Investing in Cybersecurity: PANW vs CRWD vs FTNT◉ Abstract
The cybersecurity landscape is rapidly evolving, with emerging threats and innovative solutions driving growth in the industry. This article examines the competitive dynamics between three leading cybersecurity stocks: Palo Alto Networks (PANW), CrowdStrike (CRWD), and Fortinet (FTNT). As these companies sprint to become the top cybersecurity provider, we analyse their strengths, weaknesses, and strategies for success.
◉ Global Cybersecurity Market Overview
The global cybersecurity market has experienced significant growth and is projected to continue expanding in the coming years. As of 2023, the market was valued at approximately USD 192.4 billion and is expected to reach between USD 501 billion and USD 608 billion by 2033, with compound annual growth rates (CAGR) ranging from 9% to 12% depending on the source and forecast period considered.
◉ Growth Drivers
1. Increasing Cyber Threats: The frequency and sophistication of cyber-attacks, including ransomware and data breaches, are rising, prompting organizations to enhance their security measures.
2. Digital Transformation: The rapid adoption of digital technologies, such as cloud computing and the Internet of Things (IoT), expands the attack surface and necessitates robust cybersecurity solutions.
3. Regulatory Compliance: Stricter regulations regarding data protection, like GDPR and CCPA, compel organizations to invest in cybersecurity to ensure compliance and protect sensitive information.
4. Proliferation of Smart Devices: The increasing use of connected devices in homes and industries creates more entry points for cyber threats, driving demand for advanced security solutions.
5. E-commerce Growth: The rise in online transactions increases the need for secure payment systems and data protection, further fuelling the cybersecurity market.
Remote Work Trends: The shift towards remote work has heightened the need for secure remote access solutions to protect organizational data from cyber threats.
◉ Regional Insights
● North America: This region dominates the global cybersecurity market, accounting for over 36% of the market share. The presence of major tech firms and a high incidence of cyber threats contribute to its leadership position.
● Europe: The European market is also growing rapidly due to increased digital transformation efforts and regulatory pressures that emphasize data security.
● Asia-Pacific: Expected to exhibit the fastest growth rate during the forecast period, driven by industrialization, rising internet penetration, and awareness of cybersecurity risks.
◉ Major Players in the Cybersecurity Market
1. Palo Alto Networks NASDAQ:PANW - $132.7 B
2. CrowdStrike Holdings NASDAQ:CRWD - $89.7 B
3. Fortinet NASDAQ:FTNT - $75.26 B
In this comparative analysis we are focused to provide a detailed understanding of the competitive dynamics of three cybersecurity giants: Palo Alto Networks, CrowdStrike Holdings, and Fortinet.
◉ Company Overviews
● Palo Alto Networks
Palo Alto Networks, Inc. is a leading provider of cybersecurity solutions worldwide. The company offers a range of products and services, including network security platforms, cloud security solutions, security operation solutions, subscription services, and professional services. Headquartered in Santa Clara, California, Palo Alto Networks was incorporated in 2005 and has since become a trusted partner for organizations seeking to protect themselves from cyber threats.
● CrowdStrike Holdings
CrowdStrike provides cloud-delivered cybersecurity solutions, offering endpoint, cloud workload, identity, and data protection. Its Falcon platform provides various security services, including threat intelligence, vulnerability management, and AI-powered workflow automation. Headquartered in Austin, Texas, CrowdStrike was incorporated in 2011.
● Fortinet
Fortinet, Inc. was founded in 2000 and is headquartered in Sunnyvale, California. The company provides comprehensive cybersecurity and converged networking and security solutions worldwide. Its offerings include secure networking solutions, network firewall solutions, wireless LAN solutions, and secure connectivity solutions. Additionally, Fortinet provides Unified SASE solutions, security operations solutions, and a range of security services and support. The company serves a diverse customer base, including enterprises, service providers, governments, and small and medium-sized businesses.
◉ Strategic Growth Initiatives of Leading Cybersecurity Players
● Palo Alto Networks
1. Platformization: Transitioning from a traditional firewall vendor to a comprehensive cybersecurity platform provider, offering a wider range of security solutions.
2. Next-Generation Security: Continuing to deliver advanced security solutions to address evolving cyber threats.
● CrowdStrike
1. Innovation: Leveraging AI-powered capabilities to enhance the Falcon platform and maintain a competitive edge in the cybersecurity market.
2. Expansion: Expanding into adjacent markets, such as cloud security and identity protection, to broaden its customer base and product offerings.
● Fortinet
1. "Rule of 45" Framework: Adhering to the "Rule of 45" framework to balance revenue growth with profitability, ensuring a sustainable business model.
2. Product Refresh Cycle: Implementing a strategic product refresh cycle to drive upgrade activity among existing customers and stimulate revenue growth.
◉ Technical Standings
● Palo Alto Networks
➖ The stock has been on a strong upward trajectory, marked by a consistent pattern of higher highs and higher lows.
➖ Following a significant breakout last month, it is currently trading at an all-time high, with expectations for further increases.
● CrowdStrike Holdings
➖ In general, this stock is trending upward, although it has faced considerable price volatility over an extended period.
➖ After reaching an all-time high close to the 400 mark, it underwent a sharp correction.
However, the stock is now climbing again and nearing its previous peak.
● Fortinet
➖ This stock had undergone a lengthy consolidation phase lasting nearly three years, resulting in the development of a Broadening pattern.
➖ After a recent breakout, the price is now targeting new highs.
◉ Relative Strength
➖ The chart clearly demonstrates Fortinet's exceptional performance, showcasing an impressive return of nearly 88%. In comparison, Mastercard and Visa have generated returns of 53% and 41%, respectively.
◉ Revenue & Profit Analysis
● Palo Alto Networks
◾ Year-over-Year
➖ In FY24, Palo Alto Networks (PANW) celebrated an impressive revenue surge of 16.5%, achieving $8,027 million, a notable increase from $6,893 million in FY23.
