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Trend Analysis

Smart Money Technique (SMT) Divergences - The Ultimate GuideIntroduction SMT Divergences are a powerful concept used by professional traders to spot inefficiencies in the market. By comparing correlated assets, traders can identify hidden opportunities where one market shows strength while the other shows weakness. This guide will break down the major SMT divergences: EURUSD/GBPUSD, US100/US500, and XAUUSD/XAGUSD . --- What is SMT Divergence? SMT Divergence occurs when two correlated assets do not move in sync, signaling potential liquidity grabs or market inefficiencies. These divergences can be used to confirm trend reversals, identify smart money movements, and improve trade precision. Key Concepts: - If one asset makes a higher high while the correlated asset fails to do so, this suggests potential weakness in the pair making the higher high. - If one asset makes a lower low while the correlated asset does not, this suggests potential strength in the pair that did not make a lower low. - Smart Money often exploits these inefficiencies to engineer liquidity hunts before moving price in the intended direction. --- EURUSD vs. GBPUSD SMT Divergence These two forex pairs are highly correlated because both share the USD as the quote currency. However, when divergence occurs, it often signals liquidity manipulations. How to Use: - If GBPUSD makes a higher high but EURUSD does not, GBPUSD may be trapping breakout traders before reversing. - If EURUSD makes a lower low but GBPUSD does not, EURUSD might be in a liquidity grab, signaling a potential reversal. --- US100 vs. US500 SMT Divergence The NASDAQ (US100) and S&P 500 (US500) are both major indices with a strong correlation, but tech-heavy NASDAQ can sometimes lead or lag the S&P. How to Use: - If US100 makes a higher high but US500 does not, it suggests US100 is extended and may reverse soon. - If US500 makes a lower low but US100 does not, US500 might be experiencing a liquidity grab before a reversal. --- XAUUSD vs. XAGUSD SMT Divergence Gold (XAUUSD) and Silver (XAGUSD) have a historic correlation. However, due to differences in volatility and liquidity, they can diverge, presenting trading opportunities. How to Use: - If Gold makes a higher high but Silver does not, Gold might be overextended and ready to reverse. - If Silver makes a lower low but Gold does not, Silver might be in a liquidity grab, signaling strength. --- Indicator Used for SMT Divergences To simplify the process of identifying SMT divergences, this guide utilizes the TradingView indicator TehThomas ICT SMT Divergences . This tool automatically detects divergences between correlated assets, highlighting potential trade opportunities. You can access the indicator here: Why Use This Indicator? - Automatically plots divergences, saving time on manual comparisons. - Works across multiple asset classes (Forex, Indices, Metals, etc.). - Helps traders spot Smart Money inefficiencies with ease. --- Final Tips for Trading SMT Divergences 1. Use Higher Timeframes for Confirmation: SMT Divergences on 1H or 4H hold more weight than those on lower timeframes. 2. Combine with Other Confluences: ICT concepts like Order Blocks, FVGs, or liquidity sweeps can strengthen the SMT setup. 3. Wait for Market Structure Confirmation: After spotting SMT divergence, look for a market structure shift before entering trades. 4. Be Mindful of Economic Events: Divergences can appear due to news releases, so always check the economic calendar. --- Conclusion SMT Divergences are a valuable tool for traders looking to gain an edge in the markets. By analyzing inefficiencies between correlated assets, traders can anticipate smart money movements and improve trade precision. Practice spotting these divergences on real charts, and soon, you'll develop a keen eye for hidden liquidity traps. Happy trading!
Education
by Louigi_24
93
Stock Market Dives into Correction? It Happens—Here's What to DoYou wake up, check your portfolio, and see a sea of red. The market’s down, your stocks are taking a nosedive, and CNBC is running apocalyptic headlines about an impending crash. Sounds familiar? It’s maybe because we’re in (or super close to) a correction right now — the S&P 500 SP:SPX was down 10% from its record high two weeks ago and a lot of people are unsure what to do. The truth of the matter is, stock market corrections are routine—not as often as the meeting that should’ve been an email, but also not as rare as a winning trade in the Japanese yen ( widow maker is real, yo ). And, most importantly, they’re usually not as catastrophic as they feel in the moment. So, before you hit the panic button (or worse, start revenge trading to “win it all back”), let’s talk about what’s shaking the market right now and how to navigate corrections like a pro. 🤔 First Things First: What’s a Correction? A stock market correction is a drop of 10% or more from a recent high. It’s not a crash, it’s not the end of capitalism, and it’s definitely not a sign that you should liquidate your entire portfolio and move to a remote cabin in the woods. Corrections happen regularly, typically once every year or two. They’re a natural part of market cycles, shaking out excessive speculation and resetting valuations to more reasonable levels. For the record, a drop of 20% is considered a bear market. 🤝 Why the Market’s Getting Jittery Markets don’t move in straight lines, and sometimes they hit turbulence. Lately, two big themes have been dominating headlines: Trump’s Hard-Line Tariffs Hit Hard (And Markets Are Nervous About It) If there’s anything Trump knows how to do is say things online or on-site and move markets. And his hostile and straight up combatant approach to handling international relations has sent traders scrambling to offload risk. With hiked tariffs on China, Europe, and Mexico and Canada, businesses are bracing for severe supply chain disruptions, higher costs, and tighter margins. When tariffs go up, corporate earnings tend to go down—and the market doesn’t like that math. Inflation Just Won’t Quit The Federal Reserve spent most of the last two years trying to tame inflation, and just when it seemed like things were cooling off, it’s creeping back up. The latest readout of the personal consumption expenditures (PCE) report showed prices ticked up more than expected at 2.8% in February. Higher inflation means the Fed might keep interest rates elevated for longer than expected, making borrowing more expensive and slowing down growth. Every new inflation release has investors guessing: Will the Fed cut rates, hold steady, or—worst case—hike again? Between trade wars and stubborn inflation, uncertainty is running high, and that dynamics breeds volatility. But a correction doesn’t mean the market is broken—it just means sentiment has shifted. ⚠️ How NOT to React (aka: Rookie Mistakes to Avoid) When corrections hit, bad decision-making is at an all-time high. Here’s what not to do: Panic selling – Selling at the bottom is a classic rookie move. If you weren’t planning to sell at the highs, why dump everything when it’s down? Trying to time the exact bottom – Good luck. Nobody, not even Warren Buffett, can catch the bottom (not that he’s trying). If you’re waiting for the “perfect” dip, you’ll likely miss the rebound. Going all-in on one asset – Thinking of putting everything into one stock or crypto because it’s “cheap” now? Please don’t. Diversification exists for a reason . Getting glued to financial news – Watching every market update during a correction is like doom-scrolling Google after a mild headache—you’ll only freak yourself out more. Now that we’ve covered what not to do, let’s focus on the smart plays. 💪 So, What Should You Do? If you want to come out of a correction with your sanity (and portfolio) intact, here’s your game plan: 1️⃣ Zoom Out—Corrections Are Temporary The market moves in cycles, and corrections are just part of the game. Historically, corrections last a few months, while bull markets last years. If you’re investing for the long term, a correction is a blip on the chart, not an extinction event. 2️⃣ Review Your Portfolio Like a Hedge Fund Manager Corrections are a great excuse to audit your holdings. Ask yourself: Is this stock/ETF/index still worth holding? Has anything fundamentally changed, or is this just temporary market noise? Do I have too much exposure to one sector? Think of it as spring cleaning for your investments. It's also an opportunity to make some good use of the handy Stock Screener or Stock Heatmap to spot the best (and worst) performers. If something was a FOMO buy and doesn’t belong in your portfolio, consider trimming it. 3️⃣ Buy Selectively, Not Blindly Corrections create opportunities, but that doesn’t mean you should just throw money at every stock that’s down. Some companies deserve their declines ( looking at you, Nikola )—others are just collateral damage in a broader selloff. Look for quality companies with strong earnings, manageable debt, and real growth potential. If they were solid before the correction, they’ll likely recover faster than the overhyped names. Example: Remember when Amazon stock NASDAQ:AMZN tanked 90% in 2000, the dot-com bubble? No, because you were too busy being 2 years old instead of loading up on Jeff Bezos’s dream. And look where the guy’s now. 4️⃣ Do Some Good Old DCA Instead of dumping all your cash into the market at once, use dollar-cost averaging (DCA). Buying in small increments at regular intervals helps you avoid the stress of trying to time the bottom. If prices drop further, you can buy more at an even better price. 5️⃣ Keep Emotions in Check Corrections test your patience and discipline. The best investors don’t let fear dictate their strategy. If you’re getting emotional about your trades, step away from the screen and take a breath. The market will be there when you come back. 👍 The Market Always Bounces Back—Eventually Every correction feels like the worst one while it’s happening. But let’s look at history: The S&P 500 has faced 30+ corrections since 1950. It survived them all. The average correction lasts four months before a recovery begins. After a correction, markets typically rally higher within a year. Unless you believe the global economy is permanently broken (hint: not yet, at least), every major downturn has eventually turned into a new bull run. 🦸‍♂ Final Thought: Be the Hero, Not the Victim Market corrections separate the professionals from the wannabes. The people who panic and sell at the bottom? They usually regret it. The ones who keep a level head, stick to their strategy, and take advantage of good opportunities? They come out stronger. And finally, if you need to take away one thing it’s this: Corrections aren’t the enemy. They’re the price of admission for long-term gains. 👉 Let’s hear it from you! How do you handle corrections, what’s your strategy when the market is in a downturn and what’s in your portfolio then? Share your experience in the comment section!
