Anatomy of a Breakout (Orderflow)I am sharing my current approach for trading breakouts , please share your opinion on the comments section so we can have a discussion.
Used Tools:
Number Bars (Footprint chart)
Liquidity Heatmap
Volume Delta
Volume
Support and Resistance
ATR
For bullish resistance breakout z
we setup alarms that alerts us when price is 2 atr below the resistance
when alarm triggered we set to watch as price approaches towards the resistance
we expect higher volume and higher delta
advance on poc and value areas and especially positive readings on footprint on the upper side in terms of liquidity we spot a vacuum zone in the target direction right after the resistance for price to advance and Liquidity thinning just below the resistance (indicates sellers pulling orders)
as we breakout we spot a huge spike in the volume and delta indicating resting orders absorbed by the market buyer
to confirm we look for not thin prints in the upper side of the candle but a good value area indicating price is doing business over there
we wait for a confirmation candle with similar profile
see liquidity flip at resistance becoming support then enter
we also consider higher timeframe structure is it trending if ranging where is the range etc and asses volality in terms of is it increasing meaning there is enough volality for a breakout
For exit we target the end of the vacuum zone aka nearest liquidity or nearest market structure, or a reversal in orderflow.
For bearish support breakout
We set up alarms that alert us when the price is 2 ATR above the support.
When the alarm is triggered, we start monitoring closely.
As the price approaches the support, we expect higher volume and higher negative delta, with the POC (Point of Control) and value areas advancing downward.
On the footprint chart, we look for particularly negative readings on the lower side.
In terms of liquidity, we identify a vacuum zone below the support, indicating room for the price to drop, and observe liquidity thinning just above the support (indicating buyers pulling their orders).
As the breakout occurs, we expect a large spike in volume and negative delta, signaling that resting buy orders have been absorbed by market sellers.
To confirm, we look for no thin prints on the lower side of the candle and a well-formed value area below the support, showing that price is establishing value there.
We then wait for a confirmation candle with a similar profile and observe a liquidity flip where support turns into resistance before entering the trade.
We also assess the higher timeframe structure, determining whether the market is trending or ranging, and identify the location of the range if applicable. Additionally, we evaluate volatility to ensure it is increasing, indicating sufficient energy for the breakout.
For exit we target the end of the vacuum zone aka nearest liquidity or nearest market structure, or a reversal in orderflow.
Additional Notes:
S/R lines defined based on daily graph anti trend consolidation zones
we are not defining numeric tresholds because context matters
Trend Analysis
Festive Learning: Using the MACD to Determine a TrendIn previous posts within this series, we have covered, Bollinger Bands and moving averages, where we’ve shown how each technique can help determine the trending condition of an asset. If you haven’t already, please look back at our timeline to view these posts.
Now we want to look at another trending indicator, which can help to provide a quick and easy read of the current trend. This is called the Moving Average Convergence/Divergence indicator, or MACD for short.
The MACD uses 12 and 26 day exponential moving averages (EMAs), which are the default settings within the Pepperstone charting system.
Exponential averages differ from simple moving averages as they place greater emphasis on the latest closing data for a particular instrument. This goes someway to try and overcome the issue of averages being lagging in nature.
By giving the latest closing levels greater importance within the exponential calculation, these averages can turn more quickly than a simple average, to reflect price direction changes earlier.
What is the MACD and How Does it Use Moving Averages?
The MACD uses 12 and 26 day EMAs and measures the gap between the two.
This is important as the 12 day EMA will follow the price action of an instrument more closely than the 26 day EMA.
Meaning, as prices rise above the averages in an uptrend, the gap between the shorter and longer term EMA increases in a positive way.
While in a downtrend as price falls below the 2 declining averages, the gap increases in a negative way.
Let’s look further at the daily chart of AUDUSD and add the MACD indicator to see how this works in practice.
The blue line of the indicator shows the gap between the 2 exponential moving averages, while the red line is a 9 day moving average of the indicator line.
What Does the MACD Show, and How Can We Use This to Help Within Our Day to Day Trading?
It’s a trending indicator, so we use it to confirm the trending condition of an instrument, but we also use it to help us decide if whether our sentiment towards that instrument should be positive or negative.
There are 4 possible signals we can highlight by using the MACD.
These are,
• an aggressive uptrend,
• an aggressive downtrend,
• a correction within an uptrend
• a correction within a downtrend.
An Aggressive Uptrend Signal.
This is where the rising MACD indicator line (blue line on the MACD chart) is above zero and above its own average.
