How much money can you make in Forex?🔸Consistentcy is the key - top professional traders aim to generate
20-30% returns / per month, obviously depends on account size,
risk tolerance, max DD, std lots exposure and multiple other factors.
🔸Depends on your trading style and risk profile, obviously.
Currently algo traders / full-auto systems generate the best returns.
🔸Forex trading bots are automated software programs that generate trading signals. Most of these robots are built with MetaTrader, PineScrips, Python and cAlgo.
🔸High-risk compounding strategy: Assuming you can double your cash multiple times in succession and start with 1,000 dollars, the 10th time, you would be a millionaire. It implies that assuming you contribute $ 1,000 and double, you contribute $ 2,000 and double, then, at that point, you do it from time to time, you will be a millionaire when you double your money the 10th time.
🔸Lower-risk strategy: risking no more than 1-5% per trade, limiting your exposure via trailing SL strategy or adjust SL to BE as soon as the trade
generates decent pnl
🔸If you want to separate yourself from the 90% (probably closer to 95% in my opinion) of traders who lose money consistently, you have to think differently.
🔸Most Forex traders overtrade and overleverage their accounts in an attempt to make 50%-100% profit or more every month.
🔸So to be in the top 5% to 10% of traders, you have to do the opposite. You have to put more focus on how much money you could lose rather than how much you can make.
🔸A higher win rate gives you more risk/reward flexibility, and a high risk/reward ratio means that your win rate can be lower and still stay profitable.
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RISK DISCLAIMER:
Trading Futures , Forex, CFDs and Stocks involves a risk of loss.
Please consider carefully if such trading is appropriate for you.
Past performance is not indicative of future results.
Commodities
Unlock Trading Success with These Proven Chart PatternsTechnical Analysis of the Trade:
The chart you provided highlights several patterns and levels, which I'll break down into different components for a clear analysis:
1. Market Structure:
Ascending Channel:
The price is moving within an upward-sloping channel, indicating that the market is in a bullish structure. An ascending channel like this represents a controlled trend higher with occasional corrections, providing potential buying opportunities on pullbacks to the lower boundary of the channel.
Trade Implication: As long as price remains within this channel, the overall bias is bullish. A break below the channel, however, would signal a shift in momentum, suggesting a potential sell-off.
2. Bull Flags:
Bull Flag 1 (Lower on the chart):
This flag formed after a strong upward move, followed by a tight consolidation, which is a classic bullish continuation pattern. The breakout from this flag has already occurred, leading to a further upward push.
Bull Flag 2 (Upper on the chart):
Similar to the previous one, this bull flag formed after another sharp move up, indicating a potential continuation. The price is currently in the process of consolidating in this flag, which makes this an area of interest for a potential entry on a breakout.
Trade Implication : Both flags suggest that the market is in a bullish phase. You could consider entering on a breakout above the upper bull flag, aiming for continuation to the upside.
3. Support/Resistance Zones:
1-Hour Liquidity Zones (LQZ):
The chart shows two 1-hour liquidity zones:
Upper LQZ (Around 2660): Price is consolidating just below this area. This zone could act as short-term resistance but would be a strong area for a breakout and continuation move higher.
Lower LQZ (Around 2640): Should the price reject from the upper bull flag, this area is the next potential support zone where price could find liquidity and buyers might step back in.
4-Hour Liquidity Zone (Around 2622): This lower level is a major support area. If price retraces significantly, this could be a high-probability area for a reversal or continuation of the overall bullish trend.
Trade Implication: If the price breaks above the 1-hour LQZ (Upper), it could trigger a bullish continuation. If rejected, you might look for a retracement back to the lower LQZ or even the 4-hour LQZ for a potential buying opportunity.
4. Pattern Confirmation & Confluences:
Multi-Touch Confirmation:
The price has interacted with significant levels multiple times (ascending channel, bull flags, and liquidity zones), strengthening the idea that these levels are respected by the market. This gives added confidence in the patterns you are trading off of, such as bull flags and support levels.
Trinity Rule:
Before entering a trade, ensure you have at least three confluences. In this case, potential confluences include:
Price staying within the ascending channel.
Bull flag formation at the current level.
Proximity to key liquidity zones.
With these three factors, you can confidently look for a continuation to the upside.
5. Price Action Signals:
Correction vs. Impulse:
If the market continues to move upwards impulsively, it supports the bullish continuation thesis. However, if it begins to correct, expect a pullback towards the lower boundaries of the liquidity zones or the lower boundary of the ascending channel.
Trade Implication: If you see a sharp impulse (breakout of the upper bull flag), it could be a signal to enter long positions, while a slow corrective move might indicate waiting for a better entry lower.
6. Risk Management:
Stop Placement:
Place your stop loss below the lower boundary of the second bull flag or below the most recent swing low. For a safer trade, consider setting the stop just below the lower 1-hour LQZ (2640), where price may likely find support.
Trade Implication: This gives the trade room to breathe while protecting against a deeper pullback.
Take Profit:
Based on the bullish pattern, your first take profit should be just above the upper 1-hour LQZ around 2660, with the next take profit near the next liquidity zone or potential resistance levels further up.
7. Probable Scenarios:
Bullish Scenario: If price breaks above the upper 1-hour LQZ and the current bull flag, it could rally towards the next significant resistance level (around 2670-2680).
Bearish Scenario : If price rejects from the upper bull flag and falls below the lower 1-hour LQZ, it could retrace to the 4-hour LQZ around 2620. This area would then offer a high-probability long entry.
Summary of the Trade:
Bias: Bullish (based on the ascending channel, bull flags, and liquidity zones).
Entry Strategy:
Enter on a breakout above the upper bull flag, with the price moving above 2660.
Alternatively, if the price retraces, enter near the 2640 (lower 1-hour LQZ) or 2622 (4-hour LQZ).
Stop Loss: Below the lower 1-hour LQZ (2640) or the recent swing low within the bull flag consolidation.
Take Profit: Around 2670-2680 (based on the next potential resistance and liquidity zones).
What is Structure Mapping in Gold Trading XAUUSD?
Structure mapping is essential for day trading, scalping and swing trading gold.
It is applied for trend analysis, pattern recognition, reversal and trend-following trading.
In this article, I will teach you how to execute structure mapping on Gold chart and how to apply that for making accurate predictions and forecasts.
Take notes and let's get started.
Let's discuss first, what is structure mapping?
With structure mapping, we perceive the price chart as the set of impulse and retracement legs.
Structure mapping can be executed on any time frame and on any financial market.
Look at a Gold chart on a 4H time frame. What I did, I underlined significant price movements.
Each point where every leg of a movement completes will have a specific name and meaning.
On a gold chart, I underlined all such points.
These points are very important because it determines the market trend and show the patterns.
When you execute structure mapping, the first thing that you should start with the identification of a starting point - the initial point of analysis.
On a price chart, such a point should be the highest high that you see or the lowest low.
If you start structure mapping with a high, that high will be called Initial High.
A completion point of a bearish movement from the Initial High will be called Lower Low LL.
A bullish movement that completes BELOW the level of the Initial High or Any Other High will be called Lower High LH.
A bullish movement that completes on the level of the Initial High or Any Other High will be called Equal High.
A bullish movement that completes above the level of the Initial High or Any Other High will be called Higher High HH.
If you start with the low, such point will be called Initial Low.
A completion point of a bullish movement from the Initial Low will be called Higher High HH.
A bearish movement that completes ABOVE the level of the Initial Low or Any Other Low will be called Higher Low HL.
A bearish movement that completes on the level of the Initial Low or Any Other Low will be called Equal Low.
A bearish movement that completes below the level of the Initial Low or Any Other Low will be called Lower Low LL.
Look how I executed structure mapping on Gold chart.
Starting with the lowest low, I underlined all significant price movements and its lows and highs.
You should learn to recognize these points because it is the foundation of gold structure mapping.
Combinations of these points will be applied for the identification of the market trend, trend reversal and patterns.
According to the rules, 2 lower lows and a lower high between them are enough to confirm that the market is trading in a bearish trend.
While 2 higher highs and a higher low between them confirm that the trend is bullish .
In a bullish trend, a bullish violation of the level of the last Higher High will be called a Break of Structure BoS. That event signifies the strength of the buyers and a bullish trend continuation.
A bearish violation of the level of the last Higher Low will be called Change of Character CHoCH . It will mean the violation of a current bullish trend.
In a bearish trend, a bearish violation of the level of the last Lower Low will be called a Break of Structure BoS . It is an important event that signifies the strength of the sellers and a bearish trend continuation.
While a bullish violation of the level of the last lower high will be called Change of Character CHoCH. That even will signify a violation of a bearish trend.
That's how a complete structure mapping should look on Gold chart.
With the identification of the legs of the move, highs and lows, BoS and ChoCh you can clearly understand what is happening with the market.
Gold was trading in a bearish trend. Once the level of our Initial Low was tested, the market started a correctional movement and started to trade in a bullish trend.
Once some important resistance was reached, the market reversed. We saw a confirmed CHoCH and the market returned to a bearish trend.
Structure mapping is the foundation of technical analysis. It is the basis of various trading strategies and trading styles. It is the first thing that you should start your trading education with.
I hope that my guide helped you to understand how to execute structure mapping in Gold trading.
❤️Please, support my work with like, thank you!❤️
Options Blueprint Series [Intermediate]: US Election Oil Play1. Introduction
The 2024 US Presidential Election could have a significant impact on global markets, especially energy sectors like crude oil. With key policies and geopolitical tensions hinging on the outcome, many traders are eyeing a potential price surge in WTI Crude Oil futures. Our prior article (linked below) presented a potential opportunity for crude oil prices to rise by over 40% within a year following the election. This could bring WTI Crude Oil Futures (CLZ2025) from its current price of 67.80 to around 94.92.
To capitalize on this potential opportunity, a strategic options play can be used to leverage this potential move, providing not only a chance to profit from a bullish breakout but also some protection against downside risk. This article explores a Breakout Booster Play using options on the December 2025 WTI Crude Oil futures contract (CLZ2025), designed to benefit from a possible post-election oil price surge.