SP:SPXEducation
by TradingView
Precision Trading – How Our Trade Played Out PerfectlyIntroduction In trading, precision and patience are everything. We don’t chase trades—we wait for the perfect confluence of technical factors to align. This trade idea followed our systematic approach, utilizing ranges, Fibonacci levels, internal & inducement liquidity, break of structure (BOS), entry confirmation patterns, and harmonics. Here’s a breakdown of how it all unfolded. 1. Identifying the Range Before executing, we mapped out the market structure to establish a clear range. The price action showed a well-defined consolidation zone, which helped us anticipate liquidity grabs and potential reversal points. 2. Fibonacci Confluence – 78.20% Level Using the Fibonacci retracement tool, we identified the 78.20% level as a strong reaction point. This aligned with other key technicals, increasing our confidence in the trade setup. 3. Internal & Inducement Liquidity Liquidity is key in trading. We spotted internal liquidity zones where price was likely to manipulate weak hands before the actual move. Inducement liquidity was also present, providing additional confirmation that price would tap into deeper levels before reversing. 4. Break of Structure (BOS) and Entry Confirmation Once BOS occurred in alignment with our anticipated liquidity grab, we looked for our **entry pattern**. The market printed a textbook confirmation, allowing us to enter with precision and minimal risk. 5. Harmonic Pattern for Additional Confluence The final piece of confirmation was a harmonic pattern, further validating our entry. These patterns, when combined with our overall strategy, add an extra layer of probability to our trades. Trade Outcome The execution was flawless! 🎯 The price respected our levels, moved in our favor, and hit our target zones with precision. This is the power of structured analysis and disciplined execution. 📉 Key Takeaway:Never trade blindly! Always have a solid confluence of technicals before taking a trade.** 🔎 What’s your go-to confirmation before entering a trade? Let’s discuss in the comments! 📩 #ForexTrader #ForexLifestyle #ForexSignals #DayTrading #TradingMindset #ForexMoney #PipsOnPips #ForexSuccess #ForexMotivation #MillionaireMindset #TradingStrategy #FXMarket #ForexWins #TradeSmart #MarketAnalysis #WealthBuilding #Investing #PriceAction #ChartAnalysis #Scalping #SwingTrading #FinancialFreedom #MakingMoneyMoves #HustleHard #NoDaysOff #MoneyMindset
FX:GER30Education
by Vusizwe_Capital
Ultimate Guide to Mastering Chart PatternsChart patterns are essential tools for traders looking to identify high-probability setups based on price action. Among the most reliable continuation and reversal patterns are triangles, wedges, and flags. These formations help traders anticipate market direction and make informed decisions based on breakout potential, trend strength, and volume confirmation. In this guide, we’ll explore the key characteristics, trading strategies, and confirmation techniques for each of these patterns to improve trade execution and risk management. Triangle Patterns Types of Triangle Patterns Triangles are consolidation patterns that indicate a period of indecision before price continues in the direction of the breakout. There are three main types of triangle patterns: Ascending Triangle – A bullish continuation pattern where the price forms higher lows while resistance remains flat. Descending Triangle – A bearish continuation pattern where the price forms lower highs while support remains flat. Symmetrical Triangle – A neutral pattern where price forms lower highs and higher lows, squeezing into an apex before breaking out. How to Trade Triangles Identify the Triangle Formation: Look for at least two touchpoints on each trendline (support and resistance) to confirm the pattern. Wait for Breakout Confirmation: The price should break above resistance (bullish) or below support (bearish) with strong volume. Set Entry & Stop-Loss Levels: Enter the trade after a candle closes beyond the breakout point. Set a stop-loss below the most recent swing low (for bullish trades) or above the swing high (for bearish trades). Measure Target Price: The expected move is typically equal to the height of the triangle measured from the widest part of the pattern. Wedge Patterns Types of Wedge Patterns Wedges are similar to triangles but are characterized by sloping trendlines that converge in the same direction. They indicate a potential trend reversal or continuation depending on the breakout direction. Rising Wedge – A bearish reversal pattern that forms during uptrends. The price makes higher highs and higher lows, but the slope narrows, signaling weakening momentum before a breakdown. Falling Wedge – A bullish reversal pattern that forms during downtrends. The price makes lower highs and lower lows within a narrowing channel before a breakout to the upside. How to Trade Wedges Identify the Wedge Pattern: Look for a contracting price range within two sloping trendlines. Watch for a Breakout: The price should break either above (for falling wedges) or below (for rising wedges) with increasing volume. Confirm the Breakout: Use additional indicators such as RSI divergence or moving average crossovers to validate the move. Set Entry, Stop-Loss, and Target: Enter after the breakout candle closes beyond the trendline, with a stop-loss outside the opposite side of the wedge. Target the height of the wedge projected from the breakout point. Flag Patterns Characteristics of Flag Patterns Flag patterns are continuation patterns that occur after a strong impulsive move (flagpole), followed by a period of consolidation (flag) before price resumes the trend. Flags can be classified as: Bullish Flag – Forms after a strong upward move, followed by a downward-sloping consolidation. Bearish Flag – Forms after a strong downward move, followed by an upward-sloping consolidation. How to Trade Flag Patterns Identify the Flagpole: Look for a sharp price move in one direction, which forms the base of the flag. Confirm the Flag Formation: Price consolidates within parallel trendlines that slightly slope against the prior trend. Wait for the Breakout: Enter when price breaks out of the flag pattern in the direction of the previous trend with strong volume. Measure Target Price: The price target is typically equal to the length of the flagpole projected from the breakout point. Set Stop-Loss: Place the stop-loss below the lower boundary of the flag (for bullish flags) or above the upper boundary (for bearish flags). Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them Trading Before Confirmation: Many traders enter too early without waiting for a breakout confirmation, leading to false signals. Ignoring Volume: Breakouts should be accompanied by a volume surge for validation; weak volume can indicate a fake breakout. Setting Tight Stop-Losses: Giving the trade enough room to breathe by placing stops outside key support/resistance levels prevents getting stopped out prematurely. Forgetting to Manage Risk: Always follow proper risk-reward ratios (at least 1:2) to ensure profitable long-term trading. Final Thoughts Triangle, wedge, and flag patterns are powerful tools for traders who understand their structure and breakout behavior. By combining these patterns with volume analysis, trend confirmation indicators, and proper risk management, traders can increase their chances of success. Whether you're trading stocks, forex, or crypto, mastering these patterns will enhance your ability to navigate the markets efficiently. __________________________________________ Thanks for your support! If you found this guide helpful or learned something new, drop a like 👍 and leave a comment, I’d love to hear your thoughts! 🚀 Make sure to follow me for more price action insights, free indicators, and trading strategies. Let’s grow and trade smarter together! 📈
Education
by TehThomas
39
2 April Liberation Day: USA-Europe War Impact on ForexHi, I'm Forex Trader Andrea Russo and today I want to talk to you about an event that is shaking global markets: the tariff war between the United States and Europe. Sunday, April 2, we started in force and new American news, celebrating "Liberation Day" by President Donald Trump. These data, which include 25% tariffs on your steel, aluminum and automobiles, look to rebalance the trade deficit of the United States. However, Europe is not ready to be saved. Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, has said that Europe has not started this matter, but is ready to defend its interests with a strong plan for control2. The tension between the economic power has caused a significant impact on the market. The European stock exchange has not recorded consistent losses, with Milan having lost 16.4 million euros. Europe has responded with tariffs to its strategic American products, such as whiskey, motorcycles and legumes, and is evaluating further measures to protect its own industry4. Forex Impact This commercial war will bring about repercussions directly on the Forex market. Here's what to expect: Removal of the American Dollar (USD): Protectionist tariffs tend to reforce the dollar, as they reduce the command of foreign currencies for imports. In addition, the increase in the price could lead the Federal Reserve to modify its own monetary policy, increasing interest rates. Volatility of European Currencies: The euro (EUR) may rise in pressures due to economic uncertainties and European constraints. Also the value of the Swedish crown (SEK) may be negatively influenced. Opportunity for the Trader: The volatility generated by these tensions offers opportunities for the Forex trader. Significant movements and exchange rates can be completed with trading strategies soon, but fundamentally adopt rigorous risk management. Conclusion The tariff war between the United States and Europe represents a significant loss for the global economy and the Forex market. Tomorrow will be a crucial day, and the trader will not carefully monitor the resources to adapt their own strategy. Always advise me to do my own analysis and operate with prudence. Happy trading everyone!