This reflects the 12 day EMA being above the 26 day EMA, and the gap between the two averages is increasing, as the price of an instrument moves higher.
This set-up reflects when sentiment should be positive towards an instrument, as the potential is that the current uptrend could continue.
Aggressive Downtrend Signal
The aggressive downtrend signal is when the MACD indicator line (blue line on the MACD chart) is falling below both zero and its own average.
This reflects where the declining 12 day EMA is falling below the declining 26 day EMA, as both averages track the declining price of an instrument.
This can highlight when sentiment should be negative towards an instrument because the current downtrend may extend further.
But what about consolidation signals?
Consolidation Within an Uptrend
A consolidation within an uptrend can develop when the MACD indicator line (blue line on the MACD chart) while still above zero has crossed below its own moving average (re line on the MACD chart).
This is not a negative signal because the MACD line is still above zero suggesting an uptrend is currently in place, but it highlights a reaction to the recent price strength is appearing and that a possible consolidation within the uptrend may materialise.
It can suggest a period where we may wish to close any long positions in the instrument at this point and revert to the sidelines, as a downside correction could be due.
We would then look for the MACD line (blue line on the MACD chart) to either break below zero to suggest a downtrend is now evident, or the more aggressive uptrend to resume if the MACD line breaks back above its own average.
Consolidation Within a Downtrend
A consolidation within a downtrend is seen when the MACD line (blue line on the MACD chart) is still below zero but has crossed above its own moving average (red line on MACD chart).
Here, we may want to close any potential short positions, as a potential upside recovery may be developing.
This is not a positive signal because the MACD line (blue line on the MACD chart) is still below zero highlighting a downtrend is still in play, but suggests a reaction to recent price weakness is materialising and that a recovery is possible within the on-going downtrend.
We would then look for the MACD line to either break above zero to suggest an uptrend for the instrument could be starting, or for prices to resume their downside moves and for the MACD line to break under its own average (red line on MACD chart) to highlight the more aggressive downtrend is still dominating.
We can use these signals to either initiate outright trades, or to help us gauge the trending set-up within any instrument at any given time.
The MACD indicator could then be combined with other techniques to help time trade entry within the direction of the confirmed trend, which we hope to cover in future posts.
So, in recent weeks we have looked at various techniques and indicators to help us gauge the trending condition of an asset at any given time.
Each can be used either on their own or in combination with the other and price patterns, but we’re sure you will find them very useful to incorporate within your own analysis and trading.
The material provided here has not been prepared in accordance with legal requirements designed to promote the independence of investment research and as such is considered to be a marketing communication. Whilst it is not subject to any prohibition on dealing ahead of the dissemination of investment research, we will not seek to take any advantage before providing it to our clients.
Pepperstone doesn’t represent that the material provided here is accurate, current or complete, and therefore shouldn’t be relied upon as such. The information, whether from a third party or not, isn’t to be considered as a recommendation; or an offer to buy or sell; or the solicitation of an offer to buy or sell any security, financial product or instrument; or to participate in any particular trading strategy. It does not take into account readers’ financial situation or investment objectives. We advise any readers of this content to seek their own advice. Without the approval of Pepperstone, reproduction or redistribution of this information isn’t permitted.
Stock Market Logic Series #11If you are not adding the pre-and-after-hours of trading on your chart, you don't actually see the full picture of your trading analysis.
A lot of times, the market makers will push the price on the pre/after-hours times on a light volume, and will define the true low or high of the day, where you could have gotten inside with a much better price and stop placement, so when the trading hours starts, you don't feel lost that you don't have a close risk point to put your stop at.
Also, in those outside-hours, you can clearly see a much more sensible picture where the trendlines are much more clear and it is clear what the price is doing.
Also, I don't even talk about when EARNINGS are happening... and there is a high chance for gap to happen in one direction or the other.
After a gap happens, if you only look on the trading hours, you have only the information of the first 5 min of the day so you have some estimation of what could be the high or low of the day, but looking at the pre-market you could see what are the possible true high or low of the day, which is completely different.
Also, after a gap happens, your indicators are "wrong", since they miss information.
As you go into a higher frame this becomes less important, but still... some crazy huge moves start in the pre/after-hours and the price just never comes back, it just flies to the moon. So why not position yourself at a better price with better stop placement?
The logic behind it, is that if BIG money wants a stock badly... he will buy it whenever it is possible and available before the other BIG money will snatch it from it...