2. Technical Overview
In analyzing the December 2025 WTI Crude Oil Futures (CLZ2025), a strong support level is identified. The 61.8% Fibonacci retracement level aligns perfectly with a UFO support zone at 55.62, suggesting a significant area where buying interest could emerge if prices fall to this level.
The current price of CLZ2025 is 67.80, and the technical analysis points to the possibility of a substantial bullish move following the 2024 US Presidential Election. The projected price increase of 40% could push crude oil prices up to 94.92 over the next year. However, even a more conservative target of 20% (around 81.36) could offer considerable upside potential.
This analysis provides the foundation for constructing an options strategy that not only takes advantage of the potential upside but also offers a buffer zone against downside risk by capitalizing on key support levels.
3. The Options Strategy
The options strategy we'll use here is a Breakout Booster Play designed to take advantage of the expected rise in crude oil prices. Here's how the strategy is constructed:
1. Sell 2 Puts at the 55 Strike:
Expiring on November 17, 2025, these puts are sold to collect a premium of approximately 3.27 points per contract.
By selling 2 puts, we collect a total of 6.54 points.
This creates a buffer zone, allowing us to take on some downside risk while still profiting if prices remain above 55.
2. Buy 1 Call at the 71 Strike:
Also expiring on November 17, 2025, the call is purchased for 6.28 points.
This call gives us the potential for unlimited upside if crude oil prices rise above 71.
Net Cost: The net cost of this strategy is minimal, with the collected premium from the puts (6.54) offsetting most of the cost of the call (6.28). The result is a credit of 0.26 points, meaning the trader gets paid to enter this position.
Break-Even Points:
The position would lose money only if crude oil falls below 54.87 (factoring in the premium collected).
Profit potential becomes significant if crude oil rises above 71, with large gains expected if the projected move to 81.36 or 94.92 materializes.
This strategy effectively positions the trader to profit from an upward breakout while maintaining a buffer against downside risk. If crude oil drops, losses are limited unless it falls below 54.87, at which point the trader would be required to take delivery of 2 crude oil futures contracts (long).
4. Profit and Risk Analysis
Profit Potential:
The key advantage of this options strategy is its profit potential on the upside. If crude oil prices rise above 71, the purchased call will start gaining value significantly.
If crude oil reaches 94.92 (a 40% increase from the current price), the long call will be deep in the money, resulting in substantial profits.
Even if the price rises more conservatively to 81.36 (a 20% increase), the strategy still allows for meaningful gains as the call appreciates.
Since the net entry cost is essentially zero (with a small credit of 0.26 points), the potential profit is high, and it becomes especially powerful above 71, with unlimited upside.
Risk Management:
This strategy comes with a 19% buffer before any losses occur at expiration, as the break-even point is 54.87. However, it is important to note that if the trade is closed before expiration, losses could be realized if crude oil prices have dropped, even if the price is above 55.
Risk Pre-Expiration: If crude oil prices fall sharply, especially before expiration, the trader could face significant losses. The risk is theoretically unlimited because, as the market moves against the sold puts, their value could rise dramatically. If a trader needs to close the position early, those puts could be worth significantly more than the premium initially collected, resulting in losses.
Potential Margin Calls: If crude oil drops far enough, the trader may receive a margin call on the short puts. This could happen well before the price reaches 54.87, depending on the speed and size of the drop. If not managed properly, this could force the trader to close the position at a significant loss.
While there is a built-in buffer, this trade requires active monitoring, particularly if crude oil prices start to decline. Risk management techniques, such as stop-loss orders, rolling options, or hedging, should be considered to mitigate losses in case the market moves unexpectedly.
5. Contract Specs and Margins
WTI Crude Oil Futures (CL)
Tick Size: The minimum price fluctuation is 0.01 per barrel.
Tick Value: Each 0.01 movement equals $10 per contract.
Margin Requirement: Approximately $6,100 per contract (subject to change based on market volatility).
Micro Crude Oil Futures (MCL)
Tick Value: Each 0.01 movement equals $1 per contract.
Margin Requirement: Approximately $610 per contract, offering a lower capital requirement for smaller positions.
Why Mention Both?
Traders with larger capital allocations may prefer using standard WTI Crude Oil futures contracts, given their greater exposure and tick value. However, for smaller or more conservative traders, Micro Crude Oil Futures (MCL) provide a more accessible way to enter the market while maintaining the same exposure ratios in a smaller size.
6. Summary and Conclusion
This options strategy provides a powerful way to capitalize on a potential post-election rally in crude oil prices, while offering downside protection. The combination of selling 2 puts at the 55 strike and buying 1 call at the 71 strike, all expiring on November 17, 2025, creates a structured approach to profit from a bullish breakout.
With current analysis based on machine learning suggesting a potential 40% increase in crude oil prices over the next year, the long call offers unlimited profit potential above 71. At the same time, the sale of the puts at the 55 strike gives the strategy a 19% buffer, with the break-even point at expiration being 54.87.
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.
3 Stages For Optimal Entry!There are 3 cycles you should allow the market to go through, when you are looking to enter a trade. These 3 cycles are:
1.Consolidation
2. Manipulation
3. Expansion
Monitoring price action & allowing these patterns to play out, allows you to take an optimal entry point, add confluences to your trade and increase your risk to reward (R:R).
What To Expect After The Fed rate Cut: 9-18-2024 (Fed Day)This video is really designed to teach you some basics about Fibonacci Price Theory (FPT) Analysis. I wanted to show you how I see the charts using FPT and why, sometimes, I might be seeing things differently than you do on the charts.
In my world, there are simple constructs that are evident on every chart. Supply & Demand zones, trending/flagging, and most importantly Fibonacci Price Theory constructs.
Fibonacci Price Theory is the basis of all my analysis. It is the ground-level structure I look for in price on all charts. Then, I move to more advanced indicators and other analysis types to develop a Success/Failure outcome (trend/trade expectation).
What I do is not hard to understand - it just takes practice.
Fibonacci & Gann techniques are infinitely adaptable to any type of price action. I use another technique I call the Tesla Price Amplitude Arcs which often help me identify where/when price events may happen - but that is for another video (maybe).
Ultimately, it comes down to understanding the structure and intent of price action (either success or failure) and how to position your trades for that success or failure of any price event.
There are really two types of traders: trend traders and counter-trend traders.
Trend traders try to catch the explosive price moves as trend events.
Counter-trend traders try to catch major reversal levels in price and try to profit from counter-trend price moves (reversals/reversions).
Using FPT, you can learn to execute both type of trading styles and improve your ability to see the market trends/setups more clearly.
I hope this video helps you learn to become a better trader and helps you understand my Plan Your Trade videos more clearly. At least you'll be able to understand how I see charts and what drives much of my thinking related to chart.
Get some.
#trading #research #investing #tradingalgos #tradingsignals #cycles #fibonacci #elliotwave #modelingsystems #stocks #bitcoin #btcusd #cryptos #spy #es #nq #gold
A New President's Potential Impact on Oil Prices1. Introduction
The U.S. presidential election in 2024 is set to bring new leadership, with a new president guaranteed to take office. As history has shown, political transitions often have a profound effect on financial markets, and crude oil is no exception. Traders, investors and hedgers are now asking the critical question: how will WTI Crude Oil futures react to this change in leadership?
While there is much speculation about how a Democrat versus a Republican might shape oil policy, data-driven insights provide a more concrete outlook. Using a machine learning model based on key U.S. economic indicators, we’ve identified potential movements in crude oil prices, spanning short, medium, and long-term timeframes.
2. Key Machine Learning Predictions for Crude Oil Prices
Short-Term (1 Week to 1 Month):
Based on the machine learning model, the immediate market reaction within the first week following the election is expected to be minimal, with predicted price changes below 2% for both a Republican and Democratic win. The one-month outlook also suggests additional opportunity.
Medium-Term (1 Quarter to 1 Year):
The model shows a significant divergence in crude oil prices over the medium term, with a potential sharp upward movement one year after the election. Regardless of which party claims the presidency, WTI crude oil prices could potentially rise by over 40%. This is in line with historical trends where significant price shifts occurred one year post-election, driven by economic recovery, fiscal policies, and broader market sentiment.
Long-Term (4 Years):
Over the course of the full four-year presidential term, the model predicts more moderate growth, averaging around 15%. The data suggests that, while short-term market movements may seem reactive, the long-term outlook is more balanced and less influenced by the winning party. Instead, economic conditions, such as interest rates and industrial activity, will have a more sustained impact on crude oil prices.
3. Feature Importance: The Drivers Behind Crude Oil Price Movements
The machine learning model's analysis highlights that crude oil price movements, especially one year after the election, are primarily driven by economic indicators, rather than the political party in power. Below are the top features influencing crude oil prices:
Top Economic Indicators Influencing Crude Oil:
Fed Funds Rate: The most significant driver of crude oil prices, as interest rate policies affect everything from borrowing costs to overall economic growth. Changes in the Fed Funds Rate can signal shifts in economic activity that directly impact oil demand apart from the US Dollar itself.
Labor Force Participation Rate: A critical indicator of economic health, a higher participation rate suggests a stronger labor market, which supports increased industrial activity and energy consumption, including crude oil.
Producer Price Index (PPI): The PPI reflects inflation at the producer level, impacting the cost of goods and services, including oil-related industries.
Consumer Sentiment Index: A measure of the general public's outlook on the economy, which indirectly influences energy demand as consumer confidence affects spending patterns.
Unit Labor Costs: An increase in labor costs can signal inflationary pressures, which could lead to changes in oil prices as businesses pass on higher costs to consumers.
This study exclusively uses U.S. economic data, excluding oil-related fundamentals such as OPEC+ supply and demand information, in order to focus on the election’s direct impact through domestic economic channels.
Minimal Influence of Political Party on Price Movements:
Interestingly, the machine learning model suggests that the political party of the newly elected president has a relatively low impact on crude oil prices. The performance of WTI crude oil appears to be more closely tied to macroeconomic factors, such as employment data and inflation, than the specific party in power.
