HOW TO TRADE USING CHOCH IN ICT SMART MONEY CONCEPTHere in this video i show you how you can trade using choch . I explain how change of character work and how it can be applied using indicator also . Understanding Choch can make you a better trader if you use well so try to mark out break of strusture (BOS) then find out were the price unable to respect that in other to get CHOCH.
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PROVEN STRATEGY FOR PROFITSThe Truth About the Holy Grail Market Strategy
Every trader dreams of finding that perfect strategy—the so-called "Holy Grail" that guarantees success. The one that wins every trade, beats every market condition, and transforms your account overnight.
Here’s the secret: it doesn’t exist.
Why do we chase it, then? Because we’ve been conditioned from a young age to believe there’s always a right answer. In school, careers, and life, we’re taught to strive for perfection and fear mistakes. This mindset slips into trading, where losses feel like personal failures instead of natural steps in the process.
Unfortunately, this is also why strategies claiming "100% accuracy" get so much attention. They feed into our hope of finding that mythical Holy Grail. People flock to these posts, hitting like, commenting, and even buying courses—all based on a fantasy. And the creators? They profit off this hope, knowing full well that no strategy is foolproof.
The reality is, trading isn’t about being right. It’s about being consistent. The pros aren’t chasing Holy Grails—they’re managing risk, mastering probabilities, and playing the long game.
If you’re stuck in the trap of searching for perfection, stop and ask yourself: Am I being sold a dream instead of learning the skills that matter?
Success in trading doesn’t come from avoiding losses but from mastering how to lose small and win big. Once you realize that, you’ll stop chasing myths and start building something real.
✨ Forget the Holy Grail. Focus on discipline, probabilities, and growth. ✨
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Mastering Risk Management: The Silent Key to Trading SuccessMastering Risk Management: The Silent Key to Trading Success
In the world of trading, risk management is often the unsung hero. While many traders obsess over finding the perfect strategy or predicting the next market move, those who truly succeed understand that managing risk is the cornerstone of long-term profitability. Without it, even the most brilliant trading plan can crumble. With it, you build a resilient foundation that allows you to weather the inevitable storms and capitalize on opportunities.
What is Risk Management?
Risk management isn't just a set of rules; it's a mindset and a discipline. It’s the process of identifying, assessing, and controlling potential losses. This goes beyond simply setting stop-loss orders or adjusting position sizes. It's about adopting a framework that ensures every trading decision is made with a clear understanding of the potential downside. Before entering any trade, ask yourself: "What am I willing to lose?" rather than "How much could I gain?"
Why Risk Management Matters
Imagine driving a car without brakes. No matter how powerful the engine or how skilled the driver, the lack of brakes turns every journey into a potential disaster. In trading, risk management is your braking system. It keeps you in control, preventing small mistakes from turning into catastrophic losses.
Many traders focus on their win rate, but it's the size of your losses that often determines your success. Even a strategy with a 50% win rate can be highly profitable if your average loss is much smaller than your average gain. Conversely, a trader who wins 80% of the time but suffers massive losses on the other 20% will likely fail in the long run.
Practical Steps to Effective Risk Management
Know Your Risk Tolerance:
Every trader is different. Understand how much capital you're comfortable risking per trade. For many, this is 1-2% of their total account. This ensures that no single loss can wipe you out.
Set Stop-Losses and Stick to Them:
A stop-loss isn't just a suggestion—it’s a commitment. Place your stop-loss at a point that invalidates your trade idea, not just where it feels convenient. Once it's set, never move it in the heat of the moment.
Position Sizing:
The size of your position should be based on the distance to your stop-loss and the percentage of your capital you're willing to risk. If a trade requires a wider stop, consider reducing your position size to maintain consistent risk.
Diversify Smartly:
Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Diversification doesn’t mean trading more; it means spreading your risk. Avoid overexposure to a single market or asset class.
Accept and Learn from Losses:
Losses are part of trading. What separates successful traders from the rest is their ability to minimize those losses and learn from them. Every loss is a lesson—an opportunity to refine your approach and strengthen your discipline.
The Emotional Side of Risk Management
Emotions are one of the biggest challenges traders face. Fear and greed can lead to impulsive decisions, such as holding onto losing trades in the hope they’ll turn around or risking too much on a single "sure thing." Effective risk management helps counteract these emotional pitfalls. When you know your risk is controlled, you trade with greater confidence and clarity.