Look how clear price action looks in this chart:
Dow Jones Trend Day Setup 5* OpportunitiesMy goal going forward into 2025 is to only trade the Parabolic Trend trades and to master them. They happen roughly 5-8 times per month. Just catching 1 of these per month is all I need. Using 3% risk per one of these setups can deliver 15-20% gains.
The universal entry criteria is the 5 minute close back inside the 20sma.
The timeframe for entries are either 1 hour before the open, the open, and 1 hour after the open.
Profit targets are generally until the close or a range expansion target of 1-2 times the Asia/London box.
Below are multiple charts of the same setup with the green box being the ideal entry.
If I can only trade 1 trade PER MONTH, this is what I will focus on.
Fed Rate Expectations: How Are They Formed?Changes in the Federal Reserve's funds rate have far-reaching implications for nearly all existing assets. When the rate increases amidst moderate inflation, the U.S. dollar TVC:DXY typically strengthens, attracting capital from both the cryptocurrency and stock markets. Conversely, if inflation is rising rapidly and the Fed is compelled to aggressively raise rates to stabilize the economy, investors often interpret this as a sign of underlying trouble, prompting them to shift their assets into TVC:GOLD . However, it is essential to recognize that the Fed’s decisions are reactions to prevailing economic conditions. More crucially, market expectations regarding the Fed's rate movements—shaped by collective sentiment—play a significant role in shaping economic outcomes. This post explores the factors that form these expectations.
📍 Key Indicators Influencing Expectations for the Fed Funds Rate
The market tends to respond significantly only when actual changes in the funds rate diverge from expectations. If adjustments align with market forecasts, the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar typically remains stable. Thus, accurately predicting the Fed's actions is vital for investors and traders.
1. Labor Market Dynamics
The labor market is a primary focus for the Fed. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) releases employment reports every Friday, providing insight into unemployment rates. The Fed maintains a forecast range for acceptable unemployment levels—generally between 4.2% and 4.8%—indicating economic balance. An uptick in unemployment signals economic weakness, often prompting a reduction in the funds rate. Conversely, a decline in unemployment raises concerns about potential economic overheating, which could lead to tighter monetary policy.
2. Inflation Trends
The Fed’s target inflation rate is set at 2%. As inflation rises, the Fed typically increases the funds rate to curb borrowing. This was clearly illustrated during the 2022-2023 period, where persistent inflation above 8% led to a series of rate hikes. In contrast, deflation would necessitate maintaining ultra-low funds rates. Additional indicators to monitor include wage trends, inflation expectations, and the consumer price index (CPI).
3. Overall Economic Health
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is a key indicator of economic health. Although GDP data is often retrospective, it reflects long-term economic trends. A decline in GDP may prompt the Fed to adopt stimulative monetary policies. Analysts often utilize the GDPNow model, developed by the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, to obtain real-time estimates of U.S. GDP growth.
4. Treasury Yield Curve
The yield curve illustrates the relationship between bond yields of different maturities from the same issuer. A flattening yield curve typically signals economic slowdown, while long-term bonds yielding less than short-term bonds can foreshadow a recession. The Fed could respond to such signs by adjusting funds rates higher depending on the crisis’s underlying causes.
5. Global Economic Influences
Economic conditions in other major economies, particularly China and the European Union, can indirectly impact the U.S. economy due to deep economic ties. Monitoring central bank funds rates and the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) in these regions is essential.
6. The Dollar’s Exchange Rate Against Key Currencies
A strong U.S. dollar can adversely affect American exporters. If other central banks, such as the Bank of Japan or the European Central Bank, adopt accommodative monetary policies, the Fed may also consider lowering rates to avoid a detrimental trade balance caused by a strengthening dollar.
7. Market Expectations
Investor sentiment creates a feedback loop. With over 50% of Americans investing in equities, a hawkish stance on funds rates tends to increase bond yields and instigate a sell-off in securities, negatively impacting overall economic wealth. Investors’ anticipation of potential rate cuts can pressure the Fed to align with these expectations.
8. Communication from Fed Officials
The rhetoric from Fed officials often hints at future monetary policy, providing insights into rate expectations based on their communications. Numerous indicators, including analysts’ forecasts and futures trading on key rates, contribute to understanding the Fed's policies. Due to the complexity of these influencing factors, relying solely on fundamental analysis for trading is not advisable for beginners.
📍 Conclusion
Forecasting changes in the Fed's funds rate often begins with the first clear signals about the Fed's potential actions. The primary motivations guiding the Fed are the control of inflation and the management of unemployment—making these two indicators crucial for predictions regarding monetary policy. Additionally, it is essential to consider fundamental factors impacting other major currencies.