These findings emphasize the importance of focusing on economic fundamentals when analyzing crude oil price movements for longer term exposures, rather than solely relying on political outcomes.
4. Historical Analysis of Crude Oil Price Reactions to U.S. Elections
Looking back over the last two decades, the performance of crude oil post-election has varied, depending on global conditions and the economic policies of the newly elected president.
Notable Historical Movements:
George W. Bush (Republican): In his 2000 election, crude oil dropped nearly 50% within a year, reflecting the broader economic fallout from the bursting of the dot-com bubble and the events of 9/11. In contrast, his 2004 re-election saw oil prices climb 21.5% within a year, driven by the Iraq War and increasing global demand for energy.
Barack Obama (Democratic): After his 2008 election, crude oil prices surged by 33.8% within one year, partly due to economic recovery efforts following the global financial crisis. His 2012 re-election saw more modest growth, with an 8.3% rise over the same period.
Donald Trump (Republican): His election in 2016 coincided with a moderate 23.8% increase in crude oil prices over one year, as the U.S. ramped up energy production through fracking, contributing to global supply increases.
Joe Biden (Democratic): Most recently, crude oil prices skyrocketed by over 100% in the year following Biden’s 2020 victory, driven by post-pandemic economic recovery and supply chain disruptions that affected global energy markets.
5. WTI Crude Oil Contracts: CL and MCL Explained
When trading crude oil futures, the two most popular contracts offered by the CME Group are WTI Crude Oil Futures (CL) and Micro WTI Crude Oil Futures (MCL). Both contracts offer traders a way to speculate or hedge on the price movements of crude oil, but they differ in size, margin requirements, and ideal use cases.
WTI Crude Oil Futures (CL):
Price Fluctuations: The contract moves in increments of $0.01 per barrel, meaning a $10 change for one contract.
Margin Requirements: As of recent estimates, the margin requirement for trading a CL contract is around $6,000, though this can fluctuate depending on market volatility.
Micro WTI Crude Oil Futures (MCL):
Price Fluctuations: 10 times less. The contract moves in increments of $0.01 per barrel, meaning a $1 change for one contract.
Margin Requirements: 10 times less, around $600 per contract.
Practical Application:
During periods of heightened market volatility—such as the lead-up to and aftermath of a U.S. presidential election—traders can use both CL and MCL contracts to navigate expected price fluctuations. Larger traders might use CL to hedge against or capitalize on significant price movements, while retail traders may prefer MCL for smaller, controlled exposure.
6. Conclusion
As the 2024 U.S. presidential election approaches, crude oil traders are watching closely for market signals. While political outcomes can cause short-term volatility, the machine learning model’s predictions emphasize that broader economic factors will drive crude oil prices more significantly over the medium and long term.
Whether a Democrat or Republican wins, crude oil prices are expected to see a potential increase, particularly one year after the election. This surge, driven by factors such as interest rates, labor market health, and inflation, suggests that traders should focus on these economic indicators rather than placing too much weight on which party claims the presidency.
7. Risk Management Reminder
Navigating market volatility, especially during a presidential election period, requires careful risk management. Crude oil traders, whether trading standard WTI Crude Oil futures (CL) or Micro WTI Crude Oil futures (MCL), should be mindful of the following strategies to mitigate potential risks:
Use of Stop-Loss Orders:
Setting predefined exit points, traders can avoid significant drawdowns if the market moves against their position.
Leverage and Margin Control:
Overexposure can lead to margin calls and forced liquidation of positions in volatile markets.
Position Sizing:
Adjusting position sizes according to risk tolerance is vital especially during uncertain periods like elections.
Hedging Strategies:
Traders might consider hedging their crude oil positions with other instruments, such as options or spreads, to protect against unexpected market moves.
Monitoring Economic Indicators:
Keeping a close watch on key U.S. economic data can provide valuable clues to future crude oil futures price movements.
By using these risk management tools effectively, traders can better navigate the expected volatility surrounding the 2024 U.S. election and protect themselves from significant market swings.
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.
Catch Big Market Moves: How to Trade Liquidity Zones Like a Pro The charts provided showcase potential scenarios based on different liquidity zones (LQZ) on multiple timeframes, such as 15M, 1H, and 4H. Let's break down the key insights from the images:
Key Levels:
Weekly Flag Trendline: This yellow trendline represents the long-term trend and acts as a major resistance or support. It’s crucial to monitor price action around this level for significant moves.
4HR LQZ (Liquidity Zone) at 2,532.077: This level signifies an important area of liquidity on the 4-hour chart. It’s a potential reversal point or continuation area depending on how the price interacts with it.
1HR LQZ and 15M LQZ: These shorter timeframe liquidity zones are at 2,482.129 and 2,470.544 respectively. They act as interim targets or bounce zones based on the smaller trend movements.
Price Action Context:
Wedge Formation: The rising wedge pattern visible in all the charts, combined with slowing momentum near the top, suggests possible bearish pressure. Wedges often lead to sharp breakouts, so a breakout to the downside would align with the wedge structure.
Multi-Touch Confirmation: The multiple touches on trendlines, both support and resistance, increase the probability of significant movements. This concept is supported by multi-touch confirmation techniques.
Scenario Planning:
Upside Potential: A breakout above the 4HR LQZ suggests further bullish momentum, likely toward higher liquidity zones. This can result in a continuation to the upside, as shown with the green line projection on some charts.
Downside Risks: A breakdown below the wedge support and failing to hold the 15M or 1HR LQZ may lead to a bearish move toward the lower liquidity targets. The yellow line projections suggest a pullback to 2,485.055 and potentially lower.
The Trinity Rule Approach:
Confluence Setup: If price interacts with three major zones (like the 4HR LQZ, wedge support, and Weekly Flag Trendline), we can assess whether these align with other signals. This rule adds extra confirmation for higher-probability setups, as discussed in your document.
Overall, price action shows a decision point around the wedge and liquidity zones, with strong reactions expected in either direction.
Why Most Traders Fail—and How You Can Succeed!The charts you provided showcase potential scenarios based on different liquidity zones (LQZ) on multiple timeframes, such as 15M, 1H, and 4H. Let's break down the key insights from the images:
Key Levels:
Weekly Flag Trendline: This yellow trendline represents the long-term trend and acts as a major resistance or support. It’s crucial to monitor price action around this level for significant moves.
4HR LQZ (Liquidity Zone) at 2,532.077: This level signifies an important area of liquidity on the 4-hour chart. It’s a potential reversal point or continuation area depending on how the price interacts with it.
1HR LQZ and 15M LQZ: These shorter timeframe liquidity zones are at 2,482.129 and 2,470.544 respectively. They act as interim targets or bounce zones based on the smaller trend movements.
Price Action Context:
Wedge Formation: The rising wedge pattern visible in all the charts, combined with slowing momentum near the top, suggests possible bearish pressure. Wedges often lead to sharp breakouts, so a breakout to the downside would align with the wedge structure.
Multi-Touch Confirmation: The multiple touches on trendlines, both support and resistance, increase the probability of significant movements. This concept is supported by multi-touch confirmation techniques.
Scenario Planning:
Upside Potential: A breakout above the 4HR LQZ suggests further bullish momentum, likely toward higher liquidity zones. This can result in a continuation to the upside, as shown with the green line projection on some charts.
Downside Risks: A breakdown below the wedge support and failing to hold the 15M or 1HR LQZ may lead to a bearish move toward the lower liquidity targets. The yellow line projections suggest a pullback to 2,485.055 and potentially lower.
The Trinity Rule Approach:
Confluence Setup: If price interacts with three major zones (like the 4HR LQZ, wedge support, and Weekly Flag Trendline), we can assess whether these align with other signals. This rule adds extra confirmation for higher-probability setups, as discussed in your document.
Overall, price action shows a decision point around the wedge and liquidity zones, with strong reactions expected in either direction.
Why WAITING on XAU Will pay BIG TIME The charts cover different timeframes of the XAU/USD (Gold/US Dollar) pair, and they reveal several key technical structures and patterns that are useful for trading analysis.
1. Flag Pattern and Breakout (5-Minute and 15-Minute Charts)
- On the 5-minute and 15-minute charts, there is a visible **flag pattern** following a strong upward move (bullish flag). This pattern typically indicates a continuation of the prevailing trend after a consolidation phase.
- The flag's lower trendline (support) and upper trendline (resistance) are marked in yellow. The price consolidated between these lines, and the breakout occurred upwards, confirming the bullish continuation. This breakout could be a potential entry point for a long position, with the stop loss below the flag's lower trendline and a target based on the flagpole's length (the initial strong upward move preceding the flag).
2. Descending Channel and Potential Reversal (1-Hour and 4-Hour Charts)
- The 1-hour and 4-hour charts display a **descending channel** (marked with yellow trendlines). The price recently touched the lower trendline and bounced back, showing signs of a potential reversal.
- If the price continues to break above the upper trendline of the descending channel, it could signal a bullish reversal, providing a possible entry for a long trade. The risk management strategy should include placing a stop loss below the recent low (or the channel's lower trendline) and targeting previous resistance levels or the channel's upper boundary.
3. Broadening Wedge Formation (4-Hour Chart)
- The broader view on the 4-hour chart shows a **broadening wedge pattern**, where the price has been making higher highs and lower lows. This pattern is generally considered a sign of increasing volatility and potential trend reversal.
- If the price breaks above the broadening wedge's upper trendline, this could further confirm a bullish reversal. Conversely, a break below the lower trendline would suggest further downside potential.
4. Support and Resistance Zones (Highlighted on All Charts)
- Several horizontal lines mark significant **support and resistance levels** around $2,507 and $2,532.144, respectively. These levels could serve as potential entry or exit points based on how the price reacts when approaching them.
- Observing how the price interacts with these levels can provide clues for future price action. For example, a sustained move above $2,507 could confirm a bullish sentiment, whereas a rejection or false breakout might suggest the continuation of the bearish trend.
