with a trading journal . Not a Dear Diary, but a cold, clinical log of what you did and why. Include your emotional state. Were you excited? Anxious? Overconfident? Bored? (Yes, boredom is a silent killer. It’s how people end up revenge trading gold futures at 2AM.)
Review it weekly. Look for patterns. Did you always overtrade after three green trades in a row? Did your losses happen when you broke your own rules? Bingo. Now you have something to fix.
The Rules Are the Ritual
Every seasoned trader eventually realizes this: rules are freedom. The more emotion you remove from the decision-making process, the more consistent your results.
Set rules for:
Entry criteria
Risk per trade
Stop placement
When to sit out
Then — and this is key — follow them even when you don’t feel like it. Especially when you don’t feel like it. If it feels uncomfortable, that’s usually a sign you’re on the right path. You’re breaking your old habits.
And if you break a rule? Cool. Own it. Log it. Learn from it. No need to self-flagellate, but don’t pretend it didn’t happen. This is the emotional weightlifting that builds your trading spine.
Story Time: The Trader Who Cried “Breakout”
Let me tell you about Dave. Dave loved breakouts. He’d buy every single one, no matter the volume, structure, or trend. His logic? If it breaks the line, it’s going up. Simple.
One week, Dave hit it big on a meme stock that doubled in a day. His greed kicked in hard. He started adding leverage, sizing up, swinging for the fences.
You can guess what happened. Three fakeouts later, Dave blew half his account. So he stopped trading. Fear took over.
Weeks passed. He watched from the sidelines as clean setups came and went. When he finally got back in, he was so timid he under-sized every position and exited too early. He made nothing — but the emotional damage cost him more than the red trades ever did.
Dave didn’t lose because he lacked a strategy. He lost because he was letting emotions drive. And when fear and greed are in the driver’s seat, they don’t use the brakes.
Be the Trader Your Future Self Will Thank (Not Tank)
Markets may sometimes be chaos wrapped in noise wrapped in hype (as we’ve seen with the recent drama around Trump’s tariffs ). There will always be something to fear, and always something to chase. But if you can stay calm while others are panic-buying Nike stock NYSE:NKE or rage-selling the S&P 500 SP:SPX , you’ve already got an edge.
The best traders aren’t fearless or greedless. They’re just better at recognizing when those emotions show up — and they don’t let them steer the ship. They’ve built processes to trade through uncertainty, not react to it.
So next time you feel that itch to click “Buy” at the top or “Sell” at the bottom, pause. Ask yourself: Is this my setup — or is this just emotion pretending to be insight? Take another look at the Screener , scroll through the latest News , and take a minute to think it over.
Final Thoughts: Feelings Aren’t Signals
Trading is emotional — but trading on emotion is a fast track to regret.
Fear will always be there. So will greed. But you don’t have to let them wreck your trades. Build systems. Log your trades. Know yourself. That’s how you survive the jungle with your capital — and sanity — intact.
And if nothing else, remember this: Warren Buffett didn’t get rich by panic-buying breakouts on a Tuesday morning.
Let's hear it from you now — how do you deal with fear and greed in your trades? Or are you still fighting them in the wild?
Why you should WAIT for trades to come to YOU!In this video, we dive deep into one of the most underrated but powerful habits that separates consistently profitable traders from the rest: waiting for the trade to come to you.
It sounds simple, even obvious. But in reality, most traders—especially newer ones—feel the constant urge to do something. They scan for setups all day, jump in at the first sign of movement, and confuse activity with progress. That mindset usually leads to emotional trading, overtrading, and eventually burnout.
If you've ever felt the pressure to chase price, force trades, or trade just because you're bored… this video is for you.
I’ll walk you through:
1. Why chasing trades destroys your edge—even when the setup “kind of” looks right
2. How waiting allows you to trade from a position of strength, not desperation
3. The psychological shift that happens when you stop trading to feel busy and start trading to feel precise
4. How the pros use waiting as a weapon, not a weakness
The truth is, trading is a game of probabilities and precision. And that means you don’t need 10 trades a day—you need a few good ones a week that truly align with your plan.
Patience doesn’t mean doing nothing, it means doing the right thing at the right time. And when you develop the skill to sit back, trust your process, and wait for price to come to your level… everything changes. Your confidence grows. Your equity curve smooths out. And most importantly, your decision-making gets sharper.
So if you're tired of overtrading, feeling frustrated, or constantly second-guessing your entries—take a breath, slow it down, and start thinking like a sniper instead of a machine gun.
Let the market come to you. That’s where the real edge is.
Futures electronic hoursFutures electronic hours
💡 This idea focuses on trading futures during the electronic trading hours — the periods outside the regular cash session, where unique price behavior often occurs due to lower liquidity and algorithmic dominance.
📊 Core Strategy:
During electronic hours (typically post-market/pre-market), futures like ES, NQ, or CL often show sharp moves driven by global macro news, low-volume liquidity zones, or overnight positioning. These moves can offer high-probability setups when combined with key levels from the regular session.
🧠 How to use it:
1. Mark key support/resistance levels from the previous regular session.
2. During electronic hours (e.g., 6 PM – 9 AM ET), monitor price interaction with these levels.
3. Look for rejection, breakout, or fakeout signals, ideally with volume spikes.
4. Use tight risk management due to increased volatility and spreads.
⏱️ Electronic hours are often overlooked but can offer clean technical setups for experienced traders, especially in quiet news environments or after major macro releases.
📌 Works well with futures contracts like ES, NQ, CL, and GC. Can also be adapted for FX and crypto markets which trade 24/7.
The Trump PatternWhen Donald Trump took office in 2017, the U.S. stock market experienced dramatic fluctuations—marked by steep declines followed by eventual rebounds.
This pattern, which we'll call the "Trump Pattern," repeated itself during his presidency and is now emerging again as a point of interest for investors.
While the specific causes of these market shifts varied, key factors—particularly tariffs, inflation concerns, and Federal Reserve (FED) actions—played critical roles in the market's rise and fall during Trump’s presidency.
The Trump Pattern: The Market Fall and Recovery
🏁 1. The Start of the Trump Presidency (2017)
When Donald Trump was elected in 2016, the market responded with a combination of excitement and uncertainty. Initially, the market surged due to tax cut expectations, deregulation, and optimism about a business-friendly administration. But as Trump's presidency fully began in January 2017, concerns over trade wars and tariff policies began to dominate investor sentiment.
The market initially dipped after Trump began pursuing a protectionist trade agenda, especially with China.
As concerns about tariffs escalated, stock markets reacted negatively to potential trade wars.
💶 2. The Tariff Crisis of 2018
The first major example of the "Trump Pattern" emerged in 2018 when Trump began implementing tariffs, particularly on Chinese imports, and announced new tariffs on steel and aluminum. This caused major market disruptions.
The S&P 500 fell dramatically during this period, dropping by as much as 8.6% from its February peak in 2019.
Companies that relied heavily on international trade, like Apple, General Motors, and Ford, experienced significant stock price declines. In fact, Apple’s stock fell 9.5% on days when new tariffs were announced, as their costs for manufacturing overseas rose.
The uncertainty surrounding the global economy, combined with rising tariffs, created fears of a trade war, leading to sharp market declines.
📈 3. Market Recovery: FED Rate Cuts and Tax Cuts
Despite the tariff-induced volatility, the market didn’t stay down for long. After significant market falls, the Federal Reserve (FED) began implementing interest rate cuts to combat slowing economic growth. These actions helped stabilize the market and even fueled a rebound.
FED rate cuts made borrowing cheaper for consumers and businesses, stimulating economic activity and boosting investor confidence.
Additionally, tax cuts, a cornerstone of Trump’s economic policy, provided further support, particularly for corporations.
As a result, after the initial market drop in 2018 and early 2019, the market rebounded, continuing to climb as investors reacted positively to these fiscal and monetary policies.
🎯 The 2024 and 2025 "Trump Pattern" Emerges Again
Fast forward to 2024 and 2025, and we’re seeing echoes of the "Trump Pattern" once again. New tariffs, introduced in 2025, have reignited concerns about a trade war. These tariffs, particularly on Chinese imports, have once again caused market volatility.
The stock market has fallen in recent months due to concerns about these tariffs and the impact they might have on global trade. For example, when new tariffs were introduced in early 2025, the market saw a sharp sell-off, with the S&P 500 falling by over 1.8% in a single day.
Companies that rely on international trade, like Tesla and Ford, have seen their stock prices drop in response to concerns about increased production costs.
The broader market decline, much like in 2018, was driven by fears that tariffs could slow down the global economy and hurt corporate profits.
However, there is optimism that the same pattern will unfold, where the market eventually recovers after these initial drops.
⚠️ 4. FED Rate Cuts Again?
