How NC Zones WorkHey,
Why not share some knowledge while we at it.
I've been trading these zones for many years now..
If you want to understand them, it starts like this;
Look for imbalances (new capital indicator find it for free)
Make sure the imbalance is engulfed.
Draw in a zone.. (Called the imbalance zone)
Now see if this imbalance zone achieved something...
Like taking out a trendline zone.. or taking out a trend.
Happy studying :)
Happy wknd,
Max
Trend Analysis
Quick Tutorial of the Time @ Mode MethodHey, guys! Just wanted to cover a quick review of the Time @ Mode method that we use to analyze and set up potential trades in the Key Hidden Levels chat room here on TradingView. If you have any questions, feel free to comment, or join us over at Key Hidden Levels! Using NASDAQ:QUBT as the example here.
Hope you enjoy, and best of luck out there!
Dollar's Rise, Gold's Demise◉ Abstract
The US Dollar Index (DXY) and gold prices have a historically inverse correlation, with a stronger dollar typically reducing gold demand. Key drivers of this relationship include inflation, geopolitical tensions, and interest rates. With a 73-95% negative correlation observed over time, investors should note the current market outlook: the DXY is poised to break out above 107, potentially surging to 114, while gold prices may drop 5% to 2,400 and then 2,300. Understanding this dynamic is crucial for making informed investment decisions and capitalizing on potential trading opportunities.
◉ Introduction
The relationship between the U.S. Dollar Index (DXY) and gold prices is significant and typically characterized by an inverse correlation. Understanding this relationship is crucial for investors and traders in the gold market.
◉ U.S. Dollar Index Overview
The U.S. Dollar Index measures the value of the U.S. dollar against a basket of six major foreign currencies, including the euro, Japanese yen, and British pound. It serves as an indicator of the dollar's strength or weakness in global markets. When the index rises, it indicates that the dollar is gaining value relative to these currencies, while a decline suggests a weakening dollar.
◉ Inverse Relationship with Gold Prices
Gold is priced in U.S. dollars on international markets, which directly influences its price based on fluctuations in the dollar's value:
● Strengthening Dollar: When the DXY index increases, it generally leads to a decrease in gold prices. This occurs because a stronger dollar makes gold more expensive for investors using other currencies, thereby reducing demand.
● Weakening Dollar: Conversely, when the DXY index falls, gold prices tend to rise. A weaker dollar makes gold cheaper for foreign investors, increasing its demand and driving up prices.
Research indicates that this inverse relationship has been consistent over time, particularly in long-term trends. For instance, historical data shows that gold prices often rise when the dollar depreciates, reflecting a negative correlation of approximately 73% to 95% over various time intervals.
◉ Short-Term Deviations
While the long-term trend supports this inverse relationship, short-term anomalies can occur under specific market conditions. For example, during periods of extreme volatility or economic uncertainty, gold and the dollar may exhibit a positive correlation temporarily as both assets are sought after as safe havens. This behaviour can confuse investors who expect the typical inverse relationship to hold.
◉ Additional Influencing Factors
Several other factors also affect gold prices beyond the dollar's strength:
● Inflation: Rising inflation often leads investors to flock to gold as a hedge against currency devaluation.
➖ E.g. In 2022, as inflation rates surged to 9.1%, demand for gold increased by 12% year-over-year, pushing prices higher. Historical data shows that during periods of high inflation from 1974 to 2008, gold prices rose by an average of 14.9% annually.
● Geopolitical Events: Uncertainty from geopolitical tensions can drive demand for gold regardless of dollar fluctuations.
➖ E.g. In late 2023, escalating conflicts such as the Israel-Palestine situation and the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war contributed to a surge in gold prices, with reports indicating increases of over 3% in a week due to these tensions
● Interest Rates: When the Fed raises interest rates, it typically strengthens the dollar as higher yields attract foreign capital. A stronger dollar makes gold more expensive for holders of other currencies, which can reduce demand.
➖ E.g. During the Federal Reserve's rate hikes from March 2022 to early 2023, many investors moved away from gold as they sought higher returns from bonds and other fixed-income securities. This shift contributed to downward pressure on gold prices during that period.
◉ Technical Standings
● U.S. Dollar Index TVC:DXY
The US Dollar Index has been stuck in neutral for two years. But if it clears the 107 hurdle, get ready for a surge to 114.
● Gold Spot/USD OANDA:XAUUSD
➖ Gold prices skyrocketed to 2,790, then plunged. Expect a 5% drop to 2,400. If that support cracks, 2,300 is the next safety net.
DOGE/USDt: Famous Pattern Indicates Continuation To The Upside Falling peaks and rising valleys have built famous Triangle pattern
on the hourly chart of DOGE/USDt.
It's a consolidation after a big rally, which means more upside move is ahead.
Watch the price to break out of the pattern.
The target is located at the widest part of Triangle added to the break point.
Its located at 0.533
Breakdown of Triangle would invalidate the pattern.
RSI has managed to keep above the neutral point during this consolidation.
This supports the idea of further move to the upside
Using Derivatives for Hedging Risks on ForexUsing Derivatives for Hedging Risks on Forex
In the dynamic world of forex trading, understanding how to protect one's position is paramount. This article delves into the strategic use of derivatives, specifically CFDs, to hedge against potential adverse currency movements, offering traders a safety net in the volatile forex environment.
The Concept of Hedging in Forex
Hedging, in the realm of forex trading, refers to the strategic use of certain financial instruments, such as derivatives, to protect an investment or portfolio from adverse price movements. By employing this technique, market participants can potentially offset losses from their primary investments, ensuring a more balanced financial outcome.
Companies that use derivatives to hedge risk, for example, aim to safeguard their operations from volatile currency fluctuations. For individual traders, hedging risk with derivatives becomes a key tactic, especially in the unpredictable waters of forex markets. The primary goal isn't necessarily to profit but to create a safety net against potential losses.
An Overview of CFDs (Contract for Difference)
CFDs, or Contracts for Difference, are derivative financial instruments that allow traders to speculate on price movements of underlying assets without actually owning them. In the forex context, CFDs enable traders to gain exposure to currency pairs' price changes without physically exchanging the currencies involved. Instead, traders enter into a contract to exchange the difference in value of a currency pair between the time the contract is opened and when it's closed.
One of the primary uses of derivatives in risk management is employing CFDs to take an opposing position, thereby potentially reducing exposure to adverse market movements. The perks of CFDs include flexibility, leverage, and the ability to go long or short. However, these benefits come with downsides, such as the risk of amplified losses due to leverage and the possibility of incurring additional costs like overnight funding fees.