Traders, If you liked this educational post🎓, give it a boost 🚀 and drop a comment 📣
The Two Archetypes of TradersIn the trading world, markets move in cycles, and bearish conditions are no exception. Here's an educational breakdown of how traders can navigate these challenging times:
1. The Long-Term Holders (Investors)
Mindset: Patience is their superpower.
Goal: Accumulate assets during bearish trends by buying at key support levels and holding for future gains.
Approach: Use the WiseOwl Indicator to identify areas of strong support and potential accumulation zones for strategic entries.
2. The Intraday Traders (Short-Term)
Mindset: Adaptability and precision are crucial.
Goal: Profit from short-term price movements, capitalizing on market volatility.
Approach: Utilize the WiseOwl Indicator to pinpoint bearish momentum for short entries and clear exit levels, ensuring optimal risk management.
Educational Example: WiseOwl Strategy in Action
Let’s analyze Solana (SOL) on the 15-minute timeframe during a bearish market:
Trend Identification: The WiseOwl Indicator highlights a confirmed downtrend with clear bearish signals.
Entry Points: Short trade signals are generated at moments of significant bearish momentum.
Risk Management: Stop loss and take profit levels, calculated using ATR-based logic, ensure disciplined trading.
Takeaways for Traders
📉 Bearish Markets:
Holders focus on identifying value areas for accumulation.
Intraday traders capitalize on market volatility with precise entries and exits.
Happy trading! 🚀
#WiseOwlIndicator #TradingEducation #BearMarket #SOLAnalysis #CryptoTrading
The Ultimate Day Trading Framework: Rules for Consistent SuccessThese are general trading rules that serve as a foundation for your strategy. You must work on them further to develop a precise plan tailored to your preferences, the markets you trade, your time zone, and other related variables. The goal is to create a clear, actionable framework that you can follow consistently every single trading day. 🔍📈📊
General Trading Rules
Categorize Observations into Binary Decisions
Simplify decisions into two options (e.g., Risk On vs. Risk Off).
Decision determines the trade approach. ⚖️
Follow a Rule-Based System
Rules are essential for processing setups quickly and accurately. 🛠️
Focus on keeping the process simple and systematic.
Market Conditions
Trend vs. Trading Range
Trend:
Look to swing more of your position.
Uptrend: Prioritize buying. 📈
Downtrend: Prioritize selling. 📉
Trading Range:
Buy low and sell high (scalping focus). 💱
Risk Management
Evaluate Risk On vs. Risk Off for each setup. 🚦
Probability Assessment
Categorize setups as High Probability vs. Low Probability. ✅❌
Execution
Stay Agile
Constantly assess market conditions and adapt strategies accordingly. 🔄
Focus on Key Setups
On average, expect about 40 setups per day.
Be selective and only act on setups that meet your criteria. 🎯
By personalizing these rules and following them diligently, you can bring clarity and consistency to your trading process.
Using Trendlines on ATR for Trading Strategy:Average True Range:
Volatility Resistance: The ATR oscillating at a resistance line suggests that the market volatility has reached a point where it has been repeatedly unable to break through to higher levels. This can mean that despite attempts, the volatility hasn't sustained at higher levels, potentially indicating a stabilization or a ceiling on how volatile the market might get in the short term.
Market Sentiment: This oscillation can also reflect a market where there's a tug-of-war between buyers and sellers, leading to a stabilization of price movement range. When volatility hits a resistance level, it might indicate that the market is preparing for a significant move or a breakout, or conversely, that it might revert back to lower volatility after some consolidation.
Breakout Strategy:
Signal for Breakout: If the ATR breaks above the resistance line where it has been oscillating, it could signal an upcoming increase in volatility, potentially leading to a significant price movement. Traders might consider this a signal to prepare for a breakout trade, either buying or selling depending on the price trend.
Trade Entry: Following a breakout, traders could use this ATR trendline break as a cue to enter a trade in the direction of the breakout, expecting that increased volatility will lead to a more substantial price move.
Stop Loss and Profit Taking:
Stop Loss: The resistance line where ATR oscillates can be used to set dynamic stop losses. If the ATR moves above this line, indicating higher volatility, a trader might adjust their stop loss to be a multiple of the ATR away from the current price to account for the increased risk.
Profit Targets: Similarly, profit targets can be set based on ATR levels. For instance, if the ATR is oscillating near resistance, traders might aim for a profit target that's one or two ATRs away from the entry point, anticipating where volatility might push the price.