➖ The EBITDA for FY24 also experienced a substantial boost, reaching $1,094 million, up from $590 million in FY23.
◾ Quarter-over-Quarter
➖ In the most recent October quarter, PANW reported revenues of $2,139 million, a slight dip from the $2,190 million recorded in July 2024. However, this still represents a year-over-year growth of nearly 14% from $1,878 million in the same quarter last year.
➖ The company also reported its highest-ever EBITDA of $413 million in October, an increase from $314 million in July 2024. Compared to the same quarter last year, this figure has risen by almost 20% from $279.5 million.
➖ In October, the diluted EPS rose to $7.69 (LTM), up from $7.28 (LTM) in July 2024, marking an extraordinary year-over-year increase of 333% from $1.78 (LTM).
● CrowdStrike
◾ Year-over-Year
➖ CrowdStrike (CRWD) saw a robust revenue growth of 36.3% in FY23, reaching $3,055 million, up from $2,241 million in FY22.
➖ Conversely, the EBITDA for FY24 has seen a decline, reporting $106 million, down from $118 million in FY23.
◾ Quarter-over-Quarter
➖ In the latest October quarter, CRWD's revenue rose to $1,010 million, compared to $964 million in July 2024. This reflects a year-over-year increase of nearly 28.5% from $786 million in the same quarter last year.
➖ The EBITDA for the most recent June quarter was $15.3 million, showing a significant drop from $52.4 million in July 2024.
➖ In October, the diluted EPS decreased to $0.51 (LTM), down from $0.69 (LTM) in July 2024.
● Fortinet
◾ Year-over-Year
➖ In fiscal year 2023, Fortinet reported a remarkable revenue increase of 20%, reaching $5,304 million, up from $4,417 million in fiscal year 2022.
➖ The EBITDA also saw a significant rise, with the 2023 fiscal year totaling $1,350 million, compared to $1,070 million the previous year.
◾ Quarter-over-Quarter
➖ In the latest September quarter, revenue continued to grow, hitting $1,508 million, an increase from $1,434 million in June 2024. This represents a substantial year-over-year growth of nearly 13% from $1,335 million.
➖ Furthermore, EBITDA for the September quarter neared $500 million, up from $465 million in the prior quarter, reflecting an impressive increase of nearly 51% from $330 million in the same quarter last year.
➖ The diluted earnings per share (EPS) also saw a significant increase in September, rising to $0.7 (LTM) from $0.5 (LTM) in June 2024, marking a notable jump of 70% compared to $0.41 (LTM) in the same quarter last year.
◉ Valuation
● P/E Ratio
➖ PANW stands at a P/E ratio of 48.6x.
➖ CRWD is at a P/E ratio of 707.9x.
➖ FTNT shows a P/E ratio of 49.2x.
◾ These numbers indicate that CRWD is considerably overvalued when compared to its competitors.
● P/B Ratio
➖ PANW's P/B ratio stands at 22.5x.
➖ CRWD's P/B ratio is 29.3x.
➖ On the other hand, FTNT's P/B ratio is significantly higher at 82.9x.
◾ FTNT's high P/B ratio may indicate overvaluation, but its asset-light business model reduces the significance of this metric.
● PEG Ratio
➖ PANW boasts a PEG ratio of 0.14.
➖ CRWD's PEG ratio is recorded at 0.66.
➖ FTNT, meanwhile, has a PEG ratio of 1.26.
◾ Analyzing the PEG ratios reveals that PANW is currently undervalued relative to its peers.
◉ Cash Flow Analysis
➖ PANW has achieved an impressive operating cash flow of $3,257 million for the fiscal year 2024, a substantial rise from $2,777 million in fiscal year 2023.
➖ In a similar vein, CRWD has also seen a positive trend in its operating cash flow, which has climbed to $1,166 million in fiscal year 2024, compared to $941 million the year before.
➖ Furthermore, FTNT has reported a remarkable increase in its operating cash flow, growing from $1,730 million in fiscal year 2022 to $1,935 million in fiscal year 2023.
◉ Debt Analysis
● Palo Alto Networks
➖ Debt to Equity Ratio: Approximately 0.1 as of October 2024, indicating a stable financial structure.
➖ Total Debt: About $645 million.
➖ Total Shareholder Equity: $5,911 million.
◾ PANW's ratio reflects a cautious debt approach, balancing equity and debt financing, with net debt well-supported by operating cash flow, enhancing financial stability.
● CrowdStrike
➖ Debt to Equity Ratio: Approximately 0.24.
➖ Total Debt: $743 million.
➖ Total Shareholder Equity: $3,096 million.
◾ CRWD's ratio suggests a thoughtful strategy regarding debt, maintaining a balance between equity and debt financing.
● Fortinet
➖ Debt to Equity Ratio: Approximately 1.1, indicating a significant level of debt relative to equity.
➖ Total Debt: $993 million.
➖ Total Shareholder Equity: $908 million.
◾ FTNT’s ratio shows a considerable reliance on debt financing, which can facilitate growth but also introduces risks related to interest obligations.
◉ Top Shareholders
● Palo Alto Networks
➖ The Vanguard Group has significantly increased its investment in Palo Alto Networks, now holding an impressive 9.13% stake, which marks a 1.53% rise from the last quarter.
➖ In comparison, Blackrock holds a notable 7.65% share in the company.
● CrowdStrike
➖ Turning to CrowdStrike, The Vanguard Group has also enhanced its position, elevating its ownership to an impressive 8.76%, reflecting a 1.84% increase since the previous quarter.
➖ Conversely, Blackrock possesses a considerable 7.35% stake.
● Fortinet
➖ Regarding Fortinet, The Vanguard Group commands a substantial 8.79% share in the firm.
➖ In contrast, Blackrock holds a 7.44% stake.