Trading Strategy Recommendations:
1. Flag Pattern (Short-Term Bullish) If looking for short-term trades, consider entering a long position on a confirmed breakout of the flag pattern, with a stop loss below the flag's lower trendline. Target a move equal to the height of the flagpole added to the breakout point.
2. Descending Channel (Potential Reversal):If trading based on the descending channel, a break above the upper trendline could signal a reversal and a potential buying opportunity. In contrast, if the price rejects the upper trendline, consider shorting with a stop above the recent highs and target the lower boundary.
3. Broadening Wedge (Cautious Approach): For traders cautious about volatility, wait for a confirmed breakout from the broadening wedge to determine the trend direction. Enter long if it breaks upwards and short if it breaks downwards, setting stop losses just beyond the breakout points.
4. Support and Resistance Levels (Decision Zones): Use the marked support and resistance zones as decision points. Enter trades based on confirmation signals near these levels, and manage risk by adjusting stop-loss orders accordingly.
By combining these observations with confluence factors such as higher time frame trends, candlestick patterns, and multi-touch confirmations, you can refine your entry and exit points and enhance your trading strategy.
Unlock Winning Strategies: Spot High-Probability Trades!Chart Analysis: XAU/USD (Gold Spot vs. USD)
Based on the two charts you have provided, here is a detailed technical analysis of XAU/USD using price action and chart pattern observations:
1. Weekly Flag Trendline (Higher Time Frame Context)
The upper and lower yellow trendlines represent a possible flag pattern on the weekly chart. This suggests a consolidation phase after a strong impulsive move. A flag pattern typically signals a continuation of the previous trend, which, if the context is bullish, indicates that after consolidation, there may be a continuation to the upside.
On both charts, we can observe that price action is contained within this broader structure, indicating that price is in a correction phase rather than an impulsive phase.
2. Key Horizontal Levels
2,532.144 and 2,506.245: These levels act as strong resistance zones. The price has struggled to break above these levels multiple times, indicating significant selling pressure or profit-taking at these points.
2,471.313: This is a key support level. The price has reacted to this level before and, most recently, has bounced back after testing this support zone. This suggests that buyers are willing to step in at this level, providing a floor for the price.
3. Descending Channel and Price Action Patterns
Descending Triangle/Channel Pattern: On the 15-minute chart, the price seems to be forming a descending triangle pattern (lower highs and a flat support at 2,471.313). This pattern is typically bearish, suggesting a potential breakdown if the support does not hold.
Potential Reversal Patterns: After testing the lower trendline of the weekly flag pattern and finding support at the 2,471.313 level, there was a notable bullish reaction. This can imply a short-term reversal, especially if confirmed by a break above the minor resistance level of 2,494.370.
4. Consolidation Zone and Lower Time Frame Patterns
The 15-minute chart shows a clear consolidation pattern after the sharp decline, with price action currently moving sideways between 2,494 and 2,506. A break above this consolidation range could signal a short-term bullish continuation towards the upper resistance levels, while a break below would imply a continuation of the bearish trend observed previously.
5. Breakout and Pullback Zones
The yellow dotted lines on the 15-minute chart indicate key areas where the price broke out from consolidation phases. These areas are crucial for identifying potential entry points in a trending market. If the price retests these zones and finds resistance or support, they could act as triggers for either continuation or reversal trades.
Trading Strategy Considerations
Bullish Bias: Traders with a bullish bias might consider waiting for a breakout above the 2,506.245 resistance, looking for a confirmation with a pullback to this level as support. The target could be the upper boundary of the flag around 2,532.144 or higher, depending on momentum and broader market conditions.
Bearish Bias: A trader with a bearish outlook might wait for the price to break below the 2,471.313 support level, looking for short positions targeting lower levels aligned with the descending channel's trajectory.
Range Trading: Given the current consolidation between 2,494.370 and 2,506.245, range traders could look for entries at the edges of this range with tight stops and defined profit targets within the range.
Conclusion
Given the price action analysis and current chart patterns, the XAU/USD market appears to be in a consolidation phase within a broader flag pattern. This suggests that while the immediate outlook may be neutral to bearish, there is potential for a bullish breakout if key resistance levels are breached. Traders should watch for confirmed breakouts or breakdowns from these levels to guide their trading decisions, keeping in mind the broader market trend and any fundamental drivers influencing gold prices.
This Simple Strategy Could Make You a Fortune in the Gold Marketprice action of Gold Spot (XAU/USD) in relation to the trendlines and patterns indicated.
Chart Analysis
1. Weekly Flag Trendline:
- The first chart shows a trendline forming a "flag" pattern on a higher time frame (possibly weekly or daily). This flag appears to be a bullish continuation pattern, indicating that after the consolidation within the flag, the price might continue in the direction of the prior trend, which seems to be up.
2. Price Action Inside the Flag:
- Within the flag, there is a period of consolidation marked by the parallel trendlines. The price has been respecting these lines, creating higher lows and lower highs, indicating indecision or preparation for a breakout.
3. Potential Breakout Zones:
- Key breakout zones are marked by the upper resistance of the flag pattern around the 2,530 level and the lower support trendline of the flag around the 2,470 level. A breakout above the upper resistance could signal a continuation of the prior uptrend, while a break below the lower support could indicate a reversal or deeper pullback.
4. Smaller Patterns:
- On the second chart (1-hour time frame), there's a more detailed view of recent price action with a potential bearish flag or pennant forming, suggesting a temporary pullback or consolidation within the larger flag. This smaller pattern appears to be within a trading range bounded by the horizontal support and resistance levels.
5. Key Support and Resistance Levels:
- The charts show horizontal support around the 2,433.301 level, which aligns with a historical low that could serve as a significant support level. Similarly, the resistance level is around 2,530, where the price has repeatedly failed to break above.
6. Current Market Context:
- The price is currently hovering around 2,497, near the middle of the trading range, suggesting indecision. This midpoint could be a neutral zone where the price could move in either direction based on upcoming market momentum or news.
Trading Strategy and Considerations
- Entry Points:
- If considering a bullish scenario, a long entry could be planned near the lower support line of the flag, around 2,470, with a stop loss slightly below the flag's support to manage risk. A breakout above the 2,530 resistance could also provide a good entry point for a continuation of the uptrend.
- For a bearish scenario, a short entry could be considered if the price breaks below the 2,470 support level, confirming a breakdown from the flag pattern.
- Risk Management:
- The proximity of the price to both upper and lower boundaries of the flag pattern provides clear levels for stop placement. This helps in managing risk effectively, keeping losses contained if the trade goes against the initial bias.
- Monitoring Price Action:
- Watch for potential breakouts from the smaller patterns within the flag, as these could provide early signals of the larger move's direction. It would also be essential to keep an eye on volume changes, as increased volume could confirm the validity of a breakout or breakdown.
By aligning your trades with these patterns and key levels, you can take advantage of the potential setups provided by the price action within these consolidating formations. Ensure to adapt to new market conditions and stay disciplined in executing your trading plan.
Seasonal Strategies: Trading Natural Gas with a Tactical Edge1. Introduction
Natural Gas Futures (NG1! and MNG1!) hold a significant place in the energy market, acting as a key barometer for both seasonal and macroeconomic trends. These futures contracts are not just tools for hedging energy prices but also present potentially lucrative opportunities for traders who understand the underlying seasonal patterns that influence their movement.
Seasonality is a powerful concept in trading, particularly in commodities like Natural Gas, where demand and supply fluctuations are often tied to predictable seasonal factors.
2. Understanding Seasonality in Natural Gas
Seasonality refers to the predictable changes in price and market behavior that occur at specific times of the year. In the context of commodities like Natural Gas, seasonality is particularly significant due to the cyclical nature of energy consumption and production. Factors such as weather patterns, heating demand in winter, cooling demand in summer, and storage levels contribute to the seasonal price movements observed in Natural Gas Futures.
For this analysis, daily data from November 14, 1995, to August 30, 2024, has been meticulously examined. By calculating the 21-day moving average (representing a month) and the 63-day moving average (representing a quarter), bullish and bearish crossovers have been identified.
3. Analyzing Bullish and Bearish Crossovers
Bullish and bearish crossovers are critical signals in technical analysis, representing points where momentum shifts from one direction to another. In our analysis of Natural Gas Futures, such crossovers provide a clear indication of the monthly and quarterly trends.
The data reveals distinct patterns in the frequency and magnitude of bullish and bearish crossovers across different months:
Bullish Crossovers: Certain months, particularly March, April, and September, show a high number of bullish crossovers. This suggests that these months are historically strong for upward price movements, offering potential buying opportunities.
Bearish Crossovers: On the other hand, months like May, June, October, and November are marked by a higher frequency of bearish crossovers. These periods have historically seen downward price pressure, which could present short-selling opportunities.
The below chart further illustrates these patterns, highlighting the months with the most significant bullish and bearish activity.
4. Key Seasonal Patterns in Natural Gas
The analysis of Natural Gas Futures reveals distinct seasonal patterns that vary significantly from month to month. By understanding these patterns, traders can strategically plan to time their trades by aligning with the most opportune periods for either bullish or bearish movements.
January to February: Mixed Signals
Historically showing a balanced number of bullish and bearish crossovers. This suggests that while there are opportunities for both long and short trades, caution is warranted as the market can be unpredictable during this period.
March to April: Bullish Momentum
We see a shift towards more bullish activity. While there is still some bearish potential, the overall trend favors upward movements. Traders might consider looking for long opportunities during this period.
May to June: Bearish Pressure
The market shows signs of bearish pressure indicating a potential shift in momentum.
July, August and September: Summer Bulls
July and August: The bullish trend tends to be back but with a higher degree of volatility which may involve sudden market reversals.
September: Showing frequent up-moves with strong percentages. This month offers opportunities for traders to re-enter the market on the long side.
October to December: Volatile and Bearish
Bearish momentum and strong down-moves opening the door to shorting opportunities. Traders should be especially cautious in December with very high volatility in both directions.