Trend Confirmation:
Confirming Trends: ATR's behavior at resistance can confirm trends. If the price is trending upward but the ATR fails to move above its resistance, it might indicate that the trend lacks strong momentum or that a reversal could be on the horizon.
Risk Management:
Adjusting Position Size: High ATR levels near resistance could suggest increasing market noise, prompting traders to reduce position sizes or adjust their risk management strategies to account for potential whipsaws or false breakouts.
Counter-Trend Strategy:
Reversal Signals: If the ATR repeatedly fails to break through resistance, it might signal that the market is overstretched, potentially leading to a decrease in volatility or even a trend reversal. Traders could look for bearish signals if this happens in an uptrend or bullish if in a downtrend.
Incorporating these strategies requires careful observation and should ideally be combined with other forms of technical analysis or indicators for confirmation. Remember, while ATR provides insights into volatility, it does not indicate the direction of price movement, so it should be part of a broader trading strategy.
Rate cuts and their impact on the marketsRate cuts and their impact on the markets
The Fed's decisions to cut interest rates, while seeking to stimulate the economy, have had a mixed effect on financial markets. On the one hand, these measures tend to favor equity assets by reducing funding costs and encouraging investment. On the other hand, in an environment of global uncertainty and expectations of recession, rate cuts have been interpreted by some investors as a sign of economic weakness, which has contributed to the fall in stock market indices.
In this context, investors have migrated towards assets considered safer, such as Treasury bonds, which has generated significant movements in sovereign debt yields. This behavior directly affects traders' strategies during the Quadruple Witching Hour, when position adjustment is usually more intense.
Quadruple Witching Hour amid market declines
With markets facing recent declines, the Quadruple Witching Hour could amplify volatility due to several factors:
1. Massive position adjustments: Investors looking to protect their portfolios or close open positions could generate sharp movements in stock and index prices.
2. Impact on liquidity: In an environment of uncertainty, liquidity could be reduced, making price movements even more pronounced.
3. Impact on specific sectors: Companies that are more sensitive to interest rates, such as technology and real estate, could experience greater pressure due to changing investor expectations.
Outlook and strategies
In this environment, investors should be particularly attentive to:
1. Evolving expectations about monetary policy: Any changes in Fed language or economic data could influence market participants' decisions during the Quadruple Witching Hour.
2. Risk management: Using hedging strategies, such as options or inverse ETFs, can be key to mitigating the impact of volatility.
3. Opportunities in volatility: For more experienced traders, sharp price movements may offer opportunities to generate short-term profits.
In conclusion, the Quadruple Witching Hour in the current environment of Fed rate cuts and market declines represents both a challenge and an opportunity. Careful planning and a clear understanding of the factors at play will be essential to navigate this period successfully.
Ion Jauregui – ActivTrades Analyst
*******************************************************************************************
The information provided does not constitute investment research. The material has not been prepared in accordance with the legal requirements designed to promote the independence of investment research and such should be considered a marketing communication.
All information has been prepared by ActivTrades ("AT"). The information does not contain a record of AT's prices, or an offer of or solicitation for a transaction in any financial instrument. No representation or warranty is given as to the accuracy or completeness of this information.
Any material provided does not have regard to the specific investment objective and financial situation of any person who may receive it. Past performance is not reliable indicator of future performance. AT provides an execution-only service. Consequently, any person acing on the information provided does so at their own risk.
USD/CAD -Volume Spread AnalysisHere is a perfect example of Pushing Up through Supply.
As shown, when up-trending markets experience the phenomenon created by Market Makers in which supply us introduced to the market. (Notice the Pivot Highs at 1.41942 and 1.41968 which are 4 pips apart) These levels of supply are known by the market makers and are used to lock in bullish traders.
As the market moves against the locked in traders we notice Ultra High Volume (UHV) shows up. As we analyze the volume it suggests professional supply has entered the market and is confirmed by the following Wide Spread and Excessively UHV.
This confirms the intention of the professionals to lock in bullish traders and create an over head supply zone. The following price movement has UHV as well but less than the previous bar and it also closes bullish but inside the larger UHV bar. Peculiar for a market that is doomed to fall to the abyss don't you think? Looking back to the previous 40 price bars we notice price held support above the level of the previous pivot low at 1.40926.
The supply diminishes from this point as price creates a Lower High (LH) then a Higher Low (HL). We also notice the spread bodies of the bars leading to the pivot low at 1.41304 are smaller than any other downward push since the consolidation period on the 10th of December.
This implies supply has diminished until we come back in contact with the supply created by the Market Makers. The UHV suggests supply is present. However, the next bar shows demand is also present and supply has suddenly diminished at the resistance as well.