◉ Conclusion
After conducting an exhaustive analysis of the major players in the cybersecurity sector, which included an in-depth look at both technical features and financial reports, we have determined that although Palo Alto Networks (PANW) might seem more appealing in terms of valuation, Fortinet (FTNT) stands out as the leading candidate in the industry due to its solid financials. Although concerns about debt exist, the company's strong cash reserves mitigate these worries significantly.
On the other hand, CrowdStrike (CRWD) has faced a recent setback with an outage that has shaken investor trust, leading to a decline in its stock price and rendering it a less favourable investment option for the foreseeable future.
Moreover, the cybersecurity sector is set to grow significantly due to rising cyber threats, fast-paced technology changes, and stricter regulations. Investors are advised to conduct thorough research, define clear investment goals, and maintain a long-term outlook to take advantage of this growth while minimizing risks.
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Reserve Rights Posts Surprise 200% Rally in 2 Days. What’s RSR?We’re in that period of the cycle where crypto is never dull. Amid all the hype of Bitcoin hitting $100,000 (spectacular in and of itself), a fairly small token is skyrocketing 200%, hitting a $1.2 billion market cap, and clawing its way into the Top 100 .
The trigger? Donald Trump. The President-elect has tapped a very special figure to become boss of the Securities and Exchange Commission. The crypto world welcomes Paul Atkins, a former SEC commissioner and a crypto bro. He has quietly been advising that same token we're talking about — Reserve Rights RSRUSD .
RSR in Plain English
Reserve Rights RSRUSD is a volatile coin part of a two-token stablecoin project built on Ethereum. Its mission? To help create a stable, decentralized currency that can replace volatile fiat currencies, especially in economies plagued by hyperinflation. Think Venezuela or Zimbabwe — places where you have to drop a pile of cash to purchase a cup of coffee.
The Reserve ecosystem uses two tokens:
Reserve Dollar (RSV) - A stablecoin pegged to a basket of assets like fiat, commodities and other cryptos. This is your boring, stable bud.
Reserve Right (RSR) - The volatile counterpart. RSR is used to maintain RSV’s peg and offers governance rights. It’s also the token that traders bet on, as seen by its recent moonshot.
What makes Reserve Rights interesting to traders and investors is its vision of financial inclusion. It aims to give everyday people in struggling economies a reliable alternative to crumbling national currencies, without needing to trust a central bank. Lofty? Yes. Achievable? That’s where the intrigue lies.
Enter Paul Atkins: Crypto’s Quiet Ally
Paul Atkins isn’t a stranger to regulation. As a former SEC commissioner, he earned a reputation for being pro-business and wary of regulatory overreach. Since leaving the SEC in 2008, Atkins has been advising banks, trading firms, fintech companies, and — since 2017 — crypto projects and crypto companies, including Reserve Rights.
If Atkins takes the SEC’s reins (there’s been some talk he’s a bit hesitant), it could mark a seismic shift in US crypto regulation. More like… deregulation. Atkins has long advocated for a more nuanced approach to digital assets, favoring innovation over stifling rules.
This doesn’t really mean anything for Reserve Rights. It’s just a project Atkins happens to have worked on. No official comments have been made as to whether this crypto would get any special treatment by the SEC under Atkins. In fact, all crypto could get vaulted to smoother paths to compliance and wider adoption.
One thing, however, could justify RSR’s explosive rally. Traders are likely imagining a world where the SEC supports projects like Reserve instead of slapping them with lawsuits (like Ripple’s XRP). It’s a potential regulatory dream scenario.
Why the Market Reacted So Strongly
But let’s get back to the updraft and the token's well-deserved place among crypto's Top Gainers : RSR’s 200% rally last week propelled the price from $0.009 to $0.026 in just a couple days. Tiny in price terms, but that’s because there are 53 billion tokens in circulation out of 100 billion max supply. Where you need to look is the market cap. And that’s grand — it shot up to $1.4 billion from less than $500 million.
All that good stuff wasn’t because the token suddenly discovered cold fusion. Markets move on perception, and Atkins’ crypto-friendly stance is a big deal. Traders see him as the potential captain who might steer the SEC ship away from stormy anti-crypto waters and into the cool breeze of loose regulatory guardrails.
The Catch: Real vs. Hyped Value
Before you mortgage your house for RSR ( don’t do it ), a dose of skepticism is in order. While Paul Atkins is undeniably crypto-friendly, his potential appointment doesn’t guarantee a green light for Reserve Rights or any specific project. Regulatory changes take time, and the crypto market generally likes to run ahead of events.
RSR’s fundamentals haven’t changed overnight. That makes the pump forward-looking, driven by headlines rather than anything concrete like adoption or utility metrics.
But even without Atkins in the chair, Reserve Rights has carved out a niche for itself since its launch in 2019.
What’s Your Move?
RSR’s recent rally might be tempting, but as any tried-and-tested trader will tell you, hype-driven moves are a double-edged sword. If you believe in Reserve’s mission and the potential for a crypto-friendly SEC, consider it a long-term bet. If you’re just chasing the pump, tread carefully — crypto has a way of humbling the overconfident.
So, what’s your move? Is RSR a hidden gem or just another token riding the wave of speculation? Let’s hear your thoughts — drop them in the comments below.
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HOW TO FIND 100X MEMECOIN???Hi i want to make this post as an educational content after 1 year from previous educational posts which i had.
i speak very usual that you can understand content well.
First you should consider this that maybe there are around 100 or 1000 or even 10000 Meme coins out there to be found.
But only 10 of them is valuable and can be next DOGE or SHIBA or PEPE or ....(comment below some valuable Meme which i didn't write).
1. First of all Meme should have a good story that after reeded buy audience they said i should buy some of this token for my children or my self long-term.
i will explain two good story for you as an example:
A. In May 2021, Shiba creator sent the rest to Ethereum co-founder Buterin, who burned 90% of them to increase their value and then donated the remaining 10%.