As inflation concerns persist, the Federal Reserve is likely to step in once again. Like previous cycles, we expect the FED to cut interest rates to stimulate the economy. This would be aimed at reducing borrowing costs, encouraging investment, and helping businesses weather the impact of higher tariffs and global uncertainty.
The FED’s actions are typically a key driver of market recovery in the "Trump Pattern." Investors have come to expect that a market downturn triggered by political or economic disruptions can be offset by the FED’s supportive monetary policies.
⚖️ Navigating the Trump Pattern: What Should Investors Do?
The "Trump Pattern" highlights that during periods of heightened uncertainty, especially due to trade policies like tariffs, the market will often experience short-term declines followed by long-term recovery. Here are a few strategies investors might want to consider:
Stay Diversified : During periods of volatility, having a diversified portfolio can help cushion against the risks posed by market swings.
Invest in Domestic Companies : Companies that rely less on international supply chains might fare better during periods of trade policy changes and tariff uncertainty.
Focus on Growth : Once the initial market decline subsides, look for sectors that stand to benefit from a recovering economy, such as tech or consumer discretionary stocks.
Look for Inflation Hedges : Given the potential for inflation, consider investments that tend to perform well during these times, such as real estate or commodities like gold.
📝 Conclusion: The Trump Pattern in Action
The "Trump Pattern" demonstrates how the market tends to react in cycles during the early months of each presidency. Typically, the market falls at the start due to the uncertainty surrounding Trump’s trade policies, particularly tariffs. However, after these initial drops, the market often rebounds thanks to FED rate cuts and other policies aimed at stimulating the economy.
Looking ahead to 2025, we're already seeing signs of this pattern in action as tariffs are back on the table and market volatility has followed. However, history suggests that patience might pay off. Once the FED steps in and cuts rates, a market rebound is likely, following the same trend we saw in 2017-2019.
What’s the Most Valuable Token in the Crypto World?Hello and greetings to all the crypto enthusiasts,✌
Spend 3 minutes ⏰ reading this educational material. The main points are summarized in 3 clear lines at the end 📋 This will help you level up your understanding of the market 📊 and Bitcoin💰.
🎯 Analytical Insight on Bitcoin: A Personal Perspective:
Regarding the movement of the Bitcoin market, I'll briefly mention that the price is currently near a very strong monthly support, which I’ve marked on the chart for you. I believe now is not the time to break this support, and the price will likely retest it. I foresee at least a 10% increase from here, with a short-term target of $83,000. 📈
Now, let's dive into the educational section, which builds upon last week's lesson (linked in the tags of this analysis). Many of you have been eagerly waiting for this, as I have received multiple messages about it on Telegram.
What’s the Most Valuable Token in the Crypto World?
If we were to simplify things, one could argue that the most important token in the world of crypto is... the Gold Token.
Yes — a digital representation of gold itself. 🪙✨
Why Gold, and Why Now?
With the return of Donald Trump to the presidency of the United States, global markets are likely to face renewed uncertainty and directional shifts. Historically, political shake-ups like this have had a profound effect on financial systems, commodity prices, and investor sentiment.
In times of unpredictability, gold has always been a safe haven. It's trusted, time-tested, and globally valued. That’s why it makes sense for investors to allocate a portion of their capital to gold — especially now.
But what if you didn’t have to deal with storing physical gold? What if you could hold it digitally, within the same crypto ecosystem you’re already familiar with? That’s where gold-backed tokens come into play.
What Are Gold Tokens? 🌐
Gold tokens are digital assets built on blockchain networks (typically Ethereum) and backed by real, physical gold held in secure vaults. These tokens offer a modern bridge between traditional wealth preservation and decentralized finance.
They’re designed to let users enjoy the benefits of gold investment — without the inconvenience of owning, storing, or securing physical bars.
Key Features of Gold-Backed Tokens:
🔹 Real Asset Backing: Each token typically represents a fixed amount of gold (like 1 gram or 1 troy ounce).
🔹 Transparency & Security: Since they're built on blockchain, transactions are traceable, secure, and publicly verifiable.
🔹 Redeemability: Some platforms allow users to exchange their tokens for physical gold if identity verification conditions are met.
🔹 Liquidity: Unlike physical gold, these tokens can be traded instantly on major crypto exchanges.
🔹 Divisibility: You can own fractions of an ounce — making gold more accessible than ever.
Leading Gold Tokens to Know About:
Here are three of the most recognized gold-backed tokens in the crypto market:
PAX Gold (PAXG) : 1 token = 1 ounce of London Good Delivery gold
Tether Gold (XAUT) : Issued by the same company behind USDT, backed by Swiss vault gold
AurusGOLD (AWG) : A decentralized token fully backed by gold, built on Ethereum
Let’s focus on the two most dominant players: PAXG and XAUT.
1. PAX Gold (PAXG) 🏛
Issuer: Paxos Trust Company, regulated by the New York Department of Financial Services
Backing: Each token equals 1 troy ounce (≈31.1g) of high-purity gold stored in secure London vaults
✅ Users can redeem for physical gold
✅ Supports micro-investments — ideal for beginners
✅ Full transparency: Regular audits and proof of reserves
✅ Traded on top-tier exchanges like Binance, Kraken, and Coinbase
Why people trust PAXG:
Its regulatory status and institutional backing make it one of the most secure ways to gain gold exposure in the crypto world.
2. Tether Gold (XAUT) 🇨🇭
Issuer: Tether, the company behind the widely used USDT stablecoin
Backing: 1 token equals 1 ounce of physical gold held in Swiss vaults
🔐 Focuses heavily on privacy and robust asset protection
🔁 Tokens are redeemable for physical gold by verified users
📉 Less transparent than PAXG in terms of regulation and audit trails
💹 Listed on popular platforms like Bitfinex
Worth noting:
Despite Tether’s past controversies around asset disclosures, XAUT remains popular due to its ease of use and the strong brand behind it.
Which One Should You Choose?
If regulation and transparency matter most to you, PAXG may be the better fit. It’s trusted by institutions, backed by U.S. regulators, and offers detailed audits of gold reserves.
If you value brand recognition and a more flexible approach, XAUT offers a credible alternative — just be aware of the differences in oversight.
Final Thoughts 💼🪙
Gold-backed tokens combine the timeless value of gold with the flexibility and innovation of blockchain. They're an excellent way to hedge against economic uncertainty without stepping outside the crypto ecosystem.
If you’re building a diversified portfolio, allocating a portion of your investment to digital gold could be a smart move — both for stability and long-term value.
Let your crypto holdings shine with a touch of gold. 🌟
However , this analysis should be seen as a personal viewpoint, not as financial advice ⚠️. The crypto market carries high risks 📉, so always conduct your own research before making investment decisions. That being said, please take note of the disclaimer section at the bottom of each post for further details 📜✅.
🧨 Our team's main opinion is: 🧨
Gold-backed tokens, like PAXG and XAUT, let you invest in gold digitally without the hassle of storing physical gold. They’re built on blockchain, offering transparency, security, and easy trading. PAXG is more regulated, making it ideal for cautious investors, while XAUT offers privacy and is backed by Tether, a big name in crypto. These tokens represent real gold and can be redeemed for it. If you're looking to diversify and hedge against economic uncertainty, they’re a solid option in your portfolio.
Give me some energy !!
✨We invest countless hours researching opportunities and crafting valuable ideas. Your support means the world to us! If you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comment box.
Cheers, Mad Whale. 🐋
Easy tricks to master you mind during correctionsHello,
The markets have been correcting, and fear seems to be creeping in. What most investors fail to understand is that big corrections such as this are the best opportunities handed to them. This is the best time to buy since markets are trading at the bottom. Additionally, for this time earnings season is about to kick in while this time the market is trading at the bottom. We compiled a few things that can help you remain composed in the current market environment.
A transformative book I would recommend is Trading in the Zone by Mark Douglas. Douglas brilliantly compares elite traders to world-class athletes, revealing that both achieve greatness not through luck, but through rigorous mental discipline and robust, repeatable systems. To guide you toward this coveted "zone" of peak performance, here are four indispensable strategies:
Craft a Rock-Solid Trading Plan
A well-defined trading plan is your compass in the chaotic wilderness of the markets. It spells out precise conditions for entering trades, selecting opportunities, and exiting positions. By faithfully following this blueprint, you anchor yourself in accountability, sidestepping the pitfalls of reckless, emotion-driven moves.
Maintain a Detailed Trading Journal
Think of your trading journal as a mirror reflecting your journey. Record every trade, emotion, and market insight. This disciplined habit empowers you to evaluate your performance, pinpoint weaknesses, and sharpen your approach—unlocking a deeper understanding of your own psychological triggers.
Cultivate Confidence Through Realistic Goals
Confidence isn’t bravado—it’s the quiet strength to take calculated risks and embrace the results. Build it by practicing on a demo account with the seriousness of real stakes, setting attainable targets, and celebrating small wins. This foundation turns uncertainty into opportunity.