The Mechanics of Hedging with CFDs
The mechanics of hedging forex trades with CFDs are the following:
1. Establishing a Primary Position
Traders first establish a primary position in the forex market, predicting a currency pair's direction. For instance, a trader might expect the EUR/USD pair to rise and hence buy or "go long" on it.
2. Recognising Exposure
Once the primary position is established, traders identify potential risks. Is there an impending economic event? Could geopolitical tensions influence the currency pair's movement? Recognising these exposures is pivotal in hedging using derivatives.
3. Taking an Opposing CFD Position
To hedge, traders take an opposing position using a CFD. If our trader has gone long on the EUR/USD, hedging would involve going short on the same pair through a CFD. This doesn't mean expecting the EUR/USD to fall but rather creating a protective stance using derivatives to hedge risk.
Another option is to use a negatively correlated asset from another asset class, e.g. commodities, to the currency pair you trade and open a CFD trade in that asset.
4. Monitoring and Adjusting
Successful hedging isn't a set-and-forget approach. As the forex market fluctuates, the effectiveness of the hedge might change. Platforms like FXOpen's TickTrader provide traders with the necessary tools and real-time data to monitor their positions effectively.
If the primary position experiences an unfavourable move, the opposing CFD position can offset some or all of those losses. Conversely, if the market moves favourably, gains from the primary position can be realised, while the loss from the hedging position is an accepted cost for protection.
5. Closing Positions
When traders believe the risk has subsided or their trading goals are achieved, they can close both their primary and hedging positions. Depending on the market movement, this could result in a net profit, a minimised loss, or a break-even scenario.
In the world of derivatives and risk management, CFDs offer a nuanced tool for traders navigating the often-tumultuous waters of the forex market. When executed correctly, hedging with derivatives, like CFDs, can provide a layer of protection against unwanted market swings.
A Brief Look at Options
Options are a type of financial derivative that gives traders the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell an asset at a predetermined price within a specified time frame. Unlike CFDs, which track the underlying asset's movement, options are based on the probability of reaching a particular price point.
While they can be used for hedging purposes, their complexity often deters many retail traders. The steep learning curve associated with options means they're not typically the first choice for risk mitigation, especially when simpler derivatives like CFDs are available.
Considerations Before Hedging with Derivatives
Before implementing hedging strategies using derivatives, traders take into account several crucial aspects to ensure their risk management tactics align optimally with their financial objectives. Here are some essential considerations:
Understanding the Derivative's Structure
Before diving into hedging, it's crucial to thoroughly understand the derivative you're using, whether it's a CFD, option, or another instrument. Each derivative has unique features, payout structures, and costs. A lack of understanding can lead to unintended exposures.
If you use derivatives, it's vital to determine the position size, as leverage leads to increased risks. The theory states that a trader’s CFD position shouldn't be larger than the trade they hedge.
Cost Implications
While hedging can safeguard against potential losses, it's not free. Factors like spread costs, overnight financing, leverage, or premiums (in the case of options) can impact the profitability of a hedged position. Traders factor these costs into their risk management calculations.
Duration of Hedge
How long do you anticipate the need for the hedge? The time frame can affect the choice of derivative and its cost. Some hedges might be short-lived due to specific events, while others could be more extended due to ongoing market uncertainties.
Effectiveness of the Hedge
No hedge is perfect. Consider the effectiveness of the derivative in relation to the primary position. How closely does the CFD or option's performance correlate with the asset you're trying to hedge?
Regular Evaluation
Risk management in the derivatives market requires constant vigilance. Market conditions evolve, and what was once an effective hedge might lose its potency. Regularly evaluate the hedge's performance and adjust if necessary.
Seek Expert Advice
Given the complexities, it's beneficial to seek advice from experts and explore in-depth resources. They can offer help in crafting a more tailored hedging strategy.
The Bottom Line
In navigating the intricate waters of forex trading, understanding hedging with derivatives like CFDs can offer traders valuable protection against unforeseen market shifts. This exploration has highlighted the nuances and considerations essential for effective risk management. For those keen to delve deeper into the world of CFDs and optimise their hedging strategies, opening an FXOpen account could be the next step in fortifying their trading arsenal.
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.
EMA, The correct way of usage - Part Two - PullbackOur core belief in ARZ Trading System: Trading, is to have an "expectation" from the market. If not, at any movement, the trader will be confused! If you look at the market and don't have any expectations, don't trade! In a future article, we will discuss what to do if an expectation is not met.
In the case of Pullback, Price is not a ball, and EMA (or any other kind of S&R) is not a brick wall, especially in this case.
If you put an EMA with any period, you'll see that the price crosses it easily most of the time! Then, it might come back as a shadow or a Fake Breakout. This means we should have a confirmation system for accepting or rejecting a Pullback. Otherwise, we'll always see a pullback shaping!
Key Note 1: the higher the EMA period is, the longer will take for a pullback to shape!
Key Note 2: Never trust and trade based on just one S&R level! Always have at least 2 or 3 levels to confirm your pullback. Either in a classical way by drawing trendlines and channels, or using any kind of Indicator as a means of dynamic S&R level.
Key Note 3: a flat EMA is supposed to break easily! If not, it'll reject the price strongly. It means we have to wait for what will happen at a flat EMA to decide what to do next or expect the price will breach it (Please refer to article part one).
Key Note 4: An ascending EMA can only act as a support, and a descending one acts as a resistance, not the other way! This is critical, believe me!
Accepted ways of confirming a pullback in the ARZ System are:
1. Wait for a strong reversal pattern to shape at S&R. Never jump the gun!
2. Use a Volume Indicator like WAE (Waddah Attar Explosion) to confirm your entry at the S&R level.
In this chart:
- Pullback #1 (Bearish Engulfing) is not accepted, because it's just based on one S&R (13EMA) and the reversal pattern closed near the support of MC.
- Pullback #2 (Bullish Engulfing) is strong but closed near 100EMA. Can't trust it.
- Pullback #3 is awesome! This is a multi-candle Evening Star (Key Note 1&2), of 100EMA & Resistance of UTP & MC.
- Pullback #4 is again good but has closed near the low of MC and is risky to take.
SPY Day Trading Using @mwrightinc Indicators Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime. In this video, I explain how I use 4 free TradingView indicators to identify entries on SPY.
There is a lot of information out there about creating support and resistance zones. But, drawing reliable ones only comes with experience. In my 3 years of options trading and indicator building, I've found a few patterns that seem to work pretty reliably with SPY.
Order blocks, and SPY price levels at $2.50 increments, are 2 of the most predictable. To capture price movements based on these, I explain how I use the QQQ and SPY Price Levels and Magic Order Blocks indicators with SPY options and /MES futures trading.
