Many traders believe that to be successful you need mountains of indicators that give you some kind of “edge” over the market. I am here to say that trading as a means of consistent income does not have to be painful or difficult. That less is certainly more when it comes to trading. I’ve met traders with every indicator under the sun on their charts, with years of training under their belts having spent thousands of $$$’s and STILL not making a consistent income….
Why? Because Indicators are liars! Sure sometimes you might pull of a trade or 2 but in the end you always get spanked….Why? Because not everyone uses a MACD with your settings, not everyone uses the Stochastic or the RSI. I believe to be an effective trader you have to look at what the majority of traders look at…So what do most traders look at? Support and Resistance! Almost every system out there uses Support and Resistance to some extent. Support and Resistance is our number 1 indicator. So why not make Support and Resistance your system?! Mark up some levels on a chart using time frames from 1hr and above (this is what the big boys who move the market watch, so no lower please) and see what happens! Use other info that the majority of traders watch ONLY as confluence, Market Profile levels, Pivots and Fibs.
Support and Resistance levels are considered high probability areas for market “reversal”, offering retracements of 0.75 points to in some cases 50+ points. In many instances historically referenced Support and Resistance levels can help traders catch markets tops/ bottoms to the very tick! Why? Because Support and Resistance levels are the most widely used trading tool! Everyone from Hedge funds and banks to the small time trader at home use Support and Resistance levels
For many it may be difficult to leave the system you are using now so why not use Support and Resistance levels as a guide alongside set ups defined by the system/strategy that you are implementing. Using Support and Resistance levels obtained from the 1hr, 4hr and daily timeframes offers the highest odds Support and Resistance levels. All levels should have historical significance and thus will be considered high probability trading areas. Throughout the trading day these numbers can become areas of Support AND Resistance.
We believe that using Support and Resistance as your CORE trading methodology can reap great rewards for traders.
To find a methodology that really works and receive FREE Support and Resistance levels please visit us at http://www.supportandresistancetrading.com/
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Tuesday 13 January 2009
The Forex market can lure the novice Forex trader into trading scenarios that appear very attractive at first glance but turn very quickly into a losing trade.
Many a Forex trader will relate to this experience:
- Price has been in a consolidation channel for one or two hours.
- You place an entry order to get taken in at the top or bottom of the channel.
- Within a few minutes your trade is in and within a few minutes more you are looking at a loss of -10 pips, then -15 pips, and then your stop gets taken out.
- Price hardly moved for hours but as soon as you got into a trade you were taken out within minutes for a loss leaving you bewildered and muttering, “What happened?”
In the early stages of gaining trading experience, it is good for the novice Forex trader to go by a checklist every time before entering a trade until certain habits become ingrained.
Just having a procedure in place that has to be executed before pulling the trigger on a trade can prevent the Forex trader from quickly entering a trade just because there are some sudden movements on the screen and the trader is worried about missing an opportunity.
Yes, disciplining oneself to take time and go through a checklist first may mean missing some good opportunities occasionally. On the other hand, it will prevent having losing trades frequently.
For a very cautious approach to trading the newer Forex trader can use this Failsafe Checklist to determine whether the potential trade setup is likely to be high probability or low probability.
FailSafe Checklist
Avoid Going Long If:
- There is negative divergence on MACD on the 4 hour, 1 hour, or 15 minute chart.
- MACD on the 4 hour or 1 hour chart is pointing down.
- Price is well above the Central Pivot Point for the day in a Sell Area. (For a free pivot point calculator go here: www.vitalstop.com/Forex/pivot-point-calculator-download.html)
- Price is below the 200 EMA (Exponential Moving Average) on the 4 hour and 1 hour chart but above the 200 EMA on the 15 minute chart. (With this setup on the 3 times frames price is bucking the overall trend and can turn against you at any time.)
- Price is above a Fibonacci 50, 62, or 79 retracement (calculated from the last high and low)
- Your stop is not below multiple layers of support such as a significant previous high or low, pivot point, or Fibonacci level.