These seasonal patterns provide a roadmap for traders, highlighting the months that are historically more favorable for either long or short positions in Natural Gas Futures.
5. September Seasonality Analysis: A Potential Buying Opportunity
September has historically been one of the most bullish months for Natural Gas Futures. Despite the common perception that autumn marks a period of declining demand for natural gas as the summer cooling season ends, the data reveals a different story.
Current Market Opportunity
Current Price: With the continuous contract of Natural Gas Futures (NG1!) currently trading around 2.18, the historical trends suggest that this could be a valid entry point for traders looking to capitalize on a potential price rally.
Historical Patterns: September has witnessed some of the most robust bullish activity, with the data showing a clear pattern of price increases. On average, September has seen up-moves of 36.45%, making it a standout month for bullish opportunities.
Trade Setup
Entry Point: Entering the market around the current price on NG1! of 2.18.
Target Price: Based on the historical average up-move of 36.45%, traders could set a target price around 2.98.
Stop Loss: To manage risk, a stop loss could be placed 11.28% below the entry price, around 1.93.
Probability of Success: Historical data suggests a high probability for this trade where 11 out of 13 trades produced bullish moves.
Conservative Approach
For traders seeking a more conservative strategy, setting a target at the UFO resistance level of 2.673 (instead of 2.98) offers a more cautious approach.
6. Trading with a Tactical Edge: Risk-Reward Analysis
The risk-reward ratio compares the potential profit of a trade to the potential loss. In our September example:
Risk: The stop loss is placed 11.28% below the entry price at 1.93, limiting potential downside.
Reward: The target is 36.45% above the entry price at approximately 2.98.
This setup offers a risk-reward ratio of about 1:3.2, meaning that for every point of risk, the potential reward is 3.20 points. Such a ratio is generally considered favorable in trading, as it allows for a greater margin of error while still maintaining profitability over time.
Point Values for Natural Gas Futures
When trading Natural Gas futures, it is essential to understand the point value of the contracts. For standard Natural Gas futures (NG), each point of movement in the price is worth $10,000 per contract. This means that a move from 2.18 to 2.98 represents a potential gain of $8,000 per contract with a potential for risk of $2,500 per contract.
For Micro Natural Gas futures (MNG), the point value is one-tenth that of the standard contract, with each point of movement worth $1,000 per contract. Therefore, the for same trade plan, the potential for reward and risk per contract would be $800 and $250 respectively.
7. Discipline and Emotional Control
Successful risk management also requires discipline and emotional control. It's essential to stick to your trading plan, avoid impulsive decisions, and manage your emotions, especially during periods of market volatility. Fear and greed are the enemies of successful trading, and maintaining a level-headed approach is crucial for long-term success.
8. Conclusion
The analysis of seasonality in Natural Gas Futures reveals a rich landscape of trading opportunities, especially when approached with a tactical mindset that incorporates probability and risk-reward analysis. By understanding the historical patterns that have shaped the market over the years, traders can position themselves to capitalize on the most opportune moments, whether the market is poised for a bullish rise or a bearish decline.
This September, in particular, presents a compelling case for a potential buying opportunity.
Ultimately, successful trading requires more than just identifying patterns—it demands a disciplined approach to risk management, a clear understanding of market dynamics, and the ability to adapt to changing conditions. By integrating these elements into your trading strategy, you can enhance your ability to navigate the complexities of the Natural Gas market and achieve consistent, long-term success.
As you apply these insights to your own trading, remember that while historical data provides valuable guidance, it is not a guarantee of future results. Always approach the market with caution, stay informed, and continuously refine your strategy based on the latest information and market conditions.
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.
How I Nailed a Perfect Breakout Trade Using a Simple Strategy*The following Analysis is made by my Trading BOT*
Analysis of Your Trade:
Descending Channel:
Formation and Breakout: The descending channel is well-defined, indicating a corrective phase following an impulsive move. The breakout above the channel suggests a potential reversal or continuation of the prior trend, which appears bullish.
Entry Timing: You entered the trade after the breakout from the descending channel. This entry aligns with a strategy to buy at the break of a corrective pattern, capitalizing on the resumption of bullish momentum.
Resistance Zone (Blue Area):
Initial Resistance Encounter: The blue horizontal line represents a resistance zone where price consolidated and failed to break higher on the first attempt. This is a good spot to watch for confirmation of a breakout or reversal.
False Breakouts: There are some upper wicks visible in this resistance zone, indicating possible false breakouts or liquidity grabs. This suggests that many traders might have been stopped out before the true breakout occurred.
Price Action Post-Breakout:
Sharp Move Down: After the breakout, price made a sharp move down to retest the previous resistance (now turned support), which aligns with the principles of market structure where old resistance becomes new support.
Correction and Continuation: The downward move appears corrective in nature, forming a series of lower highs and lower lows within a descending channel, after which the price breaks out and moves upwards sharply.
Risk and Reward Considerations:
Stop Placement: If your stop loss was placed below the previous swing low or the bottom of the descending channel, this would be a strategic placement to avoid being stopped out by market noise.
Take Profit: Your target seems to be well-placed, considering the previous highs or a key Fibonacci level. The green area likely represents the take-profit zone.
Volume Analysis:
Confirmation with Volume: The volume spike during the breakout from the descending channel and the subsequent move up indicates strong buying interest, which is a good confirmation signal.
Key Takeaways for Future Trades:
Pattern Recognition: Identifying descending channels and their breakouts is a strong skill that can be leveraged in various time frames.
Risk Management: Your trade shows a good understanding of risk management, especially if stops were placed beyond significant levels to avoid market noise.
Confirmation Signals: Waiting for volume confirmation during breakouts is an excellent strategy to avoid false moves.
Suggestions:
Multiple Time Frame Analysis: Ensure that your lower-time-frame trades are aligned with the higher-time-frame trends or setups to increase the probability of success.
Post-Trade Analysis: Continue reviewing your trades like this to refine your entry and exit strategies, especially around key zones like support and resistance.
Comparing Different Financial MarketsComparing Different Financial Markets
In trading, understanding the types of international financial markets is crucial. This article offers a comprehensive market comparison of the stock, forex, commodity, crypto* and bond arenas. You’ll learn the importance of these financial markets and what it takes to navigate each one effectively.
Stock Market
The stock market is a financial marketplace where traders and investors can buy and sell shares of publicly traded companies. By purchasing a stock, an investor essentially owns a slice of the company, and their investment's value moves in tandem with the company's performance.
- Risk: Stocks can be volatile, subject to market sentiment, economic indicators, and company performance. Risk varies widely among different types of stocks.
- Income Potential: Day traders aim for short-term gains, while long-term investors often seek stocks that offer dividends or high growth potential.
- Knowledge: A solid understanding of market trends, company fundamentals, and technical indicators is beneficial for effective trading.
- Liquidity: Most stocks, especially those listed on major exchanges, have high liquidity, allowing for quick entry and exit.
- Costs and Fees: Costs can include brokerage commissions, although many online platforms now offer zero-commission trading.
- Trading Hours: Generally restricted to weekdays, opening and closing at set times, with after-hours trading being possible but less liquid.
Forex Market
The forex market is the global marketplace for buying and selling currencies. Traders pair two currencies, like EUR/USD, and profit from the fluctuations in exchange rates.
- Risk: Forex trading can be highly volatile and is considered riskier than stock trading, influenced by geopolitical events, interest rates, and economic data.
- Income Potential: High leverage can amplify gains but also increase risk. Many traders seek to profit from short-term fluctuations.
- Knowledge: Understanding of macroeconomic indicators, geopolitical events, and technical analysis can be crucial for success.
- Liquidity: Extremely high, given the 24/5 operation of the Forex market.
- Costs and Fees: Typically lower than other markets, often involving spreads rather than direct commissions.
- Trading Hours: Operates 24 hours a day, five days a week, allowing for flexibility in trading times.
Commodity Market
The commodity market is one of the types of international financial markets where physical or virtual assets like gold, oil, or agricultural products are traded. These markets often act as a gauge for supply and demand conditions globally.
- Risk: Commodities can be quite volatile, influenced by global events, natural disasters, and political instability. Traders often hedge against other market risks by investing in commodities.
- Income Potential: Gains can be substantial but are also subject to dramatic shifts based on the factors mentioned above.
- Knowledge: Understanding of global economic indicators, supply and demand factors, and geopolitical events is critical.
- Liquidity: Varies widely depending on the commodity; for example, gold and oil are highly liquid.
- Costs and Fees: This can include brokerage commissions, futures contract fees, and costs associated with physical storage for some commodities.
- Trading Hours: Vary by commodity and exchange, but many have extended hours due to global demand.
Cryptocurrency Market*
The cryptocurrency market is a decentralised digital asset market that includes cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and various tokens. It's the newest and one of the most rapidly evolving financial markets.
- Risk: Extremely volatile, with prices subject to rapid fluctuations, sometimes within minutes. Regulatory concerns add another layer of risk.
- Income Potential: High potential for both short-term and long-term gains, but also significant risk of loss.
- Knowledge: Understanding of blockchain technology, market sentiment, and technical analysis is often crucial. Familiarity with regulation is also beneficial.
- Liquidity: Generally high for well-known cryptocurrencies but can be low for lesser-known tokens and coins.
- Costs and Fees: Vary by platform and may include transaction fees, deposit/withdrawal fees, and "gas" fees for certain types of transactions.
- Trading Hours: Operates 24/7, allowing for ongoing trading and the chance to react to market news or events.
You can head over to FXOpen's free TickTrader platform to explore the above-mentioned markets for CFD trading in real-time.
Bond Market
The bond market is a segment of the financial market where debt securities are issued and traded. Unlike the stock market, which is a part of the capital market, the bond market focuses on long-term debt instruments. This highlights the difference between capital markets and financial markets.
- Risk: Generally considered lower risk compared to stocks and commodities, although risk can vary depending on the issuer's creditworthiness.
- Income Potential: Lower yield compared to more volatile markets, but often offers more stable returns through interest payments.