Additionally, volume weighted average price (VWAP), plays an important role every day because institutional (large) investors commonly use it for entries and exits. It is a great gauge of daily trends. ATR bands (also known as Keltner Channels) can also provide an at-a-glance look at what can be expected of price action in the near future.
To monitor these, I explain how I use the ATR Bands (Keltner Channels) SRSI and Wick Signals and Multi VWAP indicators. Specifically, how they were used on the 11/13/2024 Trading day.
All of the indicators are free and open source, and were built with the goal of making everyone a better trader. I hope you find the content useful.
- Mo
Possible Redistribution in UBER..!What is Wykoff Distribution Analysis?
Wykoff Distribution Analysis is a technical methodology developed by Richard Wyckoff in the early 20th century. It focuses on studying the distribution of trading volume and price action to identify potential support, resistance, and accumulation/distribution phases in a market.
The key principles of Wykoff Distribution Analysis are:
Volume Precedes Price: Trading volume changes often precede price direction changes. Analyzing volume patterns can provide clues about the underlying forces driving the market.
Climactic Events: Climactic volume spikes, either up or down, often mark important turning points in a trend. These are seen as "distribution" or "accumulation" events.
Phases of Activity: Markets tend to go through identifiable phases, such as:
Accumulation: A period of consolidation and gradual price increase on lighter volume.
Mark-Up: A strong uptrend phase on increasing volume.
Distribution: A period of consolidation and gradual price decrease on lighter volume.
Mark-Down: A strong downtrend phase on increasing volume.
Composite Operator: Wyckoff theorized the existence of a "Composite Operator" - a single, dominant entity (or group of entities) that controls the market's overall direction.
Applying Wykoff Analysis to Redistribution
Wykoff Distribution Analysis can be particularly useful for identifying potential redistribution phases in a market. Redistribution occurs when the "smart money" sells to the "dumb money" at the end of an uptrend. Some key signs of redistribution include:
Decreasing volume on up days, increasing volume on down days
Climactic volume spikes at market highs
A series of higher highs and lower lows form a distribution pattern
Divergences between price and momentum indicators
By identifying these distribution patterns, traders can look to enter short positions or reduce long exposure as the market transitions from an uptrend to a downtrend phase.
Advanced Trend Analysis in SMC Smart Money Concept Trading Forex
In this article, we will discuss how to execute advanced market trend analysis with smart money concept trading.
I will teach you how to identify long-term, mid-term and minor trend and how to apply trend analysis in making predictions and trading.
First, let me briefly remind you the basic rules of a trend analysis in SMC trading.
We say that the market is bullish if there are at least 2 bullish impulses with 2 higher highs and a retracement leg between them with a higher low.
The market is bearish if there are at least 2 bearish impulses with 2 lower lows and a retracement leg between them with a lower high.
If the conditions for a bullish or a bearish trend are not met, we say that the market is consolidating .
Bullish violation of the last higher high in a bullish trend is called a Break of Structure BoS.
Bearish violation of the last higher low in a bullish trend is called a Change of Character CHoCH.
Bearish violation of the last lower low in a bearish trend is called a Break of Structure BoS.
Bullish violation of the last lower high in a bearish trend is called a Change of Character CHoCH.
BoS signifies a trend continuation.
CHoCH signifies a trend violation.
In order to apply these rules on a price chart, we perceive the market movements as the set of impulse and retracement legs.
However, with such a method of analysis a big question arises: what is exactly is the impulse leg, how strong and long it should be. Which price fluctuations can be a part of the impulse and which should be excluded.
Look at the example above. A price action on AUDCAD can be perceived as one single bullish impulse or a combination of 3 bullish impulses and retracements and a combination of multiple impulses and retracements.
Which way of analysis is correct?
The fact is that the price action analysis on each chart is correct . The only difference between them is the perspective .
From a long-term perspective , the entire price movement on the chart is a one single impulse.
From a mid-term perspective , it is the market that is trading in a bullish trend in 3 bullish impulses.
From a short-term perspective , it is the market that is trading in a bullish trend and started to consolidate and trade in sideways for some time, resuming the growth then.
With advanced SMC trend analysis, you should learn to perceive a price chart not only as a combination of impulse and retracement legs, but also as a combination of long-term, mid-term and short-term trends and movements.
Depending on your trading style, such a reasoning can be applied on any time frame.
Look at AUDJPY pair on an hourly time frame.
From a long-term perspective, the pair is trading in a bearish trend.
Studying in details the last bullish impulse, we can perceive it as a minor bullish trend with its confirmed violation after a Change of Character.
Let's discuss another example.
EURNZD is trading in a clear long-term bullish trend on a daily.
Zooming in the chart, we can also analyze the last bullish impulse in a long-term bullish trend as a mid-term bullish trend.
At the same time, if we analyze the recent minor movements, we can spot a confirmed minor bearish trade on the pair.
Why do we need such an in-depth market trend analysis?
Always remember that a global trend is always born from a minor trend. Minor trend analysis will help you to identify local reversal, trend following signals much earlier.
The fact that EURNZD started to trade in a minor bearish trend, being globally bullish, can be an important warning sign for us.
You can see that after some time the pair started to fall rapidly.
A minor bearish trend continued, a mid-term bullish trend was violated and a correction started in a global bullish trend.
Your ability to correctly analyze different market perspectives is essential for making accurate predictions.
The trend analysis rules and events that we discussed are more than enough for successful trading any time frame and any market.
Study trend analysis, learn to identify global, mid-term and minor trend and good luck in your trading.
❤️Please, support my work with like, thank you!❤️
Retail Traders Are Waking Up | Here’s How to Spot the SignsWhy Are Our Parents Texting Us About Bitcoin? It’s Getting Weird
Thanks to crypto,now I know my entire extended family and even my ancestors!
Some of them hadn’t spoken to me in a thousand years, but now they’re calling me “Bruh”
(And no, I’m not a vampire, by the way!)
Here’s why I think a retail fueled wave might be about to hit the crypto market
1/ A spike in Google searches for "crypto"
2/ Coinbase App Store rankings
The Coinbase app just shot up from #155 to #18 in two days
3/ Dogecoin and Squirrel on the rise
Retail traders have a soft spot for Doge , Cardano and memecoins.
Guess which top 10 tokens surged the most in the last week? bunch of retail traders who’ve held CRYPTOCAP:DOGE and CRYPTOCAP:ADA since the last bull run are probably getting alerts that their investments are bouncing back.(That’s one way to grab their attention)
4/ Bitcoin featured on Bloomberg's front page
Mainstream news = mainstream visibility = more pump = more lambo!