Avoid Going Short If:
- There is positive divergence on MACD on the 4 hour, 1 hour, or 15 minute chart.
- MACD on the 4 hour or 1 hour chart is pointing up.
- Price is well below the Central Pivot Point for the day in a Buy Area.
- Price is above the 200 EMA on the 4 hour and 1 hour chart but below the 200 EMA on the 15 minute chart.
- Price is below a Fibonacci 50, 62, or 79 retracement (calculated from the last high and low)
- Your stop is not above multiple layers of resistance such as a significant previous high or low, pivot point, or Fibonacci level.
The Most Important Lesson Of All
Implementing this Failsafe Checklist strategy may reduce the number of trades the Forex trader participates in. However, here an important lesson is learned - patience! Waiting for a high probability setup can make many demands on a Forex trader’s mental resources and emotional strength.
This is probably the most important lesson the new Forex trader will have to learn. Using a Failsafe Checklist like the one above can make the Forex trader slow down, engage in thorough analysis using the technical indicators available, and really start to make progress as a trader.
Why not print off the Failsafe Checklist and keep it beside the computer for consultation before pulling the trigger on any trade?
For additional tips on using the MACD indicator for safe trading click here:
http://www.vitalstop.com/Forex/Advisor/forex-strategy-MACD-save-anxiety.htm
The powerful 200 EMA strategy - easy for developing traders:
http://www.vitalstop.com/Forex/Advisor/200EMA-forex-strategy.htm
For a free pivot point calculator, Fibonacci calculator and the best free economic calendars click here:
http://www.vitalstop.com/Forex/tools.html
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Thursday 27 November 2008
Forex Assassin system just came out few days back and experts are already talking about it. I am sure you must have heard of this system already. Also, you must have heard of a formula that this system contains that helps identify the trade. Many of you might be thinking - Is Forex Assassin really that good as what experts are saying?
Lets look at the this system -
What kind of System is Forex Assassin?
Each forex trading system consists of a trading strategy of a particular category. The primary categories of Trading strategies are -
1. Fundamental analysis based - These kind of systems focus on making pips using fundamental news such as NFP (Non Farm payroll) etc.
2. Technical Analysis based - Most of the systems fall in this category where the trades are made using the technical indicators. There are tons of technical indicators such as Fibonacci, EMAs, candles, MACD etc.
3. Price Driven - Forex Assassin system falls in this category. These systems are based on the theory that particular kind of price movement influence the market to move in a particular way.
What is the Forex Assassin Formula?
This system primarily is based on a formula. This formula recommends the entry and exit points for the next trades to be made based on current price information of the currency pair. Since the formula makes the calculations, this frees up the time of the traders since they don’t have to continuously watch the charts. Due to this, the identification of the trades is matter of just minutes because of this formula.
Is Forex Assassin costly?
Typically, from my observation I have found that all the forex trading systems come for a standard price of $97. So does this system. I guess, $97 has become more of a market standard. There are few systems that come for even 1000s of Dollars, but they are DVD based courses. Considering this point, this system is more in line with Market price. Just to mention here, my suggestions is that when you think about buying a system, pay $97 only to the systems you know that have good reviews.
Should you buy Forex assassin?
Here is the thing. Before buying any system, find out what is its review ( Find here Forex Assassin review and experiences).
However, the first important thing is that you should buy a system only when you are planning to use it. I have known people who just buy a trading strategy, but they hardly open it and use it. If you are planning on doing the same, Don’t buy any system to throw away your money!
So, here was my review. In all, the system looks to be fine so far. I really like the part where it saves a lot of time because of the formula it contains. Use the information mentioned here to make decision about Forex Assassin.
If you want to know my experience with Forex Assassin system, please click on this link Forex Assassin review.
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Monday 17 November 2008
Some traders regard MACD divergence as a Forex signal to enter a high probability trade. They almost suggest you get straight in to a trade as soon as you see MACD divergence.