Master the Art of Risk Management
In trading, protecting your capital is paramount. Embrace proven techniques like setting risk/reward ratios, deploying stop losses, and sizing positions sensibly. These habits don’t just shield you from ruin—they pave the way for consistent, long-term gains.
With the above rules we believe you should be able to invest or remain invested during these volatile moments. Again, remember the tariffs that have been set are the ceiling and we expect concessions to come once negotiations between countries begin.
Good luck and stay invested. As shown in the chart, this is not the first time the market is undergoing a significant correction. What's clear is that markets always recover from corrections and continue pushing higher. This further reinforces our conviction that this are the best times to begin buying.
Disclosure: I am part of Trade Nation's Influencer program and receive a monthly fee for using their TradingView charts in my analysis.
Tariffs Didn’t Cause the Correction — It Was Coming Anyway🚩 Intro: Markets Correct — They Don’t Need Permission
Every time the market drops hard, the headlines rush in to explain it. This time, it was President Trump’s dramatic tariff announcement on April 2nd. The media called it a shock.
I didn’t.
I’ve been calling for S&P 500 to drop to 5,200, and NASDAQ-100 to 17,500, since early January.
Not because I predicted tariffs. But because the charts told the story.
The market didn’t fall because of politics — it fell because it had to.
________________________________________
🔥 The Spark: Trump’s “Liberation Day” Tariffs
On April 2, 2025, Trump rolled out an aggressive trade agenda:
• 10% blanket tariff on all imports
• Up to 54% tariffs on Chinese goods
• 25% tariffs on imported cars and parts
• With limited exemptions for USMCA-aligned countries
Markets reacted instantly:
• S&P 500 dropped 4.8% — worst day since 2020
• NASDAQ-100 plunged over 6%
• Tech mega caps lost 5–14% in a day
Sounds like cause and effect, right?
Wrong.
________________________________________
🧠 The Real Cause: A Market That Was Ready to Fall
Let’s talk technicals:
• S&P 500 had printed a textbook double top at the 6100–6150 zone
• NASDAQ-100 had formed a rising wedge, with volume divergence and momentum fading
• RSI divergence was in place since February
• MACD had crossed bearish and also deverging
• Breadth was weakening while indices were still pushing highs
• Sentiment was euphoric, volatility crushed — a classic setup
You didn’t need to guess the news. The structure was screaming reversal.
SP500 CHART:
NASDAQ CHART:
________________________________________
🧩 Why Tariffs Made a Convenient Narrative
Markets love clean stories. And Trump’s tariffs offered everything:
• Emotional trigger
• Economic fear factor
• Political drama
• Global implications
But smart traders know better: markets correct based on positioning, not politics.
As soon as the wedge broke on NAS100 and SPX broke the double top's neck line the path was clear — risk off.
________________________________________
📉 I Was Calling This Since Q1
The targets were public:
SPX = 5,200. NAS100 = 17,500.
And the logic was simple:
• Overextension in AI-led tech
• Complacent VIX environment
• Crowded long positioning
• Bearish divergences and fading momentum
Double Top and Rising Wedge on SPX and Nas100
We didn’t need a reason to drop. The market had been levitating without support. All we needed was a trigger — and we got one.
________________________________________
🧭 Lesson: Trade the Structure, Not the Story
Here’s what I hope you take away:
✅ Setups come first. News comes later.
✅ If it wasn’t tariffs, it would’ve been CPI, earnings, Fed minutes, or a bird on a wire
✅ Don’t chase headlines. Anticipate setups.
The best trades aren’t reactive. They’re built on structure, sentiment, and timing — not waiting for CNBC to tell them what’s happening.
________________________________________
🔚 Conclusion: It Was Never About Tariffs
Tariffs were the match.
But the market was already soaked in gasoline.
This correction was technical, predictable, and clean.
📝 Post Scriptum — The Setup Shapes the Narrative
Let me be clear:
I’m not a Trump fan. Hoho — not by far.
But I’ll swear this on any chart:
If the setup had been the opposite — double bottom, falling wedge, positive divergences, and improving momentum — these exact same tariffs would’ve been interpreted as “bold leadership,” “pro-growth protectionism,” or “markets pricing in a stronger America.”
That’s how it works.
Price action leads. Narrative follows.
When structure is bullish, traders celebrate even bad news.
When structure is bearish, even good news becomes a reason to sell.
So no — it wasn’t about Trump. It never is. It’s about where the market wants to go. The rest is storytelling.
Disclosure: I am part of Trade Nation's Influencer program and receive a monthly fee for using their TradingView charts in my analyses and educational articles.
401(k)s: A Safe Bet or a Rigged Game?In 2008, the S&P 500 dropped 57% at its lowest, wiping out decades of savings for millions of Americans. People who were 5–10 years from retirement lost everything overnight—and they had no way out.
And here’s the problem:
• 401(k)s are heavily stock-weighted, especially those “target-date” funds that adjust based on age—but not fast enough in a crash.
• No active protection. These funds don’t hedge, use stop-losses, or rotate into cash. If the market dumps, you’re just riding it down.
• No control or transparency. Most people don’t even know what they’re invested in unless they dig deep into fund holdings.
It’s no coincidence that the same Wall Street firms managing 401(k)s make money shorting crashes or getting bailouts, while regular people are told to “just wait it out.” Sure, that might work over decades, but what if you’re close to retirement? Or just don’t want to wait 10 years for a recovery?
The Harsh Reality
• 401(k)s aren’t really optional. They’re the main retirement plan in the U.S., so most people are forced into them with few alternatives.
• Most people don’t actively manage them. They pick a default option, get put into a target-date fund, and hope for the best. That’s where the “sheep” feeling comes in.
• You can’t easily exit. There are penalties for withdrawing early, so in a crash, you’re locked in like a prisoner or financial refugee, while the “big boys” cash out first.
It’s not a scam in a legal sense—but it is a system that favors the knowledgeable and punishes the passive. Those who don’t study markets, adjust their portfolios, or take active control end up paying the price. And sadly, that’s the majority.
What are Tariffs? How They Work and Why They Matter to You?For centuries, tariffs have played a crucial role in global trade, safeguarding domestic industries, shaping international relations, and influencing economic policies. While they often dominate headlines during trade wars and economic policy debates, many people still don’t fully understand what tariffs are, why they are used, and how they impact the economy.
This comprehensive guide covers:
⦿ What tariffs are and how they work
⦿ Different types of tariffs
⦿ Why governments impose tariffs
⦿ The economic, political, and social effects of tariffs.
⦿ Historical and modern examples
⦿ The debate between protectionism and free trade
⦿ Tariffs in different economic systems
⦿ The future of tariffs in a globalized world
By the end of this article, you’ll have a decent understanding of tariffs and their role in the global economy.
🤔 What Are Tariffs?
A tariff is a tax imposed by a government on imported goods and services. The primary purpose of tariffs is to increase the cost of foreign products, making domestically produced goods more attractive to consumers. This serves several economic and political functions, such as protecting domestic industries, generating government revenue, and addressing trade imbalances.
👍 How Do Tariffs Work?
A government sets a tariff rate on imported goods (e.g., 25% on foreign cars).
Importers must pay this tax when bringing goods into the country.
This increases the cost of imported goods, enhancing the competitiveness of domestic alternatives.
Domestic industries benefit from reduced foreign competition.
The government collects revenue from the tariff.
🦸♂ Who Pays the Tariff?
Importers: These businesses or individuals directly pay the tariff when they bring goods into the country. This increases their costs.
Businesses: Since importers face higher costs, businesses that rely on imported goods often pass these costs onto consumers by increasing prices.
Consumers: Ultimately, the general public bears the cost as they pay higher prices for goods affected by tariffs.
🔎 Types of Tariffs
Governments employ various tariffs depending on their economic goals and trade policies. Some of these are:
1️⃣ Ad Valorem Tariffs
An ad valorem tariff is a percentage-based tariff calculated on the value of the imported goods. The tax amount increases or decreases with the price of the product.
Example: A 10% tariff on imported TVs means a $1,000 TV incurs a $100 tariff.
Usage: Commonly used for luxury goods, automobiles, and consumer electronics.
2️⃣ Specific Tariffs
A specific tariff is a fixed fee charged per unit of imported goods, regardless of price.
Example: $3 per barrel of imported oil.
Usage: Often used for commodities like oil, wheat, and alcohol.
3️⃣ Compound Tariffs
A compound tariff includes both a percentage-based tax (Ad valorem) and a fixed fee on imports (Specific). This means importers pay a fixed fee per unit as well as a percentage of the item’s value.
Example: A 5% tax plus $2 per imported cheese wheel.
Usage: Applied to goods where both quantity and value affect the market, such as food products and industrial materials.