Education
by Andrea_Russo_SwipeUP
A New Approach to Market Analysis: How IA Simplifies TradingClarity on the Chart. Smart Trading Decisions Approaches to Market Analysis and the Challenges Traders Face When we first start trading and investing, we encounter various methods for predicting price movements. Over time—and with enough persistence, patience, and experience—we find the approach that helps us make profitable trades. Among the most popular are oscillators and channel indicators, Dow Theory, Elliott Waves, Fibonacci levels, supply and demand, Volume Spread Analysis (VSA), Market Auction Theory, and concepts like Inner Circle Trader/Smart Money Concept (ICT/SMC). Many traders combine elements from different methods to build a strategy that works best for them. However, the road to consistent profits is rarely easy—most face similar challenges. 🔹 Lack of Knowledge and Experience Complexity of Technical Analysis: Too many tools, conflicting signals on different timeframes, and unclear logic can be overwhelming. No Clear Trading Plan: Many traders rely on intuition or others' advice instead of having a structured strategy. Poor Risk Management: Ignoring capital and risk controls leads to losses. Emotional Decision-Making: Fear and greed get in the way of sound decisions. 🔹 Time Constraints Trading Takes Time: Analyzing charts, scanning assets, and finding entry points all require time and focus. Slow Learning Curve: Gaining consistent results takes years of practice and study. Can Trading Be Made Simpler and More Effective? ________________________________________ A New Perspective: The Concept of Initiative Analysis (IA) Today I’d like to present Initiative Analysis —a concept that: ✅ Simplifies how you understand technical analysis ✅ Speeds up learning through a structured approach ✅ Reduces time spent on daily analysis ✅ Provides elements of a working trading strategy What is IA? Imagine looking at your chart and instead of seeing just candles, you see blocks of directional movement—called initiatives. An initiative is the action of buyers or sellers that causes price movement. It is limited by both price range and time, which helps clearly identify who dominates the market at any given moment. • If buyers dominate, price rises. These phases are shown with blue zones. • If sellers dominate, price falls. These are shown with red zones. This visual method allows you to not just see price movements, but also the underlying battle between buyers and sellers as it unfolds. How IA Differs from Traditional Analysis To understand how IA stands out, think about the classic tools traders use: • Candle patterns (e.g., hammer, doji, engulfing) • Chart figures (e.g., head and shoulders, double top, flag) • Indicators (e.g., oscillators, moving averages, channels) • Elliott Waves, Market Profile, Order Flow • Smart Money Concepts (ICT/SMC) These tools often focus on outcomes and results. Some attempt to capture the "fight" between buyers and sellers within fixed time intervals (like hourly or daily candles). Elliott Wave Theory, for example, offers a cyclical interpretation through structured wave sequences. IA, by contrast, focuses on identifying and visualizing real-time initiative without forcing a pre-defined structure. Another key distinction: IA allows for initiative shifts within a range—a buyer-to-seller transition can occur without breaking range boundaries, as often happens in sideways markets. This new method offers a fresh lens for viewing market dynamics. Instead of dividing charts by time or volume, candles are grouped by initiative blocks, each with its own duration. Comparing these blocks helps you "read" the market—who is gaining strength and who is losing it. Even more importantly, this approach can help predict shifts in market control and estimate potential price targets. Look at these charts 📉 Trend When one side controls the market strongly, we see a single background color in price ranges. In this case, it makes sense to look for trades in the direction of the move. But it’s important to check the higher timeframe for confirmation (!). In the chart: A blue target line means a bullish target (thin line = 1H, thick = 1D). A red target line means a bearish target (same logic for thickness). Targets are calculated using a custom method that includes the initiative range, candle structure inside the initiative, and traded volumes. Once a candle crosses the target line, the target is considered reached. If a new target appears, it will be shown. If the price leaves the buyer zone, the blue target disappears until the price returns. Same rule for seller zones. 📉 Sideways Market (Range) If the chart background changes between red and blue in one price range, it means the market is in consolidation (sideways) — temporary balance between buyers and sellers. In this case, targets also switch: blue = buy target, red= sell target. 🔀 Transitional Phase Sometimes, two price zones may appear at the same time — one above (buyers), one below (sellers). This is a transition period. It may turn into a sideways range or develop into a trend. During transitions: It’s better to avoid trading. Check who controlled the price before, and who is in control on the higher timeframe (this is always important). For example, if sellers were in control before, and the higher timeframe confirms it, sellers are likely to stay dominant. However, a short-term bounce or trend reversal is possible. With IA You Can: ✅ Identify buyer/seller initiative in real time ✅ Anticipate initiative shifts ✅ Visualize control zones and key levels ✅ Compare strength between buyers and sellers ✅ Forecast potential price targets IA lets you objectively assess market dynamics, identify the dominant side, and estimate the most probable direction. ________________________________________ How IA Helps Solve Key Trading Challenges 📌 Complex Analysis → Simplified visual zones make market context easy to read—even for beginners. 📌 Lack of Strategy → IA covers 3 of the 5 essential trading questions (direction, entry zone, and target), and can be combined with other tools or techniques to answer the remaining two: entry timing and stop-loss placement: Trade direction: Buy in a buyer block, sell in a seller block. Entry zone: Buy below 50% of a buyer block, sell above 50% of a seller block. Profit-taking: Estimate target using visualized zones. While IA gives market context, final decisions still depend on patterns, volume, and risk management. 📌 Time Management → Visual structure saves hours of scanning and comparing charts. “Now I scan for trade setups in 15 minutes, just by checking the visual layout. Before, I’d spend hours deciding if an asset was trending or in a range.” — trader review. 📌 Learning Speed → Think of it like driving: learning on a modern automatic car is much easier than on a 50-year-old manual. You don’t need to know how the transmission works—just how to drive. Same with IA. It’s not an autopilot, but a powerful navigator that helps you orient in the market. IA simplifies analysis, but the trader is still responsible for decisions, risk, and mindset. Fewer tools = faster learning. You don’t need to know how indicators are built—just how to use them. IA focuses your attention on what matters. It reduces noise and highlights structure. ________________________________________ Final Thoughts IA introduces a new way of analyzing markets—not just reading the result, but watching the fight unfold in real time. It helps traders make more confident decisions, simplifies analysis, and adds structure to the chaos of the market. Clarity on the Chart. Smart Trading Decisions. If this approach speaks to you—share the article, leave a comment, and stay tuned for more insights in upcoming posts!