Sticking to your risk management plan, especially during a losing streak, can be tough. It requires discipline and patience. But remember, trading is a marathon, not a sprint. Protecting your capital today ensures you have the opportunity to trade tomorrow.
Conclusion
Risk management isn't the most glamorous part of trading, but it is the most vital. It's the foundation upon which all successful trading is built. Without it, even the best strategies and the most skilled traders are vulnerable. With it, you create a framework that allows you to navigate the unpredictable markets with confidence.
In trading, it's not about how much you can make—it’s about how much you can keep. Master risk management, and you master the art of trading.
What Countries Use the US Dollar?What Countries Use the US Dollar?
The US dollar is more than just the currency of the United States; it's a global powerhouse used by countries worldwide. Whether as legal tender or alongside local currencies, the US dollar plays a significant role in international trade and finance. In this article, we’ll explore what countries use American dollars, where it circulates alongside local money, and why its influence extends far beyond US borders.
Overview of the US Dollar as a Global Currency
The US dollar (USD) has held a dominant position in global finance since the mid-20th century. After World War II, the Bretton Woods Agreement established the USD as the backbone of the international monetary system, linking it to gold and making it the preferred currency for trade and investment. Even though the gold standard was abandoned in the 1970s, the US dollar remained crucial for international transactions.
Today, the USD is the world's primary reserve currency, held by central banks across the globe to stabilise economies and facilitate trade. As of Q2 2024, nearly 60% of all global foreign exchange reserves are in dollars, and it accounts for 88% of forex trades (as of April 2022). The USD is used in pricing major commodities like oil, gold, and metals, further solidifying its role in global markets. Want to observe how prices of these commodities have changed over the years? Head over to FXOpen’s free TickTrader trading platform to get started with real-time charts.
Countries often hold USD as a hedge against their own currencies' volatility or to back their financial systems. Whether through official dollarisation or pegs, many economies depend on the USD for economic stability and international trade.
What Countries Use the US Dollar?
Several countries around the world have adopted the US dollar as their official currency, a practice known as dollarisation. This usually happens when a nation decides that using the USD will provide greater economic stability than their local currency, particularly in countries that have struggled with high inflation or political instability.
So how many countries have dollar currency?
- Ecuador: After a severe economic downturn, Ecuador adopted the US dollar in 2000. By using the USD, Ecuador stabilised its economy, controlled inflation, and regained investor confidence.
- El Salvador: El Salvador is a country where the US dollar is the legal currency. In 2001, it switched to the USD to increase economic stability and promote foreign investment. This move has helped the country maintain inflation at lower levels.
- Zimbabwe: After facing hyperinflation in the late 2000s, Zimbabwe abandoned its currency in 2009 and began using several foreign currencies, including the USD. However, the country has struggled with stability and frequently shifts between foreign currencies and local ones.
- Timor-Leste: Since 2000, Timor-Leste has used the USD to help stabilise its economy, which was heavily reliant on foreign aid and oil exports.
- British Virgin Islands: An overseas British territory, the British Virgin Islands, uses USD as its official currency due to its strong trade links with the US and its role as a financial hub.
- Turks and Caicos Islands: Another British overseas territory in the Caribbean, Turks and Caicos also uses the USD, mainly because of its heavy reliance on tourism from the United States.
- Micronesia, Palau, and the Marshall Islands: These Pacific island nations have long-standing agreements with the US, adopting the US dollar as part of their Compacts of Free Association, which provide economic aid and defence in exchange for using the USD.
- Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba: Collectively referred to as the Caribbean Netherlands, they officially adopted the United States dollar (USD) as their currency on January 1, 2011, following the dissolution of the Netherlands Antilles in 2010. The switch to the USD was aimed at enhancing economic stability and simplifying transactions with the United States, a key trade partner and significant source of tourism for the region.
Countries and Territories Where the US Dollar Is Used Alongside Local Currencies
In many countries and territories, the US dollar is used alongside local currencies, often for international trade, tourism, or to hedge against inflation. While not officially replacing local money, the US dollar plays a vital role in these economies. Here’s a closer look at other countries that use the US dollar alongside local currencies:
- Panama: Since 1904, Panama has used the US dollar alongside its local currency, the balboa. The country chose the USD due to its strong trading ties with the United States, especially with the Panama Canal's importance to global trade.