4️⃣ Tariff-Rate Quotas (TRQs)
A TRQ allows a limited quantity of an imported good to enter at a lower tariff rate. After the quota is reached, extra imports are taxed at a higher rate.
Example: One of the most well-known examples of a TRQ is the U.S. Sugar Tariff-Rate Quota. The United States allows a certain quantity of sugar to be imported each year at a lower tariff rate. Any sugar imports within the quota limit are subject to a low tariff (e.g., 5%).
However, once the quota is exceeded, any additional sugar imports face a much higher tariff (e.g., 20%). This system ensures that domestic sugar producers remain competitive while still allowing controlled imports to meet demand.
Another example is the European Union's TRQ on Beef Imports. The EU permits a specific amount of high-quality beef imports (e.g., from the U.S. and Canada) at a lower tariff. Once this quota is filled, any additional beef imports are taxed at a significantly higher rate. This policy helps protect EU cattle farmers while maintaining trade agreements with international suppliers.
5️⃣ Protective Tariffs
A protective tariff helps local industries by making imported goods more costly, reducing foreign competition.
Example: The U.S. imposed a 25% tariff on Chinese steel to protect domestic steel manufacturers.
Usage: Commonly used in industries facing strong foreign competition, such as steel, automotive, and textiles.
6️⃣ Revenue Tariffs
A revenue tariff is mainly designed to raise money for the government, not to shield local industries.
Example: In the 19th century, tariffs were the main source of revenue for the U.S. government before income taxes were introduced.
Usage: Often applied to goods that do not have strong domestic competition but are widely consumed, such as alcohol and tobacco.
❓ Why Do Governments Impose Tariffs?
1️⃣ Protecting Domestic Industries
Tariffs shield local businesses from cheaper foreign competitors, helping domestic industries grow.
Example: U.S. steel tariffs in 2018 benefited domestic steel manufacturers.
2️⃣ Generating Government Revenue
Before modern taxation systems, tariffs were a key source of revenue for governments.
Example: In the 1800s, tariffs accounted for 90% of U.S. federal revenue.
3️⃣ National Security Concerns
Some industries, like defense and technology, are crucial for national security, and governments impose tariffs to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
Example: The U.S. limits imports of rare earth minerals to ensure a domestic supply chain for defense technologies.
4️⃣ Retaliation in Trade Wars
Countries impose tariffs to address unfair trade practices or economic conflicts.
For instance, during the trade war between the United States and China, both countries imposed taxes on each other's goods
5️⃣ Preventing Dumping
Dumping occurs when a country exports goods at below-market prices to eliminate competition.
Example: The U.S. imposed tariffs on Chinese solar panels due to concerns about dumping.
⚖️ Pros and Cons of Tariffs
Pros
✅ Protects local jobs and industries
✅ Encourages domestic production
✅ Generates government revenue
✅ Enhances national security by reducing reliance on foreign goods
Cons
❌ Increases prices for consumers
❌ Can lead to trade wars and economic retaliation
❌ Encourages inefficiency in domestic industries
❌ Disrupts global supply chains
📕 Historical and Modern Examples of Tariffs
1. The Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act (1930)
The U.S. imposed tariffs on over 20k imported goods.
Result: Other countries retaliated, global trade dropped by 66%, and the Great Depression worsened.
2. Trump’s Tariffs on China (2018-2020)
The United States levied tariffs on $360 billion worth of Chinese goods.
China retaliated, affecting U.S. agriculture exports.
Result: Some U.S. industries benefited, but consumers faced higher prices.
3. The European Union’s Tariffs on U.S. Goods (2021)
The EU imposed tariffs on American whiskey, motorcycles, and jeans in response to U.S. steel tariffs.
Result: Brands like Harley-Davidson saw reduced sales in Europe.
⚙️ Tariffs vs. Free Trade: The Big Debate
The debate between tariffs and free trade is a fundamental discussion in global economics and trade policy. This debate revolves around whether governments should impose tariffs (taxes on imported goods) or embrace free trade (minimal to no restrictions on imports and exports).
◉ Free Trade (No Tariffs)
Free trade is the unrestricted movement of goods and services across borders without tariffs or other trade barriers. Advocates argue that it fosters economic efficiency and global cooperation.
✅✅ Advantages of Free Trade
Lower Prices for Consumers – Without tariffs, imported goods are cheaper, leading to more affordable products.
Increased Economic Growth – When countries trade freely, they specialize in what they do best, leading to higher productivity and economic expansion.
More Competition = Better Products – Companies must compete on quality and innovation rather than relying on government protection.
Stronger Global Relations – Open markets encourage cooperation between nations, reducing the risk of economic conflicts.
Access to More Goods and Services – Consumers enjoy a greater variety of products at lower costs.
❌❌ Disadvantages of Free Trade
Job Losses in Unprotected Industries – Domestic industries that can't compete with cheaper imports may shrink or shut down.
Dependence on Foreign Suppliers – A country may become overly reliant on other nations for essential goods (e.g., medical supplies, electronics).
Potential Trade Deficits – Countries that import more than they export may struggle with imbalances in trade.
◉ Protectionism (Using Tariffs)
Protectionism refers to economic policies that restrict imports through tariffs, quotas, or other barriers to shield domestic industries from foreign competition.
✅✅ Advantages of Tariffs
Protects Local Jobs and Industries – Domestic businesses have a better chance to compete without being undercut by cheaper imports.
Reduces Dependence on Foreign Competitors – A country can maintain its own manufacturing and production capabilities, especially in critical industries like steel, energy, and food.
Generates Government Revenue – Tariffs provide a source of income for governments, which can be reinvested in public services.
Prevents Dumping – Tariffs discourage foreign companies from flooding the market with artificially cheap goods to destroy domestic competition.
❌❌ Disadvantages of Tariffs
Higher Prices for Consumers – Since imported goods are taxed, businesses pass the extra costs to customers.
Risk of Trade Wars – When one country imposes tariffs, others retaliate, leading to economic conflicts that hurt all parties involved.
Encourages Inefficiency – Without foreign competition, domestic companies may become complacent and innovate less.
Disrupts Global Supply Chains – Many industries rely on international suppliers; tariffs can increase production costs and delays.
❇️ The Future of Tariffs in a Globalized World
As economies become more interconnected, tariffs are often seen as barriers to global trade.
Emerging industries, such as digital services, face new trade policy challenges that traditional tariffs do not cover.
With globalization, many nations favor free trade agreements (FTAs) like USMCA and the EU single market to reduce trade barriers.
Climate-related tariffs, such as carbon border taxes, may become more common as nations try to incentivize environmentally friendly trade practices.
📌 Closing Thoughts
Tariffs remain one of the most powerful - and controversial - tools in economic policy. Like a thermostat for trade, they can be adjusted to protect domestic industries, but risk overheating the economy with unintended consequences.
History shows that while tariffs can provide temporary relief for specific sectors, they often create ripple effects across the entire economy. The steel tariffs of 2018 helped some American mills reopen, but made cars and appliances more expensive for everyone.
Neither free trade nor tariffs are perfect solutions. A balanced approach, where tariffs are selectively used for strategic industries while promoting open markets in others, is often the best path.
Each country must decide based on its economic strengths and priorities. For example, developed nations might push for free trade, while developing nations use tariffs to protect growing industries.
As trade policies continue evolving, understanding tariffs gives citizens and businesses crucial insight into how globalization affects prices, jobs, and economic security. The debate isn't about whether tariffs are "good" or "bad," but rather when and how they should be used strategically.
What are your thoughts on the ongoing U.S. tariff war? Share your opinions in the comments! 📩
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.
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.
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.
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!
Primer: Solana - A Blazing BlockchainCME Group’s newly launched Solana futures enable institutional grade access to the cryptocurrency, offering investors access to compelling relative value opportunities.
This paper provides a background to Solana in relation to other major blockchain networks and cryptocurrencies. Mint Finance will outline the execution of crypto market spread trades using CME futures in an upcoming paper.
Solana is a high-performance public blockchain launched in 2020 by Solana Labs, founded by Anatoly Yakovenko (a former Qualcomm engineer). Yakovenko first proposed Solana’s novel Proof of History (PoH) concept in 2017 as a solution to blockchain scalability. He assembled a founding team including former Qualcomm colleague Greg Fitzgerald and others and named the project after a California beach town.
Backed by early venture funding, Solana’s mainnet launched in March 2020. The vision was to enable ultra-fast, low-cost transactions for decentralized applications (e.g. DeFi, gaming), addressing limitations of Bitcoin & Ethereum in speed and fees.
Solana has grown rapidly to become one of the most used networks and amassed a market cap of USD 64 billion, making it one of the largest digital assets. What is behind the massive surge? Is it due to flip ETH as the home of DeFi?
How Does Solana’s Blockchain Rank?