5/ Texts from our parents ( Are you winning son? )
The unique skill of being both endearing and critical at once a true dad specialty
6/ Ronald McDonald has joined the chat…
McDonald's just teased a new collaboration with Doodles (yes, the NFT project). It kicked off last week…Now, any one of these signs might not mean much alone
But taken together, they start to tell a different story.
Falling air pressure, strengthening winds, darkening skies… it looks like a retail storm might be on the horizon..Brace yourselves! The good news? This time might not be different.
Earlier in the year, there was concern about a potential “left translated cycle.”
(Translation: crypto prices rising faster than expected).
At first, that sounds great! (Who wouldn’t want a quicker path to wealth?)
But the catch is, the shorter the window for prices to peak, the harder it is to time safely
(you’d have days instead of weeks or months to sell near the top)
When Bitcoin reached all time highs ahead of the halving in March (a first), many traders started feeling “left-translated” jitters. If we stay on this track and hit the same average returns as the past three halving years, we could be looking at a ~$ 126k Bitcoin by year’s end!
Here’s hoping this time really isn’t different! BTC just hit a new ATH again!! STOP
EMA, The correct way of usage - Part OneIn ARZ Trading System, we use multiple EMAs to analyze the market, as follows:
1. 200EMA, 100EMA, & 50EMA: Analyze the big picture (Major Structure). What is happening in higher timeframes? Long Term Bulls are stronger or Bears?
2. 20EMA, & 13EMA: Analyze the trading timeframe (minor structure). When to enter a trade and how to manage it? Short Term Bulls are stronger or Bears?
Points to consider:
1. If an EMA is flat, it's not a valid S&R and we expect the price to break it easily. If not, it'll act as a strong S&R and we expect a strong movement after Pullback on it.
2. Based on the period of Flat EMA, the fluctuation around it could be big and bigger. It means, a flat 20EMA has a smaller range of fluctuation and shorter duration of ranging market around it, in compare to 200EMA which generally is wider and longer.
3. If EMAs are close to each other, cannot act as S&R. Only when there is some distance between them we can see them as S&R that can encapsulate price between them for a period of time.
Here we see a strong bullish entry after hitting Flat 200EMA and 50% LTP. If cross and closed above all EMAs, a Pump is in hand!
To be continued...
Trade explanation and more downside expectedHi traders, welcome to this trade breakdown. Its situation has played out and I traded with decent gains. I'm still in the position and I expect more downside coming however my TP is in the 50% of the CLS range.
The goal of this post is to show you briefly my unique method of reading the market by understanding CLS.
Let's put it all together 🧩
Follow me I will be posting more educational posts like this one and don't hesitate to ask with any questions in the comment.
📍HTF Level - Weekly breaker / FVG
📍Range created, 2nd candle manipulated to the HTF level and closed inside the range.
📍The third weekly candle retested the 50% of the wick there I entered at 199.148 - the candle closed inside the range which is another confirmation.
📍4th week opened and retested the range with manipulation above the Asia session.
At this moment, I took partial profit and SL is on the break even.
📍 HTF view
What is CLS?
You may never hear about them.
Just find out about them on Google or their website. This company is trading for the biggest investment banks and central banks. They trade over 6.5 trillion daily volume. They are simply market maker.
I hope this educational post helps you at least briefly understand my method.
Dave FX Hunter
Triple Bottom Pattern Tutorial: 5/8 Bullish Chart PatternsTriple Bottom Pattern Tutorial: 5/8 Bullish Chart Patterns
A bullish triple bottom is a reversal chart pattern that signals the potential end of a downtrend and the start of an upward trend. Here's a breakdown:
Three Lows: The pattern is characterized by three distinct lows that are roughly equal in price. These lows form after a significant downtrend, indicating strong support at that level.
Rallies Between Lows: Each low is separated by two intermediate rallies that create peaks. These peaks form the resistance level known as the neckline.
Neckline: The horizontal line connecting the highs of the intermediate rallies is called the neckline. This is a crucial resistance level that the price must break through to confirm the pattern.
Breakout: A breakout above the neckline, typically accompanied by increased trading volume, confirms the triple bottom pattern. This breakout signifies a shift in market sentiment from bearish to bullish.
Price Target: The expected price target is often calculated by measuring the distance from the pattern's lowest low to the neckline and projecting that distance upwards from the breakout point.
Traders view the triple bottom as a strong indication that the selling pressure has been exhausted and that buyers are starting to gain control, suggesting a potential upward price movement.
Bullish Double Bottom Pattern Tutorial: 4/8 Bullish PatternsGive me the description for a bullish double-bottom
A bullish double bottom is a powerful reversal chart pattern that signals the potential end of a downtrend and the beginning of an upward trend. Here’s how it forms:
Two Troughs: The pattern starts with a significant price decline, forming a low (the first bottom). The price then rebounds to create a peak (the middle of the "W" shape) but soon declines again to form a second bottom roughly at the same price level as the first bottom. This double bottom resembles the letter "W."
Neckline: The horizontal line that connects the peak of the middle rebound is called the neckline. This is a key resistance level that the price needs to break through to confirm the pattern.
Breakout: A breakout above the neckline, typically accompanied by increased volume, confirms the double bottom pattern and signals a potential trend reversal from bearish to bullish.
Price Target: The estimated price target for the upward move is usually determined by measuring the distance from the bottoms to the neckline and projecting this distance upwards from the point of breakout.
Traders view the double bottom as a strong indication that the previous downtrend has exhausted and the bulls are gaining control, leading to a potential significant upward movement.
Ascending Triangle Pattern Tutorial: 3/8 Bullish PatternsAscending Triangle Pattern Tutorial: 3/8 Bullish Patterns
An ascending triangle is a bullish continuation chart pattern that signals the potential for an upward breakout. Here's how it forms:
Flat Upper Trendline: The upper trendline is flat, indicating a resistance level where the price consistently faces selling pressure and fails to move higher.
Rising Lower Trendline: The lower trendline is ascending, showing higher lows as buyers step in at increasingly higher prices.
Price Convergence: The price action gets squeezed between the two trendlines, leading to a tightening range.
Breakout: Eventually, the price breaks above the resistance level, indicating a continuation of the upward trend. This breakout is typically accompanied by a surge in volume.
Ascending triangles are popular among traders because they offer clear entry and exit points. The height of the triangle, measured from the base to the horizontal resistance, can be used to estimate the potential price target following the breakout.
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Symmetrical Triangle Pattern what is it/ how to draw it? 2/8Symmetrical Triangle Pattern what is it/ how to draw it? 2/8 Bullish Charting Patterns
A symmetrical triangle is a chart pattern that forms when the price of an asset converges with two trendlines that are moving towards each other, creating a triangular shape. Here’s how it works:
Converging Trendlines: The upper trendline is formed by connecting the descending highs, and the lower trendline is formed by connecting the ascending lows. These trendlines converge at a point called the apex.