Prices then proceed to "Push up Through Supply" volume diminishes and prices rise through the supply which is termed and "ease of movement". This is an aggressive BUY SIGNAL which implies prices will not come back to retest the previous area of resistance turned support known as the backup to the edge of the creek.
You have to be aggressive at these moments because prices will not return to the retest the structure as the handling maneuver is completed a as it leaves the re-accumulation area.
Super Simple Buying and Selling Stocks within TradingView.With the market pulling back nearly 14% over the past few days, I decided to take a punt on a potential recovery. I've opened a position in TQQQ , a 3x leveraged ETF tracking the Nasdaq 100 (top 100 tech stocks).
In this post, I show how easy it is to place an order using a connected TradingView broker—in my case, TradeStation—and set up a bracket order with a take-profit and stop-loss.
If the trade moves against me, the stop-loss automatically manages my risk by closing the position. If it moves in my favor, the take-profit ensures I lock in gains and exit automatically.
Of course, these levels can be really easily adjusted manually as the trade progresses, providing flexibility as the stock moves. You could choose to set your levels based on your favorite indicators signals or some other means.
This isn’t trading advice—just an example of how you can leverage TradingView’s functionality.
It’s real money on the line—my money—so wish me luck! That said, the market could still head lower with ongoing Fed FUD, but I’m holding out hope for a little help from Santa. 🎅
Beyond Basic Candlestick Pattern AnalysisLearning to Recognize Who Is Controlling the Stock Price
There is a plethora of training on Candlestick Pattern Analysis and interpretation, and yet this remains one of the most problematic areas for Technical Traders who want to trade at the expert level.
Once the basics of Japanese Candlestick Patterns are understood, it is time to move up to the next tier of analysis. That is being able to recognize not only where a pattern is, but also who forms that pattern, why they are capable of creating that pattern, what automated orders generate that pattern, and which Market Participant Groups react or chase that pattern.
Nowadays it has become critical to include Volume with Candlestick Analysis, because this provides the basis for recognizing which Market Participant Group created that candle pattern.
Candlestick Pattern Analysis at the expert level involves more than just one to three candles. Instead it includes a larger group of candles in the near term. This is what I call "Relational Analysis." This is especially useful for Swing Traders, Momentum Traders, Velocity Traders, Swing Options Traders, and Day Traders using Swing Style Intraday action.
The NYSE:RAMP chart is an excellent example of a Candlestick Pattern for Swing Style Trading.
See where High Frequency Traders (HFTs) took control of price, and gapped the stock down for one day on extreme volume. Selling did not continue the following two days, and Volume was above the Moving Average, but much lower than the High Frequency Traders' spiking Volume pattern.
This was the first accumulation level for this stock. Dark Pools started buying the stock even though High Frequency Traders were selling, since they typically miss this initial buy mode of the giant Institutions.
High Frequency Traders typically create the final gap down to the low which, if it reverses quickly, indicates a Buy Zone area for the Dark Pools. These patterns are what I call "Shifts of Sentiment." They happen in bottom formations where buying is generally dominated by the Largest Institutions' quiet accumulation.
The next phase will be when Professional Traders and then High Frequency Traders discover the Dark Pool accumulation. The bottom is not complete, but it shifts sideways if more Dark Pools decide to buy.
Breakout-reversal level entryAs you can see from the analysis we had a range that was broken below which created a double bottom( neckline as our Resistance), then price broke above and respected our resistance which caused us to have a New Support, which means we have a new level we can trade at. Price broke out and reversed towards the New Support, which is where I entered my trade and made some profits. So all in all, it's important to use your levels to look for entries, don't use levels that are not respected by the market also wait for the market to reached your setup and don't chase it.
If you would like more detailed tutorials like these comment below so I can post more
1-Minute Scalping Trading Strategies With Examples1-Minute Scalping Trading Strategies With Examples
Scalping is a popular trading style capitalising on rapid, small price movements within minutes. 1-minute scalping strategies are often used by traders but require precise execution and solid understanding of technical indicators. This article explores four 1-min scalping strategies, detailing the indicators used alongside specific entries and exits.
Understanding 1-Minute Scalping
1-minute scalping is a fast-paced trading style focusing on taking advantage of small price movements within a minute timeframe. Traders using this approach rely on 1-minute charts to make quick, multiple trades throughout the trading session. The primary goal is to accumulate potential small gains that might add up to larger returns over time.