While Solana’s low fees and fast transaction speeds have driven high trading volume, transaction count, and wallet growth, it still trails ETH in Total Value Locked (TVL). To achieve its high transaction throughput, Solana has made certain compromises on decentralization.
In terms of ecosystem development, Solana is seeing rapid growth. The Electric Capital 2024 developer report found Solana attracted the most new developers in 2024 – more than any other ecosystem (even Ethereum’s, despite Ethereum’s broader base).
Solana now has ~2,500 monthly active developers, second only to Ethereum’s ~8,900 (which includes many working on Layer-2s). This loyal & expanding developer base has been a key factor behind Solana’s explosive growth.
DEX Surge and Meme Coin Mania
Solana’s early growth was driven by NFTs, supported by low fees and a loyal community that made it a hub for NFT trading. These factors continued to attract users even after the NFT boom subsided. Its fast, low-cost blockchain and strong developer base have enabled the launch of many user-friendly and popular applications. More recently, Solana’s growth has been fuelled by surging decentralized exchange (DEX) volumes and a wave of meme coin minting.
By November 2024, meme coin trading accounted for an all-time high 65% of monthly DEX volume on Solana’s largest DEX, Raydium. Raydium even overtook Uniswap in monthly volume that month.
Solana’s advantages in cost and speed have been pivotal in this trend. Transaction fees on Solana are negligible and on-par with L2 chains. This cost advantage makes minting and trading low-value tokens (like meme coins) economically feasible on Solana but prohibitively expensive on Ethereum layer-1. Similarly, Solana’s block times (~0.4 seconds) and high throughput enable rapid trading. Traders can execute many rapid swaps on Solana DEXs without the delays and slippage that Ethereum’s ~12-second blocks and occasional congestion introduce. Solana’s speed and low fees thus attracted a flood of retail speculators for meme coins and high-frequency trading strategies.
Ethereum’s ecosystem still offers deeper liquidity and broader dApp selection, but Solana capitalized on specific niches (e.g. meme coins, real-time trading) where Ethereum’s costs are a barrier.
However, this explosive growth was not without turbulence. In early 2025, a “meme coin meltdown” saw activity cooling off after several scam tokens collapsed. By February 2025, Solana’s share of total on-chain DEX volume, which had topped 51% in January, retreated to 24% as some froth cleared.
Data Source: Artemis
Scandals like a fake “Libra” token (which vaporized $4.4B in market cap) and a Trump-themed token rug pull dented retail sentiment. Even so, Solana’s DEX volumes remain on par with Ethereum’s entire ecosystem (L1 + L2), a remarkable feat. VanEck’s Feb 2025 report noted that despite an 80%+ drop in new meme token launches since January, Solana DEX activity “is still holding its own – roughly matching the entire ETH ecosystem”.
In short, the meme coin mania has demonstrated Solana’s capacity to manage massive retail-driven bursts of activities that might overwhelm other chains.
Market Metrics For BTC, ETH, and SOL
Since the bottom of the bear market following the FTX collapse. Solana has delivered a stunning recovery, far outperforming both BTC and ETH, but the massive gains were partly explained by the much sharper decline following FTX.
During 2024, SOL performance moved in lockstep with BTC with both assets delivering stunning returns. However, the performance diverged sharply after Jan/2025, coinciding with the collapse in DEX trading volume. The sharp correction since has erased most of the 2024 gains while BTC has remained resilient.
Solana has, nevertheless, managed to outperform ETH which has suffered an even deeper correction over the past few months.
Data Source: TradingView
Historical volatility for all three assets shows a similar trend but differ in magnitude. SOL has the highest volatility while ETH follows second and BTC is least volatile. During spikes, the differences become exaggerated, but during lows, the values can reach similar lows.
For traders, higher volatility can be both an opportunity and a risk.
While SOL’s performance is positively correlated with both ETH and BTC, this correlation breaks frequently (more commonly with ETH) and these periods of divergence present compelling spread opportunities.
The trend for implied volatility (IV) is like HV with SOL’s IV the highest and Bitcoin’s IV the lowest. Recently, IV has started to edge up again following a decline through March.
Trading Solana and Crypto Spreads
With the launch of CME’s Solana and Micro Solana futures, investors can express views on Solana’s growth and take tactical positions that benefit from relative outperformance. Mint Finance will outline the execution of crypto market spread trades using CME futures in an upcoming paper.
CME Solana futures provide exposure to 500 SOL per futures contract and reference the CME CF Solana-Dollar Reference Rate.
CME Micro Solana futures offer a smaller notional value to create more balanced spreads and for fine-tuning exposure. The micro contract provides exposure to 25 SOL.
Additional details about the contract including margins, calendars, and specifications are available on the CME Solana product page .
MARKET DATA
CME Real-time Market Data helps identify trading set-ups and express market views better. If you have futures in your trading portfolio, you can check out on CME Group data plans available that suit your trading needs tradingview.com/cme .
DISCLAIMER
This case study is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment recommendations or advice. Nor are they used to promote any specific products, or services.
Trading or investment ideas cited here are for illustration only, as an integral part of a case study to demonstrate the fundamental concepts in risk management or trading under the market scenarios being discussed. Please read the FULL DISCLAIMER the link to which is provided in our profile description.
What Is an Inverse Fair Value Gap (IFVG) Concept in Trading?What Is an Inverse Fair Value Gap (IFVG) Concept in Trading?
Inverse Fair Value Gaps (IFVGs) are a fascinating concept for traders seeking to refine their understanding of price behaviour. By identifying areas where market sentiment shifts, IFVGs provide unique insights into potential reversals and key price levels. In this article, we’ll explore what IFVGs are, how they differ from Fair Value Gaps, and how traders can integrate them into their strategies for more comprehensive market analysis.
What Is a Fair Value Gap (FVG)?
A Fair Value Gap (FVG) occurs when the market moves so rapidly in one direction that it leaves an imbalance in price action. This imbalance shows up on a chart as a gap between three consecutive candles: the wick of the first candle and the wick of the third candle fail to overlap, leaving a “gap” created by the second candle. It essentially highlights an area where buying or selling pressure was so dominant that the market didn’t trade efficiently.
Traders view these gaps as areas of potential interest because markets often revisit these levels to "fill" the imbalance. For example, in a bullish FVG, the gap reflects aggressive buying that outpaced selling, potentially creating a future support zone. On the other hand, bearish FVGs indicate overwhelming selling pressure, which might act as resistance later.
FVGs are closely tied to the concept of fair value. The gap suggests the market may have deviated from a balanced state, making it an area traders watch for signs of price rebalancing. Recognising and understanding these gaps can provide insights into where the price might gravitate in the future, helping traders assess key zones of interest for analysis.
Understanding Inverse Fair Value Gaps (IFVGs)
An Inverse Fair Value Gap (IFVG), or Inversion Fair Value Gap, is an Inner Circle Trader (ICT) concept that builds on the idea of an FVG. While an FVG represents a price imbalance caused by strong directional movement, an IFVG emerges when an existing FVG is invalidated. This invalidation shifts the role of the gap, turning a bearish FVG into a bullish IFVG, or vice versa.
Here’s how it works: a bearish FVG, for instance, forms when selling pressure dominates, leaving a gap that might act as resistance. However, if the market breaks through this gap—either with a wick or a candle close—it signals that the sellers in that zone have been overwhelmed. The bearish FVG is now invalidated and becomes a bullish IFVG, marking a potential area of support instead. The same applies in reverse for bullish FVGs becoming bearish IFVGs.
Traders use inverted Fair Value Gaps to identify zones where market sentiment has shifted significantly. For example, when the price revisits a bullish IFVG, it may serve as a zone of interest for traders analysing potential buying opportunities. However, if the price moves past the bottom of the IFVG zone, it’s no longer valid and is typically disregarded.
What makes these reverse FVGs particularly useful is their ability to highlight moments of structural change in the market. They can act as indicators of strength, revealing areas where price has transitioned from weakness to strength (or vice versa). By integrating IFVG analysis into their broader trading framework, traders can gain deeper insights into the evolving dynamics of supply and demand.
Want to test your IFVG identification skills? Get started on FXOpen and TradingView.
How Traders Use IFVGs in Trading
By integrating IFVGs into their strategy, traders can refine their decision-making process and uncover potential setups aligned with their broader market outlook. Here’s how IFVGs are commonly used:
Identifying Key Zones of Interest
Traders begin by spotting FVGs on price charts—areas where rapid movements create imbalances. An inversion FVG forms when such a gap is invalidated; for instance, a bearish FVG becomes bullish if the price breaks above it. These zones are then marked as potential areas of interest, indicating where the market may experience significant activity.
Contextualising Market Sentiment
The formation of an IFVG signals a shift in market sentiment. When a bearish FVG is invalidated and turns into a bullish IFVG, it suggests that selling pressure has diminished and buying interest is gaining momentum. Traders interpret this as a potential reversal point, providing context for the current market dynamics.
