How to use Williams Alligator Indicator in crypto trading?You have probably heard about Alligator, indicator which is used by top crypto traders. This powerful tool can increase performance of every cryptocurrency trading strategy and help you to make money on the market. Alligator gives us the precise answer if now price is in impulsive or reactive wave. This knowledge is very useful in building your own crypto trading strategies or even in automated trading bot strategies. Even if you use grid bot strategy Alligator can increase your return on investment because it’s vital to set up grid bot in reactive wave and sideways movements. What is the beast Alligator, let’s have a deep dive into this topic today!
What is Alligator?
Alligator is the best indicator for trend detection. It consist of three moving averages which are called jaw, teeth and lips. Moving averages are frequently used in algorithmic trading bots. They can be exponential, smoothed or weighted depending on particular crypto trading algorithm, but we will use smoothed moving averages (SMA).
Jaw (blue line) - 13 period SMA shifted 8 bars is the future. This is the balance lie of the current time frame, for example 1D
Teeth (red line) - 8 period SMA shifted 5 bars in the future. This is balance line of lower degree time frame, for example 4h
Lips (green line) - 5 period SMA shifted 3 bars in the future. This is balance line of two times lower degree time frame, for example 1h
Please, be careful when you use Alligator on different cryptocurrency trading platforms. Check the correct settings and moving average type. On TradingView it’s correct, don’t worry!
Trend detection with Alligator.
The main Alligator’s feature is the detection the trending markets and markets which are about to explode in any side. This powerful tool can enhance your crypto trading algorithm if you use it in the correct way. On the ATOM price chart you can see the example of an Alligator. As you can see it has two conditions: sleeping and hungry.
Sleeping Alligator is when all lines are crossing each other and the price. This period of time can takes up to 80% of time. This is the market cycle stage where you shall avoid any trading and be prepared for the trending market
Hungry Alligator is when after a long period of consolidation price chose the trend direction. It’s an impulsive move. Alligator’s mouth is widely opened and do not crosses the price.
It’s very important to distinguish the trending market because only this type of a market gives you opportunity for the fast and huge profit. Otherwise, in the range bounded market you don’t have enough space for price to make profit for you. Most of stop losses occur while Alligator is sleeping. Another one very useful hint for you. If you use Elliott waves analysis. You don’t need to understand in which wave market is now. You just jump into the impulses and avoid corrections.
How to trade with Alligator
Here is the most interesting part. How to start crypto trading using Alligator? Our basic strategy is to wait when the price will create the first fractal above the Alligator’s mouth and place conditional order to buy one tick above the fractal’s top. We will discuss fractals in details next time. Now you have to understand how to use Alligator.
Another one hint from our experience is to use fractals only when Alligator has been sleeping for a long time, like you see on the BTC chart. After long sleep and fractal breakout Bitcoin showed the greatest bull run in the history.
Let’s notice where we should close trade. Almost at the top! When price started showing weakness we don’t need to be in the market anymore. Using this strategy on 1W time frame you can hold assets during entire bull run and sell then before bear market. Fantastic! Isn’t it?
Conclusion
In this article we discussed how you can implement Alligator indicator in your trading routine. This indicator will help you to avoid boring market when you can only lose money and catch every big move. Moreover you can use even sideways market detection if you use cryptocurrency trading bot which earns money in range bounded market. For sure this in not the only one strategy using Alligator. Next time we enhance our approach with other tools and see in details how Alligator improve their profitability. Moreover, soon we will live stream where practice trading with Alligator. See you next time!
Best regards,
Skyrex Team
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EURNZD - Seize Profitable Opportunity with Anti-Shark PatternEURNZD is currently exhibiting the formation of an Anti-Shark Harmonic Pattern (XABCD) coupled with the presence of a significant Trendline, indicating potential bearish momentum on the horizon. This analysis delves into the technical factors influencing the currency pair's movement and proposes strategic entry and exit points for traders to consider.
Pattern Identification:
Anti-Shark Harmonic (XABCD) with Trendline Confluence
The observed Anti-Shark Harmonic Pattern (XABCD) on the 1-hour time frame suggests a potential reversal in the prevailing trend. This pattern comprises distinct points: X, A, B, C, and D, with Point D marking a crucial juncture for market participants. Additionally, the convergence of a Trendline further emphasizes the significance of Point D as a potential turning point.
Key Levels:
Resistance Identified
Point D aligns strategically with a key resistance level, reinforcing the likelihood of bearish pressure manifesting from this point. Traders should remain vigilant as price action nears this critical area, as it often serves as a catalyst for significant market movements.
Entry Strategy:
Entry: 1.80900
Stop Loss: 1.81370
A prudent entry point at 1.80900 aligns with the anticipated bearish momentum following the completion of the Anti-Shark Harmonic Pattern. To mitigate risk, a stop loss set at 1.81370 provides a buffer against adverse price fluctuations, safeguarding capital in the event of unexpected market developments.