- Cambodia: The riel is Cambodia’s official currency, but the US dollar is widely accepted and often preferred for larger transactions. It’s estimated that over 80% of the country’s deposits and loans are in USD, reflecting its dominance in the economy, particularly in urban areas.
- Bahamas: The Bahamian dollar is pegged 1:1 to USD, and both are used interchangeably throughout the islands, especially in tourism-driven sectors. Many businesses and ATMs accept both currencies without issue.
- Bermuda: The Bermudian dollar is also pegged 1:1 to the US dollar, and both are widely accepted. The USD is frequently used in international trade and by tourists visiting the island.
- Belize: In Belize, the Belizean dollar is officially used, but the US dollar is accepted nearly everywhere. The local currency is pegged to the USD at a fixed rate of 2:1, and many businesses, especially those catering to tourists, price goods and services in US dollars.
- Liberia: This country uses the US dollar as its paper currency alongside the Liberian dollar. The USD is often preferred for larger transactions and savings, particularly in urban areas. It has been a significant part of the country’s financial system due to its historical ties with the United States.
- Myanmar (Burma): The Myanmar kyat is the official currency, but the USD is widely used, particularly in tourism, international trade, and foreign investment. Many hotels, airlines, and larger businesses will accept USD for transactions.
- Lebanon: The Lebanese pound is the official currency, but the US dollar is extensively used, especially given the recent economic crisis and hyperinflation. Many sectors of the economy rely on the USD to preserve value and enable trade.
- Argentina: Although the Argentine peso is the national currency, the US dollar is commonly used for savings and major purchases, such as property. High inflation and currency controls have driven many Argentinians to hold USD to protect their wealth.
- Peru: While the Peruvian sol is the official currency, the USD is often used for real estate, tourism, and larger transactions. Many Peruvians prefer to keep their savings in USD to avoid potential depreciation.
- Haiti: The Haitian gourde is the official currency, but the US dollar is widely accepted, particularly in the capital, Port-au-Prince. Many businesses and services cater to both the local population and tourists, pricing in both gourdes and USD.
- Vietnam: While the Vietnamese dong is the official currency, the US dollar is commonly used for larger transactions, particularly in the tourism and real estate sectors. Some high-end hotels and international businesses price goods and services in USD.
How Does the US Dollar Affect Economies That Don’t Use It Directly?
Even countries that don’t use the US dollar directly feel its impact. Many nations peg their local currency to the USD, such as Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia. These currency pegs mean that when the value of the US dollar shifts, so does the value of their currency, affecting everything from inflation to trade competitiveness. A stronger USD can make these countries' exports more expensive and reduce demand, while a weaker dollar has the opposite effect.
Additionally, a large portion of global debt, particularly in emerging markets, is issued in US dollars. If the dollar strengthens, these countries face higher costs when repaying loans, which can strain government budgets and hurt economic growth.
Fluctuations in the USD also influence commodity prices, as goods like oil and gold are priced in dollars. When it rises, commodity prices often fall, impacting countries that rely on exports of these resources.
Challenges of Using the US Dollar
Countries that use USD, whether adopted or pegged to it, face significant challenges. The most pressing issue is the loss of monetary control. When a country uses the US dollar, it can no longer set its own interest rates or control its money supply, leaving it vulnerable to the decisions of the US Federal Reserve. For example, if the Fed raises interest rates, borrowing costs increase globally, even for economies that might not take advantage of tighter monetary policy.
Countries also lose the ability to devalue their currency to make exports more competitive, which can hinder economic growth. This lack of flexibility can be problematic during local economic downturns, as governments have fewer tools to stimulate their economy or combat inflation.
Additionally, dependence on the US dollar exposes economies to external shocks. A sharp appreciation in USD can hurt countries with significant USD-denominated debt, making it more expensive to service loans. While the US dollar provides stability, these countries sacrifice a degree of autonomy over their economic policies.
The Bottom Line
The US dollar’s global reach impacts economies worldwide, whether as legal tender or widely circulated paper currency. Understanding its role can help traders navigate international markets. If you're ready to take advantage of currency movements, consider opening an FXOpen account. With FXOpen, you'll gain access to the tools and platforms to trade major currencies, including the USD, and take advantage of our low-cost, high-speed trading environment.