Analysing Price Reactions
Once an IFVG is identified, traders monitor how the price interacts with this zone. If the price revisits a bullish IFVG and shows signs of support—such as slowing down its decline or forming bullish candlestick patterns—it may indicate a strengthening upward movement. Conversely, if the price breaches the IFVG without hesitation, the anticipated reversal might not materialise.
How Can You Trade IFVGs?
IFVGs provide traders with a structured way to identify and analyse price levels where sentiment has shifted. The process typically looks like this:
1. Establishing Market Bias
Traders typically start by analysing the broader market direction. This often involves looking at higher timeframes, such as the daily or 4-hour charts, to identify trends or reversals. Tools like Breaks of Structure (BOS) or Changes of Character (CHoCH) within the ICT framework help clarify whether the market is leaning bullish or bearish.
Indicators, such as moving averages or momentum oscillators, can also provide additional context for confirming directional bias. A strong bias ensures the trader is aligning setups with the dominant market flow.
2. Identifying and Using IFVGs
Once a Fair Value Gap (FVG) is invalidated—indicating a significant shift in sentiment—it transforms into an Inverse Fair Value Gap (IFVG). Traders mark the IFVG zone as a key area of interest. If it aligns with their broader market bias, this zone can serve as a potential entry point. For instance, in a bearish bias, traders may focus on bearish IFVGs that act as potential resistance zones.
3. Placing Orders and Risk Management
Traders often set a limit order at the IFVG boundary, anticipating a retracement and for the area to hold. A stop loss is typically placed just beyond the IFVG or a nearby swing high/low to manage risk. For exits, targets might include a predefined risk/reward ratio, such as 1:3, or a significant technical level like an order block or support/resistance area. This approach ensures trades remain structured and grounded in analysis.
Advantages and Disadvantages of IFVGs
IFVGs offer traders a unique lens through which to analyse price movements, but like any tool, they come with both strengths and limitations. Understanding these can help traders incorporate IFVGs into their strategies.
Advantages
- Highlight market sentiment shifts: IFVGs pinpoint areas where sentiment has reversed, helping traders identify key turning points.
- Refined entry zones: They provide precise areas for potential analysis, reducing guesswork and offering clear levels to watch.
- Flexibility across markets: IFVGs can be applied to any market, including forex, commodities, or indices, making them versatile.
- Complementary to other tools: They pair well with other ICT tools like BOS, CHoCH, and order blocks for enhanced analysis.
Disadvantages
- Subject to interpretation: Identifying and confirming IFVGs can vary between traders, leading to inconsistencies.
- Limited standalone reliability: IFVGs need to be used alongside broader market analysis; relying solely on them increases risk.
- Higher timeframe dependence: Their effectiveness can diminish on lower timeframes, where noise often obscures true sentiment shifts.
- Potential for invalidation: While IFVGs signal potential opportunities, they aren’t guarantees; price can break through, rendering them ineffective.
The Bottom Line
Inverse Fair Value Gaps provide traders with a structured approach to identifying market shifts and analysing key price levels. By integrating IFVGs into a broader strategy, traders can uncover valuable insights and potentially refine their decision-making. Ready to apply IFVG trading in real markets? Open an FXOpen account today and explore potential trading opportunities across more than 700 markets, alongside four advanced trading platforms and competitive conditions.
FAQ
What Is an Inverse Fair Value Gap (IFVG)?
The IFVG meaning refers to a formation that occurs when a Fair Value Gap (FVG) is invalidated. For example, a bearish FVG becomes bullish after the price breaks above it, creating a potential support zone. Similarly, a bullish FVG can transform into a bearish IFVG if the price breaks below it, creating a potential resistance zone. IFVGs highlight shifts in market sentiment, providing traders with areas of interest for analysing possible reversals or continuation zones.
What Is the Difference Between a Fair Value Gap and an Inverse Fair Value Gap?
A Fair Value Gap (FVG) is an imbalance caused by aggressive buying or selling, creating a price gap that may act as support or resistance. An Inverse Fair Value Gap (IFVG) occurs when the original FVG is invalidated—indicating a shift in sentiment—and its role flips. For instance, a bearish FVG invalidated by a price breakout becomes a bullish IFVG.
What Is the Difference Between BPR and Inverse FVG?
A Balanced Price Range (BPR) represents the overlap of two opposing Fair Value Gaps (FVGs), creating a sensitive zone for potential price reactions. In contrast, an Inverse Fair Value Gap (IFVG) is a concept based on a single FVG that has been invalidated, flipping its role. While both are useful, BPR reflects the equilibrium between buyers and sellers, whereas IFVG highlights sentiment reversal.
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.
Behind the Curtain: Macro Indicators That Move the Yen1. Introduction
Japanese Yen Futures (6J), traded on the CME, offer traders a window into one of the world’s most strategically important currencies. The yen is not just Japan’s currency—it’s also a barometer for global risk appetite, a funding vehicle for the carry trade, and a defensive asset when markets turn volatile.
But what truly moves Yen Futures?
While many traders fixate on central bank statements and geopolitical news, machine learning tells us that economic indicators quietly—but consistently—steer price action. In this article, we apply a Random Forest Regressor to reveal the top macroeconomic indicators driving 6J Futures across daily, weekly, and monthly timeframes, helping traders of all styles align their strategies with the deeper economic current.
2. Understanding Yen Futures Contracts
Whether you’re trading institutional size or operating with a retail account, CME Group offers flexible exposure to the Japanese yen through two contracts:
o Standard Japanese Yen Futures (6J):
Contract Size: ¥12,500,000
Tick Size: 0.0000005 = $6.25 per tick
Use Case: Institutional hedging, macro speculation, rate differential trading
o Micro JPY/USD Futures (MJY):
Contract Size: ¥1,250,000
Tick Size: 0.000001 = $1.25 per tick
Use Case: Retail-sized access, position scaling, strategy testing
o Margin Requirements:
6J: Approx. $3,300 per contract
MJY: Approx. $330 per contract
Both products offer deep liquidity and near 24-hour access. Traders use them to express views on interest rate divergence, U.S.-Japan trade dynamics, and global macro shifts—all while adjusting risk through contract size.
3. Daily Timeframe: Top Macro Catalysts
Short-term movements in Yen Futures are heavily influenced by U.S. economic data and its impact on yield spreads and capital flow. Machine learning analysis ranks the following three as the most influential for daily returns:
10-Year Treasury Yield: The most sensitive indicator for the yen. Rising U.S. yields widen the U.S.-Japan rate gap, strengthening the dollar and weakening the yen. Drops in yields could create sharp yen rallies.
U.S. Trade Balance: A narrowing trade deficit can support the USD via improved capital flow outlook, pressuring the yen. A wider deficit may signal weakening demand for USD, providing potential support for yen futures.
Durable Goods Orders: A proxy for economic confidence and future investment. Strong orders suggest economic resilience, which tends to benefit the dollar. Weak numbers may point to a slowdown, prompting defensive yen buying.
4. Weekly Timeframe: Intermediate-Term Indicators
Swing traders and macro tacticians often ride trends formed by mid-cycle economic shifts. On a weekly basis, these indicators matter most:
Fed Funds Rate: As the foundation of U.S. interest rates, this policy tool steers the entire FX complex. Hawkish surprises can pressure yen futures; dovish turns could strengthen the yen as yield differentials narrow.
10-Year Treasury Yield (again): While impactful daily, the weekly trend gives traders a clearer view of long-term investor positioning and bond market sentiment. Sustained moves signal deeper macro shifts.
ISM Manufacturing Employment: This labor-market-linked metric reflects production demand. A drop often precedes softening economic growth, which may boost the yen as traders reduce exposure to riskier assets.
5. Monthly Timeframe: Structural Macro Forces
For position traders and macro investors, longer-term flows into the Japanese yen are shaped by broader inflationary trends, liquidity shifts, and housing demand. Machine learning surfaced the following as top monthly influences on Yen Futures:
PPI: Processed Foods and Feeds: A unique upstream inflation gauge. Rising producer prices—especially in essentials like food—can increase expectations for tightening, influencing global yield differentials. For the yen, which thrives when inflation is low, surging PPI may drive USD demand and weaken the yen.
M2 Money Supply: Reflects monetary liquidity. A sharp increase in M2 may spark inflation fears, sending interest rates—and the dollar—higher, pressuring the yen. Conversely, slower M2 growth can support the yen as global liquidity tightens.
Housing Starts: Serves as a growth thermometer. Robust housing data suggests strong domestic demand in the U.S., favoring the dollar over the yen. Weakness in this sector may support yen strength as traders rotate defensively.