Take Profit Targets:
TP-1: 1.80400
TP-2: 1.79900
TP-3: 1.79436
Strategically positioned take profit targets offer traders opportunities to capitalize on potential downward movements. These targets, set at 1.80400, 1.79900, and 1.79436 respectively, correspond with key support levels where price action may encounter barriers or exhibit signs of reversal.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the technical analysis of EURNZD on the 1-hour time frame indicates a favorable setup for bearish trading opportunities. With the formation of an Anti-Shark Harmonic Pattern and confluence with a Trendline, coupled with the proximity to a key resistance level, traders are advised to consider short positions with careful risk management. By adhering to the outlined entry, stop loss, and take profit levels, traders can navigate the market dynamics with greater confidence and precision.
Bitcoin vs. Ethereum: Deciphering the DistinctionsCryptocurrencies have revolutionized the financial landscape, with Bitcoin and Ethereum emerging as two prominent players shaping the digital economy. Despite sharing the common ground of blockchain technology, each offers distinct features and functionalities, underscoring the need to understand their differences.
Introduction to Bitcoin
Bitcoin, introduced in 2009 by the mysterious Satoshi Nakamoto, heralded the dawn of decentralized digital currencies. Its primary objective was to provide an alternative to traditional fiat currencies through a peer-to-peer electronic cash system. Transactions on the Bitcoin network are verified and recorded on an immutable public ledger, known as the blockchain.
Introduction to Ethereum
In 2015, Vitalik Buterin introduced Ethereum, presenting a paradigm shift beyond mere digital currency. Ethereum serves as an open-source platform for executing smart contracts and decentralized applications (DApps) without intermediaries. At its core is Ether (ETH), the native cryptocurrency powering transactions and fueling the ecosystem.
Core Differences
Purpose: Bitcoin functions primarily as a digital currency, aiming to revolutionize financial transactions. Ethereum, on the other hand, is a versatile platform enabling the execution of smart contracts and DApps, with broader implications for decentralization beyond monetary exchange.
Technology: Bitcoin operates on a Proof-of-Work (PoW) consensus mechanism, requiring significant computational power for transaction validation. Ethereum initially adopted PoW but is transitioning to Proof-of-Stake (PoS) with Ethereum 2.0, offering improved scalability and energy efficiency.
Scalability: Bitcoin processes approximately 7 transactions per second, while Ethereum can handle up to 30. Both face scalability challenges, with Ethereum exploring solutions like sharding to enhance throughput and efficiency.
Supply: Bitcoin has a fixed maximum supply of 21 million coins, creating scarcity akin to digital gold. In contrast, Ethereum does not have a predefined supply limit, potentially allowing for continuous production, albeit with economic implications.
Use Cases: Bitcoin is synonymous with a store of value, often likened to digital gold due to its limited supply and scarcity. Ethereum's versatility enables the creation of innovative applications such as decentralized finance (DeFi), non-fungible tokens (NFTs), decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs), and more, expanding its utility beyond monetary transactions.
Price Dynamics
Bitcoin's market movements often dictate the broader cryptocurrency landscape, impacting the prices of assets like Ethereum. Influencing factors include market sentiment, regulatory developments, and macroeconomic conditions. Ethereum's price dynamics are further influenced by platform upgrades, developer activity, and the burgeoning demand for decentralized applications.
Monthly Bitcoin Chart
Monthly Ethereum Chart
Conclusion
While Bitcoin and Ethereum share the foundation of blockchain technology, their purposes, technologies, and applications diverge significantly. Bitcoin seeks to redefine monetary exchange, while Ethereum aims to revolutionize contractual agreements and decentralized applications. Understanding these distinctions is paramount in navigating the evolving landscape of digital assets and harnessing their transformative potential in the global economy.
what currencies to buy in times of geopolitical tensions. In times of geopolitical turmoil or war, investors often seek refuge in currencies perceived as safe havens. several currencies are considered safe harbors due to their stability, liquidity, and low risk of depreciation. Some of the notable safe-haven currencies include:
1-US Dollar (USD): The US dollar is often regarded as the ultimate safe-haven currency due to the size and stability of the US economy, as well as the liquidity of USD-denominated assets. During times of uncertainty, investors tend to flock to the USD, driving up its value.
2-Swiss Franc (CHF): Switzerland's reputation for political neutrality and its strong banking system make the Swiss Franc a popular safe-haven currency. Investors view the CHF as a stable and reliable asset during periods of geopolitical tension.
3-Japanese Yen (JPY): The Japanese Yen is considered a safe-haven currency due to Japan's status as a net creditor nation and its large current account surplus. During times of crisis, investors often repatriate funds into the JPY, driving up its value.
4-Euro (EUR): Despite occasional uncertainties surrounding the Eurozone, the Euro is still considered a safe-haven currency by many investors. The Euro's status as the second most traded currency in the world and the stability of major Eurozone economies contribute to its safe-haven appeal.