A scalp trading strategy requires a solid understanding of technical analysis and market conditions. Scalpers typically use indicators, price action patterns, and trend analysis to identify short-term market movements and potential entry and exit points. The rapid nature of 1-minute scalping demands precision and discipline, as even a slight delay can impact the trade outcome.
One of the key advantages of 1-minute scalping is the ability to generate frequent trading opportunities, which can be particularly appealing during volatile market conditions. However, it also comes with higher risks due to the speed and frequency of trades, meaning risk management plays a significant role.
Scalpers must also be aware of transaction costs, as frequent trading can lead to significant fees, which can erode potential returns. Choosing a broker with low commissions, tight spreads, and fast execution speeds is essential to maximise a scalping forex strategy’s potential. FXOpen provides an ideal environment for scalping trading strategies, with commissions from $1.50 per lot, spreads from 0.0 pips, and ultra-fast execution. Open an account!
Four 1-Minute Scalping Strategies
Now, let’s take a closer look at four 1-minute trading strategies. To apply these strategies, see how they work in practice, and access each of these 1-minute scalping indicators, consider following along in FXOpen’s free TickTrader trading platform.
Strategy 1: VWAP + MACD
Indicators Used
- VWAP (Volume Weighted Average Price): VWAP calculates the average price a security has traded at throughout the day, based on both volume and price. It helps traders understand the trend and identify potential support and resistance levels.
- MACD (Moving Average Convergence Divergence): MACD is an indicator that visualises the relationship between two moving averages. MACD settings for a 1-minute chart are standard: the MACD line is derived from the difference between the 12-period and 26-period exponential moving averages (EMA), while the signal line is a 9-period EMA of the MACD line.
VWAP and MACD work well together by providing both trend and momentum analysis. VWAP helps identify the overall trend and significant price levels, while MACD offers insights into momentum changes. This combination can help traders determine entries by confirming trends and potential reversals.
Entry
- Traders typically look for the price to close through the VWAP, with the MACD turning from positive to negative or vice versa. This coincides with the signal line crossing over the MACD line.
- Alternatively, another common entry point is when the price uses the VWAP as a level of support or resistance, confirmed by the MACD turning from positive to negative or vice versa.
These triggers will likely occur within a few candles of each other, typically within 4 or 5 candles.
Stop Loss
- Stop losses are often set just beyond a recent high or low swing point, which helps potentially protect against losses if the market moves unexpectedly.
Take Profit
- Traders commonly take profits when the signal line crosses the MACD line in the opposite direction, and the histogram switches from positive to negative or vice versa. This approach allows traders to take advantage of momentum shifts and potentially lock in gains as the trend changes.
- However, some may prefer to exit at a significant support or resistance level in order to maximise potential gains.
Strategy 2: Keltner Channels + RSI
Indicators Used
- Keltner Channels: A volatility-based envelope set above and below an exponential moving average. The channels are typically set to two average true range (ATR) values away from the EMA. They help identify overbought and oversold conditions and potential breakouts.
- RSI (Relative Strength Index): A momentum oscillator that gauges the rate and extent of price changes. It ranges between 0 and 100, where readings above 70 signal overbought conditions, and readings below 30 indicate oversold conditions. RSI can also indicate bullishness when it crosses above 50 and vice versa.
The Keltner Channels and RSI strategy leverages volatility and momentum to identify effective trading opportunities. By combining the channels, which offer insights into breakouts, with the RSI, which gauges momentum, traders can uncover trading opportunities on the 1-minute chart.
Entry
- Traders often look for two or more closes outside of the Keltner Channel and ideally strong and/or consecutive green (bullish) or red (bearish) candles.
- This is confirmed by the RSI recently breaking above 50 for bullish signals or below 50 for bearish signals.
The combination of strong price action and momentum change helps traders identify potential trend continuations.
Stop Loss
- Stop losses are commonly set beyond the opposite side of the Keltner Channel to potentially protect against adverse price movements.
- For a higher risk-reward ratio, traders might place stop losses beyond a nearby swing candle.
Take Profit
- Traders typically take profits when the price crosses back beyond the Keltner Channel's midpoint or reaches the opposite side of the channel, indicating a potential exhaustion of the current move.
- Alternatively, profits may be taken when RSI moves beyond 70 (overbought) or below 30 (oversold), signalling potential reversals in price direction.
Strategy 3: ALMA + Stochastic
Indicators Used
- ALMA (Arnaud Legoux Moving Average): ALMA is a moving average that aims to smooth price data while reducing lag. The settings used are 21 for the window size, 0.85 for the offset, and 6 for the sigma. This combination helps in identifying the trend with greater precision.