B. Or Doge Creator which started the token as a Joke and then Elon Mask supports over years.
conclusion: Meme coins are now for dreaming and need a good back story and people need to talk with each other about the funny story of it and boom 🚀.
so search for stories like these two examples or the other stories like we are loving dogs or cats so lets go and buy the meme token of it lol.
But that story wont work on every animal names so take care don't rush to every animal name token which usually are falling hard after some fake pump.
2. Second you need to find strong community now all meme coins have groups and chats before buying go join and see how they are preforming for month and then decide to invest.
3. Third check updates and ... which they had on their own token and see what are the future plans or listing and ....
4. Forth always check the major wallets of that Meme token here are some factors you should be afraid of it:
A. if the huge amount of token like 30% or 50% is in one wallet
B. if the huge amount of token like 70% or 80% is in the hand of one exchange: so it is usually a meme token created by that exchange and other exchange wont list it forever usually and also it created by that exchange with fake pump in green market days to sell you that token and one day it eventually fall hard i see in different exchanges deferent token like this with high fake volume on it but i can not name here and after 2-10 months they dump 70-80% fall and low volume and delisted.
conclusion: be afraid of tokens which huge amounts are in specific wallet because they are usually dangerous also remember they can easily create fake wallets and divide tokens to different wallets so best thing is to check major 20 wallets of that token and see if those wallets hold any other tokens and are really whales or it is fake wallets that all in that meme.
5. Fifth high liquidity: check the Meme token have high liquidity because one day soon or late you want to sell it.
Disclaimer: The content below this are not any more 100% Educational but it is another example i provide for better understanding.
This is the beginning of this 1300% pump we had on Luffyusdt:
why i open long on Luffyusdt meme?
i checked almost all of the things mentioned above.
the story was all right here we have first anime token since 2021 running and they make web3 site to bring anime lovers together and ....
i check the team behind that and i checked evert 0-25 main wallets of this token and see in that 25 wallets 10 of the was whale and 5 of them was exchanges and major wallet is Dead wallet which means they burn 45% of token until now.
this token soon would be 100X in my opinion because it has the potential.
this is my own view and it may be wrong because we are living in crypto market so do your own research always and jump check your major meme holding and hold only valuable one.
any questions or thoughts mentioned in the comments.
also Disclaimer : Trade based on your own experience and research and knowledge.
LINK is bullish now and many Traders don't see it !!!As you can see, the price has been able to pass the cup and handle resistance, but this does not mean that the resistance is broken. We need to wait until this Weekly candle closes for the breakout to be confirmed. If we measure the AB range, which is $17.5 , and if the breakout is confirmed, we can say that the price will easily grow $37 equal to CD.
Give me some energy !!
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⚠️Things can change...
The markets are always changing and even with all these signals, the market changes tend to be strong and fast!!
is BNB the next TRXTron has been a major overperformer with catching a niche in the growing stablecoin market. While BNB has been losing market share both in its chain and with its exchange.. BNB does still look strong. It does still share an ongoing fractal with TRX. It does look like relative to its weaker performance itll grow.
I suspect TRX will pull BNB into a breakout of highs. Whether itll lead to gains as great as TRX Im not sure. Im not sure if BNB is the best risk reward but I do think BNB could follow TRX soon with not much relative to market risk.
Bitcoin Seizes $100,000. What's Your Prediction for Next Move?And there you have it — a comet in the night sky, Bitcoin BTCUSD finally shattered the landmark $100,000 figure . Prices of the original cryptocurrency are up 50% since Election Day on November 5 and traders have one man to thank. Do you think he doesn’t know it?
“CONGRATULATIONS BITCOINERS!!! $100,000!!! YOU’RE WELCOME!!! Together, we will Make America Great Again!” Donald Trump erupted on his social-media platform, Truth Social.
As crypto circles around the world celebrated the mind-blowing milestone (that’s a market cap of more than $2 trillion in a $3.5 trillion market ), the volatile crypto couldn’t get any rest. Bitcoin prices seesawed back under $100,000 early Friday with traders experiencing the token’s wild swings and notorious stomach-churning volatility.
In wild seesaw motions, the OG crypto yesterday peaked at an all-time high of $103,700 a piece before sliding more than 6% to close the session at a 1.6% daily loss at $96,900 a pop. In other words, crypto traders still need that convincing close above six figures.
Donald Trump might just have the answer. The President-elect is keeping busy by forming an A-team of crypto advocates to lead the efforts at the White House. Earlier this week, Trump selected former SEC commissioner Paul Atkins to replace current SEC Chair Gary Gensler. This is one of the key drivers to yesterday’s rally in the broad crypto markets . Because Atkins isn’t just a crypto-friendly former regulator.
He’s been advising crypto companies since 2017 and he’s the co-chair of Token Alliance, a subsidiary of Digital Chamber, which was spun up to promote digital assets. Atkins has been consulting crypto companies on how to work with the Securities and Exchange Commission, avoid penalties and lawsuits. And now he might be taking the top job at America’s financial watchdog.
It doesn’t end there. A new pick today promises even more growth for the crypto industry in the US.
Trump has tapped venture investor and podcast host David Sacks to be the “White House AI & Crypto Czar.” In a post on his social media, Trump wrote that “David will focus on making America the clear global leader in both areas.” “He will safeguard Free Speech online, and steer us away from Big Tech bias and censorship.”
Sacks was a major Trump supporter earlier this year. He invited Trump to join him and his podcast peers and fellow investors Chamath Palihapitiya, Jason Calacanis, and David Friedberg for a talk on his All-In podcast , which Trump has called the “top podcast in Tech.”
With the stars seemingly aligning for the crypto industry heading into 2025, many digital asset proponents are now calling for $100,000 to be the bottom. A new, loftier goal is now in sight by end of year: $125,000. In 2025, the forecasters among us project Bitcoin prices of about $250,000 , or a 150% increase from current levels.