5-Gold-Backed Currencies: Some countries, particularly those with significant gold reserves, may issue currencies backed by gold or pegged to the price of gold. These currencies offer stability and are perceived as safe havens during times of crisis.
Mind the Gap: How to Trade Price GapsThe Power and Beauty of Price Gaps
Price gaps represent a clear imbalance in supply and demand, making them one of the purest representations of momentum in financial markets. These gaps occur when there is a significant disparity between the closing price of one period and the opening price of the next, indicating a sudden surge in buying or selling pressure.
How to Trade Price Gaps: 3 Different Strategies
1. Gap & Go:
Description: This strategy involves trading in the direction of the gap, anticipating that the momentum will continue.
Execution: Enter trades as soon as the market opens, aiming to capture the initial momentum surge.
Timeframe: Typically applied on shorter timeframes, such as intraday charts.
Risk Management: The gap can be used for stop less shelter, hence stops can be placed above (below) the gap.
Example: Tesla (TSLA) 5min Candle Chart
In this example, Tesla gaps lower at the open – breaking below a key level of support and signalling the breakdown of a sideways range. The gap follows through to the downside during the remainder of the trading session.
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
2. Gap Fill:
Description: In contrast to the Gap and Go strategy, this approach involves fading the initial price movement and trading in the opposite direction of the gap.
Execution: Wait for price to retrace back to pre-gap levels before entering trades, anticipating that the gap will eventually be filled.
Timeframe: Can be applied on various timeframes, depending on the magnitude of the gap and market conditions.
Risk Management: Implement stop-loss orders to manage risk, as price may continue to move against the trade.
Example: Barclays (BARC) Hourly Candle Chart
Barclays gap above key resistance on the hourly candle chart. The gap is filled and broken resistance turns to support prior to the uptrend resuming.
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
3. First Pullback:
Description: This strategy combines elements of both Gap and Go and Gap Fill, focusing on entering trades after the initial momentum surge but waiting for a pullback or consolidation before entry.
Execution: Wait for the first pullback or consolidation after the gap before entering trades in the direction of the prevailing momentum.
Timeframe: Suitable for both shorter and longer timeframes, depending on the magnitude of the gap and market dynamics.
Risk Management: Utilise stop-loss orders to protect against adverse price movements and adjust position sizing based on volatility.
Example: Arm Holdings (ARM) Hourly Candle Chart
Arm’s share price puts in a large price gap which breaks decisively above a key level of resistance on the hourly candle chart. Given the size of the gap, optimal entry requires waiting for the market pullback.
Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results
Additional Factors to Consider
Catalyst Behind the Gap:
Look for stock-specific news events that recalibrate market expectations, such as earnings surprises or changes in outlook.
Mechanical events like dividends or corporate actions are less likely to sustain momentum.
Size of the Gap:
Larger gaps indicate stronger momentum but also carry a higher risk of mean reversion.
Assess the magnitude of the gap relative to historical price action and volatility.
Levels Broken:
Consider the significance of key support and resistance levels broken by the gap, as they may influence the strength and direction of the price movement.
Prevailing Trend:
Analyse the prevailing trend before the gap and assess whether the gap aligns with the overall market direction.
By incorporating these factors into your analysis and selecting the most suitable strategy based on market conditions, you can effectively trade price gaps and capitalise on momentum opportunities in the financial markets. Remember to exercise proper risk management and adapt your approach as market conditions evolve.
Disclaimer: This is for information and learning purposes only. The information provided does not constitute investment advice nor take into account the individual financial circumstances or objectives of any investor. Any information that may be provided relating to past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results or performance. Social media channels are not relevant for UK residents.
Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 84.01% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how spread bets and CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.
1-Indicator Strategy For Beginners...The Stochastic Hey Rich Friends,
Happy Wednesday!
I wanted to share one of my top 3 favorite indicators with you.... The Stochastic (STOCH). As a leading (vs lagging) indicator, it is perfect for beginners because you can find entry and exit signals with only a few key details.
Adding the STOCH to your chart:
1. Search the indicators for "STOCHASTIC" and click once to add to your chart. The only thing that I modify is the thickness of the lines but feel free to make further changes to your liking.
2. Make sure that the "indicators and financial values" option is ON. Right-click your scales, select labels, and make sure "indicators and financial values" is checkmarked.
Entry signals for a buy:
- The STOCH is facing up
- The fast line (blue) is above the slow line (orange)
- The STOCH has crossed above the 20% level, from oversold, back into the blue-shaded area
Exit the trade or take profit once the STOCH has crossed back below the 80% level, from overbought, into the blue-shaded area.
Entry Signals for a sell:
- The STOCH is facing down
- The slow line (orange) is above the fast line (blue)
- The STOCH has crossed below the 80% level, from overbought, back into the blue shaded area
Exit the trade or take profit once the STOCH has crossed back above the 20% level, from oversold, into the blue-shaded area.
I hope that this video helps someone become a more independent and profitable trader. Let me know in the comments if you try this strategy!