Education
by AlexeyWolf
BTC/USD Expected to Rise: A Swing Trading Strategy AnalysisIntroduction Swing trading is a popular trading approach that aims to capture short- to medium-term price movements in financial markets. For Bitcoin (BTC/USD), traders often rely on key technical indicators such as moving averages, the Relative Strength Index (RSI), Fibonacci retracements, and candlestick patterns to predict price swings. Based on a combination of these indicators, BTC/USD is showing strong signs of an upward move, making it an attractive opportunity for swing traders. Technical Analysis Supporting BTC/USD’s Upward Move BITSTAMP:BTCUSD 1. Moving Averages Crossovers One of the fundamental indicators used in swing trading is the moving average crossover strategy. If the short-term moving average (e.g., the 20-day EMA) crosses above a long-term moving average (e.g., the 50-day EMA), it signals bullish momentum. Recent BTC/USD charts indicate a bullish crossover, suggesting an uptrend is likely to continue. 2. Relative Strength Index (RSI) Confirmation The RSI measures momentum and identifies overbought or oversold conditions. If RSI is above 50 and rising, it confirms strength in buying pressure. If RSI was oversold (below 30) and starts moving upward, it signals a potential reversal. BTC/USD recently bounced from an oversold region, indicating growing buying interest. 3. Fibonacci Retracement Levels Acting as Support Swing traders use Fibonacci retracement levels to identify potential support and resistance zones. BTC/USD recently retraced to the 0.618 Fibonacci level, which often acts as a strong support zone before an upward continuation. 4. Bullish Candlestick Formations Candlestick patterns help traders predict price direction. A bullish engulfing candle or hammer near key support levels reinforces an uptrend. BTC/USD recently printed a bullish engulfing candle, a strong indication that buyers are in control. 5. Increasing Volume and Market Sentiment Volume analysis is crucial in swing trading. A rise in volume alongside bullish price action confirms genuine buying interest. Current BTC/USD trading volume supports an upward movement, reinforcing positive market sentiment. Fundamental Factors Supporting BTC/USD Upside Beyond technical analysis, fundamental catalysts are contributing to Bitcoin’s expected rally: Institutional Adoption: More firms are integrating Bitcoin into their portfolios. Upcoming Halving Event: Historically, BTC rallies before and after halving cycles. Macroeconomic Factors: Inflation and fiat currency devaluation increase demand for Bitcoin as a hedge. Trading Plan for Swing Traders For traders looking to capitalize on BTC/USD’s expected rise, here’s a suggested plan: Entry Point: Around the 50-day EMA or Fibonacci support level. Stop Loss: Below recent swing low to manage risk. Target Price: Previous resistance levels or recent swing highs. Trailing Stop: To lock in profits as the price moves upward. Conclusion Based on swing trading indicators, BTC/USD is showing strong bullish signals, making it an attractive trade opportunity. However, risk management remains crucial, and traders should continuously monitor market conditions. If BTC continues to hold key support levels while maintaining upward momentum, it could reach higher resistance zones in the near term.
COINBASE:BTCUSDEducation
by baladeva
Behind the Curtain: Macro Indicators That Move the Yen1. Introduction Japanese Yen Futures (6J), traded on the CME, offer traders a window into one of the world’s most strategically important currencies. The yen is not just Japan’s currency—it’s also a barometer for global risk appetite, a funding vehicle for the carry trade, and a defensive asset when markets turn volatile. But what truly moves Yen Futures? While many traders fixate on central bank statements and geopolitical news, machine learning tells us that economic indicators quietly—but consistently—steer price action. In this article, we apply a Random Forest Regressor to reveal the top macroeconomic indicators driving 6J Futures across daily, weekly, and monthly timeframes, helping traders of all styles align their strategies with the deeper economic current. 2. Understanding Yen Futures Contracts Whether you’re trading institutional size or operating with a retail account, CME Group offers flexible exposure to the Japanese yen through two contracts: o Standard Japanese Yen Futures (6J): Contract Size: ¥12,500,000 Tick Size: 0.0000005 = $6.25 per tick Use Case: Institutional hedging, macro speculation, rate differential trading o Micro JPY/USD Futures (MJY): Contract Size: ¥1,250,000 Tick Size: 0.000001 = $1.25 per tick Use Case: Retail-sized access, position scaling, strategy testing o Margin Requirements: 6J: Approx. $3,300 per contract MJY: Approx. $330 per contract Both products offer deep liquidity and near 24-hour access. Traders use them to express views on interest rate divergence, U.S.-Japan trade dynamics, and global macro shifts—all while adjusting risk through contract size. 3. Daily Timeframe: Top Macro Catalysts Short-term movements in Yen Futures are heavily influenced by U.S. economic data and its impact on yield spreads and capital flow. Machine learning analysis ranks the following three as the most influential for daily returns: 10-Year Treasury Yield: The most sensitive indicator for the yen. Rising U.S. yields widen the U.S.-Japan rate gap, strengthening the dollar and weakening the yen. Drops in yields could create sharp yen rallies. U.S. Trade Balance: A narrowing trade deficit can support the USD via improved capital flow outlook, pressuring the yen. A wider deficit may signal weakening demand for USD, providing potential support for yen futures. Durable Goods Orders: A proxy for economic confidence and future investment. Strong orders suggest economic resilience, which tends to benefit the dollar. Weak numbers may point to a slowdown, prompting defensive yen buying. 4. Weekly Timeframe: Intermediate-Term Indicators Swing traders and macro tacticians often ride trends formed by mid-cycle economic shifts. On a weekly basis, these indicators matter most: Fed Funds Rate: As the foundation of U.S. interest rates, this policy tool steers the entire FX complex. Hawkish surprises can pressure yen futures; dovish turns could strengthen the yen as yield differentials narrow. 10-Year Treasury Yield (again): While impactful daily, the weekly trend gives traders a clearer view of long-term investor positioning and bond market sentiment. Sustained moves signal deeper macro shifts. ISM Manufacturing Employment: This labor-market-linked metric reflects production demand. A drop often precedes softening economic growth, which may boost the yen as traders reduce exposure to riskier assets. 5. Monthly Timeframe: Structural Macro Forces For position traders and macro investors, longer-term flows into the Japanese yen are shaped by broader inflationary trends, liquidity shifts, and housing demand. Machine learning surfaced the following as top monthly influences on Yen Futures: PPI: Processed Foods and Feeds: A unique upstream inflation gauge. Rising producer prices—especially in essentials like food—can increase expectations for tightening, influencing global yield differentials. For the yen, which thrives when inflation is low, surging PPI may drive USD demand and weaken the yen. M2 Money Supply: Reflects monetary liquidity. A sharp increase in M2 may spark inflation fears, sending interest rates—and the dollar—higher, pressuring the yen. Conversely, slower M2 growth can support the yen as global liquidity tightens. Housing Starts: Serves as a growth thermometer. Robust housing data suggests strong domestic demand in the U.S., favoring the dollar over the yen. Weakness in this sector may support yen strength as traders rotate defensively. 6. Trade Style Alignment with Macro Data Each indicator resonates differently depending on the trading style and timeframe: Day Traders: React to real-time changes in 10-Year Yields, Durable Goods Orders, and Trade Balance. These traders seek to capitalize on intraday volatility around economic releases that impact yield spreads and risk appetite. Swing Traders: Position around Fed Funds Rate changes, weekly shifts in Treasury yields, or deteriorating labor signals such as ISM Employment. Weekly data can establish trends that last multiple sessions, making it ideal for this style. Position Traders: Monitor PPI, M2, and Housing Starts for broader macro shifts. These traders align their exposure with long-term shifts in capital flow and inflation expectations, often holding positions for weeks or more. Whatever the style, syncing your trading plan with the data release calendar and macro backdrop can improve timing and conviction. 7. Risk Management The Japanese yen is a globally respected safe-haven currency, and its volatility often spikes during geopolitical stress or liquidity events. Risk must be managed proactively, especially in leveraged futures products. 8. Conclusion Japanese Yen Futures are a favorite among global macro traders because they reflect interest rate divergence, risk sentiment, and global liquidity flows. While headlines grab attention, data tells the real story. Stay tuned for the next installment of the "Behind the Curtain" series, where we continue uncovering what really moves the futures markets. When charting futures, the data provided could be delayed. Traders working with the ticker symbols discussed in this idea may prefer to use CME Group real-time data plan on TradingView: www.tradingview.com - This consideration is particularly important for shorter-term traders, whereas it may be less critical for those focused on longer-term trading strategies. General Disclaimer: The trade ideas presented herein are solely for illustrative purposes forming a part of a case study intended to demonstrate key principles in risk management within the context of the specific market scenarios discussed. These ideas are not to be interpreted as investment recommendations or financial advice. They do not endorse or promote any specific trading strategies, financial products, or services. The information provided is based on data believed to be reliable; however, its accuracy or completeness cannot be guaranteed. Trading in financial markets involves risks, including the potential loss of principal. Each individual should conduct their own research and consult with professional financial advisors before making any investment decisions. The author or publisher of this content bears no responsibility for any actions taken based on the information provided or for any resultant financial or other losses.
