Thanks to all for the comments on my last blog regarding algos. I thought over the weekend about the best possible way for all of us to learn about these pesty computer programs and here is my suggestion. I always believed the best way to learn something complex is by using a dynamic and interactive technique. I thought it would … Read More
Patterns Collide!
We have been seeing two distinct patterns in the market recently. 1) On gap down opens we are rallying to positive territory. 2) When there is selling in the final hour the market is closing at its low. Today we were fortunate enough to get both the rally to positive AND the end of the day tankage in the market. … Read More
Opening Range Play (MON)
On my latest StockTwits TV show, SMB University, I was asked about trading right on the Open. Often new traders struggle with this time period for two reasons: a) they miscalculate their downside risk before entering the trade b) they do not have a playbook with trades that work for the open. Well let’s try and correct some of (b) … Read More
SMB Morning Rundown – June 1, 2010
The SMB Morning Rundown highlights the key levels in the Market and the best trading setup that we have identified for the Open.
Ten Mistakes by BP a Trader Should Never Make
1. No Exit Plan. There was no exit plan for if the rig (RIG?) exploded. Before every trade we must decide where and how we will exit BEFORE entering the trade. 2. Live to Play Another Day. It is not definitive that BP is a viable company going forward even with 6.08 Billion in quarterly profits. 1) When will the … Read More
Intraday Reversals Indicate What?
In the final 3.5 hours of trading Friday we touched 109 three times on the SPY and 110.30 twice. Generally, this type of up down action does not instill much confidence in market participants, and many believe it is a sign of lower prices to come. I’m not in that camp. Someone definitely was dumping a couple of billion dollars … Read More
Traders Ask: What is the Proper Exit on a Swing Trade?
Reader Alex asked: My name is Alex and I’ve been swing trading for two years. I’ve been reading SMB’s blog for a while, and really enjoy the posts on trader development. I have recently journaled a question that emerged during two of my recent short trades. I believe that this question relates to intraday trading as well. Depending on conditions … Read More
Embracing the Value of Keeping Charts by Hand
Keeping price charts by hand can shorten your learning curve.