Peace and Profits,
Cha
Keltner Bands Pullback StrategyHere we take a look at trading pullbacks using the Keltner Channels. I cover the initial setup, the types of entries, and trades to avoid.
This setup contains 3 parts:
The channel touch
The Pullback
The Entry
The Channel Touch
Here is an example of the beginning signal in our setup, a band touch. The top and bottom bands represent the ATR (Average True Range) of a loopback period. So a touch of the band indicates volatility in the underlying stock or commodity. This also presents us with a chance for a nice pullback with continuation.
The Pullback
The pullback is simple, it is a reversion to the mean. So, the price pulls back to the mean (the ema) that the Keltners are based on. From this point, you can start to determine the entry.
The Entry
Depending on your style, a stop order, or limit order trader, you get to create your style to enter the trade. The following are some ideas: zero line MACD cross, second entry (price action) long or short, a trigger zone (for limit order traders), and an ema touch (limit order traders).
Zero Line Entry
Price pulled back and crossed the zero line on the modified MACD indicator.
Second Entry Long (High2)
The entry is the second attempt to break the previous bars high in a pullback.
The Trigger Zone
I created these based on an internal Keltner channel. You can set your limit orders anywhere inside of them.
EMA Touch
Whenever the price touches an offset ema you can enter. So you can place and move your limit order as the ema moves. I like to offset by one because you are guaranteed a price touch (ema doesn't move). Backtesting is also my accurate with an offset ema.
Conclusion
The Keltner channels offer an extremely powerful way to determine a potential pullback within a trend. They also help define trends (on the first touch) and help objectively identify climatic behavior. This strategy as a whole allows for high-quality setups and the flexibility of entering and exiting trades based on trading style. I like to shoot for a 1:1 based on stop placement.
HERE ARE 10 COMMON TRADING INDICATORS MADE SIMPLE Chart has all 10.
Hope this helps.
Hope it's simple to understand if you still struggle with indicators.
Remember, no one indicator is good on its own.
Think of an indicator as a sign that you should pay attention to a possibility. For example, if I go to the ocean, maybe I have an indicator that says you're closer to sharks than in the great lakes, will I be eaten? Probably not, but also, there are more sharks and my indicator confirms that. I can't use this one indicator to say, I'm probably about to be eaten. BUT.. Let's say I have multiple indicators that I use to give me a better idea if I'll be eaten. Maybe an indicator tells me there is an oddly higher than avg number of a sharks number 1 food source within the area. Can I say I'll be eaten? No, but I could say, maybe due to the increased food supply, there may be more sharks. What if I have a few more indicators, one of which says there are 30 great whites within 10 miles, and another that says, usually at this time of the year, there are only ever between 2 to 7 great whites. Can I say, Yes, I'll be eaten? NOPE, not yet.
What if I have another indicator that says, across the globe, shark attacks are increasing by a certain percentage, and another that says, there is blood detected within the water you're swimming in, which is lower than the threshold for human's to detect, but higher than the threshold needed for sharks to smell. What if I combine that with an indicator that says, on avg there are 1000 swimmers here, but now, there are under 30. Can I say I'll be eaten? Nope, BUT, I can say, hmm. Something is up and if one of us were to get eaten, I'm more likely to be picked out of 30 people than 1000.
When can I say I'll be eaten? Probably if you build an indicator that can detect bite force and compare to known bit forces of sharks that could sense you're actively being eaten, but at that point, the stock moved already... err I mean, the shark ate already, and you're late to the show..
My point being, use them, but don't always assume when it comes to indicators. Take in all the data and then make a decision. Some indicators fit your style, some won't. Do I need 30 stacked indicators for sharks if I'm swimming in Lake Michigan? Probably not, it would make everything a mess.
So, here there are.
Relative Strength Index (RSI): Ah, the RSI, the “I’ve had too much” indicator of the stock market. When it hits above 70, it’s like your stock had too much to drink at the party and is likely to come crashing down. Below 30? It’s been left out in the cold and might be due for a warm-up (a.k.a. price increase). Remember, it’s not foolproof, but then again, neither is your weather app.
On-Balance Volume (OBV): This one’s all about following the crowd. If the volume is increasing, it’s like everyone’s rushing to get the latest iPhone. But remember, even if everyone jumps off a bridge, it doesn’t mean you should too. Always double-check before you follow the herd.
Simple Moving Average (SMA): The SMA is like that reliable friend who’s always a bit behind on the latest trends. It gives you the average closing price over a certain period. It’s simple, it’s moving, it’s average. It’s the SMA.
Exponential Moving Average (EMA): The EMA is the SMA’s hip younger sibling. It cares more about what happened recently than what happened way back when. It’s great for short-term trading, but remember, even the coolest kids can get things wrong.
Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD): This one sounds complicated, but it’s not. It’s like watching two rabbits on a race track. If the fast rabbit (the 12-day EMA) overtakes the slow rabbit (the 26-day EMA), it’s a bullish signal. If the slow rabbit overtakes the fast one, it’s a bearish signal. Just remember, rabbits are unpredictable!