Volume Decrease: As the pattern develops, trading volume typically decreases, indicating a period of consolidation and indecision in the market.
Breakout: Eventually, the price breaks out from the triangle, which can occur in either direction – upwards or downwards. The direction of the breakout often dictates the future trend of the asset.
Symmetrical triangles are considered continuation patterns, meaning they usually signal that the prevailing trend (upward or downward) before the pattern will continue after the breakout. Traders often use the height of the triangle (the distance between the initial high and low points) to estimate the potential price target following the breakout.
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What is a BULL Flag Charting Pattern and How to draw it? 1/8This is video 1/8 of this series of BULLISH Chart Patterns.
A bull flag is a continuation pattern that appears in a strong uptrend, signaling that the prevailing upward trend may continue. Here's how it looks:
Flag Pole: A sharp, steep rise in price forms the flag pole.
Flag: A period of consolidation with lower highs and lower lows, forming a flag that slopes against the prevailing uptrend.
Breakout: A strong move upwards out of the flag, confirming the continuation of the uptrend.
The bull flag pattern is popular among traders because it provides clear entry and exit points and is relatively easy to identify. It's a great indicator for momentum traders looking to capitalize on the continuation of a bullish trend.
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How Information Overload Hinders Decision-Making in TradingUsing minimal input information for analysis can be problematic, but overloading on data can be even worse. For instance, when a trader overlooks fundamental factors, it constitutes a mistake. However, when a trader attempts to gather excessive information, including subjective insights, the risk of making errors rises significantly.
📍 Why Too Much Information Can Be Detrimental
The phenomenon known as " Information Overload" occurs when an individual is overwhelmed by too much data, leading to impaired decision-making. In the world of trading, there is an abundance of information available from various sources, including both technical and fundamental analysis. Traders often have access to indicators, chart patterns, analytical portals, market sentiment, correlation calculators, Pivot points, rumors, expert opinions, signals from third-party sources, and a wide array of data from analytical websites. Given this vast wealth of information, one might wonder: is it truly beneficial to utilize all these sources simultaneously?
📍 Causes of Information Overload
1. Overloading the Number of Sources: The advent of modern technology and the internet has facilitated access to a plethora of information sources, including articles, videos, social media, blogs, and news outlets. While this offers the opportunity to find relevant data, it can also lead to information overload. Individuals struggle to assess the reliability and relevance of myriad sources. The constant influx of updates exacerbates this problem, fostering a sense of urgency to stay constantly informed, which can result in information fatigue. Additionally, the rise of artificial intelligence in generating trading algorithms adds another layer of complexity. For traders still developing their strategies, AI-generated recommendations may be confusing and overwhelming.
2. Complexity of Information: Much of the information available is laden with technical terms or specialized vocabulary, making it challenging to digest. Analyzing such data demands a substantial investment of time and effort to grasp foundational concepts. Moreover, the interconnection between various types of analyses complicates matters further. For example, while a seemingly straightforward strategy like moving averages may appear simple, traders must also account for trading volumes (often analyzed through VSA), trader activity influenced by trading sessions, and other nuances like time zones. This interconnectedness necessitates a broader understanding that can complicate focus and clarity.
3. Lack of Filters: Many individuals struggle to identify what is truly important amid the vast array of information available. Without clear criteria for sorting and prioritizing data, traders can easily become lost within the information flow. Additionally, weak critical thinking skills can hinder one's ability to swiftly assess the significance of information. When traders cannot quickly distinguish between essential and secondary data, they may take considerable time to process information, leading to delayed or poor decision-making.
📍 Impact on Decision Making
1. Analysis Paralysis: The concept of “analysis paralysis” describes a state where a trader struggles to make a decision due to overwhelming amounts of data and competing options. The sheer number of possibilities creates a perception that each choice must be meticulously analyzed, leading to indecision and wasted time. Additionally, the fear of making mistakes can exacerbate this paralysis. With an abundance of information at one's fingertips, the apprehension of overlooking critical details can prevent a person from committing to any decision at all. This fear of missing out or choosing wrongly can create a cycle of inaction, ultimately stalling progress.
2. Decreased Quality of Decisions: Information overload can cause traders to lose focus on key factors while becoming fixated on minor details. This shift in focus can lead to decisions being made based on incomplete or less relevant information, which may not effectively serve their intended purpose. As individuals become accustomed to superficial analysis—often due to time constraints or a lack of motivation to dive deeper into the data—the quality of decisions tends to diminish. Important contextual details and insights may be overlooked, resulting in decisions that are less informed or even flawed.
3. Fatigue and Stress: The continuous influx of information can lead to significant mental fatigue, impairing cognitive function and concentration. As the brain struggles to process and filter through the constant barrage of data, decision-making abilities can decline. Furthermore, emotional stress often escalates in the face of overwhelming information. The sense of being inundated can lead to feelings of helplessness or inadequacy, making it even more challenging to complete tasks effectively. This stress can also manifest physically, contributing to burnout and decreased overall productivity.
📍 Ways to Combat Information Overload
• Prioritization: Prioritizing key data points is essential for effective decision-making. Tools like prioritization matrices, such as the Eisenhower Matrix, can help categorize tasks and information into urgent and important segments. This allows individuals to focus on what genuinely matters and streamline their decision-making processes.
• Focused Analysis: To combat information overload, it’s crucial to concentrate on sources that are directly relevant to the task or decision at hand. This means avoiding distractions from less important details or tangential information that may convolute the analysis process. By maintaining a sharp focus, individuals can make more informed decisions without being sidetracked by extraneous data.
• Use of Data Filtering Tools: Automated data analysis programs and algorithms can serve as effective tools for sorting and filtering information. These tools can help highlight key facts and figures while minimizing the time spent on information processing. Utilizing such technologies can significantly enhance clarity and efficiency in decision-making.
• News and Content Aggregators: Specialized applications that curate verified sources and organize information based on relevance can also help users stay informed without becoming overwhelmed. By presenting data in a structured manner, these tools reduce the cognitive load associated with sifting through vast amounts of content.
• Limiting the Time to Search for Information: Setting strict time limits for data retrieval can promote greater efficiency and sharp focus. By allocating a specific timeframe for gathering necessary information, traders are less likely to fall into the trap of excessive searching and are encouraged to prioritize critical details. Techniques like the Pomodoro Method can further enhance time management by breaking work into focused intervals (typically 25 minutes) followed by short breaks. This structured approach not only fosters concentration but also helps prevent feelings of being overwhelmed.
