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- 28 December 2013
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Yes the numbers are stacked against us. I think it was Etrade in the US who did the first assessment of retail trader performance. I can't find the link now - probably taken down. They said something like 90% of their clients lost money over the longer term. Another CFD provider has a warning on their site that 75% of their clients lose money.Why are a few traders successful?
The simple answer is that the majority of traders are losers. Trading carries inherent risks, and many traders end up losing money in the markets, even more than they can afford. However, with the right precautions, these risks can be managed.
The most common reasons traders struggle include
(1) Insufficient knowledge or experience.
It takes time to develop the skills and experience to trade well. Jumping in prematurely often leads to losses.
(2) Emotional decision-making.
Fear, greed, and panic can cloud judgement and cause poor trading choices. Mastering emotions is critical. If you don't get this one right the game is most likely over before it begins.
(3) Lack of trading discipline.
Straying from risk limits, overriding system rules, or trading plans usually hurt trading outcomes. Developing discipline takes work, time, and energy.
(4) Overtrading.
Been there, done that. Excessive trading activity often just racks up fees and creates a distraction. Less is often more with trading.
(5) Inadequate risk management.
Sloppy money management means unavoidable losses become catastrophic. Risk control must be robust and your primary concern.
(6) Impatience.
Trying to force wins accelerates losses. Patience and waiting for opportunities are integral parts of trading. Timing the entry is important.
(7) Not knowing when to sell.
Simply holding a position too long will eventually turn a winner into a loser.
Even seasoned traders face losses at times
It's not because of their trading strategy but rather due to the fact that markets are unpredictable. However, those who trade prudently, addressing the above common pitfalls, put themselves in a much better position to navigate risks and achieve lasting success. The keys are education, emotional maturity, discipline, risk awareness, and patience.
Footnote
Trading well is achieveable for those who respect the challenge and commit to it.
Skate.
Mr G it is always most pleasant when a trade brings a profit,Yes the numbers are stacked against us. I think it was Etrade in the US who did the first assessment of retail trader performance. I can't find the link now - probably taken down. They said something like 90% of their clients lost money over the longer term. Another CFD provider has a warning on their site that 75% of their clients lose money.
Aiming to become a professional trader is like aiming to become an elite sportsman or movie star. It's simply not possible for more than a few to make a living at it. Those who do make it will earn about $250k pa. (according to the ATO). Traders rank among the highest earners in Australia, but so do elite athletes. It doesn't take into account all those who worked hard and failed. The numbers they give are not averages - they simply look at the highest earners and investigate what work they're doing.
Investing / trading to supplement income is more realistic for me, and probably most others.
Anyway... play on.
So sorry Mr GG somehow left off the 2nd "G"
Here's the Australian version in a video I released a couple of weeks ago:
Next, I'm thinking that the monthly review could be an exercise in self flagellation, showing all the trades I missed out on. Clearly, I'm unclear of the reasons for posting a monthly review. Instead, perhaps I can outline and display some near perfect setups that formed in July. If you like this idea, then post a like.
It occurs to me that I could use the review work to create a list of desirable attributes that I want to see in a chart for a trading setup. I already use some checklists while looking through the scan results. (Aside: I'm thinking about @Skate hybrid system. It's the sort of system I'd create).
Hi Skate, I'm wondering how you calculate buying and selling pressure on XAO when XAO has no volume? Or it plotted against XAO (and calculated via other means?).The New Trading Landscape Post-COVID
The trading world has experienced immense change since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. What was once familiar terrain has shifted dramatically. As traders, we must adapt to this new landscape as volatility has intensified. The wild swings have increased volatility to historic levels. Strategies must account for amplified uncertainty and swift reversals. Preparing for unexpected turbulence is now essential.
Trading venues have transitioned
With work-from-home obligations, screen time has moved to home offices for many. Our trading environments have become more distributed. Our technology and analytics have advanced therefore flexibility and vigilance are mandatory in these dynamic times.
While rocky terrain awaits, an opportunity exists for adaptable traders
With education, you develop new skills, and traders can prosper even in uncertain times. This will require ongoing education, strategy revisions, and technological evolution. Though the way forward may be arduous, the path remains open to those willing to brave the journey. Every fluctuation in price is an opportunity in waiting.
Since COVID
There have been some traders who have taken the opportunity presented, whereas others decided to tread more carefully
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Skate.
Wondering how you calculate buying and selling pressure on XAO when XAO has no volume? Or it plotted against XAO (and calculated via other means?).
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