Fibonacci retracements: Ah, Fibonacci, the Da Vinci of math. These horizontal lines indicate where support and resistance levels might be. It’s like trying to predict where you’ll meet your ex at a party. It could be useful, but don’t rely on it too much.
Stochastic oscillator: This one’s a bit like a pendulum. When it swings one way, it’s likely to swing back the other way soon. It’s great for spotting potential reversals, but remember, even a broken clock is right twice a day.
Bollinger bands: These are like the elastic waistband of your favorite sweatpants. If the price hits the upper band, it might be time to sell (or stop eating pizza). If it hits the lower band, it might be time to buy (or hit the gym).
Average Directional Index (ADX): This one tells you whether the price is trending strongly or just wandering around like a lost puppy. Above 25 is a strong trend, below 20 is weak. But remember, even lost puppies find their way home eventually.
Accumulation/Distribution (A/D) line: This one’s all about supply and demand. If the line is going up, the stock is being accumulated. If it’s going down, it’s being distributed. It’s like tracking whether more people are buying or selling fidget spinners.
Remember, these indicators are like tools in a toolbox. Don’t try to build a house with just a hammer. Use them in combination, understand their limitations, and always do your own research. Happy trading! 📈
Tesla's upcoming Robotaxi launch: stock trading idea 8/04/24Tesla Inc. is gearing up for a significant reveal on 8 August this year, as it plans to introduce its much-anticipated robotaxi. This move comes at a time when the company is navigating sluggish sales and increasing competition from more affordable Chinese electric vehicles. Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, announced on his social media platform, X, the upcoming unveiling of the robotaxi.
Tesla has long been ambitious about its vision of a fully autonomous vehicle, first presented to investors in 2019. Recently, Tesla has rolled out the latest iteration of its driver assistance software, marketed as Full Self-Driving (FSD), to its consumer base.
Given this backdrop, let's delve into Tesla Inc.'s stock (TSLA) to scout for potential trading opportunities:
Analysing the Daily (D1) chart, a support level is identified at 160.51 USD, with resistance at 182.87 USD. A breakout above this resistance level could signify the start of an uptrend.
On the Hourly (H1) chart, initiating long positions becomes attractive upon breaching the 182.87 USD mark, targeting a short-term objective of 205.06 USD. For those looking at a medium-term investment, maintaining a long position until reaching 233.87 USD could be viable.
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Ideas and other content presented on this page should not be considered as guidance for trading or an investment advice. RoboMarkets bears no responsibility for trading results based on trading opinions described in these analytical reviews.
The material presented and the information contained herein is for information purposes only and in no way should be considered as the provision of investment advice for the purposes of Investment Firms Law L. 87(I)/2017 of the Republic of Cyprus or any other form of personal advice or recommendation, which relates to certain types of transactions with certain types of financial instruments.
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(NASDAQ:TESLA) STOCK UNDER $100.00?WATCH SUPPORT LEVELS TO PAY ATTENTIO!
Short Term Price Target
$155.27 to 146.54
1. Tesla's Stock Price Below $100.00: The fact that Tesla's stock could drop below $100.00 suggests a significant bearish sentiment in the market. Investors may be concerned about the company's performance or broader economic factors impacting the stock.
2. Possibility of Dropping Below Support #1 and Ascending Support Line: If Tesla's stock breaks below Support #1 and the ascending support line, it indicates increasing selling pressure and a potential shift in the trend. This could be a signal for traders to anticipate further downside movements.
3. Potential Decline to $118.68 - $91.10 Range, Potentially Breaching Support #2: Breaking below the ascending support line increases the likelihood of a decline to levels between $118.68 and $91.10. Breaching Support #2 could intensify the downward momentum, leading to further losses for Tesla's stock.
4. Gap Fill at $75.69: Should the price breach Support #2, there's a chance that Tesla's stock might fill the gap observed on January 25 and 26, 2023, at $75.69. Gap fills often act as significant support or resistance levels and could influence future price movements.
5. Potential for Return to Pre-COVID Levels: Whether Tesla's stock could return to pre-COVID levels depends on various factors such as the company's fundamentals, market sentiment, and broader economic conditions. While it's possible for stocks to recover from downturns, it would likely require positive catalysts and a favorable operating environment for Tesla to regain its pre-COVID price levels.
In summary, the outlook for Tesla's stock appears bearish in the near term, with potential further declines and a possibility of returning to levels observed during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, long-term prospects would depend on the company's ability to address underlying challenges and capitalize on growth opportunities.
NFA
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Bitcoin: is price set to get cheaper or.....?Today's focus: BTCUSD
Pattern – Range, seller test.
Support – 62,000 area
Resistance – 73,000 area
Hi, traders; thanks for tuning in for today's update. Today, we are looking at BTC on the daily.
With sellers continuing to check buyers, it continues to look like we could see a new move at support. But for now, buyers continue to hold firm from around the 62,000 area.