Is this Forex signal that reliable? To be fair, it certainly has a place in a successful trader’s kit of strategies, but as with any Forex signal, there are certain precautions that have to be observed to make any trade high probability.
At this time there doesn’t appear to be any Forex signal that offers anywhere near a 100% success rate.
So if you are tempted to trade on the basis of MACD divergence, what other factors should you keep in mind?
MACD Divergence Defined
First let’s just spell out exactly what is meant by MACD divergence.
MACD (Moving Average Convergence Divergence) comes as a standard Forex signal on all the main charting packages. Some show MACD by itself with two lines, one a combination of a 12 and 26 Exponential Moving Average, and the other line based on a 9 Exponential Moving Average.
Some charting packages also include what is called a Histogram in the same charting area as MACD. The histogram merely represents in a different way what is happening between the two MACD lines as to market momentum. The wider the gap between the MACD lines, the higher or lower the height of the histogram bars.
To identify MACD divergence, simply draw a line across the highs if MACD is above the zero line, or draw a line across the lows if MACD is below the zero line.
Now go to the price action section of the chart, the candlesticks, and draw a line across the highs directly above where the line is drawn on the MACD highs, or draw a line across price lows directly above where the line is drawn on MACD lows.
If they are going in opposite directions you have MACD divergence. In other words, when MACD is making lower highs and lower lows but price is making higher highs and higher lows, this negative MACD divergence forms a Forex signal indicating price could well start to drop.
If MACD is making higher highs and higher lows but price is making lower highs and lower lows, this positive MACD divergence forms a Forex signal indicating price could well start to rise.
MACD Divergence Precautions
Be aware that MACD divergence on a smaller time frame is not so significant. When it is seen on a 15 minute chart it may or may not be very important.
If seen on a 60 minute, 4 hour, or daily chart, start doing more analysis.
If you see MACD divergence on two or more of the higher time frames, then definitely sit up and take notice and start looking for other factors to indicate when price may react to the divergence.
This brings us to a key point when trading MACD divergence as a Forex signal to enter a trade. On a higher time frame, MACD divergence can be a fairly reliable indicator of a change in price direction. However, the big question is: WHEN?
Many traders get caught out by entering a trade too soon when they see MACD divergence. In many cases, price has still got some muscle to continue in the current direction. The trader who has jumped in too soon can only stare at the screen in dismay as price shoots through his stop taking him out.
How Can This Scenario Be Avoided
Before pulling the trigger when you see MACD divergence on the higher time frames, be sure to look for other key Forex signals to confirm that the divergence has really kicked in.
For example, if you see a distinctive candle pattern such as a tweezer top or a hanging man on the higher time frame it may appear price has topped out and is now ready to move in the other direction.
If at the same time the distinctive candle pattern is at a key level of previous support or resistance, or at a pivot level, or a Fibonacci retracement or extension level, you have added reason to believe this could well be a turning point and put an entry order in at this level to get taken in.
At the same time, you will want to consult your trading calendar to make sure you are not entering a trade near a significant Fundamental Announcement. Even though the MACD divergence may kick in soon, the Fundamental Announcement could cause a major spike in price and take out your stop.
So in summary, is MACD divergence a high probability Forex signal?
Answer: By itself NO!
How can MACD divergence be used safely?
Answer: Check to see if MACD divergence is seen on one or more higher time frame charts such as the 60 minute, 4 hour, or daily.
Then look for other Forex signals such as candle patterns, support or resistance levels, or Fibonacci retracement extension levels.
In other words, use MACD divergence as a confirmation Forex signal that you are going in the right direction rather than a stand-alone Forex signal.
Get a useful free tip on how to use the MACD indicator for safe trading here:
http://www.vitalstop.com/Forex/Advisor/forex-strategy-MACD-save-anxiety.htm
To learn how to preserve your mental and emotional resources in addition to your account equity click here:
http://www.vitalstop.com/Forex/Advisor/forex-day-trading-mental-equity.htm
For the best free economic calendars plus a free pivot point calculator and Fibonacci calculator click here:
http://www.vitalstop.com/Forex/tools.html
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Tuesday 21 October 2008
In the development of your forex strategy do you wonder how you can trade the non-farm payroll report?