• Delegation and Consultation: Involving experts or specialists can significantly alleviate the pressure of data analysis. When experts evaluate specific aspects of information, it allows individuals to concentrate on essential points while relying on trusted professional insights. This delegation not only simplifies the decision-making process but also brings in valuable expertise.
• Teamwork: Engaging in discussions with other traders or partners can enhance the decision-making process. Collaboration provides diverse perspectives and insights, making it easier to navigate complex information. By pooling knowledge and experience, teams can simplify analysis and reach more balanced decisions.
📍 Conclusion
In the face of information overload, it's essential to adopt a more streamlined approach. Avoid the temptation to juggle multiple indicators or attempt to cover every possible piece of information. Instead, identify the tools and methods that you find most comfortable and effective, focusing on those that yield the best results in a short timeframe.
Prioritize what is convenient and readily accessible, and invest time in discovering the right combination of resources and strategies that work for you. By doing so, you can simplify your decision-making process and enhance your productivity, while minimizing the stress associated with information overload. Embrace clarity and focus, and allow yourself to operate effectively within a manageable framework.
Traders, If you liked this educational post🎓, give it a boost 🚀 and drop a comment 📣
EDUCATION: Simplified Candlestick Psychology (Part 2)In the world of trading, candlesticks are more than just visual representations of price movements—they're windows into the psychology of the market. Every candlestick tells a story, and if you can learn to read it properly, you can understand the underlying emotions of buyers and sellers. Think of it like reading a book, where every candle is a chapter that contributes to the bigger narrative.
In the previous video, we went over the anatomy of a candlestick and this time we dive into the psychology behind the Open, High, Low, and Close (OHLC) values on the chart. This way, you can read the market like you would a good book—predicting what might happen next based on what you've already learned.
Anatomy of a Candlestick
Before we dig into the psychology, let’s first look at the anatomy of a candlestick. A standard candlestick consists of four key components: the Open, High, Low, and Close (OHLC). These are the foundation for interpreting market sentiment.
Open: This is where the price started during that specific time period.
Close: This is where the price ended at the close of that period.
High: This is the highest point the price reached during that time frame.
Low: This is the lowest point the price reached.
The body of the candle is the difference between the Open and Close. The wicks (or shadows) represent the range from the Low to the High. The bigger the body, the stronger the move in that direction. The longer the wicks, the more indecision and struggle between buyers and sellers.
The Psychology Behind the OHLC
Now, let’s break down the psychology behind each component of a candlestick. Every candle is a snapshot of the market’s emotion, so understanding the story behind each piece can help you predict future moves.
The Open: The Open represents the first battle of the trading session. It shows where the price starts, and it often sets the tone for the rest of the candle. If the market opens higher than the previous candle’s close, it suggests bullish sentiment, while opening lower indicates a bearish sentiment. But don't just focus on the open; its relationship with the close is just as important.
The Close: The Close is where the real battle is won or lost. It’s the final decision of the market—did the buyers or sellers win the battle? A close near the high of the candle suggests strong bullish sentiment, while a close near the low indicates bearish sentiment. A close near the open suggests indecision or equilibrium in the market. Traders often view the close as the most important part of a candlestick because it shows the prevailing market sentiment.
The High and Low: These two points tell us about the price extremes during the trading period. A long upper wick suggests that the bulls tried to push the price higher but were met with strong selling pressure. A long lower wick shows that the bears pushed the price lower, but the buyers fought back to reclaim some of the losses. A candle with small wicks indicates that the market didn’t have much fluctuation, and the momentum was steady in one direction.
The Body: The body of the candlestick is the most visual part, showing the range between the Open and Close. A large body indicates strong momentum and confidence in one direction. A small body, on the other hand, indicates indecision, where neither side has been able to dominate the market.
Putting it All Together
Now that we understand the anatomy and psychology behind the OHLC, it’s time to combine the elements and read the story.
For example:
Bullish Candlestick: If a candlestick has a long body with a close near the high and short wicks, it indicates that buyers were in control, and they finished strong.
Bearish Candlestick: Conversely, a candlestick with a long body, close near the low, and short wicks shows that sellers were in control.
Indecision: A candle with a small body and long wicks on both sides indicates indecision or a battle between buyers and sellers. The market isn’t sure where it wants to go yet.
Candlesticks, when grouped together, create patterns that help us predict future price movements. For instance, a series of bullish candles could indicate strong upward momentum, while a few indecisive candles in a row might suggest a potential reversal or consolidation.
Practical Takeaways
Watch the Close: The close is your primary indicator of sentiment. A close at or near the high (for bullish candles) or low (for bearish candles) can give you confidence in a trade.
Long Wicks Mean Rejection: Wicks can show where the price was rejected, which helps identify areas of support and resistance.
Don't Ignore Small Bodies: Small bodies with long wicks are signals of indecision. Don’t be too eager to jump into trades after such candles without further confirmation.
Reading candles like a book isn’t just about recognizing patterns—it's about understanding the market's emotions and sentiment. Every candlestick is a snapshot of the battle between buyers and sellers, and by learning to read these battles, you can understand the market's story and predict what might happen next. How do you use candlesticks in your trading? Are there certain patterns or setups that you rely on? Share your thoughts below—I’d love to hear how you read the story in the charts!
EDUCATION: Simplified Candlestick Psychology (Part 1)As traders, understanding candlestick patterns is fundamental to decoding market behavior. But beyond the pattern itself, there’s a deeper story being told with every candle. Just like words form a story in a book, the Open, High, Low, and Close (OHLC) of a candlestick reveals the psychological battle between buyers and sellers at a given moment in time. In this video, we’re going to break down how to read candles like a book and uncover the psychology behind each price action move.
The Anatomy of a Candlestick
Before we dive into the psychology of candles, let's refresh on the basic anatomy of a candlestick:
Open (O): The opening price of the candle, where the price starts within the time period.
High (H): The highest price reached during the candle’s time frame.
Low (L): The lowest price reached during the candle’s time frame.
Close (C): The final price when the candle closes at the end of its time frame.
Each candlestick provides valuable information about the price action during that specific time period. But what’s even more important is the psychological narrative it tells.
The Psychology Behind the OHLC
Understanding the psychology behind the Open, High, Low, and Close will give you insight into the market’s behavior and sentiment. Here’s a breakdown of what each component reveals:
The Open (O): The start of the battle. The opening price represents the market's starting point. Buyers and sellers have already made their decisions before the candle even begins, and the open shows where the price begins to unfold. If the open is near the low of the day, it indicates a bearish sentiment, while an open near the high could show bullish strength.
The High (H): The peak of the conflict. The high of the candle represents the furthest point reached by either the bulls or the bears. When the price reaches a new high, it signifies that the buyers are in control and pushing the price up. Conversely, if the high is lower than the previous candle's high, it suggests that sellers are starting to assert their influence.