CME:6J1!Education
by traddictiv
The Greatest Opportunity of Your Life : Answering QuestionsThis video is an answer to Luck264's question about potential price rotation. I go into much more details because I want to highlight the need to keep price action in perspective related to overall (broader) and more immediate (shorter-term) trends. Additionally, I try to highlight what I've been trying to tell all of you over the past 3+ years... The next 3-%+ years are the GREATEST OPPORTUNITY OF YOUR LIFE. You can't even imagine the potential for gains unless I try to draw it out for you. So, here you go. This video highlights why price is the ultimate indicator and why my research/data is superior to many other types of analysis. My data is factual, process-based, and results in A or B outcomes. I don't mess around with too many indicators because I find them confusing at times. Price tells me everything I need to know - learn what I do to improve your trading. Hope you enjoy this video. Get Some. #trading #research #investing #tradingalgos #tradingsignals #cycles #fibonacci #elliotwave #modelingsystems #stocks #bitcoin #btcusd #cryptos #spy #gold #nq #investing #trading #spytrading #spymarket #tradingmarket #stockmarket #silver
AMEX:SPYEducation
by BradMatheny
ICT Concepts for FX and GOLD traders: 2025 edition🔍 ICT (Inner Circle Trader) is a trading methodology developed by Michael J. Huddleston. It focuses on market structure, smart money concepts (SMC), and how institutions manipulate liquidity to trap retail traders. 📚 It's not about indicators or over-complication — it's about reading the price action like a pro, understanding where liquidity is, and trading with the banks, not against them. 📐 1. Market Structure Understand Highs & Lows: Identify break of structure (BOS) and change of character (CHOCH) Follow the macro to micro flow: D1 > H4 > M15 for precision entries 🧱 2. Order Blocks (OBs) An order block is the last bullish or bearish candle before a major price move. Banks and institutions place large orders here. Smart traders look for price to return to these areas (mitigation), then enter with tight stop losses. 👉 Think of OBs as institutional footprints on the chart. 💧 3. Liquidity Zones Equal highs/lows, trendline touches, support/resistance — these are liquidity traps. ICT teaches that price often hunts liquidity before reversing. That’s why many retail traders get stopped out. Learn to trade into liquidity, not off it. 🔄 4. Fair Value Gaps (FVGs) Also called imbalances — when price moves too fast and leaves gaps. Price often retraces to "fill the gap" — a key entry point for ICT traders. 🥇 ICT for Gold & Forex in 2025 💰 Why It Works for XAUUSD & Majors: Gold is a highly manipulated asset, perfect for ICT-style trading. It responds beautifully to liquidity grabs, order blocks, and Asian–London–New York session transitions. Forex majors (EUR/USD, GBP/USD, etc.) are also ideal since they’re heavily influenced by institutional flow and news-driven liquidity hunts. 🕐 Timing Is Everything Trade Killzones: 📍 London Killzone: 2AM–5AM EST 📍 New York Killzone: 7AM–10AM EST These are high-volume sessions where institutions make their moves. 📈 Typical ICT Setup ▪️Spot liquidity zone above or below recent price ▪️Wait for liquidity sweep (stop hunt) ▪️Identify nearby order block or FVG ▪️Enter on a pullback into OB/FVG ▪️Set tight SL just past the recent swing Target internal range, opposing OB, or next liquidity level 👨‍💻 Why FX/GOLD Traders Love ICT ✅ It’s clean, no indicators, and highly logical ✅ Great for part-time trading — 1 or 2 trades a day ✅ Feels like "leveling up" your understanding of the market ✅ Perfect for backtesting and journaling on platforms like TradingView or SmartCharts ✅ Easy to integrate into algo-based systems or EAs for semi-automation If you’re tired of indicators and guessing, and want to trade like the institutions, ICT is a game changer. In 2025, more prop firms and traders are applying ICT concepts to dominate markets like gold, forex, and even crypto. 🧭 Master the method. Understand the logic. Ride with the smart money. 🔥 Welcome to the next level of trading.
Education
by ProjectSyndicate
21
Convexity-based trade scenario using LOAR stock and the April 17Yo traders - Let’s map out a convexity-based trade scenario using LOAR stock and the April 17, 2025 $75 Call option — currently trading at $1.00, with the stock at $65.97 and only 18 days to expiry. 🔍 Step-by-Step Breakdown: 🧠 1. Basic Structure You’re buying the LOAR Apr17 $75 call at $1.00. This is a deep OTM bet (~13.7% above current price). You’re betting on a short-term move to $75+, meaning volatility spike or news catalyst. ⚙️ 2. Convexity Setup Convexity means: Small risk, asymmetric reward If LOAR stays flat or dips → you lose $1 per contract If LOAR rips to $80+ → this option could return 5x to 10x+ LOAR Price at Expiry Option Intrinsic Value Profit/Loss $66 (flat) $0 -$1.00 $70 $0 -$1.00 $75 (strike) $0 -$1.00 $77 $2.00 +$1.00 $80 $5.00 +$4.00 (5x) $85 $10.00 +$9.00 (9x) 🧾 3. Chart + Sentiment Setup Looking at the TradingView chart: Price Action: LOAR is basing around $66 after a steep downtrend — potential reversal pattern Volume is light, but some buy pressure is visible MACD: Appears to be flattening and potentially crossing bullish RSI: ~40s: Oversold-to-neutral zone. Could support upward bounce. Earnings coming up (E icon): Strong potential for a catalyst move This setup enhances convexity, because earnings can produce gap moves that DOTM options profit from disproportionately. 🔮 4. Convexity Scenario Thesis (Narrative) "LOAR has pulled back hard and is showing signs of base-building. Earnings are in 2–3 weeks. If guidance surprises to the upside — or macro tailwinds hit the sector — a short squeeze or re-rating toward $75–80 could occur. I’m risking $1 per contract for a shot at $5–10. If it doesn’t move, I accept the full loss." This is a classic event-driven convexity play. ⚠️ 5. Risks & Considerations Time decay is brutal: With only 18 days left, theta decay accelerates daily IV Crush post-earnings could hurt even if the stock moves You need a fast, strong move, ideally before or at earnings Position sizing is critical: This is a "lottery ticket" — don’t over-allocate ✅ 6. Ideal for Your Strategy If: You're making many small bets like this across tickers/catalysts You’re not trying to be “right” often, but “big” occasionally You have capital discipline and uncorrelated base assets 🧮 Position Size: Option price = $1.00 per contract You buy 100 contracts of the $75 call Total risk = $100 Each $1.00 move above $75 = $100 profit per $1, since 100 contracts × 100 shares/contract = 10,000 shares exposure 📈 Upside Payoff Table LOAR Price at Expiry Intrinsic Value Total Payoff Net P&L Return on $100 $65–$74.99 $0.00 $0 -$100 -100% $76 $1.00 $1 × 10,000 = $10,000 +$9,900 +9,900% $77 $2.00 $20,000 +$19,900 +19,900% $80 $5.00 $50,000 +$49,900 +49,900% $85 $10.00 $100,000 +$99,900 +99,900% $90 $15.00 $150,000 +$149,900 +149,900% $100 $25.00 $250,000 +$249,900 +249,900% 🧠 Interpretation Max Loss: $100 (fixed, regardless of LOAR's move down or sideways) Breakeven at Expiry: LOAR must hit $76.00 10x return if LOAR trades just $1 above strike Massive asymmetry — you risk $100 for a shot at $10k–250k if LOAR rips on earnings or news. 📌 Real-World Considerations: You might exit early if the option spikes in value before expiry (e.g., stock runs to $72 with 5 days left). Liquidity may limit large size fills. Volatility matters: IV spike pre-earnings or a big gap post-earnings increases your chance of profit. 📊 Convex Payoff Table for LOAR Apr17 $75 Call (100 Contracts, $100 Risk) LOAR Price at Expiry % Move from $65.97 Intrinsic Value Total Payoff Net P&L Return on $100 $65–$74.99 0% to +13.6% $0.00 $0 -$100 -100% $76 +15.2% $1.00 $10,000 +$9,900 +9,900% $77 +17.0% $2.00 $20,000 +$19,900 +19,900% $80 +21.3% $5.00 $50,000 +$49,900 +49,900% $85 +28.9% $10.00 $100,000 +$99,900 +99,900% $90 +36.4% $15.00 $150,000 +$149,900 +149,900% $100 +51.6% $25.00 $250,000 +$249,900 +249,900% 🧠 Takeaway: Even a 15% move turns your $100 into $10,000 — this is why convex trades are so powerful. But the trade-off is probability: the odds of a 15–50%+ move in 18 days are low, which is why risk is capped and position sizing matters.