Seeing this is one of the most, if not the most, volatile announcement during the month (first Friday in every month) newer traders watch the huge movements and wonder how to make money from all that volatility.
The answer given below you may not fully appreciate until some explanation is offered.
Question
“How do I trade the non-farm payroll report?”
Answer
“You DON’T!”
Or to put it another way, “By maintaining a neutral position!”
The market is far too volatile at this time to expect a high probability trade. There may be some gamblers out there who relish the thought of ‘placing a bet’ to go long or short. But serious traders know better.
Actually, the professional traders I know all say the same thing: “Stand aside and wait for the market to calm down.”
This may take between 30 to 45 minutes in some cases and even then the direction of the market may be uncertain.
Some suggest you can trade volatile market movers such as the non-farm payroll report by waiting for the first leg of the move, up or down, then wait for price to pull back 10 or 15 pips, then enter a trade to catch the second leg of the move which often follows.
That’s one possibility but still high risk. Personally I prefer to base my forex strategy on sound market assessment and carefully researched trades.
Trading The Aftermath
However, while many professional traders sit out the non-farm payroll report, that doesn’t mean they don’t trade afterwards.
After the market has made a violent move in one direction you sometimes see price stalling and then give a clear signal that it’s momentum is exhausted.
Look For Combination Factors
This may be in the form of a candle pattern such as a hammer with a very large shadow which also happens to be on a key support or resistance level.
Now you can enter a trade with a small level of risk as you place your stop just above the high or low of the candle signal.
By applying a number of technical indicators to the chart pattern after a non-farm payroll report, you may see a point where a previous support/resistance level convergences with a Fibonacci retracement or extension, or the 200 EMA (Exponential Moving Average), or a pivot point.
If a distinctive candle forms at that level also you can expect a reasonable price bounce and extract a number of pips from the market.
This advice applies to all fundamental announcements which are considered ‘market movers’.
By developing a cautious forex strategy based on sound trading principles, you will enjoy this business and get the satisfaction of seeing your account equity steadily growing.
Get a useful free tip on how to use the MACD indicator for safe trading here:
http://www.vitalstop.com/Forex/Advisor/forex-strategy-MACD-save-anxiety.htm
To learn how to preserve your mental and emotional equity in addition to your account equity click here:
http://www.vitalstop.com/Forex/Advisor/forex-day-trading-mental-equity.htm
For the best free economic calendars plus a free pivot point calculator and Fibonacci calculator click here:
http://www.vitalstop.com/Forex/tools.html
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Monday 20 October 2008
There are tons of courses in currency trading out there. How do you know which one to choose? Well it really depends on what it is you’re looking for. If you’re brand new to currency trading and want to find out the basics or if you have experience and are looking to learn how to profitably trade the markets?
If you’re a beginner to forex and what to understand the first steps of trading forex, then a couple of options are babypips.com or any number of great forex forums like forex factory. Babypips has a ton of great mini courses in currency trading. They have a new lesson almost everyday. Their approach is both very accessible and fun. It’s just a perfect place to quickly learn the basics of currency trading. Another great place to learn are forums like Forex Factory. It can be a little daunting and is not as well organized as Babypips but there is a mountain of information on some of the basics of trading.
If you are a seasoned veteran of forex trading and still struggling along, then you are probably looking for something more advanced. You’ve struggled with the markets and are looking for a solution. I’d recommend trying to understand price action. Try to find courses in currency trading that focus on trading without indicators. I know this may sound strange considering everywhere you look, people are talking about trading systems with stochastics, MACD, moving averages and many other lagging indicators. But if you can understand the underlying reasons of price movement by looking at a naked chart, then you’ll have an advantage over 95% of the trading public.
Forex trading success is much easier once you understand what you’re looking at.
Make sure to check out my honest, unbiased reviews of forex trading courses.