📡 What’s your forecast? Do you think we’ll see prices top $125,000 still this year? And $250,000 next year? Share your thoughts below!
No one telling you this about XRPThe recent analysis on XRP presents intriguing upward potential with a projected long-term target of $64 by 2032. The setup, based on the formation of a bullish pennant, highlights a robust continuation pattern. This structure combines a consolidation phase (triangle) and a preceding upward surge (pole), which, when measured, suggests significant bullish potential. The monthly chart, utilized for this projection, will be updated periodically to track development.
The Relative Strength Index (RSI) is nearing its previous all-time high (ATH) zone, indicative of strong upward momentum. Historically, such RSI behavior aligns with substantial rallies, reinforcing the probability of XRP exceeding its former ATH of $3.28. The current trajectory suggests XRP is poised for an extended bullish cycle, supported by technical confluence.
Additionally, it is worth revisiting a critical observation from July 23, 2023, when XRP traded near $0.47. At that time, it was advised not to sell XRP at such low levels, as technical analysis strongly indicated long-term growth potential. The analysis from that period further validates the current bullish outlook, emphasizing the importance of strategic patience. Those who heeded this advice are now enjoying the remarkable progress in XRP's price action.
Further updates will refine these projections in response to market developments.
Bitcoin - Ultimate bull trap, soon a big crash! (must see)Bitcoin really cannot continue in this parabolic uptrend. Why? Because if yes, it would hit around 600,000 USD by December 2025. Of course that's impossible, so the only option is to slow down. Bitcon still hasn't made any bigger correction in past weeks and is currently facing a very significant psychological resistance of 100,000 USD. I am really not buying because the Moon Boys are back and first we need to see a shakeout and a flash crash.
85k is a very reasonable support because it's the end of the massive FVG (fair value gap) on the daily candles. Also, it's the start of the first price action on the volume profile. This is where you want to buy.
What we cannot miss is the symmetrical triangle on the 4H chart. This to me looks like a bull trap on retail traders because everyone would buy the breakout. So there is still a possibility of making a last push to sweep liquidity (stop losses).
Write a comment with your altcoin, and I will make an analysis for you in response. Also, please hit boost and follow for more ideas. Trading is not hard if you have a good coach! This is not a trade setup, as there is no stop-loss or profit target. I share my trades privately. Thank you, and I wish you successful trades!
Nvidia: Next Leg Coming?Nvidia has been mostly quiet since the summer, but some traders may think another move to the upside is coming.
The first pattern on today’s chart is the August high of $131.26. NVDA broke above this level in the first of October and then pulled back to test it in three different weeks. Has old resistance become new support?
Second, the 50-day simple moving average (SMA) recently converged with the 100-day SMA and is now pulling away. That may suggest its longer-term trend is getting bullish after a period of neutrality. (The activity also resembles patterns in late 2023 and early 2024 before the chip giant doubled.)
Third, stochastics are rebounding from an oversold condition.
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Copper - Markets await employment data!In the 4H timeframe, copper is located between EMA200 and EMA50 and is moving in its descending channel. Copper moved down from the supply zone of the previous analysis. If the upward trend continues, it is possible to sell copper in the next supply zone. The downward correction of copper will provide us with the opportunity to buy it with the appropriate risk reward
The governor of the People’s Bank of China (PBoC) has stated that the central bank will maintain its accommodative monetary policy in 2025. The bank also aims to promote sustainable development in the real estate and capital markets through effective utilization of structural monetary policy tools.
Meanwhile, the United States has imposed new export restrictions designed to curtail China’s ability to advance its high-tech semiconductor industry and slow the development of military applications for artificial intelligence (AI).
In response, the China Internet Association has expressed that these restrictions will significantly harm the healthy and sustainable growth of China’s internet industry. The association has also urged domestic companies to exercise caution when purchasing American chips and to seek expanded cooperation with chip manufacturers from other countries.
In a retaliatory move, China’s Ministry of Commerce has announced a ban on exporting key rare earth metals to the U.S. and is considering stricter reviews for graphite exports. These raw materials are critical for industries such as semiconductors, military systems, electric vehicle batteries, and solar technologies. The ongoing trade tensions between the two nations could have far-reaching consequences for both sides.
In the U.S., it is anticipated that November’s employment figures will reflect recovery after being weighed down by recent storms and a major strike.This aligns with a labor market that remains healthy but is gradually normalizing. According to a Bloomberg survey, nonfarm payrolls (NFP) likely increased by 200,000 in November, with the unemployment rate holding steady at 4.1%.
As the Boeing strike ends and recovery efforts from recent storms begin, November’s job report is expected to be less affected by unusual factors. However, a consistent decline in job openings, moderate employment growth, and layoff plans from companies like Boeing and General Motors indicate a softer labor market overall. These developments, along with Friday’s employment data, could significantly influence future Federal Reserve policy decisions and market expectations for interest rate cuts.
The Wall Street Journal reports that the U.S. construction industry is facing new challenges. The Trump administration’s immigration and trade policies have left homebuilders in a vulnerable position. New tariffs and restrictions on immigrant labor are two key pressures confronting the industry.
For instance, McKinney, Texas, which two decades ago was accessible only via a two-lane highway, has now grown to a city of over 200,000 residents, becoming one of the fastest-growing areas in the country. This city’s development has relied heavily on immigrant labor and industries dependent on imported steel and commodities. However, recent policies are imposing new challenges, leaving homebuilders grappling with even greater difficulties.
Why Cost of Living is Still a Concern?Why is the cost of living still a concern, even though inflation has declined to 2.6%?
In many elections over the past two years, voters have ranked inflation as their top concern.
As we can see, the prices of many commodities remain above pre-COVID levels, with gold and meat prices currently much higher than they were at the inflation peak in 2022.