NYSE:LOAREducation
by TheHouseofTrade
3 Best Trading Opportunities to Maximize Profit Potential Hey traders, In the today's article, we will discuss 3 types of incredibly accurate setups that you can apply for trading financial markets. 1. Trend Line Breakout and Retest The first setup is a classic trend line breakout. Please, note that such a setup will be accurate if the trend line is based on at least 3 consequent bullish or bearish moves. If the market bounces from a trend line, it is a vertical support. If the market drops from a trend line, it is a vertical resistance. The breakout of the trend line - vertical support is a candle close below that. After a breakout, it turns into a safe point to sell the market from. The breakout of the trend line - vertical resistance is a candle close above that. After a breakout, it turns into a safe point to buy the market from. Take a look at the example. On GBPJPY, the market was growing steadily, respecting a rising trend line that was a vertical support. A candle close below that confirmed its bearish violation. It turned into a vertical resistance . Its retest was a perfect point to sell the market from. 2. Horizontal Structure Breakout and Retest The second setup is a breakout of a horizontal key level. The breakout of a horizontal support and a candle close below that is a strong bearish signal. After a breakout, a support turns into a resistance. Its retest is a safe point to sell the market from. The breakout of a horizontal resistance and a candle close above that is a strong bullish signal. After a breakout, a resistance turns into a support. Its retest if a safe point to buy the market from. Here is the example. WTI Crude Oil broke a key daily structure resistance. A candle close above confirmed the violation. After a breakout, the broken resistance turned into a support. Its test was a perfect point to buy the market from. 3. Buying / Selling the Market After Pullbacks The third option is to trade the market after pullbacks. However, remember that the market should be strictly in a trend . In a bullish trend, the market corrects itself after it sets new higher highs. The higher lows usually respect the rising trend lines. Buying the market from such a trend line, you open a safe trend-following trade. In a bearish trend, after the price sets lower lows, the correctional movements initiate. The lower highs quite often respect the falling trend lines. Selling the market from such a trend line, you open a safe trend-following trade. On the chart above, we can see EURAUD pair trading in a bullish trend. After the price sets new highs, it retraces to a rising trend line. Once the trend line is reached, trend-following movements initiate. What I like about these 3 setups is the fact that they work on every market and on every time frame. So no matter what you trade and what is your trading style, you can apply them for making nice profits. ❤️Please, support my work with like, thank you!❤️ I am part of Trade Nation's Influencer program and receive a monthly fee for using their TradingView charts in my analysis.
TRADENATION:XAUUSDEducation
by VasilyTrader
7
What Are the Inner Circle Trading Concepts? What Are the Inner Circle Trading Concepts? Inner Circle Trading (ICT) offers a sophisticated lens through which traders can view and interpret market movements, providing traders with insights that go beyond conventional technical analysis. This article explores key ICT concepts, aiming to equip traders with a thorough understanding of how these insights can be applied to enhance their trading decisions. Introduction to the Inner Circle Trading Methodology Inner Circle Trading (ICT) methodology is a sophisticated approach to financial markets that zeroes in on the behaviours of large institutional traders. Unlike conventional trading methods, ICT is not merely about recognising patterns in price movements but involves understanding the intentions behind those movements. It is part of the broader Smart Money Concept (SMC), which analyses how major players influence the market. Key Inner Circle Trading Concepts Within the ICT methodology, there are many concepts to learn. Below, we’ve explained the most fundamental ideas central to ICT trading. Structure Understanding the structure of a market is fundamental to effectively employing the ICT methodology. In the context of ICT, market structure is defined by the identification of trends through specific patterns of highs and lows. Market Structure A market trend is typically characterised by a series of higher highs and higher lows in an uptrend, or lower highs and lower lows in a downtrend. This sequential pattern provides a visual representation of market sentiment and momentum. Importantly, market trends are fractal, replicating similar patterns at different scales or timeframes. For example, what appears as a bearish trend on a short timeframe might merely be a corrective phase within a larger bullish trend. By understanding this fractal nature, traders can better align their strategies with the prevailing trend at different trading intervals. Break of Structure (BOS) A Break of Structure occurs when there is a clear deviation from these established patterns of highs and lows. In an uptrend, a BOS is signalled by prices exceeding a previous high without falling below the most recent higher low, confirming the strength and continuation of the uptrend. Conversely, in a downtrend, a BOS is indicated when prices drop below a previous low without breaching the prior lower high, signifying that the downtrend remains strong. Identifying a BOS gives traders valuable clues about the continuation of the current market direction. Change of Character (CHoCH) The Change of Character in a market happens when there is a noticeable alteration in the behaviour of price movements, suggesting a potential reversal of a given trend. This might be seen in an uptrend where the price fails to reach a new high and then breaks below a recent higher low, indicating that the buying momentum is waning and a bearish reversal is possible. Identifying a CHoCH helps traders recognise when the market momentum is shifting, which is critical for adjusting positions to capitalise on or protect against a new trend. Market Structure Shift (MSS) A Market Structure Shift is a significant change in the market that can disrupt the existing trend. This specific type of CHoCH is typically marked by a price moving sharply (a displacement) through a key structural level, such as a higher low in an uptrend or a lower high in a downtrend. These shifts can signal a profound change in market dynamics, with the sharp move often preceding a new sustained trend. Recognising an MSS allows traders to reevaluate their current bias and adapt to a new trend, given its clear signal. Order Blocks Order blocks are a central component of ICT trading, providing crucial insights into potential areas where the price may react strongly due to significant buy or sell interests from large market participants. Regular Order Blocks A regular order block is an area on the price chart representing a concentration of buying (demand zone) or selling (supply zone) activity. In an uptrend, a bullish order block is identified during a downward price movement and marks the last area of selling before a substantial upward price movement occurs. Conversely, a bearish order block forms in an uptrend where the last buying action appears before a significant downward price shift. In the ICT trading strategy, order blocks are seen as reversal areas. So, if the price revisits a bullish order block following a BOS higher, it’s assumed that the block will hold and prompt a reversal that produces a new higher high. Breaker Blocks Breaker blocks play a crucial role in identifying trend reversals. They are typically formed when the price makes a BOS before reversing and breaking beyond an order block that should hold if the established market structure is to be maintained. This formation indicates that liquidity has been taken. For instance, in an uptrend, if the price creates a new high but then reverses below the previous higher low, the bullish order block above the low becomes a breaker block. A breaker block can be an area that prompts a reversal as the new trend unfolds; it’s a similar concept to support becoming resistance and vice versa. Mitigation Blocks Mitigation blocks are similar to breaker blocks, except they occur after a failure swing, where the price attempts but fails to surpass a previous peak in an uptrend or a previous trough in a downtrend. This pattern indicates a loss of momentum and potential reversal as the price fails to sustain its previous direction. For example, in an uptrend, if the price makes a lower high and then breaks the structure by dropping below the previous low, the order block formed at the previous low becomes a mitigation block. These blocks are critical for traders because they’re also expected to produce a reversal if a new trend has been set in motion. Liquidity Liquidity refers to areas on the price chart with a high concentration of trading activity, typically marked by stop orders from retail traders. Buy- and Sell-Side Liquidity Buy-side liquidity is found where there is a likely accumulation of short-selling traders' stop orders, typically above recent highs. Conversely, sell-side liquidity is located below recent lows, where bullish traders' stop orders accumulate. When prices touch these areas, activating stop orders can cause a reversal, presenting a potential level of support or resistance. Liquidity Grabs A liquidity grab occurs when the price quickly spikes into these high-density order areas, triggering stops and then reversing direction. In ICT theory, this action is often orchestrated by larger players aiming to capitalise on the flurry of orders to execute their large-volume trades with minimal slippage. It's a strategic move that temporarily shifts price momentum, usually just long enough to trigger the stops before the market direction reverses. Inducement An inducement is a specific type of liquidity grab that triggers stops and entices other traders to enter the market. It often appears as a peak or trough, typically into an area of liquidity, in a minor counter-trend within the larger market trend. Inducements are designed by smart money to create an illusion of a trend change, prompting an influx of retail trading in the wrong direction. Once the retail traders have committed, the price swiftly reverses, aligning back with the original major trend. Trending Movements In the Inner Circle Trading methodology, two specific types of sharp trending movements signal significant shifts in market dynamics: fair value gaps and displacements. Fair Value Gaps A fair value gap (FVG) occurs when there is a noticeable absence of trading within a price range, typically represented by a swift and substantial price move without retracement. This gap often forms between the wicks of two adjacent candles where no trading has occurred, signifying a strong directional push. Fair value gaps are important because they indicate areas on the chart where the price may return to "fill" the gap, usually before meeting an order block, offering potential trading opportunities as the market seeks to establish equilibrium. Displacements Displacements, also known as liquidity voids, are characterised by sudden, forceful price movements occurring between two chart levels and lacking the typical gradual trading activity observed in between. They are essentially amplified and more substantial versions of fair value gaps, often spanning multiple candles and FVGs, signalling a heightened imbalance between buy and sell orders. Other Components Beyond these ICT concepts, there are a few other niche components. Kill Zones Kill Zones refer to specific timeframes during the trading day when market activity significantly increases due to the opening or closing of major financial centres. These periods are crucial for traders as they often set the tone for price movements based on the increased volume and volatility: Optimal Trade Entry An optimal trade entry (OTE) is a type of Inner Circle trading strategy, found using Fibonacci retracement levels. After an inducement that prompts a displacement (leaving behind an FVG), traders use the Fibonacci retracement tool to pinpoint entry areas. The first point is set at the major high or low that prompts the displacement, while the second point is set at the next significant swing high or low that forms. In a bearish movement, for example, the initial point is set at the swing high before the displacement and the subsequent point at the new swing low. Traders often look to the 61.8% to 78.6% retracement level for entries. Balanced Price Range A balanced price range is observed when two opposing displacements create FVGs in a short timeframe, indicating a broad zone of price consolidation. During this period, prices typically test both extremes, attempting to fill the gaps. This scenario offers traders potential zones for trend reversals as the price seeks to establish a new equilibrium, as well as key levels to watch for a breakout. The Bottom Line Understanding ICT concepts gives traders the tools to decode complex market signals and align their strategies with the influential trends shaped by the largest market participants. For those looking to apply these sophisticated trading techniques practically, opening an FXOpen account can be a great step towards engaging with the markets through a robust platform designed to support advanced trading strategies. FAQs What Are ICT Concepts in Trading? ICT (Inner Circle Trading) concepts encompass a series of advanced trading principles that focus on replicating the strategies of large institutional players. These concepts include liquidity zones, order blocks, market structure shifts, and optimal trade entries, all aimed at understanding and anticipating significant market movements. What Is ICT in Trading? ICT in trading refers to the Inner Circle Trading methodology, a strategy developed to align smaller traders’ actions with those of more influential market participants. It utilises specific market phenomena, such as order blocks and liquidity patterns, to analyse price movements and improve trading outcomes. What Is ICT Trading? ICT trading is the application of concepts that seek to identify patterns and structures that indicate potential price changes driven by institutional activities, aiming to capitalise on these movements. What Is ICT Strategy? An ICT strategy combines market analysis techniques to identify where significant market players are likely to influence prices. This includes analysing price levels where large volumes of buy or sell orders are anticipated to occur and identifying key times when market moves are most likely. Is ICT Better Than SMC? Comparing ICT and SMC (Smart Money Concept) is challenging as ICT is essentially a subset of SMC. While SMC provides a broader overview of how institutional money influences the markets, ICT offers more specific techniques and terms like inducements and displacements. Whether one is better depends on the trader’s specific needs and alignment with these methodologies’ intricacies. This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.
Education
by FXOpen
1
Title: How to Spot Potential Price Reversals: Part 2A subject within technical analysis that many find difficult to apply to their day-to-day trading is the ability to spot reversals in price. Yesterday we posted part 1 of this 2 part educational series, where we used GBPUSD as an example of how you could identify and trade a Head and Shoulders/Reversed Head and Shoulders pattern. In today’s post we discuss a Double Top/Double Bottom, using a recent US 100 example. Our intention is to help you understand why price activity is reversing and highlight how knowledge of this may be applied within your own individual trading strategies. The Double Top Reversal: The Double Top, is formed by 2 distinct price highs. This pattern highlights the potential, • reversal of a previous uptrend in price, into a phase of price weakness • reversal of a previous downtrend in price into a more prolonged period of price strength. In this example, we are going to talk about a bearish reversal in price called a Double Top. Points to Note: A Double Top • An uptrend in price must be in place for the pattern to form. • A Double Top pattern is made up of 2 clear highs and one low, forming a letter ‘M’ shape on a price chart. • This pattern reflects an inability of buyers to push price activity above a previous peak in price, potentially highlighting a negative shift in sentiment and sellers gaining the upper hand. This is regarded as a ‘weak test’ of a previous price failure high and leaves 2 price peaks at, or very close to each other. • A horizontal trendline is drawn at the low between the 2 peaks, which highlights the neckline of the pattern. If this is broken on a closing basis, the pattern is completed, reflecting a negative sentiment shift and the potential of further price weakness. Point to Note: To understand a bullish reversal, known as a ‘Double Bottom’ please simply follow the opposite analysis of what is highlighted above. US 100 Example: In the chart below, we look at the US 100 index and the formation of a Double Top pattern from earlier in 2025. As with any bearish reversal in price, a clear uptrend and extended price advance must have been seen for the reversal pattern to be valid. On the chart above, this was reflected by the advance from the August 5th 2024 low up into the December 16th price high. The Double Top pattern is made up of 2 price highs close or at the same level as each other, with a low trade in the middle, which forms a letter ‘M’ on the chart (see below). In this example above, the highs are marked by 22142, the December 16th and 22226, the February 18th highs, with the 20477 level posted on January 13th represents the low traded in the middle, which helps to form the ‘M’. The Neckline of the pattern is drawn using a horizontal line at the 20477 January 13th low, with the Double Top pattern completed on closes below this level. Potential then turns towards a more extended phase of price weakness to reverse the previous uptrend, even opening the possibility a new downtrend in price being formed. Does the Double Top Pattern Suggest a Potential Price Objective? Yes, it does. This can be done by measuring the height of the 2nd peak in price down to the Neckline level at that time, this distance is projected lower from the point the neckline was broken, suggesting a possible minimum objective for any future price decline. In the example above, the 2nd high was at 22226, posted on February 18th 2025, with the Neckline at 20477, meaning the height of the pattern was 1749 (points). On February 27th the Neckline of the pattern was broken on a closing basis. This means… 20477 – 1749 = 18728 as a minimum potential price objective for the Double Top pattern. Of course, as with any technical pattern, completion is not a guarantee of a significant phase of price movement, with much still dependent on future sentiment and price trends. Therefore, if initiating a trade based on a Double Top pattern, you must ALWAYS place a stop loss to protect against any unforeseen event or price movement. This stop loss should initially be placed just above the level of the 2nd price high, as any break negates the pattern, meaning we were wrong to class the pattern as we did. Hopefully, as prices fall after completion of the pattern, you can consider moving your stop loss lower, keeping it just above lower resistance levels to protect your position and lock in potential gains. While both the Head and Shoulders and Double Top/Bottom patterns can take a prolonged period to form and we must be patient to wait for completion, they reflect important signals indicating potential changes in price sentiment and direction. By understanding how and why these patterns form can offer an important insight to potential price activity that can help to support day to day decision making when deciding on trading strategies. 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.
PEPPERSTONE:NAS100Education
by Pepperstone
Trading Minest. Welcome to the most difficult game in the worldUnfortunately, you will be playing against some of the sharpest, fastest, smartest, most intelligent, well-informed, irrational, and, in many cases, unethical intellects in the world. You are fighting a computer that reacts faster than you. A trader who has more experience than you. A fund that has more money than you. An insider who has more information than you. Others who misinform you. An inner voice that will do everything it can to stop you. So, give up your dreams of making a quick and easy buck. Your first goal is survival. Your first absolute goal is to learn how to stay in the game. You can only do this by marking your territory. By understanding how the competition thinks and acts. By having a clear game plan. And by choosing your attacks very, very carefully. I've been sharing my knowledge on TradingView for years, but I'm sure this post will help you, too. I want to talk about Trading Minest. After I set up a trading firm, I realized that this is the knowledge that most traders lack. 1. Survive at all costs The higher your survival rate, the better trader you'll be. If you disagree with that, you better give your money to me. You don't have a survival instinct. A strong survival instinct is an essential personal quality you must possess. It teaches you to jump out of losing deals and hold on to winning ones with a dead grip. That's what your inner attitude should be. It's essential because trading is all about survival. It's also the essence of our lives. 2. You must be constantly afraid You have to evaluate the opponent. If he is a stone, be water; if he is water, I will be a stone. Maximize objective assessment of your opponent and adapt to him, but most people lack enough fear. And if we don't have fear, we can open any trade. And we won't use stop losses. We're gonna do everything wrong. And lose. I want you to be afraid. Example: If you are not afraid to lose, and we have the same trade, who will choose the more defensive tactic? Whoever thinks I'm not afraid of all this nonsense, I have plenty of money. With that attitude, you will lose. But if I am scared to death, I will use stops, watch what is happening in the market, and calculate my actions. But if a person has no fear, he will act recklessly, and then all of a sudden, bam, bam, and disaster will happen. Many traders have lost money and committed suicide because they had no fear. 3.The ability to win when things aren't going well for you The most essential quality of an athlete is the ability to score points when they need to catch up. You should be able to win when you fall behind or have four losing trades; that is the difference between good traders and bad traders. You say to yourself, "I'm behind; I'm not doing well." And you have a choice to throw up the white flag and give up. Or you can say, "To hell with it. I'm just gonna grit my teeth and get back in the ring and give it my best." That's what your inner attitude should be. You have to be able to win when you're behind. You have to learn how to win when you're in a losing position. That's how you have to set yourself up. Otherwise, you will be in big trouble because no one can avoid losses in market trading. And at some point, you are guaranteed to have a losing trade. Only optimists can trade. You're all so damn optimistic. Because you think you can win a game, many people believe it's impossible. Many people say how much they lost in the market, but if they failed, someone made millions of dollars every year waiting for me to take money from the dealing. You're donating money to people who don't know the basic rules. 4. Use only proven methods Do what works and don't do what doesn't work. Reinforce the strong. Best Regards, EXCAVO _____________________ Disclosure: I am part of Trade Nation's Influencer program and receive a monthly fee for using their TradingView charts in my analysis.