6. Trade Style Alignment with Macro Data
Each indicator resonates differently depending on the trading style and timeframe:
Day Traders: React to real-time changes in 10-Year Yields, Durable Goods Orders, and Trade Balance. These traders seek to capitalize on intraday volatility around economic releases that impact yield spreads and risk appetite.
Swing Traders: Position around Fed Funds Rate changes, weekly shifts in Treasury yields, or deteriorating labor signals such as ISM Employment. Weekly data can establish trends that last multiple sessions, making it ideal for this style.
Position Traders: Monitor PPI, M2, and Housing Starts for broader macro shifts. These traders align their exposure with long-term shifts in capital flow and inflation expectations, often holding positions for weeks or more.
Whatever the style, syncing your trading plan with the data release calendar and macro backdrop can improve timing and conviction.
7. Risk Management
The Japanese yen is a globally respected safe-haven currency, and its volatility often spikes during geopolitical stress or liquidity events. Risk must be managed proactively, especially in leveraged futures products.
8. Conclusion
Japanese Yen Futures are a favorite among global macro traders because they reflect interest rate divergence, risk sentiment, and global liquidity flows. While headlines grab attention, data tells the real story.
Stay tuned for the next installment of the "Behind the Curtain" series, where we continue uncovering what really moves the futures markets.
When charting futures, the data provided could be delayed. Traders working with the ticker symbols discussed in this idea may prefer to use CME Group real-time data plan on TradingView: www.tradingview.com - This consideration is particularly important for shorter-term traders, whereas it may be less critical for those focused on longer-term trading strategies.
General Disclaimer:
The trade ideas presented herein are solely for illustrative purposes forming a part of a case study intended to demonstrate key principles in risk management within the context of the specific market scenarios discussed. These ideas are not to be interpreted as investment recommendations or financial advice. They do not endorse or promote any specific trading strategies, financial products, or services. The information provided is based on data believed to be reliable; however, its accuracy or completeness cannot be guaranteed. Trading in financial markets involves risks, including the potential loss of principal. Each individual should conduct their own research and consult with professional financial advisors before making any investment decisions. The author or publisher of this content bears no responsibility for any actions taken based on the information provided or for any resultant financial or other losses.
Will Your Tether Holdings Be Frozen Overnight?Hello and greetings to all the crypto enthusiasts ,✌
Spend 2 minutes ⏰ reading this educational material. The main points are summarized in 3 clear lines at the end 📋 This will help you level up your understanding of the market 📊 and Bitcoin💰.
🎯 Analytical Insight on Bitcoin: A Personal Perspective:
Since this is an educational analysis, I’ve kept the chart as simple as possible and provided the most concise Bitcoin analysis. 📉
The price is currently in a descending channel and approaching a key daily resistance level. I expect at least an 8% decline, with $75,000 acting as a major support zone. 📈
Now, let's dive into the educational section, which builds upon last week's lesson (linked in the tags of this analysis). Many of you have been eagerly waiting for this, as I have received multiple messages about it on Telegram.
🧐 Educational Segment: Will Your Tether Holdings Be Frozen Overnight?
Understanding the EU’s New Crypto Regulations 🇪🇺 🔍
In 2023, the European Union (EU) introduced the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA), a comprehensive legal framework aimed at increasing oversight of the cryptocurrency market. The primary objective of this regulation is to bring stability, transparency, and security to a sector that has historically operated with minimal supervision. One of the core focuses of MiCA is stablecoins, particularly their issuance, reserves, and compliance with anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CTF) laws.
The EU prefers highly regulated and trackable stablecoins, such as PayPal’s PYUSD, as these provide greater oversight of financial transactions. Under the new regulatory landscape, if Tether (USDT) fails to meet the EU’s compliance standards, authorities may restrict its usage within the European financial system and exchanges operating in the region. However, it is important to note that such restrictions would be a gradual process, not an abrupt overnight decision. ⏳⚖️
Who Will Be Affected? 🤔📉
These potential regulations primarily impact crypto traders, businesses, and exchanges operating within the EU. If Tether does not secure regulatory approval, platforms serving European customers may be required to delist or limit USDT transactions, similar to past instances where regulatory scrutiny led to the delisting of certain assets in specific jurisdictions.
For individuals and businesses outside of the EU, particularly those using offshore or decentralized platforms, the immediate effects of these regulations would likely be minimal. However, broader market shifts and liquidity changes may still indirectly influence USDT trading volume and availability. 🌍📊
Will Tethers in High-Tension Middle Eastern Countries Be Frozen? 🚨🏦
Geopolitical Risks and US Sanctions 🇺🇸⚠️
Beyond EU regulations, concerns have arisen about whether Tether could be frozen in certain politically sensitive regions, particularly in conflict-prone areas of the Middle East. Given the U.S. government’s control over the global financial system and its increasing scrutiny of crypto transactions, there is speculation that Tether Holdings Ltd. could be pressured to comply with U.S. foreign policy directives, including asset freezes linked to sanctioned individuals, entities, or countries.
Historically, the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has taken a firm stance against financial transactions that could be linked to terrorism financing, money laundering, or sanctions violations. While Tether itself is not a U.S.-based company, it does interact with U.S. financial institutions and has previously cooperated with law enforcement agencies to freeze assets tied to criminal activities. 🏛️🔎
If geopolitical tensions worsen, there is a possibility that Tether’s compliance team may receive direct or indirect pressure to restrict access to its stablecoin in certain jurisdictions, mirroring actions previously taken against other crypto wallets and sanctioned entities. 🔥💰
How Can Users Protect Themselves? 🛡️💡
For individuals and businesses operating in high-risk regions, it is crucial to stay informed about potential regulatory and geopolitical shifts. Strategies to mitigate risks include:
Diversifying stablecoin holdings by using multiple assets (e.g., DAI, USDC, or algorithmic stablecoins). 🔄💱
Utilizing decentralized finance (DeFi) solutions that reduce reliance on centralized stablecoin issuers. 🏗️🔐
Exploring on-chain privacy solutions to protect financial autonomy within legal and ethical boundaries. 🕵️♂️📲
Keeping funds in non-custodial wallets rather than centralized exchanges, which are more susceptible to regulatory enforcement. 🔑📜
In an upcoming guide , I will provide a comprehensive tutorial on how to protect your identity and crypto holdings while navigating regulatory challenges and geopolitical risks. Stay tuned for a detailed breakdown of secure storage, alternative stablecoins, and advanced privacy measures. 🚀🔮
However , this analysis should be seen as a personal viewpoint, not as financial advice ⚠️. The crypto market carries high risks 📉, so always conduct your own research before making investment decisions. That being said, please take note of the disclaimer section at the bottom of each post for further details 📜✅.
🧨 Our team's main opinion is: 🧨
The EU’s MiCA regulations may restrict Tether (USDT) in European exchanges, but it won’t happen overnight. 🌍 Meanwhile, rising geopolitical tensions spark fears that the U.S. could freeze USDT in certain regions. If you’re outside these areas, the impact is minimal, but diversifying assets** is a smart move. Stay tuned for my next guide on protecting your identity, wallets, and crypto holdings!
Give me some energy !!
✨We invest countless hours researching opportunities and crafting valuable ideas. Your support means the world to us! If you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comment box.
Cheers, Mad Whale. 🐋
Convexity-based trade scenario using LOAR stock and the April 17Yo traders -
Let’s map out a convexity-based trade scenario using LOAR stock and the April 17, 2025 $75 Call option — currently trading at $1.00, with the stock at $65.97 and only 18 days to expiry.
🔍 Step-by-Step Breakdown:
🧠 1. Basic Structure
You’re buying the LOAR Apr17 $75 call at $1.00.
This is a deep OTM bet (~13.7% above current price).
You’re betting on a short-term move to $75+, meaning volatility spike or news catalyst.
⚙️ 2. Convexity Setup
Convexity means:
Small risk, asymmetric reward
If LOAR stays flat or dips → you lose $1 per contract
If LOAR rips to $80+ → this option could return 5x to 10x+
LOAR Price at Expiry Option Intrinsic Value Profit/Loss
$66 (flat) $0 -$1.00
$70 $0 -$1.00
$75 (strike) $0 -$1.00
$77 $2.00 +$1.00
$80 $5.00 +$4.00 (5x)
$85 $10.00 +$9.00 (9x)
🧾 3. Chart + Sentiment Setup
Looking at the TradingView chart:
Price Action:
LOAR is basing around $66 after a steep downtrend — potential reversal pattern
Volume is light, but some buy pressure is visible
MACD:
Appears to be flattening and potentially crossing bullish
RSI:
~40s: Oversold-to-neutral zone. Could support upward bounce.
Earnings coming up (E icon):
Strong potential for a catalyst move
This setup enhances convexity, because earnings can produce gap moves that DOTM options profit from disproportionately.