We have run over a few scenarios. Could we see a move-through support to test the next lower Fibb point? Or will we see support contnue to hold the current range pattern?
Good trading.
Weekly Technical Analysis 15/04/2024Start your week by identifying the key price levels and trends.
The SpreadEx Research team has analysed the most popular markets, including stocks, indices, commodities & forex.
*KEY
Trend direction is set by the slope of the VWAP
Trend phase is determined by the current price relative to the VWAP (20) level and Elliot waves
Support & Resistance are set by the StdDev #2 Lower and Upper respectively.
Momentum is determined by the RSI level (70 as overbought and under 30 as oversold).
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Germany 40 is exhibiting a corrective phase within an overall bullish trend, with the price now standing at 17,966, which is slightly below the VWAP of 18,223. The index has found new support at 17,807 and is encountering resistance at 18,638. The RSI is at 45, indicating a cooling off of the previous bullish momentum.
UK 100 is still bullish but has entered a corrective phase. The price has seen a slight decline to 7,967, positioning it just above the VWAP of 7,935. The support level is now 7,890, while resistance lies at 7,980. With an RSI of 64, there’s a slight dip in the bullish sentiment from before.
Wall Street has taken a bearish turn and is in an impulsive phase. The price has dropped to 38,112, falling below the VWAP of 39,005. Support and resistance levels have been adjusted to 37,854 and 40,158, respectively. The RSI has decreased to 35, signalling a shift to bearish momentum.
Brent Crude remains in a bullish and impulsive phase, with the price now at 89.47, above the VWAP of 88.18. Support has been established at 84.14, with resistance not far off at 92.21. An RSI of 61 indicates a marginal decrease in bullish momentum.
Gold has sustained its bullish trend and is in an impulsive phase, with a price hike to 2,359, well over the VWAP of 2,275. The support level has been marked down to 2,130, and resistance has been found at 2,420. The RSI has risen to 70, suggesting a stronger bullish sentiment and an overbought condition.
EUR/USD remains bearish but has shifted into an impulsive phase, with the price tumbling to 1.0658, below the VWAP of 1.0785. The support has been noted at 1.0648, with resistance at 1.0922. An RSI of 32 signifies a reduction in bearish sentiment.
GBP/USD stays bearish and impulsive, with the price at 1.2466, below the VWAP of 1.2595. The support has been updated to 1.2460, with resistance at 1.2731. The RSI at 34 indicates a decrease in bearish momentum.
USD/JPY continues in a bullish trend and remains impulsive, with the price slightly up at 153.84, above the VWAP of 151.86. The support level is 150.20, with resistance observed at 153.52. The RSI at 76 shows a modest decline in bullish momentum.
Corn Prices To Fire Up on Rising Energy CostsIt is official. Inflation is back. But not everywhere. Food inflation is on the decline. All three major crops, Soybean, Wheat, and Corn have declined substantially. Bearish sentiments rings loud across agri with ample supplies combined with solid harvest expectations.
Among crops, corn has fared best. Its prices have not declined as much. Corn outlook is positive given South American supply uncertainty and gasoline linked demand spike.
Corn prices face downside risk from ample supply in the near term. Prices have the potential to spike during later part of the year due to supply uncertainty and higher consumption.
Traders can deploy a calendar spread in CME Corn futures comprising of a short September 2024 Corn Futures (ZSU2024) and a long March 2025 Corn Futures (ZSH2025) to gain from shifting dynamics.
RECORD US CROP WILL SUPPRESS NEAR TERM CORN PRICE
The US produced a record 389.69 million MT of corn last year as per latest USDA figures. Massive production is a result of record high yield of 177.3 bushels per acre.
Globally, corn production in the current marketing year is expected to reach a record 1,227 million MT, due to the US crop last year.
Higher supply is expected to lead to a buildup in ending stocks. Stocks are expected to increase from 302.19 million MT to 318.28 million MT. This represents a buildup of almost 16 million MT.
Ample supplies are a headwind to near term corn prices.
USDA ESTIMATES MAY BE TOO OPTIMISTIC
Global corn production forecasts by USDA may be too optimistic. Upcoming harvests from Brazil and Argentina may spring surprises to the downside.
USDA’s forecast for the Brazil corn crop is currently at 124 million MT. Brazil’s national agricultural agency - CONAB - puts the harvest at 110.9 million MT as per their latest crop survey . The difference stems from USDA’s assumption of higher planted area.
CONAB recently cut its estimate for planted area pointing to lower crop prices dissuading farmers from planting corn. Planting in Brazil is delayed from its usual schedule.
USDA is also optimistic about the Argentinian crop. It reduced its forecast for Argentinian corn by 1 million MT to 55 million MT in the latest WASDE report. However, that is still optimistic given the ongoing spread of spiroplasma disease. Last week, Argentina’s Rosario Exchange slashed corn estimates to just 50.5 million MT from a previous forecast of 57 million MT citing crop loss linked with diseases.