TRADENATION:BTCUSDEducation
by EXCAVO
19
How to Spot Potential Price Reversals - Part 1: GBPUSD ExampleA subject within technical analysis that many traders find difficult to apply to their day-to-day trading is the ability to spot reversals in price. The misreading of price activity when a reversal is materialising can often lead to incorrect decisions, such as entering a trade too early, which can result in being stopped out of a potentially successful trade before price activity moves in the intended direction. In this piece today, and part 2 tomorrow, we want to look at 2 types of reversal in price – the Head and Shoulders/Reversed Head and Shoulders and the Double Top/Double Bottom. The intention is to help you understand why price activity is reversing and highlight how knowledge of this may be applied within your own individual trading strategies. The Head and Shoulders Pattern This pattern highlights the potential, • reversal of a previous downtrend in price into a more prolonged period of upside strength • reversal of a previous uptrend in price into a phase of weakness In this example, we are going to outline in more detail a bullish reversal in price, which is called a ‘Reversed Head and Shoulders’. Points to Note: Reversed Head and Shoulders • A downtrend in price must have been in place. • A Reversed Head and Shoulders is made up of 3 clear troughs on a price chart. • The middle trough (called the Head) is lower than the 2 outer price troughs (called the Left Hand Shoulder and the Right Hand Shoulder). • The 3rd low in price (Right Hand Shoulder) being higher than the Head, reflects the inability of sellers to be able to break under a previous low in price. This is regarded as a ‘weak test’ of a previous price extreme, suggesting buyers may be gaining the upper hand, readying for a potential positive sentiment shift and price strength. • A trendline connecting highs in price that mark the upper extremes of the Head is drawn. This highlights the Neckline of the pattern, which if broken on a closing basis, completes the reversal, to represent a positive shift in sentiment and the potential of further price strength. Point to Note: To understand a bearish reversal, known as a ‘Head and Shoulders Top’ please simply follow the opposite analysis of what is highlighted above. GBPUSD Example: In the chart below, we look at the recent activity of GBPUSD, which formed a bullish Reversed Head and Shoulders Pattern between December 20th 2024 and February 13th 2025, when the pattern was completed. As with any bullish reversal in price, a clear downtrend and extended price decline must have been seen previously, for the reversal pattern to be valid. On the chart above, this was reflected by the decline from the September 20th 2024 high at 1.3434, into the January 13th price low at 1.2100. The Head and Shoulders pattern is made up of 3 troughs in price and in this example, these are marked by the period between December 30th 2024 to January 7th 2025 which forms the Left Hand Shoulder , between January 7th to February 5th 2025 which was the Head developing , and between February 5th to February 13th 2025, which then formed the Right Hand Shoulder . The Neckline of the pattern is drawn connecting the December 30th 2024 high and the February 5th 2025 highs, which was broken on a closing basis on February 13th 2025. It was on this day, the Reversed Head and Shoulders Pattern was completed with potential then turning towards a more extended phase of price strength. Does the Head and Shoulders offer an Insight into a Potential Price Objective? Yes, it does, by measuring the height from the bottom of the Head to the level of the Neckline at the time that low was posted, we can project this distance higher from the point the neckline was broken. This suggests a possible minimum objective for any future price strength. In the example above, a low of 1.2100 was registered on January 13th 2025, at which time the Neckline stood at 1.2576. This means the height of the Head was 0.0476 (476 pips). On February 13th when the Neckline was broken on a closing basis, the Neckline stood at 1.2529. As such… 1.2529 + 0.0476 = 1.3005, which would be the minimum potential price objective for the Reversed Head and Shoulders. This level was in fact achieved on March 18th 2025. Of course, while the Head and Shoulders pattern is regarded as one of the most reliable patterns within technical analysis, it is not a guarantee of a significant price movement, as much will still depend on future sentiment and price trends. Therefore, if initiating a trade based on a Reversed Head and Shoulders pattern, you must ALWAYS place a stop loss to protect against any unforeseen event or price movement. The stop loss should initially be placed just under the level of the Right Hand Shoulder, as any break of this point negates the pattern, meaning we were wrong to class the pattern as we did. However, if prices rise after completion of the pattern, you can consider moving a stop loss higher, keeping it just under higher support levels to protect your position. We highlighted the formation of the potential GBPUSD reversed Head and Shoulders pattern on February 13th 2025, so please take a look at our timeline for further details. Remember to watch out for tomorrow’s Part 2 post 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.
Education
by Pepperstone
Five powerful trading psychology tips to help youHere are five powerful trading psychology tips to help you cope with losses and stay in the game without giving up: 1. Accept Losses as Part of the Game Losses are inevitable in trading—even the best traders lose. Instead of fearing them, see losses as the cost of doing business and a learning opportunity. Keep a trading journal to analyze your mistakes and improve over time. 2. Control Your Emotions & Stick to the Plan Emotions like fear and greed lead to revenge trading and overleveraging. Set clear rules for stop-losses, position sizing, and risk per trade. Never move your stop loss out of desperation—respect your trading plan. 3. Manage Your Risk Like a Pro Follow the 1-2% risk per trade rule to protect your capital. If you lose small, you can always come back. A good risk-to-reward ratio (at least 1:2 or 1:3) ensures that even a 40% win rate can still be profitable in the long run. 4. Take Breaks & Maintain a Strong Mindset If you experience a streak of losses, step away from the charts for a while. Clear your mind, do something unrelated to trading, and return with a fresh perspective. Trading with a stressed or emotional mindset leads to bad decisions. 5. Focus on the Long-Term Vision Trading success doesn't happen overnight. Many traders blow their accounts because they want quick riches. Instead, focus on consistency, discipline, and skill-building. If you trust the process and stay patient, the results will come. Below is an example of a trading checklist that I follow before I take any trade, this helps me stay disciplined, manage risk, and avoid emotional decisions: ✅ Trading Psychology Checklist 🔹 Before Entering a Trade: ☐ Did I follow my trading plan? (No random trades, only high-probability setups) ☐ Am I trading based on logic, not emotions? (No FOMO, revenge trading, or overconfidence) ☐ Is my risk properly managed? (1-2% risk per trade, proper lot size) ☐ Does this trade have a good risk-to-reward ratio? (At least 1:2 or 1:3) ☐ Did I place my stop loss and take profit before executing the trade? 🔹 While in a Trade: ☐ Am I sticking to my original plan? (No moving stop losses or take profit out of emotions) ☐ Am I avoiding overtrading? (Only taking quality setups, not forcing trades) ☐ Am I managing my emotions? (Staying calm, not panicking over small fluctuations) 🔹 After Closing a Trade: ☐ Did I journal my trade? (Win or lose, record entry, exit, and emotions during the trade) ☐ Did I review what went right or wrong? (Learn from mistakes and improve) ☐ Am I sticking to my daily trading limit? (No excessive trading after wins or losses) ☐ Am I taking breaks and staying mentally refreshed? (Not glued to charts 24/7) Feel free to copy. But remember to support this with a boost if you enjoyed reading it.
TVC:GOLDEducation
by AmaWina