FAQ
What Country Uses the US Dollar as Its Paper Currency?
Several countries use the US dollar as paper currency alongside their local money. Cambodia, Argentina, and Lebanon, for example, commonly accept USD for larger transactions despite having their own official currencies.
Does El Salvador Use USD?
Yes, El Salvador officially adopted the US dollar in 2001. The decision was made to stabilise the economy and reduce inflation, offering more stability in the financial system. Today, the USD is used for all transactions, making it the primary currency in the country.
Does Panama Use USD?
Yes, Panama has used the US dollar since 1904 alongside its local currency, the balboa. The USD is used for most transactions, and the balboa is pegged 1:1 with the dollar, meaning both currencies are interchangeable within the country.
Does Ecuador Use the US Dollar?
Ecuador has used the US dollar since 2000, after a severe financial crisis. The switch helped stabilise the economy, reduce hyperinflation, and restore public confidence in the financial system. Today, the USD is the sole official currency.
Does Puerto Rico Use the US Dollar?
Yes, as an unincorporated territory of the United States, Puerto Rico uses the US dollar as its official currency. The USD is used for all financial transactions, just like in any US state.
Where Does the US Dollar Have the Most Value?
The US dollar tends to have more purchasing power in countries with weaker local currencies. Examples include countries like Mexico, Vietnam, and Indonesia, where the USD can buy significantly more goods and services compared to stronger economies.
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.
Higher time frame frameworks and set upIn this video, we explore a high-level analysis of monthly and weekly trading frameworks, showcasing how TSA—Time, Space, Algorithms, and Tradings—leverages Confluence to identify asymmetrical opportunities in the market. While this isn’t the full strategy, it introduces key elements that empower traders to achieve precision and clarity.
We dive into the power of Confluence as a core component, integrating insights from markets like the VIX to enhance feasibility and comparison. Starting from the monthly and weekly frameworks, we refine our approach to a 1-hour and 4-hour perspective, identifying high-probability setups. From there, we scale down to 15-minute and 5-minute charts, applying the same Confluence-based principles to manage trades effectively.
This video is designed to bring the trading community together—FED traders, ICT traders, and those who combine fundamentals with technical analysis. Let’s collaborate to uncover powerful Confluences that sharpen our edge in the markets.
This is just the beginning—join us as we build a thriving community of traders!
1 - The Winning MentalityTo navigate the path of success, many individuals seek inspiration from the past. Historical figures teach us valuable lessons about achieving financial goals, avoiding common pitfalls, and navigating the complexities of life.
Trading stands out as one of the most demanding professions. Without proper training and education, mastering this field can be nearly impossible. What can aspiring traders do? The answer lies in learning from those who have excelled—studying their words, actions, writings, and seminars.
Every highly successful trader in the global currency market once started as a novice, transitioning from ordinary lives to remarkable success. None emerged from the womb as seasoned traders; each dedicated years to personal development, learning, and creating their own unique trading strategies. The names of such traders are now recognized by nearly all in the industry.
George Soros
George Soros, born György Schwartz in Budapest in 1930, grew up in a modest Jewish family. His family relocated to England in 1947, where Soros attended the London School of Economics, often juggling multiple jobs to make ends meet.
His journey took him to New York in 1956, armed with just $500. Over three decades on Wall Street, Soros gained notoriety for his innovative trading methods, amassing a fortune of $100 million.
A pivotal moment came on September 16, 1992, dubbed "Black Wednesday," when Soros famously shorted the British pound, profiting nearly $1 billion in a single day. Following similar strategies in Southeast Asia at the end of the 1990s, he declared a shift to philanthropy, ultimately donating approximately $32 billion to various causes.
On his 90th birthday, Soros shared a key insight into his success: his approach was more psychological than financial. He emphasized that distorted perceptions can lead to misguided actions—an understanding rooted in his concept of reflexivity.
Larry Williams
Born in Miles City, Montana in 1942, Larry Williams graduated from the University of Oregon before embarking on a varied career that ultimately led him to the stock markets. His interest sparked from observing stock price fluctuations, and he was particularly intrigued by the potential for profit despite market downturns.
By 1965, Williams was actively trading and became known for creating the acclaimed Williams %R indicator. He garnered remarkable success in the Robbins World Cup trading championship, where he achieved a staggering annual return of 11,376%, transforming a $10,000 investment into over $1.1 million.