- Knowledge: Understanding of interest rates, yield curves, and credit ratings is essential for bond trading.
- Liquidity: Varies depending on the type of bond; government bonds are usually highly liquid, while corporate bonds can be less so.
- Costs and Fees: Transaction costs are generally built into the bond's price, but some brokers may charge commissions.
- Trading Hours: Primarily traded over-the-counter (OTC), with some bonds available on exchanges. Trading hours can vary but are generally regular business hours.
The Bottom Line
In summary, the diverse features of financial markets offer traders a range of opportunities, from stocks and commodities to cryptocurrencies* and bonds. Armed with this knowledge, you're now equipped to navigate the markets with confidence. Want to put these insights into action? Consider opening an FXOpen account to kickstart your trading adventure.
*At FXOpen UK and FXOpen AU, Cryptocurrency CFDs are only available for trading by those clients categorised as Professional clients under FCA Rules and Professional clients under ASIC Rules, respectively. They are not available for trading by Retail clients.
This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.
Developing Success With PineScript : Building Trigger MechanismsIn my ongoing quest to build better tools for traders, I continue to develop new quantitative trigger logic to improve the working versions I have already created.
Trigger logic is complicated for most people because they fail to take the time to "focus on failure."
Everyone builds trading systems focused on where the triggers work perfectly (trust me - I've seen/built a few hundred of them).
But the most important thing to focus on is where it fails to generate a decent trigger and how you are going to filter it out or protect capital when that failed trigger hits.
In this example, I highlight my new "Gun-Slinger" triggers and how my continued development is creating more advanced trading tools for skilled traders.
I hope you enjoy it.
#trading #research #investing #tradingalgos #tradingsignals #cycles #fibonacci #elliotwave #modelingsystems #stocks #bitcoin #btcusd #cryptos #spy #es #nq #gold
Silver (XAGUSD) how to construct a trade:Medium bullish take:
OANDA:XAGUSD is trading around the $30 price level for the first time in years. Is there a trade here? Could we see $40 by EOY? Let’s draw some charts:
We're trading in a Bullflag at the $30 level
Triple top, we're not quite ready to hold above the level
Find nearby price targets
Establish long term support lines
Use momentum indicators and price action to draw a reasonable path which engages the price structures you've established.
So according to our charts, we should expect a bounce above $27 Be mindful, there are exogenous events that push the price around. Shifts in the macro landscape will impact the path price takes.
For details, I've included a fun GIF, animating the construction of this chart. Check out my twitter for more!
NOTE: Original idea posted 7/23
Gold vs. Dollar: Debunking the Correlation MythIn financial markets, it's common to look for correlations between different assets to understand their behavior and make informed trading decisions.
One widely discussed relationship is between Gold (XAU/USD) and the US Dollar Index (DXY). While it's often assumed that these two assets are inversely correlated, a deeper analysis reveals that this is not always the case.
This article explores the nuances of the XAU/USD and DXY relationship, demonstrating that they are not consistently correlated.
Understanding XAU/USD and DXY
XAU/USD represents the price of Gold in US dollars. Gold is traditionally viewed as a safe-haven asset, meaning its price tends to rise in times of economic uncertainty.
DXY, or the US Dollar Index, measures the value of the US dollar against a basket of six major currencies: the Euro, Japanese Yen, British Pound, Canadian Dollar, Swedish Krona, and Swiss Franc. The index provides a broad measure of the US dollar's strength.
The Assumption of Inverse Correlation
The assumption of an inverse correlation between XAU/USD and DXY is based on the idea that when the dollar strengthens, it becomes more expensive to buy Gold, leading to a decrease in Gold prices.
Conversely, when the dollar weakens, gold becomes cheaper, and its price tends to rise. However, this relationship is not as straightforward as it seems.
Historical Data Analysis
To understand the true nature of the relationship between XAU/USD and DXY, let's examine historical data.
1. 2008 Financial Crisis: During the 2008 financial crisis, both gold and the US dollar saw periods of appreciation. Investors flocked to the safety of both assets amid widespread market turmoil. This simultaneous rise contradicts the notion of a straightforward inverse correlation.
2. 2014-2016 Period: From mid-2014 to the end of 2016, the DXY experienced significant strength, rising from around 80 to over 100.
During this period, gold prices also showed resilience, hovering around $1,200 to $1,300 per ounce. The expected inverse correlation was not evident during these years.
3. COVID-19 Pandemic: In early 2020, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic triggered a sharp rise in both gold and the US dollar. The DXY spiked as investors sought the liquidity and safety of the US dollar, while gold surged as a hedge against unprecedented economic uncertainty and aggressive monetary policy actions.
4. Gold new ATH's in 2024: Even recently, if we examine the charts, we see that since the beginning of the year, XAU/USD has risen by 4000 pips, while the DXY is 4% above its price at the start of the year.
Factors Influencing the Relationship:
Several factors can disrupt the expected inverse correlation between XAU/USD and DXY:
- Market Sentiment: Investor sentiment plays a crucial role. During periods of extreme uncertainty, both gold and the US dollar can be sought after for their safe-haven properties.
- Monetary Policy: Central bank actions, particularly those of the Federal Reserve, can impact both the US dollar and gold. For instance, lower interest rates may weaken the dollar but boost gold prices as investors seek better returns elsewhere.
- Geopolitical Events: Political instability, trade tensions, and other geopolitical factors can drive simultaneous demand for both assets, decoupling their traditional relationship.
- Inflation Expectations: Gold is often used as a hedge against inflation. If inflation expectations rise, gold prices might increase regardless of the dollar's strength or weakness.
Conclusion:
While there are periods when XAU/USD and DXY exhibit an inverse correlation, this relationship is far from consistent. Various factors, including market sentiment, monetary policy, geopolitical events, and inflation expectations, can influence their behavior. Traders and investors should not rely solely on the assumed inverse correlation but rather consider the broader context and multiple factors at play.
Understanding that XAU/USD and DXY are not always correlated can lead to more nuanced trading strategies and better risk management. In the complex world of financial markets, recognizing the limitations of assumed relationships is crucial for making informed decisions.
Best Regards!
Mihai Iacob
Exploring Bearish Plays w/ Futures, Micros & Options on FutureIntroduction
The WTI Crude Oil futures market provides various avenues for traders to profit from bullish and bearish market conditions. This article delves into several bearish strategies using standard WTI Crude Oil futures, Micro WTI Crude Oil futures contracts, and options on these futures. Whether you are looking to trade outright futures contracts, construct complex spreads, or utilize options strategies, this publication aims to assist you in formulating effective bearish plays while managing risk efficiently.
Choosing the Right Contract Size
When considering a bearish play on WTI Crude Oil futures, the first decision involves selecting the appropriate contract size. The standard WTI Crude Oil futures and Micro WTI Crude Oil futures contracts offer different levels of exposure and risk.
WTI Crude Oil Futures:
Standardized contracts linked to WTI Crude Oil with a point value = $1,000 per point.
Suitable for traders seeking significant exposure to market movements.
Greater potential for profits but also higher risk due to larger contract size.
TradingView ticker symbol is CL1!
Margin Requirements: As of the current date, the margin requirement for WTI Crude Oil futures is approximately $6,000 per contract. Margin requirements are subject to change and may vary based on the broker and market conditions.
Micro WTI Crude Oil Futures:
Contracts representing one-tenth the value of the standard WTI Crude Oil futures.
Each point move in the Micro WTI Crude Oil futures equals $100.
Ideal for traders who prefer lower exposure and risk.
Allows for more precise risk management and position sizing.
TradingView ticker symbol is MCL1!
Margin Requirements: As of the current date, the margin requirement for Micro WTI Crude Oil futures is approximately $600 per contract. Margin requirements are subject to change and may vary based on the broker and market conditions.
Choosing between standard WTI Crude Oil and Micro WTI Crude Oil futures depends on your risk tolerance, account size, and trading strategy. Smaller contracts like the Micro WTI Crude Oil futures offer flexibility, particularly for newer traders or those with smaller accounts.
Bearish Futures Strategies
Outright Futures Contracts:
Selling WTI Crude Oil futures outright is a straightforward way to express a bearish view on the market. This strategy involves selling a futures contract in anticipation of a decline in oil prices.
Benefits:
Direct exposure to market movements.
Simple execution and understanding.
Ability to leverage positions due to margin requirements.
Risks:
Potential for significant losses if the market moves against your position.
Mark-to-market losses can trigger margin calls.
Example Trade:
Sell one WTI Crude Oil futures contract at 81.00.
Target price: 76.00.
Stop-loss price: 82.50.
This trade aims to profit from a 5.00-point decline in oil prices, with a risk of a 1.50-point rise.
Futures Spreads:
1. Calendar Spreads: A calendar spread, also known as a time spread, involves selling (or buying) a longer-term futures contract and buying (or selling) a shorter-term futures contract with the same underlying asset. This strategy profits from the difference in price movements between the two contracts.
Benefits:
Reduced risk compared to outright futures positions.
Potential to profit from changes in the futures curve.
Risks:
Limited profit potential compared to outright positions.
Changes in contango or backwardation could hurt the position.
Example Trade:
Sell an October WTI Crude Oil futures contract.
Buy a September WTI Crude Oil futures contract.
Target spread: Decrease in the difference between the two contract prices.
In this example, the trader expects the October contract to lose more value relative to the September contract over time. The profit is made if the spread between the December and September contracts widens.
2. Butterfly Spreads: A butterfly spread involves a combination of long and short futures positions at different expiration dates. This strategy profits from minimal price movement around a central expiration date. It is constructed by selling (or buying) a futures contract, buying (or selling) two futures contracts at a nearer expiration date, and selling (or buying) another futures contract at an even nearer expiration date.
Benefits:
Reduced risk compared to outright futures positions.
Profits from stable prices around the middle expiration date.
Risks:
Limited profit potential compared to other spread strategies or outright positions.
Changes in contango or backwardation could hurt the position.
Example Trade:
Sell one November WTI Crude Oil futures contract.