Consciously or unconsciously, both investors and consumers seem to feel that the cost of living will remain elevated for a prolonged period. Moreover, there is always a risk that inflation might creep back up again.
Feeder Cattle Futures & Options
Ticker: GF
Minimum fluctuation:
0.00025 per pound = $12.50
Disclaimer:
• What presented here is not a recommendation, please consult your licensed broker.
• Our mission is to create lateral thinking skills for every investor and trader, knowing when to take a calculated risk with market uncertainty and a bolder risk when opportunity arises.
CME Real-time Market Data help identify trading set-ups in real-time and express my market views. If you have futures in your trading portfolio, you can check out on CME Group data plans available that suit your trading needs www.tradingview.com
TradeCityPro | BNB : Approaching Key Resistance Levels👋 Welcome to TradeCityPro!
In this analysis, we will examine the price action of BNB, the native token of Binance, the largest cryptocurrency exchange in the world.
⏳ Weekly Timeframe: Testing All-Time High Resistance
On the weekly chart, BNB has been consolidating in a range between $492 and $660 after a strong bullish leg from the $210 support level to its ATH. Currently, the price is near the top of this range, and the increased trading volume at this level suggests a high likelihood of breaking through the $660 resistance.
✨ A breakout above the 62.26 level on the RSI would make this resistance easier to overcome. If the price successfully breaks above $660, the next targets based on Fibonacci extensions are $1043 and $1644. These levels are highly plausible if the RSI enters the Overbought Zone.
🔽 In case of a pullback, the first support level is the bottom of the box at $492, followed by deeper support at $348. As long as the price remains above $348, the overall trend remains bullish. A break below the 50 RSI level, however, could indicate a loss of bullish momentum.
📅 Daily Timeframe: Parabolic Uptrend
On the daily chart, the price is in a parabolic uptrend, originating from the $469.65 support level. The price has tested this trendline four times and is currently facing resistance at $660.72. Beneath the price, strong support exists at $606.70, where the market has been consolidating for several days.
🔼 If $660 is broken, the first resistance to watch is at $711, which will serve as the initial target for the upward movement.
📉 In the bearish scenario, if the parabolic trendline and the $606.70 support are broken, the first support level to monitor is $538, followed by deeper support at $469, the bottom of the weekly range. Currently, bullish volume exceeds bearish volume, suggesting a higher probability of breaking through $660 unless significant selling pressure enters the market.
📝 Final Thoughts
This analysis reflects our opinions and is not financial advice.
Share your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to share this analysis with your friends! ❤️
Tesla Stock Surges 38% in November. What’s the Outlook for 2025?EV maker has turned into an exclusive beneficiary of Donald Trump’s second four-year stay at the White House. All thanks to Elon Musk’s financial and social efforts to propel Trump ahead of Kamala Harris on November 5. But what if Trump now gives him the cold shoulder?
Here’s a challenge — think of Donald Trump’s right-hand man. Who popped to mind? Was it his pick for Vice President JD Vance? Nuh uh, right? It’s Elon Musk. The unelected tech billionaire, Tesla CEO, X owner has been glued to the President, showing up on photos wearing MAGA hats and promising to restart America’s politics. Let that sink in?
With about seven weeks to go before Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, Musk is already enjoying the windfalls of his support for the President-elect. At the end of the day, he dished out as much as $130 million to help Trump secure the win.
Quick maths: since November 5, Election Day, Musk’s net worth has puffed up by $72 billion. The rate of return on that $130 mil? A stratospheric 5,500%, or X55 in the span of a mere three weeks’ time. True, it’s all tied up in shares of Tesla TSLA — Musk owns roughly 13% of the electric-car manufacturer. But, more importantly, many investors and analysts believe this is just the start of what’s shaping up to be the golden era of EVs and the futuristic self-driving technology.
Despite not being in office yet, Trump has kicked off the work for loosening the federal standards for regulating self-driving vehicles. And expectations couldn’t be higher — Tesla’s mission to roll out cybercabs and robovans might materialize sooner rather than later. AI-trained self-driving cars might be roaming the streets as soon as late 2025.
Overly enthusiastic bargain hunters have sensed it already and have been bidding higher and higher for Tesla’s shares. Tesla, the formidable leader in the EV space , closed out November with a whopping 38% increase , or $300 billion poured in. That’s also when Tesla crossed $1 trillion in market value (a top 10 large-cap company ) based on 3.21 billion shares outstanding (but still remains under the record high set in 2021). It was the best month for the stock since January 2023 and the tenth best month in the company’s history. For the record, shares jumped 81% in May 2023, the best month ever.
An additional push for bumping up those Tesla numbers might come from the outside, too. Unwillingly, though. Donald Trump has threatened to slap tariffs on imported goods and services to the tune of at least 25% or more (especially 👐 China 👐). Lots of cars and car parts are manufactured in China, Mexico and Canada, three of the countries that are top picks for Trump’s tariffs.
What’s more, Elon Musk’s bold foray into politics has birthed a new agency, one specifically tailored to his preference. The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) promises to keep Musk and Trump talking on the daily. They’ve joined forces to potentially weed out the big spenders in the government, lean it out and give it a better flow.
Investors don’t seem to be doubting Elon Musk’s sincerity and all that powerful collaboration between him and Trump for 2025 and onward has translated into many early billions of dollars soaked up by Tesla (and Musk himself).
But on the flip side, Trump isn’t the type of person to share the limelight for too long. And so far Musk has been shoulder to shoulder with Trump at Mar-a-Lago, on planes, in cars and on the golf courts. And on Thanksgiving — sharing the same table. “He likes this place. I can’t get him out of here. He just likes this place,” Trump said at the America First Policy Institute Gala at Mar-a-Lago. Let’s just say it’d be a shame if Jim Cramer were to speak positively about that union.
With that said, do you think Musk made a bet for the ages by endorsing Trump? Or you’re more inclined to take a contrarian view — perhaps one where the Musk-Trump bromance falls out? Share your 2025 forecast in the comments and let’s spin up the discussion !