Williams believed that historical events do not dictate future price movements, asserting that his indicators primarily shed light on current market conditions rather than predict future trends.
Steven Cohen
Stephen Cohen gained fame for his analytical prowess and his ability to anticipate market crises. Born in 1957, he demonstrated early on a talent for analysis, particularly through poker, where he honed skills in evaluating risk.
Cohen's trading career gained momentum after he invested $1,000 in a brokerage firm, subsequently launching S.A.C. Capital Partners with a $20 million initial fund. His savvy investment strategies led to an impressive annual profit nearing 50% at times, with his firm consistently outperforming competitors.
Even amidst market fluctuations, Cohen remained an active participant in his firm, demonstrating a hands-on approach that continues to define his success.
Paul Tudor Jones
Known for his discretion and aversion to fame, Paul Tudor Jones embarked on his trading journey in the 1970s with a clear ambition to succeed on Wall Street. Guided by influences from successful mentors, he initially traded on the cotton exchange, gradually transitioning to more lucrative futures trading.
His investment fund, Tudor Futures, grew substantially, particularly during periods of market volatility. Jones’s successful navigation led him to establish a renowned firm that today manages a diverse array of global investments, boasting a net worth of over $3 billion.
John Arnold
John Arnold represents a different path, as he transitioned from trading to entrepreneurship. He began his career at Enron, leveraging computer technology to excel in trading, ultimately earning $1 billion by 2001.
Following Enron’s collapse, Arnold founded Centaurus Energy Advisors, a hedge fund specializing in energy markets. Today, his business thrives with over $3 billion in assets, reflecting his exceptional leadership and strategic acumen.
Joe Lewis
Joe Lewis, billionaire and investor, built his wealth primarily through currency trading. Born in East London in 1937, he transitioned from a family catering business to becoming a formidable player in the financial markets.
Lewis achieved significant profits during the 1992 pound crisis, partnering with Soros. Now residing in the Bahamas, he actively manages the Tavistock Group, boasting investments across numerous industries.
Unpacking the Mindset of Successful Traders
The success stories outlined illustrate the diverse paths taken by some of the world’s most recognized traders. What common threads run through their journeys? Each trader faced significant challenges in their early years, and most were undeniably talented; however, talent alone does not guarantee success.
A defining characteristic of these traders is their unwavering focus on their objectives. Throughout their journeys, they sought knowledge from a variety of sources, driven by a desire to achieve their goals.
Despite the inevitable ups and downs, these traders recognized that perseverance and continuous learning are essential. For them, trading is not just a job but a lifelong passion.
Ultimately, success in trading—and in any endeavor—stems from tenacity, self-belief, specialized knowledge, and relentless pursuit of one’s goals. With a clear vision and dedicated effort, anyone can achieve remarkable success in the financial markets.
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Squaring the High for TSLAHere we are Squaring the high of 299$ for TSLA on July 19, 2023 being our origin date we do as follows sqrt(299) = 17.291 + .25 resqaured = 307. days later may 22, 2024. After adding .25 to the SqRt of 299 i subsequently added + 1 to the SqRt of 299 which equals 17.2916164658 so 17.2916164658 + 1 = 18.2916164658 RESQAURED = 334.583232932. 334 is our time cycle adding from the origin date of July 19, 2023 gives us July 18 2024. Marked on the chart are the time cycles given after subsequently adding +1 8 times. Notice how were are getting precise pivot points for TSLA. To understand further watch Michael s. Jenkins part one and two 1. youtu.be
2. youtu.be
How to Calculate the Exact Time of Market Reversal - LIVE TRADEDoes the market feel random to you?
Like a casino where your trades are gambles, hoping for the best while fearing the worst?
Well, it's time to rethink everything. Markets aren’t random; they operate with algorithmic precision , and in this live trade, I’ll show you exactly how.
Using Gann Astro principles combined with advanced mathematics, I calculated the precise time of a market reversal—down to the minute. This isn’t some generic indicator, supply-demand, or support-resistance nonsense that makes you wonder if trading is a rigged game. Retail strategies are like trying to drive blindfolded; they ignore the fundamental truth of the market: time is more important than price , and the market's movements are governed by an intricate algorithmic system.