The Low (L): The valley of indecision. The low of the candle is where the price falls before either the bulls or bears regroup. A low that is lower than the previous low indicates that the sellers are pushing the price downward. A higher low, on the other hand, suggests that the bulls are holding the line and potentially setting up for a rebound.
The Close (C): The conclusion of the battle. The close is the most important price point of the candlestick, as it represents where the battle between buyers and sellers has ended. The relationship between the open and close tells you who won the fight. If the close is higher than the open, buyers have won the battle. If the close is lower than the open, sellers have gained control.
Reading Candles Like a Book
When you look at a candlestick, think of it like reading a short sentence in a book. Each candle tells a small part of the market’s ongoing story, and together they form the narrative of price movement. Here's how to read the story:
Bullish Candles (Close > Open): When a candle closes higher than it opened, it tells the story of a market that was dominated by buyers. The longer the body, the stronger the buying pressure. A large body with a small wick suggests buyers were in full control with little resistance.
Bearish Candles (Close < Open): When the candle closes lower than it opened, it represents a market where sellers took charge. A long red body with little wick indicates a strong bearish move. A bearish candle with long wicks shows that although sellers were in control, there was some pushback.
Doji Candles: A doji occurs when the open and close are almost identical, signaling indecision or equilibrium between buyers and sellers. Doji candles are like a “question mark” in the story, telling us that the market is uncertain about which direction it will take next.
Engulfing Candles: An engulfing pattern, whether bullish or bearish, tells the story of a shift in momentum. If a candle completely engulfs the previous candle’s body, it signifies a strong change in sentiment—either a bullish or bearish reversal.
Putting it All Together: Candlestick Psychology in Action
Understanding the OHLC components is the first step, but it’s how these elements come together that really gives you the full psychological picture. A candlestick is like a snapshot of a battle. The open is where it starts, the high and low represent the range of movement during the battle, and the close is where the conflict resolves.
When you read candles in sequence, you begin to see the ongoing tug-of-war between buyers and sellers. The story unfolds slowly, and the more you practice, the better you become at predicting the next chapter. Let me know your thoughts below!
Options Blueprint Series [Basic]: Corn Futures and PPI InsightsIntroduction to Corn Futures Market Sentiment
Corn Futures are capturing the interest of traders as technical indicators and economic fundamentals align in a potential bullish setup. Currently, the Corn Producer Price Index (PPI) shows a Commodity Channel Index (CCI) bullish crossover, indicating a possible uptrend in prices. Corn Futures have followed suit with an earlier CCI bullish crossover, adding strength to the view that Corn prices could see upward momentum in the coming months.
As Corn Futures reflect early signals of a shift in market sentiment, this article explores a straightforward yet effective Bull Call Spread strategy using June 2025 options. By leveraging these CCI signals and key resistance levels, traders could position themselves to benefit from a potential rise in Corn prices while maintaining a controlled risk profile.
Corn Futures Contract Specifications and Margin Requirements
Understanding the specifications of Corn Futures is essential for managing both position size and margin requirements effectively. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Price Tick Size: The minimum fluctuation is 0.0025 cents per bushel, equivalent to $12.50 per tick.
Margin Requirement: Approximately $1,000 per contract, although this can vary based on broker and market conditions.
Analysis of Key Indicators and Market Setup
Two primary indicators support the bullish case for Corn Futures: the CCI bullish crossover in both the Corn Futures and the Corn PPI. The CCI, a momentum-based indicator, identifies potential trend reversals by highlighting overbought and oversold conditions. The recent CCI bullish crossover in Corn Futures suggests early buying pressure, while the subsequent crossover in the Corn PPI confirms this trend on the economic front.
This alignment between technical and economic indicators provides a potentially unique opportunity for options traders to capture potential upward movement, particularly as Corn prices approach critical resistance levels in front of a potential breakout.
Identifying Key Resistance Levels for Corn Futures
Resistance levels play a crucial role in setting realistic targets and managing expectations. In the current Corn Futures landscape, the primary resistance level for the front contract is observed around 550. For our target contract, ZCN2025 (July 2025), this resistance translates to approximately 485 due to the effects of contango/backwardation.
These resistance levels serve as benchmarks for setting exit targets in a Bull Call Spread. If Corn prices rally towards this zone, it could provide a favorable exit opportunity while maintaining a controlled risk-to-reward structure.
The Bull Call Spread Strategy Setup
In this setup, we employ a Bull Call Spread using options with a June 20, 2025, expiration date. This strategy is ideal for capturing moderate upside movement while limiting downside risk through a capped loss. Here’s the specific setup:
Long Position: Buy the 460 Call for a premium of 25.41.
Short Position: Sell the 490 Call for a premium of 15.87.
By buying the 460 Call and simultaneously selling the 490 Call, we establish a Bull Call Spread that allows us to benefit from price increases up to the 490 strike level. This setup reduces the net cost of the trade while capping the profit potential at the 490 strike price, aligning with our outlook based on resistance levels.
Net Premium (Cost): 25.41−15.87=9.54.
Reward-to-Risk Analysis
A Bull Call Spread provides a straightforward way to define both maximum profit and loss at the outset. Here’s a closer look:
Maximum Profit: Achieved if Corn Futures price rises to or above the 490 strike level at expiration = (490−460)−9.54=20.46.
Maximum Loss: Limited to the net premium paid = 9.54.
Breakeven Point: 469.54, calculated by adding the net premium to the 460 strike.
This structure results in a reward-to-risk ratio of approximately 2.14:1.
Forward-Looking Trade Plan and Execution Strategy
This Bull Call Spread strategy is structured with specific entry and exit conditions in mind:
Entry Condition: Triggered once the ZC1! (continuous Corn Futures contract) surpasses the prior month’s high at 434'2. This confirmation aligns the technical breakout with the ongoing bullish trend indicated by the CCI and PPI crossovers.
Target Exit: Based on the resistance level, the target for this trade is 485 on the ZCN2025 contract. Reaching this level would allow for a strategic exit with a maximum profit potential.
Alternative Exit: If Corn Futures prices fail to sustain the breakout or if technical indicators weaken significantly, an early exit can be considered to limit losses or preserve gains.
By setting these clear parameters, the trade plan maintains discipline, helping traders avoid reactive decision-making and align with the predefined strategy.
Risk Management Essentials
Effective risk management is crucial, especially when trading options. Here are some best practices:
Stop-Loss Strategy: For options traders, a stop-loss can be set based on a percentage of the premium paid or by monitoring underlying futures price action.
Position Sizing: Limit the size of the position relative to the account balance to avoid overexposure. This is especially relevant for volatile markets like Corn.