🔮 4. Convexity Scenario Thesis (Narrative)
"LOAR has pulled back hard and is showing signs of base-building. Earnings are in 2–3 weeks. If guidance surprises to the upside — or macro tailwinds hit the sector — a short squeeze or re-rating toward $75–80 could occur. I’m risking $1 per contract for a shot at $5–10. If it doesn’t move, I accept the full loss."
This is a classic event-driven convexity play.
⚠️ 5. Risks & Considerations
Time decay is brutal: With only 18 days left, theta decay accelerates daily
IV Crush post-earnings could hurt even if the stock moves
You need a fast, strong move, ideally before or at earnings
Position sizing is critical: This is a "lottery ticket" — don’t over-allocate
✅ 6. Ideal for Your Strategy If:
You're making many small bets like this across tickers/catalysts
You’re not trying to be “right” often, but “big” occasionally
You have capital discipline and uncorrelated base assets
🧮 Position Size:
Option price = $1.00 per contract
You buy 100 contracts of the $75 call
Total risk = $100
Each $1.00 move above $75 = $100 profit per $1, since 100 contracts × 100 shares/contract = 10,000 shares exposure
📈 Upside Payoff Table
LOAR Price at Expiry Intrinsic Value Total Payoff Net P&L Return on $100
$65–$74.99 $0.00 $0 -$100 -100%
$76 $1.00 $1 × 10,000 = $10,000 +$9,900 +9,900%
$77 $2.00 $20,000 +$19,900 +19,900%
$80 $5.00 $50,000 +$49,900 +49,900%
$85 $10.00 $100,000 +$99,900 +99,900%
$90 $15.00 $150,000 +$149,900 +149,900%
$100 $25.00 $250,000 +$249,900 +249,900%
🧠 Interpretation
Max Loss: $100 (fixed, regardless of LOAR's move down or sideways)
Breakeven at Expiry: LOAR must hit $76.00
10x return if LOAR trades just $1 above strike
Massive asymmetry — you risk $100 for a shot at $10k–250k if LOAR rips on earnings or news.
📌 Real-World Considerations:
You might exit early if the option spikes in value before expiry (e.g., stock runs to $72 with 5 days left).
Liquidity may limit large size fills.
Volatility matters: IV spike pre-earnings or a big gap post-earnings increases your chance of profit.
📊 Convex Payoff Table for LOAR Apr17 $75 Call (100 Contracts, $100 Risk)
LOAR Price at Expiry % Move from $65.97 Intrinsic Value Total Payoff Net P&L Return on $100
$65–$74.99 0% to +13.6% $0.00 $0 -$100 -100%
$76 +15.2% $1.00 $10,000 +$9,900 +9,900%
$77 +17.0% $2.00 $20,000 +$19,900 +19,900%
$80 +21.3% $5.00 $50,000 +$49,900 +49,900%
$85 +28.9% $10.00 $100,000 +$99,900 +99,900%
$90 +36.4% $15.00 $150,000 +$149,900 +149,900%
$100 +51.6% $25.00 $250,000 +$249,900 +249,900%
🧠 Takeaway:
Even a 15% move turns your $100 into $10,000 — this is why convex trades are so powerful.
But the trade-off is probability: the odds of a 15–50%+ move in 18 days are low, which is why risk is capped and position sizing matters.
Mastering Risk Management in Trading: The Ultimate GuideMastering Risk Management in Trading: The Ultimate Guide
In the world of trading, success isn’t measured only by big wins but by how well you protect your capital from unnecessary losses. Risk management isn’t just a safety net—it’s the backbone of sustainable trading. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the principles and strategies you need to safeguard your account while still maximizing your profit potential.
---
1. Risk-Reward Ratio: The Foundation of Every Trade
- What it is:
The risk-reward ratio is the cornerstone of every trade. It tells you how much potential reward you’re targeting compared to the risk you’re willing to take. For instance, if you risk $100 and aim to make $200, your risk-reward ratio is 1:2—a commonly accepted standard in trading.
- How to use it:
- Always predefine your risk-reward ratio before entering a trade.
- For swing traders, aim for a minimum of 1:2 or 1:3 to justify holding overnight.
---
2. Position Sizing: The Key to Survival
- Why position sizing matters:
Position sizing ensures you don’t over-leverage your account or lose too much in a single trade. Many traders fail because they bet too big and get wiped out after just a few losing trades.
- How to calculate position size:
- Use this formula:
Position Size = (Account Risk $ ÷ (Entry Price - Stop-Loss Price)).
- For example, if you’re risking $100 per trade and the difference between your entry and stop-loss is $5, your position size should be 20 units (100 ÷ 5).
---
3. Stop-Loss Orders: Your Safety Net
- What is a stop-loss?
A stop-loss is your emergency brake. It’s an order you set in advance to sell your position if the price moves against you by a specified amount.
- How to set stop-losses:
- Use technical analysis to place your stop-loss below support levels for long trades or above resistance levels for short trades.
- Avoid placing stop-losses too close to your entry point, as small fluctuations might trigger them unnecessarily.
Here you can see my ratio is on the low side so i can place a tactical TP and SL in relation to liquidity lines.
---
4. The Art of Diversification: Spreading Risk
- Why diversification works:
Putting all your capital into a single trade or instrument increases your risk. Diversification spreads that risk across multiple trades or markets, reducing the impact of any single loss.
- How to diversify effectively:
- Trade across multiple sectors or currency pairs.
- Avoid overexposure to correlated assets (e.g., don’t trade EUR/USD and GBP/USD simultaneously).
---
5. Emotional Discipline: Winning the Mental Game
- Why it matters:
Even the best trading strategy can fail if emotions like fear or greed take over. Emotional trading leads to impulsive decisions, revenge trading, and overtrading.
- How to maintain discipline:
- Stick to your trading plan, no matter what.
- Use tools like meditation, journaling, or physical exercise to manage stress.
---
6. Dynamic Risk Management: Adapting to Changing Markets
- Adjusting your strategy:
Markets are dynamic, and your risk management should adapt. Volatility can change quickly, requiring you to adjust your stop-loss distance or position size.
- Use ATR (Average True Range):
The ATR is a great tool to measure market volatility and decide how much room to give your stop-loss.
---
7. Tracking and Reviewing Your Trades
- The power of a trading journal:
Every trade is a learning opportunity. Keep detailed records of your trades, including your reasoning, execution, and results.
- What to include in your journal:
- Entry and exit points.
- Risk-reward ratio.
- Mistakes or deviations from the plan.
- Lessons learned.
---
Conclusion: Plan the Trade, Trade the Plan
Risk management isn’t just a skill—it’s a habit. By understanding your risk-reward ratio, managing position sizes, using stop-losses effectively, and staying emotionally disciplined, you can protect your capital and increase your chances of long-term success.
Take a moment to reflect: How do you manage risk in your trading? Are there areas you could improve? Start implementing these strategies today, and watch how they transform your trading results.
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless MindHere you have Charles Thomas Munger, the permanent vice president of one of the most successful companies in the world, Berkshire Hathaway. He was not at the origins of this business, but it was Charles, together with Warren Buffett, who turned a dying enterprise into a star of the world stock market. It didn't take a Master's degree in Business Administration or incredible luck. As Mr. Munger said, to succeed you don't necessarily have to strive to be the smartest, you just have to be not stupid and avoid the standard ways of failure. He worked as a meteorologist, then a lawyer, and finally as someone we know well - an investor who inspired many to take a smart approach to business and their own lives.
“I don’t think you should become president or a billionaire because the odds are too great against you. It is much better to set achievable goals. I didn't set out to become rich, I set out to be independent. I just went a little overboard”, Charles joked. Wake up every morning, work hard, be disciplined and surprisingly, everything will work out very well. This commandment sounds a little archaic in times of rapid rise and easy money. However, for anyone who thinks years and decades ahead, it is difficult to come up with something better.
Speaking to students at his hometown University of Michigan, Mr. Munger said the most important decision you make in life is not your business career, but your marriage. It will do more good or bad for you than anything else. He attached such great importance to human relationships. This correlates strongly with a study of human happiness that has been ongoing for over 85 years under the auspices of Harvard University. The scientists' main conclusion was that everything we build (portfolios, businesses, strategies) is worthless if there is no person in our lives to whom we can say a simple “I'm here”. Or “Thank you”. Or “I love you”.
The healthiest and happiest in old age were not those subjects who earned the most. And those who have maintained good, trusting relationships. Marital. Friendly. Related. And in this light, Charles Munger's words about caution, moderation and common-sense sound quite different. It's not about money. It's about a life that can be lived with the feeling that you have enough. That you don't have to be a hero. That you can just be a reasonable person. Loving. Healthy. Calm.
Perhaps this is the main secret of Mr. Munger's success in the stock market? In the long run, the one who has already won achieves a positive result.
November 28th, 2023, was the last day of the cheerful Charlie's life. There were 34 days left until his 100th birthday.