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Monday 20 October 2008
The Moving Average Convergence Divergence charts, or MACD charts for short, are a technical indicator that is derived from the more simple moving average.
The MACD charts are oscillating indicators, meaning that they move above and below a centerline or zero point. As with other oscillating and momentum indicators, a very high value indicates that the stock is overbought and will likely drop soon. Conversely, a consistently low value indicates that the stock is oversold and is likely to climb.
THE 12-DAY AND 26-DAY EMAS
The MACD charts are based on 3 exponential moving averages, or EMA. These averages can be of any period, though the most common combination, and the one we will focus on, are the 12-26-9 MACD charts.
There are 2 parts to the MACD. We will focus first on the first part, which is based on the stock’s 12-Day and 26-Day EMA. The 12-Day EMA is the faster EMA while the 26-Day is slower.
The logic behind using a faster and slower EMA is that this can be used to gauge momentum. When the faster (in this case 12-Day) EMA is above the slower 26-Day EMA, the stock is in an uptrend, and vice versa. If the 12-Day EMA is increasing much faster than the 26-Day EMA, the uptrend is becoming stronger and more pronounced. Conversely, when the 12-Day EMA starts slowing down, and the 26-Day begins to near it, the stock movement’s momentum is beginning to fade, indicating the end of the uptrend.
THE MACD LINE
The MACD charts use these 2 EMA by taking the difference between them and plotting a new line. Very often, this new line is depicted as a thick black line in the middle chart.
When the 12-Day and 26-Day EMA are at the same value, the MACD line is at zero. When the 12-Day EMA is higher than the 26-Day EMA, the MACD line will be in positive territory. The further the 12-Day EMA is from the 26-Day EMA, the further the MACD line is from its centerline or zero value.
THE 9-DAY EMA
This line on its own doesn’t tell much more than a moving average. It becomes more useful when we take into account its 9-Day EMA. This is the third value when we talk of 12-26-9 MACD charts. Note that the 9-Day EMA is an EMA of the MACD line, not of the stock price. This EMA (the thin blue line alongside the MACD line) acts like a normal EMA and smoothes the MACD line.
The 9-Day EMA acts as a signal line or trigger line for the MACD. When the MACD line crosses above the 9-Day EMA from below, it indicates that the downtrend is over and a new uptrend is forming. Time to consider bullish strategies. Conversely, when the MACD line drops below its 9-Day EMA, a new downtrend is forming and its time to implement bearish strategies.
THE MACD HISTOGRAM
So far, we have covered the most simple form of interpreting the MACD charts. We now look at the MACD histogram. Just as the MACD line is the difference between the 12-Day and 26-Day EMA, the MACD histogram is basically the difference between the MACD line and its 9-Day EMA.
So when the MACD line crosses above its 9-Day EMA, the MACD histogram will cross above zero. In order words, a bullish signal is obtained when the MACD histogram crosses above zero, and a bearish signal is obtained when it crosses below zero.
POSITIVE AND NEGATIVE DIVERGENCE
The MACD histogram forms valleys and peaks. Sometimes, multiple peaks are formed, with each subsequent peak becoming lower and lower. These progressively lower peaks constitue what is known as a negative divergence. A negative divergence on the MACD histogram is an indication that the current uptrend might reverse in the near future. This could happen even though the actual stock price seems to be making higher peaks in the chart. Basically, the MACD histogram negative divergence is a warning that the stock might turn down soon.
Similarly, the positive divergence on the MACD histogram predicts the subsequent uptrend. However, sometimes these divergences can create false alarms. If we follow these signals, we could have bought into a downtrend.
As such, I would like to remind you that individual indicators such as the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) charts should not be used on their own, but rather with one or two additional indicators of different types, in order to confirm any signals and prevent false alarms.
Steven is the webmaster of http://www.option-trading-guide.com If you would like to learn more about Option Trading or Technical Analysis, do visit for various strategies and resources to help your stock market investments.
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Monday 13 October 2008