Discipline and Emotional Control: Stick to the plan, avoid emotional reactions to market noise, and adhere to entry and exit conditions.
Risk management ensures that even if the trade does not perform as expected, losses are limited and capital is preserved for future opportunities.
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. Also, some of the calculations and analytics used in this article have been derived using the QuikStrike® tool available on the CME Group website.
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.
How to Analyze a Cryptocurrency: Fundamental & Technical StyleCrypto is fashionable again (was it ever out of fashion?), with Bitcoin BTCUSD pumping to a new all-time high above $82,000 . But with all that buzz and excitement, it’s easier than ever to get swept away in the tide of social media hype, viral memes, and “expert” Telegram signals chats.
Is that real success in crypto trading? Not exactly. Real success requires more than just blindly following the noise. The savvy investor knows how to analyze a coin, piecing together a mosaic of factors to make some trading choice. Let’s break down 🤸♂️ how to do this effectively.
When looking to analyze a cryptocurrency, there are two distinct approaches you’d want to consider — fundamental and technical analysis. This pair of viewpoints cuts through the noise and gets to the real story behind a coin. Coupling them together can be a powerful recipe for success.
The Basics: Why You Need Both Fundamentals and Technicals
Crypto analysis is all about the combination of fundamental and technical approaches.
Fundamental Analysis (FA) helps you determine whether a cryptocurrency holds long-term potential based on its real-world application, team, and project structure.
Technical Analysis (TA) lets you gauge market sentiment and potential price moves by analyzing past price actions and trends.
Master both, and you’ve got yourself a complete toolkit. FA tells you if a coin is worth your time, and TA lets you fine-tune your entries and exits.
Fundamental Analysis: Reading Between the Blockchains
Fundamentals give you the long-term view—what a project stands for, what problems it’s solving, and whether it has staying power. A coin with solid fundamentals usually has a strong foundation, dedicated team, and clear purpose. Here are a few key aspects to evaluate:
Use Case: Does This Coin Do Anything Useful?
Not all coins are created equal, and some are, well… kind of a pointless joke, or created to be a pointless joke but turned out to be a big deal (did anyone say Doge DOGE/USE ?) If you want a real-world use case, look at Ethereum ETH/USD — it opened up the entire decentralized finance (DeFi) and smart contract universe. Now compare that to yet another dog-themed token.
The key is to ask yourself: does this coin solve a real-world problem, or is it banking on social media likes? A strong use case equals a stronger shot at lasting value.
Team and Leadership: Who’s Running the Show?
The team behind a coin is often the make-or-break factor. You want to see solid, experienced people who’ve been in the space and know their stuff. Look for LinkedIn profiles, past projects, and what industry insiders are saying.
Pro tip: if you can’t find the team anywhere online, or if their CEO goes by something like “CryptoKing” on Reddit or Telegram, proceed with caution (or dump it).
Investors and Backers: Who’s Got Skin in the Game?
In crypto, a solid roster of backers can be like a seal of approval — big-shot VCs, famous angel investors, or major blockchain funds often bring more than just cash. Big names like Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) or Pantera Capital backing a coin? That’s a good sign as they likely see something worth the investment.
But let’s keep it real: even the pros get it wrong. Sequoia’s high-stakes investment in FTX? That didn’t age well. It went from a headline win to a headline regret. The lesson? Big names can be a great vote of confidence, but they’re no substitute for doing your own homework.
Dig into how engaged these investors are. Are they making decisions or are they just a logo on the website? If they’re actually involved, it adds weight. Just remember: your best edge comes from putting in the research, not just riding on who’s along for the ride.
Partnerships and Network: Are They Walking the Talk?
A strong project is often backed by legitimate partnerships. Real collaborations with reputable companies from the industry show a coin has a foothold in the market, a strong network. But watch out for overblown claims—a name drop isn’t the same as a partnership. The best projects are the ones where you can verify the collaborations and see real interaction.
Technical Analysis: Getting the Pulse of the Market
If FA tells you what a coin is, TA tells you how it’s behaving in the market. TA is all about catching trends, spotting patterns, and getting the timing right. Here’s where to start:
Indicators to Watch: Moving Averages, RSI, and MACD
Moving Averages (MA): These smooth out price action to show you the market’s general direction. A 50-day MA crossing above a 200-day MA? That’s usually a bullish sign .
Relative Strength Index (RSI): The RSI tells you if a coin is overbought (above 70) or oversold (below 30), signaling potential reversals .
MACD (Moving Average Convergence Divergence): When the MACD line crosses above the signal line, it’s a buy signal; below, it’s a sell signal. This helps you ride momentum without getting whipsawed.
Chart Patterns: Know Your Shapes
Patterns like head and shoulders, double tops/bottoms, and trend lines are your map to market sentiment. Look for breakouts past resistance levels or breakdowns below support as entry and exit points. But stay flexible — that’s crypto and things can change on a dime.
Meme Coins and the Hype Machine: Beware the FOMO
If you’ve been in the crypto game for any time at all, you’ve seen the lure of meme coins. From Dogecoin to Shiba Inu, these coins have made some people rich — but they’ve also created some bagholders.
Don’t Chase Trends: Just because a coin is all over TikTok doesn’t mean it’s a wise investment. Meme coins often rely on community-driven hype rather than any real-world utility. FOMO is the quickest way to make a costly mistake.
Be Wary of Telegram and Discord “Tips”: While some groups are genuinely insightful, many operate more like echo chambers. If your trading strategy is “I saw it in a chat,” it might be time to rethink your approach. Look for projects with substance, not just the latest meme.
Bringing It All Together: Using FA and TA for Smarter Trades
Blending FA and TA lets you go beyond hype. Here’s a solid plan to put these tools to work:
Research the Fundamentals: Assess if a project has real value based on its use case, team, and partnerships.
Look for Technical Confirmation: Use technical analysis to decide the best time to enter and exit.
Set Goals and Limits: Establish your profit targets and stop-loss points before you buy.
Crypto trading is part science, part art. Fundamental analysis gives you the big picture, while technicals keep you tuned in to market conditions. Use them together, and you’ll be a lot less likely to end up with a token that’s only valuable for a while.
Final Take: Follow the Data, Not the Crowd
Crypto success isn’t about catching the latest Twitter trend — it’s about staying grounded in facts and making decisions based on data, research, and analysis. Use FA to pick projects that last and TA to catch price action at the right time.
So, Which Type of Analysis Do You Prefer?
Are you more of a fundamentals fan, focusing on the project’s long-term vision and team? Or do you live by the charts, riding trends and tracking indicators? Maybe you’re a mix of both? Whichever camp you fall into, we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Drop a comment and share your go-to analysis strategy—let’s get the conversation started!