USDA estimates are 18 million MT higher than harvest forecasted by regional agencies across Brazil & Argentina. Corn supplies may end up being much tighter than the USDA is currently forecasting if harvests come softer than anticipated.
ETHANOL PRODUCTION IS LIKELY TO INCREASE CORN CONSUMPTION
USDA increased its forecast for corn consumption for ethanol production by twenty-five million bushels (635k MT) in the latest WASDE report. With gasoline and crude prices on a tear, ethanol blending into gasoline is likely to remain elevated during the coming months driving corn demand.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) serves as another source of corn demand in 2024. The Biden Administration is set to release its primary climate model for SAF subsidies under the Inflation Reduction Act in the “very near future”.
While recent reports have stated that the model may be restrictive compared to corn-ethanol industry expectations, the subsidies will undoubtedly drive higher demand for corn-ethanol.
CORN FUTURES CONTANGO IS STEEPENING
Corn Futures term structure has become noticeably steeper over the past three months. Premium for dated contracts have increased. Specifically, corn delivery in later part of 2024 and early 2025 command higher premium.
MARKET METRICS ARE TURNING LESS BEARISH FOR CORN
CME Corn Options positions are currently skewed bullish with a put/call ratio of 0.84. Over the past week, bullish positioning has increased with large call option buildup on June (OZCN4) and December contracts (OZCZ4).
Asset managers have also started to reduce net short positioning on CME Corn Futures since positioning reached its all-time low mid-February.
HYPOTHETICAL TRADE SETUP
South America corn supply remains uncertain even as the US delivers a record harvest. Corn prices will remain bearish in the near term amid ample supplies. Longer term, supply shocks and rising demand has the potential to send corn prices higher. This is evident from steepening contango in CME Corn Futures.
To express the view on corn prices increasing towards the end of the year, traders can establish a calendar spread comprising of short position in September 2024 futures (ZCU2024) and a long position in March 2025 futures (ZCH2025). CME corn futures offer deep liquidity even for contracts in 2025 allowing such calendar spreads to be executed efficiently.
A hypothetical trade setup comprising of the calendar spread consisting of short ZCU2024 and long ZCH2025 also offers margin benefits. The calendar spread position is margin efficient with the entire position requiring margin of just USD 350 as of 15/April/2024.
This position not only benefits from the supply trend but also the seasonal trend in corn prices. Corn prices tend to rise from October through February due to seasonal factors. Between April to September, prices tend to decline. This hypothetical spread is supported by both trends.
• Entry: 1.06185 (ZCH2025/ZCU2024 = 485/456.75 as of 12/April)
• Target: 1.076
• Stop Loss: 1.052
• Profit at Target: USD 323 (Target price = 1.33% higher than Entry => Profit = 1.33% x notional = 1.33% x (485 x Contract Size) = 1.33% x (485 x 5000/100))
• Loss at Stop Loss: USD 225 (Stop level = 0.93% below entry => Loss = 0.93% x notional)
• Reward to Risk: 1.44x
MARKET DATA
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What's in a Trading Plan? Here's All You Need to Include.Ready, set… plan? In this guide, we discuss why you need to plan your trading before trading your plan. Let’s roll.
Table of Contents:
»Importance of a Trading Plan
»The Successful Trading Plan Doesn't Exi...
»What's in a Typical Trading Day?
»Markets, Strategies and Styles
»Summary
Venturing into trading without a plan is akin to setting sail on the ocean without a compass. Or taking the leap without looking first 😉. We can keep the metaphors rolling but if there’s one thing you must remember from this word salad of an article, it’s this: success in trading is possible with a plan. Without a plan, not so much.
In this guide, we'll talk about the importance of creating a trading plan, what you should include in it, and how to follow it.
📍 Importance of a Trading Plan
A trading plan is not just a list of dos and don’ts; it's the roadmap to trading success. Here's why it matters:
➡️ Streamlines Your Actions : Much like a roadmap, a trading plan outlines your objectives, time frames, strategies, and risk management techniques, and offers a clear path forward.
➡️ Limits Emotional Swings : By defining rules and parameters in advance, a trading plan helps to keep emotions in check, limiting impulsive actions that could lead to financial pitfalls.
➡️ Fosters Discipline : Sticking to a plan holds you accountable for your actions and allows you to see where you jump out of your rule book and into undisciplined FOMO-driven pump-chasing revenge trading.
📍 The Successful Trading Plan Doesn't Exi...
Many traders believe that you can be successful by buying and selling random selections of stocks, forex pairs, or commodities. However, the reality is that the most — if not all — successful traders have one thing in common: a well-defined trading plan. Here's what makes for a successful trading plan:
☝🏽 Adaptability : A successful trading plan is not rigid but flexible, allowing for adjustments in response to changing market conditions.
☝🏽 Consistency : A plan helps you stay on track toward your goals as a trader, allowing you to stick to predefined rules and strategies, especially when things get hot and volatile.