XAUUSD / TODAY REMAIN DEMAND ZONE EXPECTED TO INCREASE / 4HXAUUSD / 4H TIME FRAME
HELLO TRADERS
The price has declined and hit a profit target of +455 pips, indicating a successful trade.
Prices are now trading above a demand zone between $2,627 and $2,611 , This implies strong buyer interest in this range, providing support.
If the price remains above the demand zone, it suggests a likely increase to a supply zone between $2,695 and $2,720 , This reflects a potential upward trend driven by continued buying pressure.
If the price breaks below the demand zone, further declines are expected , The next identified demand zone is between $2,595 and $2,585, where buyers may step in again.
When is a stock too high to buy? (Example: IHG)How do you know when you’ve missed the boat?
A stock has already gone up a tonne, so bascally you are too late!
Sometimes, you just have to let go, right?
Sometimes yes, but not always - let’s look at an example.
International Hotels Group (IHG)
Back in 2020, LSE:IHG IHG shares were trading down at ~2000 GBX, now they are a hairs breadth from 10,000 - that’s 5X in about 4 years. Not bad.
Can you really even think about buying shares at 10,000 that were 2,000 only 4 years ago. 🤔
We’re saying YES.. if you follow some guidelines.
Clearly this is not a value investment - this is a momentum trade.
To be buying IHG shares up here, one is basically arguing that the price at new highs indicates and buyers are in charge and the price is going to keep going up for the time being.
This helps define the trade risk very well.
If the trade is that IHG has broken out over the previous peak at ~8,800. We don’t want to be owning shares below this level - if they’re back below 8,800 the momentum has stalled and we need to be out.
To put it another way, we are not buying just under 10,000 and willing to hold the shares all the way back down to 2,000 again - no. We want to ride the momentum up - not down !
From here there’s a pretty good chance that momentum takes the price up to the 10,000 level. As a big round number, there is also a good chance that profit taking takes place here too.
That creates our buy zone between 8,800 and the current market price (9,750).
So what might a trading strategy look like to capture this situation?
The following is a way to have:
An intial risk of £1000 to test the waters
A total risk £3000 if/when the trade starts working
A 2X profit potential (with the opportunity to capture more)
Spread Betting Strategy: Target £6000+ Profit with £1000 Initial Risk
Entry Points and Stops
9000 GBX Entry:
Stop Loss: 8600 GBX.
Bet Size: £2.50 per point.
Risk: £1000.
9200 GBX Entry:
Stop Loss: 8800 GBX.
Bet Size: £2.50 per point.
Risk: £1000.
9400 GBX Entry:
Stop Loss: Trailing 400 points.
Bet Size: £2.50 per point.
Initial Risk: £1000.
Profit Targets
First Position (9000):
Gain: 1000 points.
Profit: £2500.
Second Position (9200):
Gain: 800 points.
Profit: £2000.
Third Position (9400):
Trailing Stop Profit Example:
10,400 GBX: Profit = £2500.
11,000 GBX: Profit = £4000 or more.
Summary
Total Risk: £3000.
Fixed Profit (First Two Positions): £4500.
Potential Profit (Third Position): Variable, based on trailing stop.
Reward-to-Risk Ratio: 2:1 or higher, depending on trend continuation.
Bitcoin: Just Getting Started Again?Bitcoin has retraced to the 90K support (anticipated in my previous article) and is now attempting to retest the 100K high for the second time. Markets are mostly RANDOM, which means there are countless scenarios than can unfold from here. In this article I will focus on just TWO possibilities that I am anticipating for the coming week. The market chooses the outcome and it is our job to use available information to identify the market's intent. For me, that means using price action confirmation to improve probability and quantify my risk for whatever type of trade I am interested in pursuing. The amount of risk you are willing to accept is your responsibility from here.
The first scenario is the Captain Obvious one. Price breaks the high of the yesterday's inside bar and tests the 100K level over the coming week. While this may seem great, IF there is no major catalyst behind this, the chances of a FAILED HIGH are significant. The previous retrace serves as a sign that momentum is slowing in general. IF a failed high (double top) appears and confirms, the next retrace can be substantial to the tune of mid 80Ks. This is not a forecast, it is a potential RISK you must accept from current levels. The other thing to consider is even if 100K is cleared, what potential does it have relative to this risk? With that in mind, if I were to do anything with this scenario it would only be on small time frames, because that is the best way to avoid the large magnitude risk while participating in whatever is left of this move.
The second scenario is the retrace to the high 80's low 90K area for a failed low. This is more in line with the potential consolidation that appears to be developing (sub Wave 4 of 5?). IF Bitcoin offers this opportunity, along with the confirmation, it has a greater potential than the first scenario (inside bar). The arrows on the chart along with the lines illustrate the failed low scenario. This can be pursued on day trade as well as swing trade time frames. The confirmation at the second low is the key to entering this while keeping risk within reason.
A few things to keep in mind about this environment: the catalyst behind this momentum is the U.S. election. Market cap is at all time highs for this sector. Most of the large cap alt coins have reached major resistance levels on weekly and monthly time frames, but nowhere near all time highs. The "experts" are once again all coming out claiming "this is just the beginning". A market testing major resistance levels AFTER sharp break outs is usually NOT "the beginning". In my opinion times like this are ideal for reducing risk or taking profits. I will always suggest this at cycle highs (just like in 2021).
"Great" investing opportunities require long periods of WAITING and watching a market go lower and be completely off the mainstream radar. In this space, cycle lows can take a YEAR or TWO to play out. Alt coins are NOT long term assets, they are just a gamble. When asset bubble money flows, it often makes its way to complete nonsense which can be NFTs. Keep an eye in that area for the risk appetite overflow.