With over 5 years of deep expertise, I’ve moved beyond the clutter of retail methods to uncover how planetary cycles, mathematical models, and time-based analytics drive price delivery . This is not just theory—watch the market respond to the exact reversal I predicted, proving the power of this method.
Forget gambling; this is science . If you’re tired of losing money to the randomness of retail tools and want to learn how to master the true precision of the markets, DM me for exclusive one-on-one training. Step into the world of professional trading and leave the chaos behind.
The Cascade Effect: A Force for Success or Self-Sabotage
The path to successful trading can sometimes feel overwhelming. The reality is daunting, with numerous small and often psychologically challenging biases that need to be overcome daily. However, an awareness of certain chain reactions—like the "Cascade Effect"—can make the mountain top feel within reach.
By harnessing this effect, traders can set in motion a sequence of positive actions that build on each other, creating momentum and growth. On the flip side, if neglected, these small actions can spark a downward spiral, triggered by seemingly insignificant missteps.
Understanding the Cascade Effect: From Fitness to Finance
The Cascade Effect is a concept well-documented in fields like fitness and psychology, where small, consistent actions lead to either upward or downward trajectories in well-being. This principle is not new; research has shown how even one positive action can trigger a chain of beneficial events.
For example, a study exploring the daily impact of exercise found that participants who engaged in physical activity experienced more positive social interactions and achieved more goals, both on the same day and even the next. The researchers concluded, "Exercise creates a positive cascade, increasing positive social and achievement events experienced on the same day and positive social events on the following day." In essence, a simple action like exercising acts as a powerful catalyst, initiating a cycle of rewarding behaviours that reinforce one another and drive overall well-being.
In trading, this concept applies in a similar way. A small, disciplined action—such as a daily review of market conditions—can serve as the foundation for more deliberate decision-making throughout the day.
The Positive Cascade Effect in Trading
The positive Cascade Effect in trading begins with small, intentional actions. For instance, starting the day with a dedicated market review—whether analysing charts, tracking news, or identifying key levels—creates a sense of preparedness. This act of preparation forms the bedrock for disciplined trading decisions throughout the day. These small actions can set off a chain of events that builds mental momentum. As the trader continuously follows these routines, they not only feel more grounded in their approach but also less vulnerable to impulsive decisions or emotional trading.
A powerful example of this positive cascade is the practice of trade journaling. By regularly reviewing each trade and assessing what went well or could be improved, traders gain valuable insight into their unique strengths and weaknesses. This reflection process reinforces positive behaviours while shedding light on areas that need refinement. With each small improvement, traders feel a sense of progress and growth. As this momentum accumulates, their approach becomes more disciplined, which over time can yield more consistent, positive results. This continuous loop of reflection, adjustment, and improvement leads to a more robust trading strategy, underpinned by both mental and emotional resilience.
The Negative Cascade Effect in Trading
Unfortunately, the Cascade Effect can work in the opposite direction, leading to a negative spiral that can be just as powerful, if not more so. Missing a pre-trade routine or skipping chart analysis may seem inconsequential at first, but these small lapses can gradually erode a trader’s discipline. For example, a trader who skips their market prep one day might find it easier to do the same the next day, creating a chain reaction that leads to increasingly haphazard trades. These small oversights compound over time, causing habits to deteriorate and weakening the foundation of a trader’s strategy. As these small mistakes pile up, the trader’s decisions become more reactive rather than proactive, and the trading process feels less grounded and more erratic.
The impact of impulsive decisions can also amplify the negative Cascade Effect. For example, after a loss triggered by an impulsive trade, the trader may feel frustrated, leading them to chase losses or engage in revenge trading. This emotional response worsens the situation, compounding the original mistake. The resulting cycle of frustration and hasty decisions chips away at the trader’s confidence and increases mental strain. Over time, this pattern not only harms trading performance but also makes it more difficult to break free from the cycle. It’s crucial to recognise these small slips early on to prevent them from spiralling into bigger problems that can ultimately undermine your entire approach.
Ensuring a Positive Cascade Effect: Cultivating Conscious Habits
To ensure that the Cascade Effect works in your favour, focus on routines that reinforce discipline and mindfulness. By cultivating awareness and consistency, you can leverage the Cascade Effect to build positive momentum in your trading. Here are a few practices that can help:
• Morning Pre-Trade Routine: Start each day with a consistent market analysis session. Reviewing news, technical setups, and key levels not only prepares you mentally but also sets a positive tone for the day.