Buy two October WTI Crude Oil futures contracts.
Sell one September WTI Crude Oil futures contract.
In this example, the trader expects WTI Crude Oil prices to remain relatively stable.
Bearish Options Strategies
1. Long Puts: Buying put options on WTI Crude Oil futures is a classic bearish strategy. It allows traders to benefit from downward price movements while limiting potential losses to the premium paid for the options.
Benefits:
Limited risk to the premium paid.
Potential for significant profit if the underlying futures contract price falls.
Leverage, allowing control of a large position with a relatively small investment.
Risks:
Potential loss of the entire premium if the market does not move as expected.
Time decay, where the value of the option decreases as the expiration date approaches.
Example Trade:
Buy one put option on WTI Crude Oil futures with a strike price of 81.00, expiring in 30 days.
Target price: 76.00.
Stop-loss: Premium paid (e.g., 2.75 points x $1,000 per contract).
If the WTI Crude Oil futures price drops below 81.00, the put option gains value, and the trader can sell it for a profit. If the price stays above 78.25, the trader loses only the premium paid.
2. Synthetic Short: Creating a synthetic short involves buying a put option and selling a call option at the same strike price and expiration. This strategy mimics holding a short position in the underlying futures contract.
Benefits:
Similar profit potential to shorting the futures contract.
Flexibility in managing risk and adjusting positions.
Risks:
Potential for unlimited losses if the market moves significantly against the position.
Requires margin to sell the call option.
Example Trade:
Buy one put option on WTI Crude Oil futures at 81.00, expiring in 30 days.
Sell one call option on WTI Crude Oil futures at 81.00, expiring in 30 days.
Target price: 76.00.
The profit and loss (PnL) profile of the synthetic short position would be the same as holding a short position in the underlying futures contract. If the price falls, the position gains value dollar-for-dollar with the underlying futures contract. If the price rises, the position loses value in the same manner.
3. Bearish Options Spreads: Options offer versatility and adaptability, allowing traders to design various bearish spread strategies. These strategies can be customized to specific market conditions, risk tolerances, and trading goals. Popular bearish options spreads include:
Vertical Put Spreads
Bear Put Spreads
Put Debit Spreads
Ratio Put Spreads
Diagonal Put Spreads
Calendar Put Spreads
Bearish Butterfly Spreads
Bearish Condor Spreads
Etc.
Example Trade:
Bear Put Spread: Buying the 81.00 put and selling the 75.00 put with 30 days to expiration.
Risk Profile Graph:
This example shows a bear put spread aiming to profit from a decline in WTI Crude Oil prices while limiting potential losses.
For detailed explanations and examples of these and other bearish options spread strategies, please refer to our published ideas under the "Options Blueprint Series." These resources provide in-depth analysis and step-by-step guidance.
Trading Plan
A well-defined trading plan is crucial for successfully executing any strategy. Here’s a step-by-step guide to formulating your plan:
1. Select the Strategy: Choose between outright futures contracts, calendar or butterfly spreads, or options strategies based on your market outlook and risk tolerance.
2. Determine Entry and Exit Points:
Entry price: Define the price level at which you will enter the trade (e.g., breakout, UFO resistance, indicators convergence/divergence, etc.).
Target price: Set a realistic target based on technical analysis or market projections.
Stop-loss price: Establish a stop-loss level to manage risk and limit potential losses.
3. Position Sizing: Calculate the appropriate position size based on your account size and risk tolerance. Ensure that the position aligns with your overall portfolio strategy.
4. Risk Management: Implement risk management techniques such as using stop-loss orders, hedging, and diversifying positions to protect your capital. Risk management is vital in trading to protect your capital and ensure long-term success.
Conclusion
In this article, we've explored various bearish strategies using WTI Crude Oil futures, Micro WTI Crude Oil futures, and options on futures. From outright futures contracts to sophisticated spreads and options strategies, traders have multiple tools to capitalize on bearish market conditions while managing their risk effectively.
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.
Four Factors Driving Gold Prices Relative to Silver2600 years ago, the Anatolian Kingdom of Lydia minted the world’s first gold and silver coins. In doing so, the Lydian King Alyattes and his successor Croesus introduced the world’s first exchange rate: the gold-silver cross. Like any cross rate, the amount of silver that can be purchased with an ounce of gold is driven by both demand and supply-side factors, and the cross rate is anything other than stable. Sadly, we don’t have the time series of the gold-silver ratio dating back to ancient times, but we do have data going back to the launch of gold futures on December 31, 1974. Since the mid-1970s, one ounce of gold bought anywhere from 17 ounces to as many as 123 ounces of silver (Figure 1).
Figure 1: The amount of silver an ounce of gold can buy has been highly variable
In addition to the impact of monetary policy, which we have covered here, the gold-silver ratio appears to be governed by four other factors:
Relative volatility and the silver beta
Fabrication demand and technological change
Gold’s use as a monetary asset
Supply-side dynamics
Relative volatility and beta
To borrow an expression from the equity markets, silver is the high-beta version of gold. First, silver and gold prices usually have a strong positive correlation. Since 2004 the one-year rolling correlation of their daily price moves has hovered around +0.8 (Figure 2). Second, silver is more volatile than gold. As such, when gold prices move up, silver tends to move up more, thereby lowering the gold-silver price ratio. By contrast, during bear markets, the gold-silver ratio tends to rise.
Figure 2: The correlation of gold and silver price changes has hugged +0.8 since 2004.
For example, when gold and silver prices peaked in September 2011, one ounce of gold bought fewer than 32 ounces of silver (Figure 3). In the ensuing bear market, the ratio rose to as high as 124 ounces of silver per ounce of gold. The ratio snapped back to 64 in 2020 as gold and silver rallied early in the pandemic. In 2024, as both metals have rallied, silver has outperformed, rising 23% in the first five months of the year compared to 12% for the yellow metal.
Figure 3: Positive correlation plus much higher volatility give silver a high beta to gold
Fabrication Demand and the Impact of Technological Change
What is curious is that while gold and silver have rallied thus far in 2024, gold broke to new record highs of nearly $2,500 per ounce whereas silver prices remain 40% below their twin 1980 and 2011 peaks despite having outperformed gold since 2020 (Figure 4). The reason may lie in technological advances.
Figure 4: Gold has hit records in 2024 while silver is still 40% below its 1980 and 2011 record highs
Even before the Lydians minted the first gold and silver coins around 600 BCE, both metals had been used to make jewellery: silver since around 2500 BCE and gold since 4500 BCE. Some things don’t change. Even today, the primary use of both metals is to make jewellery. Yet, thus far this century, silver has been buffeted by two sets of technological developments: the digital revolution and the energy transition. Both have impacted the relative gold-silver ratio.
In 1999, photography used 267.7 million troy ounces of silver which accounted for 36.6% of that year’s total silver supply. By 2023 photography used only 23.2 million ounces of silver or about 2.3% of 2023’s total supply due to the rise of digital photography. Meanwhile, silver’s use in electronics and batteries grew from 90 million ounces to 227.4 million ounces or from 12.3% to 22.7% of silver’s total annual supply, partially offsetting the decline in traditional photography, which may partially explain why silver has struggled to hit new highs in recent years even as gold has set records.
The good news for silver, however, is that it is finding new use in the energy transition. Over the past few years silver has seen strong growth coming from solar panels, which accounted for 20% of 2023 silver demand, up from essentially nothing in 1999 (Figure 5). Solar panels may explain in part why silver has recovered relative to gold since 2020.
Figure 5: Battery and solar panel demand have grown as photography demand has shrunk
If you have futures in your trading portfolio, you can check out on CME Group data plans available that suit your trading needs www.tradingview.com
By contrast, gold fabrication demand has shown itself to be immune from recent technological developments and is still overwhelmingly dominated by jewellery demand, with electronics, dental and other uses absorbing just 17% of annual gold mining supply (Figure 6). The differences in silver and gold fabrication demand underscores that gold is considered the purer of the two precious metals.
Figure 6: Gold fabrication demand has remained little changed
Gold and global monetary policy
Indeed, central banks around the world treat gold as money while they largely ignore silver (Figure 7). They hold a combined 36,700 metric tons of gold, the equivalent of 1.2 billion troy ounces or 13 years of global mining output. Moreover, central banks have been net buyers of gold every year since the global financial crisis.
Figure 7: Central banks have been net buyers of gold since the global financial crisis
Central bank buying of gold since 2009 contrasts sharply with their tendency to be net sellers from 1982 to 2007. Central banks’ accumulation of gold suggests that they want a hard asset to complement their foreign exchange reserves of dollars, euros, yen and other fiat currencies, a view that appears to have been reinforced by on-and-off quantitative easing since 2009 and increased use of financial sanctions. Central bank buying impacts gold prices directly, but only boosts silver prices indirectly via the gold market.
The supply side of the equation
Central bank gold buying reduces the amount of gold available to the public. Over the past decade, central bank buying has removed the equivalent of 8%-20% of new mining supply from the gold market each year (Figure 8) which may also explain why the gold-silver ratio rose significantly from 2011 to 2020 and why, even today, it remains at 2x its 2011 level.
Figure 8: Net of central bank buying, gold supply has stagnated since 2003
Total gold supply net of official purchases has stagnated since 2003. Meanwhile, silver mining supply peaked in 2016 and gold mining supply peaked the next year (Figure 9). The fact that new supply is arriving on the market more slowly than in the past may be bullish for both gold and silver.
Figure 9: Gold and silver respond negative to changes in each other’s mining supply.
Our econometric analysis shows that gold and silver prices are negatively correlated with changes to one another’s mining supply. A 1% decrease in gold mining supply, on balance, boosted gold prices by 1.9% and silver by 3.0% from 1974 to 2023. A 1% decease in silver mining supply boosted the prices of the metals by 1.3%-1.6% (Figure 10). Secondary supply appears to respond to price rather than drive it. Higher prices incentivize more recycling, but recycled metal doesn’t appear to depress prices as it doesn’t bring any new metal onto the market.