☝🏽 Continuous Improvement : A successful trading plan is a work in progress. The more time you use it, the higher probability you will have to refine it as you drift along diverse assets, all swayed by different factors.
📍 What's in a Typical Trading Day?
A typical trading day is a blend of preparation, execution, and reflection. And while you should leave room for new ideas, fresh approaches, and some surprises, there are mainstay components that you need to have in your trading plan.
📰 Reading the News : Staying in the know is always a good idea. For many successful traders, the first thing to do is check what’s the latest on the news front. Known as fundamental analysis, reading the news and doing your research will help you get a sense of investor sentiment.
Moreover, you can stay ahead of the curve and anticipate big market moves by following the economic calendar. Lots of those sharp swings you see in forex or stocks are caused by regular data dumps such as the monthly US nonfarm payrolls report. The Federal Reserve’s decisions on interest rates or the monthly Consumer Price Index are also keys to anticipating volatility.
And what better place to follow all that’s moving markets than the TradingView News section ?
📈 Following the Charts : if you’re here, this one won’t be too new to you. Chart reading, known as technical analysis, is one of the oldest ways to analyze anything — from stocks to crypto and even frozen orange juice.
Think of a chart as your trading canvas. It’s your space to be creative, draft ideas, look for technical patterns and formations, and anticipate potential moves. Observing the chart and watching how prices behave will help you spot where a trend may form, extend, or reverse.
Some of the most popular technical formations include double tops and bottoms, head and shoulders, cup and handle, and more. And some of the most popular technical indicators include the Simple Moving Average (SMA), the Relative Strength Index (RSI), and the Fibonacci sequence.
All of that, and much more, is readily available for you almost anywhere you click on the TradingView platform.
⚒️ Work on Your Skills : Trading doesn’t have to glue you to the screen in constant monitoring of every blip. If you don’t see anything to trade, don’t trade just for the sake of it. Sometimes the best trading position is no position at all.
Instead, use some of your idle time to build out your knowledge base. Grab some books on technical analysis or trading psychology. Or watch interviews of successful traders and investors and gain that educational edge to help you become a more aware, informed, and confident trader.
🏖️ Take a Break : Not everything you do needs to be related to productivity gains and trading improvement. Stare into space or read a great novel. Take your mind off trading and unwind, let the steam off, and recharge your batteries.
Go out, enjoy a walk or do some people-watching. Taking time to zone out every now and then will help you get back to trading sharper, smarter, and more balanced.
📍 Markets, Strategies and Styles
The world of trading is as diverse as it is dynamic, offering a flurry of markets, strategies, and trading styles to explore. Here's a glimpse into the landscape:
💹 Markets : Traders can choose from a variety of financial markets, including stocks , forex , and cryptocurrencies , each with its unique characteristics and opportunities.
When you set out to create your trading plan, think carefully whether you want your portfolio to be concentrated into any one market or asset class. Or maybe you’d like to go for a diverse approach to trading and pull in assets from several markets.
Knowing what your asset preference is will help you phase out markets so they don’t distract you.
🎯 Strategies : From technical analysis to fundamental analysis, you can adopt various strategies to identify trading opportunities and manage risk, ranging from trend following to mean reversion.
News trading is a popular approach to markets as it allows you to bet on economic reports, geopolitical events, central bank updates, and more. On the other hand, technical traders tend to stick to the chart in efforts to gauge price movements and trends. Every chart tells a story. Deciphering it is the tough part.
🌈 Styles : Trading styles are equally important and they’re all tied to a specific time frame of holding your positions. If you’re more into short-term trading, you may pick scalping and target a few pips of gains before jumping out of your trade.
Day trading and swing trading are two popular time-sensitive trading strategies that you may want to explore when building out your trading plan.
📍 Summary
Your trading plan should be exactly that — yours. Tailor it to your specific goals, risk orientation, asset preference, and find out how it stacks up against market conditions.
That way, you can navigate the markets with confidence and direction, instead of letting markets sway your decision making and lead you into uncharted waters. Embark on your trading journey armed with a well-crafted plan, and let it be your roadmap to trading success.
📣With that said, let us know in the comments: do you have a trading plan? What’s the most important element of it and are you always sticking to it?
Big Levels on Big TechBig technology stocks have moved sideways for the last month. Now there could be some important levels for names like Nvidia as investors digest today’s higher-than-expected inflation report.
The main pattern on today’s chart is the March 11 low of $841.66. This level has provided support since the chip giant’s peak on March 8. (It’s also a weekly low.) Closing below it could make traders think about a test of the post-earnings gap on February 22.
MACD has also been falling since mid-March. That could suggest direction has been turning more negative.
At least two other AI-themed stocks may face similar predicaments.
First, NASDAQ:SMCI Super Micro Computer formed a tight range above its March 20 low and a falling trendline. Traders may next eye the February 20 low of $692.50 as potential support.
Second, NASDAQ:AMD Advanced Micro Devices has pushed toward its low from February 21. Traders may next eye around $149, the high in late December and early January before the stock broke out to new record territory.
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