• Post-Trade Journaling: After each trade, take the time to reflect on your decisions, emotions, and outcomes. This habit keeps you aware of your decision-making process and allows for continuous learning.
• Mindfulness and Meditation: Incorporating a few minutes of meditation each day can help you stay centred, reducing emotional reactions and fostering awareness of your thoughts and actions.
These habits create a solid foundation for discipline and self-awareness, empowering you to harness the Cascade Effect in a way that can keep the forces of momentum working for you.
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.
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Silver Bullet Strategy EURUSD AUDUSD | 03/12/2024Trading the Silver Bullet strategy was tough yesterday. While many may only discuss the wins associated with their trading strategies, we encountered some losses yesterday. We entered two trades on two major currency pairs (EURUSD, AUDUSD) and aim to walk you through what happened during our trading session using the Silver Bullet strategy.
At 10:00 EST, we began scouting for potential trading setups, as this marks the beginning of the Silver Bullet window, which concludes at 11:00 EST. By 10:20 EST, a Fair Value Gap (FVG) had formed on the EURUSD currency pair, presenting us with a sell bias and directing our attention to potential selling opportunities in EURUSD for the current trading session. Upon reviewing AUDUSD, we observed that an FVG had also formed at 10:20 EST, further indicating a sell bias for the currency pair.
Once we establish a bias, we typically wait for a retracement into the formed FVG and only execute the trade after the candle that enters the FVG has closed. This step is crucial on our checklist because our backtesting revealed scenarios where the candle entering the FVG could proceed to hit the stop loss. This check helps us avoid entering trades under such conditions. Meanwhile, those who use limit orders may find themselves at a disadvantage in these situations. After a 20-minute wait following the formation of the FVG, we identified a trade on EURUSD that satisfied all the criteria on our checklist, and without hesitation, we proceeded to execute the trade.
In this trade, since the high of candle number 1 from the entry price is approximately 7 pips, which does not satisfy the minimum stop loss requirement, we adjust it to a 10 pips stop loss, our minimum threshold. This rule ensures the trade has sufficient room to fluctuate. Immediately after executing the EURUSD trade, we identified another opportunity with AUDUSD that met all the criteria on our checklist. As it fulfilled the necessary requirements, we proceeded without hesitation to execute the trade.
Please be aware that we risk 1% of our trading account on each trade. This level of risk is acceptable for us, as it's an amount we're comfortable with potentially losing, thus preventing emotional attachment to the trades. Ten minutes after initiating a sell position on EURUSD, our trade reached the stop loss, resulting in a 1% loss for the day. Consequently, we are left with our sell position on AUDUSD.
After incurring a loss on EURUSD, we examined the AUDUSD position and found that this trade was also facing a drawdown. Did we experience any emotions upon realizing we might lose 2% that day? No, because we had already accepted the risk and were prepared for any outcome, whether it was a win or a loss. We were aware that the strategy's win rate was around 48%, indicating that losses are a part of the process. However, with a positive risk-to-reward ratio, our wins are expected to outweigh the losses.
While awaiting the outcome of the AUDUSD trade, we noticed a setup on USDCAD where a Fair Value Gap (FVG) had formed. However, upon closer inspection, we realized it materialized exactly at 11:00 EST. This timing meant we couldn't engage in the trade, as our checklist mandates that trades must be executed before 11:00 EST, thus invalidating this setup. It's important to note our discipline here; despite the temptation, we didn't enter another trade out of revenge. Instead, we let it pass because it failed to meet certain criteria on our checklist. Discipline is a crucial quality of a successful trader and should never be underestimated.
Upon reviewing the AUDUSD trade once more, we observed that it was no longer in a drawdown; instead, the trade had returned to our entry price. Consequently, there was no action required other than to allow the trade to proceed as it will
After being in the trade for an hour and 10 minutes, the AUDUSD position hit the stop loss, putting us down 2% for the day. Indeed, we took two losses and it's likely we'll face more, as that is the nature of trading. It's normal to encounter multiple losses throughout your trading career, and it's crucial not to let them discourage you. Ensure that any strategy you use has been thoroughly backtested and has the data to support its long-term profitability. Also, make certain that your wins consistently exceed your losses, so that during a losing streak, just a few wins can compensate for the losses.