- Stochastic Oscillator: The Stochastic measures the location of the close relative to the high-low range over a set period. Settings of 21, 1, 3 are used to capture momentum and potential reversal points. A figure above 80 signals overbought conditions, while below 20 indicates the opposite.
Combining ALMA with the Stochastic Oscillator allows traders to identify potential reversals in trends. ALMA provides a smoothed view of the price trend, while the Stochastic Oscillator offers momentum-based signals, helping to confirm the strength of a move.
Entry
- Traders look for the price to close through the ALMA, ideally with a strong close, which suggests a potential trend change.
- This is confirmed by the Stochastic Oscillator crossing below 80 for a bearish signal or above 20 for a bullish signal, indicating momentum alignment with the trend.
Note that price may fluctuate above and below the ALMA in ranging conditions and produce false signals.
Stop Loss
- Stop losses are typically set beyond the nearest swing point, which helps to potentially protect against adverse price movements.
Take Profit
- Traders typically take profits when the Stochastic reaches the opposite territory (e.g., from above 80 to below 20 for a bearish move), indicating a potential exhaustion of the current trend.
- Alternatively, profits may be taken at identified areas of support or resistance, where price action historically reacts, providing a logical exit point.
Strategy 4: RSI + Bollinger Bands
Indicators Used
- RSI (Relative Strength Index): For this strategy, RSI setting for a 1-minute chart is a length of 4, with overbought and oversold boundaries at 80 and 20, respectively. These RSI settings for the 1-minute chart help in identifying short-term overbought and oversold conditions.
- Bollinger Bands: Bollinger Bands settings for a 1-minute chart are a 20-period simple moving average (middle band) and two outer bands set at a standard deviation level of 2 from the middle band. They help identify periods of high and low volatility as well as potential reversal points.
The combination of RSI and Bollinger Bands allows traders to identify potential short-term reversals in the market. The Bollinger Bands provide a dynamic range for price action, while the RSI helps confirm overbought or oversold conditions, improving the accuracy of entry and exit points.
Entry
- Traders often enter when the RSI crosses below 80 from above or above 20 from below, signalling an exit from potential overbought or oversold conditions.
- This entry is confirmed when the price is also touching or breaching the Bollinger Band, indicating the likelihood of a short-term reversal.
Stop Loss
- Stop losses are typically set beyond a nearby swing point or just outside the Bollinger Band, providing potential protection against significant adverse price movements and giving the trade room to develop.
Take Profit
- Traders commonly take profits when the price touches the opposing Bollinger Band, suggesting a potential end to the current price move.
- Alternatively, some may take profits when the RSI crosses into the opposing overbought or oversold territory, indicating a shift in momentum.
The Bottom Line
Mastering a 1-minute scalping strategy can potentially enhance your trading performance. To take advantage of these techniques, consider opening an FXOpen account. As a regulated broker, FXOpen offers access to over 600 markets for scalping, supported by commissions as low as $1.50 and spreads from 0.0 pips. With the right tools and strategies, you can navigate today’s fast-paced trading environment effectively.
FAQ
What Is the 1-Minute Timeframe Trading Strategy?
The 1-minute timeframe trading strategy involves making multiple trades within a single minute, aiming to capture small price movements. Traders use a 1-min scalping strategy to identify quick trading opportunities and rely heavily on technical indicators for entry and exit points.
Which Indicator Is Best for 1-Minute Scalping?
There is no single best 1-minute scalping strategy indicator; it comes down to preference and experience. However, popular choices include the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD), Relative Strength Index (RSI), Bollinger Bands, and the Volume Weighted Average Price (VWAP). Combining several indicators can potentially provide more reliable signals.
What Is the Best Timeframe for Scalping Crypto*?
The best timeframe for scalping crypto* depends on the trader's preference and strategy. While a 1-minute crypto* scalping strategy offers rapid trades and numerous opportunities, some traders prefer slightly longer frames like the 5-minute or 15-minute charts to balance speed and cryptocurrency* market noise.
What Is the Stochastic Setting for 1-Minute Scalping?
For 1-minute scalping, the Stochastic Oscillator is typically set to the standard settings of 14, 1, 3. These settings help capture short-term momentum changes, providing timely signals for entry and exit points. Adjustments can be made based on the trader's specific strategy and market conditions.
*At FXOpen UK, Cryptocurrency CFDs are only available for trading by those clients categorised as Professional clients under FCA Rules. They are not available for trading by Retail clients.
This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.