Figure 10: Secondary supply responds to price rather than drives it
What connects the two markets is jewellery. Because gold is 70x as costlier than silver, when prices rise, demand for gold jewellery falls while silver’s jewellery demand is relatively unresponsive to price because it costs much less. Gold and silver can be seen as a sort of binary star system where the two stars orbit a common center of gravity or barycenter. Gold is the larger, more stable and more influential of the two, but it is by no means immune from silver’s pull.
If you have futures in your trading portfolio, you can check out on CME Group data plans available that suit your trading needs www.tradingview.com
By Erik Norland, Executive Director and Senior Economist, CME Group
*CME Group futures are not suitable for all investors and involve the risk of loss. Copyright © 2023 CME Group Inc.
**All examples in this report are hypothetical interpretations of situations and are used for explanation purposes only. The views in this report reflect solely those of the author and not necessarily those of CME Group or its affiliated institutions. This report and the information herein should not be considered investment advice or the results of actual market experience.
Options Blueprint Series: Cost Efficient Skip Strike ButterflyUnderstanding Skip Strike Butterfly
The Skip Strike Butterfly strategy is a unique and cost-effective options trading strategy that builds upon the traditional butterfly spread. This strategy involves buying and selling options at different strike prices to create a position with limited risk and potential for profit. Unlike the traditional butterfly spread, the Skip Strike Butterfly "skips" a strike price, which reduces the overall cost of the trade while maintaining a similar payoff profile.
Benefits:
Cost Efficiency: Lower upfront cost compared to traditional butterfly spreads.
Limited Risk: The maximum risk is limited to the net premium paid for the strategy.
Profit Potential: Potential for significant returns if the underlying asset moves within the expected range.
Understanding the mechanics of the Skip Strike Butterfly strategy can provide traders with a versatile tool for navigating market conditions when trading Corn Futures. This strategy allows traders to participate in market movements with a well-defined risk and reward profile, making it an attractive option for those looking to optimize their trading costs.
Strategy Setup
Setting up the Skip Strike Butterfly strategy for Corn Futures involves selecting the appropriate strike prices and expiration dates. Here, we detail the steps to configure this strategy effectively.
Steps to Set Up the Skip Strike Butterfly:
1. Select the Expiration Date:
Choose an expiration date that aligns with your market outlook and trading plan. Ensure you select an expiration that provides enough time for the expected price movement to occur.
2. Determine the Strike Prices:
Identify the current price of Corn Futures.
Typically, use calls for bullish setups and puts for bearish setups.
Buy one in-the-money (ITM) option.
Sell two at-the-money (OTM) options using a strike located near to where the trade target price is.
Skip one or multiple strikes and buy one further out-of-the-money (OTM) option.
3. Calculate the Cost:
Calculate the net premium paid for the strategy by considering the premiums of each option involved. The net cost is generally lower due to the skipped strike price.
4. Establish the Payoff Structure:
The maximum profit is realized if the price of Corn Futures closes at the middle strike at expiration.
The maximum loss is limited to the net premium paid for the strategy.
Application to Corn Futures
Analyzing the current market conditions for Corn Futures is crucial before implementing the Skip Strike Butterfly strategy. Let's examine the market and set up a trade based on recent data and trends.
Market Analysis:
Current Price: Corn Futures are trading at 456'6 per contract.
Market Trend: The market has shown moderate volatility with a tendency to hover around the 450 level.
Technicals: Recently, buy UnFilled Orders (UFOs) have formed around the 450 level, indicating strong buying interest and potential support at this price. On the other hand, sell UFOs are positioned much higher, around the 490 level, suggesting limited selling pressure in the immediate range and opening the door for a directional move with a potentially strong reward-to-risk ratio.
Setting Up the Trade:
Based on our analysis, we will implement the Skip Strike Butterfly strategy as follows:
Current Price of Corn Futures: 456'6
Expiration Date: 74 days from today.
Strike Prices and Premiums:
Buy 1 ITM Call: Strike Price 450, Premium 27.25
Sell 2 ATM Calls: Strike Price 480, Premium 16 each
Buy 1 OTM Call: Strike Price 540, Premium 6
Net Premium Paid: 27.25 (buy) - 32 (sell) + 6 (buy) = 1.25 points = $62.5 (Point Value is $50/point)
Source: Options chain available at www.tradingview.com
Trade Execution:
Entry Price: The trade is entered at 1.25 points, making it highly cost-efficient.
Target Price: The optimal scenario is for Corn Futures to close at 480 at expiration, where the maximum profit is realized.
Break-Even Points: Calculate the break-even points to ensure clarity on potential losses or gains. For this setup, the break-even points are 451.25 and 508.75.
Risk: In the worst-case scenario, this trade could incur a loss of 31.25 points if Corn Futures surpasses the upper break-even point. Conversely, a minor loss of 1.25 points would occur if Corn Futures falls below the lower break-even point.
Source: Risk profile graph available at www.tradingview.com
Risk Management
Risk management is a critical aspect of any trading strategy, and it is especially important when trading options like the Skip Strike Butterfly. Effective risk management helps protect against unexpected market movements and ensures that losses are minimized while maximizing potential gains.
Importance of Risk Management:
Limit Losses: By setting clear stop-loss levels, traders can limit the amount of capital at risk and prevent large losses.
Preserve Capital: Protecting trading capital is essential for long-term success. Effective risk management allows traders to stay in the game even after a series of losing trades.
Emotional Control: Having a risk management plan helps traders stick to their strategy and avoid emotional decisions driven by market volatility.
Maximize Gains: Proper risk management enables traders to capitalize on profitable opportunities while keeping losses in check.
Techniques for Managing Risk with Skip Strike Butterfly:
1. Stop-Loss Orders:
Set stop-loss orders at predetermined price levels to automatically exit the trade if the market moves against you.
2. Position Sizing:
Only allocate a small percentage of your trading capital to any single trade. This helps to mitigate the impact of any one trade on your overall portfolio.
3. Diversification:
Diversify your trading strategies and instruments to spread risk across different markets and reduce the impact of adverse movements in any one asset.
4. Hedging:
Use other options strategies to hedge your positions. For example, buying protective puts can limit downside risk if the market moves significantly against your position.
5. Regular Monitoring:
Continuously monitor the market and your positions. Be prepared to adjust your strategy or exit the trade if market conditions change.
Conclusion
The Skip Strike Butterfly strategy offers a cost-efficient and flexible approach for trading Corn Futures. By strategically setting up options at different strike prices while skipping an intermediate strike, traders can reduce the cost of the trade while maintaining a similar payoff structure to a traditional butterfly spread. This strategy is particularly useful in markets exhibiting limited price movements, making it ideal for the current conditions in Corn Futures.
Key Takeaways:
Cost Efficiency: The Skip Strike Butterfly reduces the upfront cost of entering a trade, providing a significant advantage over traditional butterfly spreads.
Limited Risk: With a well-defined risk profile, this strategy ensures that losses are capped at the net premium paid.
Profit Potential: Although the maximum profit is achieved if the underlying asset closes at the middle strike price, the strategy still offers substantial profit opportunities within a specific price range.
Risk Management: Implementing robust risk management techniques is essential for success. Utilizing stop-loss orders, managing position sizes, diversifying strategies, and regular market monitoring can help protect trading capital and maximize gains.
When trading options and employing strategies like the Skip Strike Butterfly, it is crucial to stay disciplined and adhere to your trading plan. Always ensure that your risk management measures are in place to navigate market uncertainties effectively.
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.
Why longer term charts are importantI took a look at the weekly gold/silver ratio and noticed a few significant patterns. For example, there was a notable acceleration downward following the break of a 3-year uptrend a couple of weeks ago. Additionally, there is support at the 74.65/63 level, which has been in place since January 2022.
This observation reminded me of the importance of examining long-term charts, regardless of your trading time frame. Longer-term charts provide essential context and clarity that short-term charts often lack.
Why everyone should be looking at longer term charts:
1. Identifying Trends
Long-term charts help in identifying significant trends that might not be visible in short-term data.
2. Smoothing Out Volatility
Short-term data is often noisy, with frequent fluctuations that can obscure the underlying pattern. Long-term charts smooth out this volatility, providing a clearer picture of the fundamental movement and reducing the influence of random, short-term events.
3. Contextualizing Current Movements
Long-term charts place current price or economic movements in a broader context. This helps investors and analysts understand whether a recent change is part of a larger trend or not.
4. Historical Comparisons
These charts allow for comparisons with past periods, making it possible to identify cycles, recurring patterns, and historical precedents. This historical perspective can be invaluable for forecasting future movements and making informed predictions.
5. Assessing Risk and Reward
By examining long-term performance, investors can better assess the potential risks and rewards of an investment. Understanding how an asset has performed over various market cycles helps in evaluating its stability and growth potential.
6. Avoiding Emotional Bias
Short-term market movements can evoke strong emotional responses, leading to impulsive decisions. Long-term charts provide a more detached view, helping investors stay focused on long-term objectives and avoid reacting to short-term market noise.
Conclusion
In summary, long-term charts offer a comprehensive view that is critical for understanding trends, reducing noise, contextualizing current events, making historical comparisons, assessing risk, avoiding emotional decisions, developing strategies, and analysing economic cycles. They are an indispensable tool for anyone involved in financial markets or economic analysis, providing the clarity and perspective necessary for informed decision-making.
Disclaimer:
The information posted on Trading View is for informative purposes and is not intended to constitute advice in any form, including but not limited to investment, accounting, tax, legal or regulatory advice. The information therefore has no regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation or particular needs of any specific recipient. Opinions expressed are our current opinions as of the date appearing on Trading View only. All illustrations, forecasts or hypothetical data are for illustrative purposes only. The Society of Technical Analysts Ltd does not make representation that the information provided is appropriate for use in all jurisdictions or by all Investors or other potential Investors. Parties are therefore responsible for compliance with applicable local laws and regulations. The Society of Technical Analysts will not be held liable for any loss or damage resulting directly or indirectly from the use of any information on this site.