This is NOT a game of getting "rich" as every single video on Youtube is claiming. It is a game of how much RISK you are willing to take. If you have no problem with a healthy retrace giving back 20%+, then by all means do what you have to do. IF you can't handle losing the money, then you are in the wrong game. There are infinitely more people in position to get rich from this entire space BEFORE you. Markets CYCLE from low to high, etc. Just KNOW the RISK associated with the part of the cycle we are in. Hint: When 5 waves can be counted, it usually means there is a greater chance of a coming corrective move. Just ask all the geniuses who bought the highs back in 21.
Thank you for considering my analysis and perspective.
Reality & FibonacciParallels between Schrödinger’s wave function and Fibonacci ratios in financial markets
Just as the electron finds its position within the interference pattern, price respects Fibonacci levels due to their harmonic relationship with the market's fractal geometry.
Interference Pattern ⚖️ Fibonacci Ratios
In the double-slit experiment, particles including photons behave like a wave of probability, passing through slits and landing at specific points within the interference pattern . These points represent zones of higher probability where the electron is most likely to end up.
Interference Pattern (Schrodinger's Wave Function)
Similarly, Fractal-based Fibonacci ratios act as "nodes" or key zones where price is more likely to react.
Here’s the remarkable connection: the peaks and troughs of the interference pattern align with Fibonacci ratios, such as 0.236, 0.382, 0.618, 0.786. These ratios emerge naturally from the mathematics of the wave function, dividing the interference pattern into predictable zones. The ratios act as nodes of resonance, marking areas where probabilities are highest or lowest—mirroring how Fibonacci levels act in financial markets.
Application
In markets, price action often behaves like a wave of probabilities, oscillating between levels of support and resistance. Just as an electron in the interference pattern is more likely to land at specific points, price reacts at Fibonacci levels due to their harmonic relationship with the broader market structure.
This connection is why tools like Fibonacci retracements work so effectively:
Fibonacci ratios predict price levels just as they predict the high-probability zones in the wave function.
Timing: Market cycles follow wave-like behavior, with Fibonacci ratios dividing these cycles into phase zones.
Indicators used in illustrations:
Exponential Grid
Fibonacci Time Periods
Have you noticed Fibonacci ratios acting as critical levels in your trading? Share your insights in the comments below!
What Is a Standard Deviation, and How Can You Use It in Trading?What Is a Standard Deviation, and How Can You Use It in Trading?
Understanding market volatility is essential for effective trading, and one of the most valuable tools for measuring it is standard deviation. This gauge quantifies the dispersion of asset prices around their mean and provides insights into the variability and potential risk associated with a financial instrument.
This article delves into what standard deviation is, its calculation, interpretation, practical implementation, and its limitations.
What Is Standard Deviation?
Standard deviation is a statistical measure that quantifies the dispersion or variability of a set of data points relative to their mean. In trading, it is used to assess the volatility of a financial instrument. A higher standard deviation indicates greater variability in prices, suggesting more significant swings, while a lower value suggests smaller price fluctuations.
For instance, consider two stocks: Stock A and Stock B. If Stock A’s standard deviation is 5 and Stock B’s is 15, Stock B exhibits more price variability. This means that Stock B fluctuates more widely around the mean compared to Stock A, and its volatility level is higher.
Understanding the standard deviation of a stock or other asset helps traders evaluate its associated value. Assets with high standard deviations are considered riskier as their prices are hardly analysed, whereas assets with low deviations might be seen as potentially safer.
Volatility vs Standard Deviation
While both terms are related, volatility refers to the degree of variation in an asset's price over time, whereas standard deviation quantifies this variation statistically. The former is the broader concept, encompassing the overall fluctuations, while the latter provides a precise numerical measure of these fluctuations, offering traders a clearer understanding of market behaviour and risk.
Calculating Standard Deviation
Calculating standard deviation involves a series of straightforward steps. Here's how traders can calculate it using a set of price data:
1. Gather Data: Collect the closing prices of the asset over a specified period. For example, use the closing prices for the past 10 days.
2. Calculate the Mean: Add up all the closing prices and divide by the number of prices to find the average (mean) price.
Mean = ∑ Price /Number of Prices
3. Determine the Deviations: Subtract the mean from each closing price to find the deviation of each price from the mean.
Deviation = Price − Mean
4. Square the Deviations: Square each deviation to ensure all values are positive.
Squared Deviation = (Price − Mean)^2
5. Calculate the Average of Squared Deviations: Add up all the squared deviations and divide by the number of prices minus one (this adjustment, known as Bessel's correction, is used for a sample).
Variance = (∑(Price − Mean)^2) / (Number of Prices − 1)
6. Take the Square Root: Find the square root of the variance to get the standard deviation.
Standard Deviation = √Variance
Example Calculation
Assume we have the closing prices for a stock over 5 days: $20, $22, $21, $23, and $22.
1. Mean: (20 + 22 + 21 + 23 + 22) / 5 = 21.6
2. Deviations: −1.6, 0.4, −0.6, 1.4, 0.4
3. Squared Deviations: 2.56, 0.16, 0.36, 1.96, 0.16
4. Variance: (2.56 +0.16 +0.36 + 1.96 + 0.16) / 4 = 1.3
5. Stock’s Standard Deviation: √1.3 ≈1.14
Interpreting Standard Deviation in Trading
Standard deviation in trading offers deep insights into the statistical behaviour of asset prices, aiding traders in making informed decisions.
Volatility Analysis
- Normal Distribution: A normal distribution, also known as a bell curve, is a common statistical pattern where most data points cluster around the mean, with fewer occurrences as you move away from the mean. Within a normal distribution, roughly 68% of data should be within one standard deviation of the mean, 95% inside of two standard deviations, and 99.7% inside of three standard deviations.
- Trading Insight: By observing this measure, traders can estimate the likelihood of movements within certain ranges. For instance, if a stock’s daily return has a mean of 0.5% and a deviation of 2%, traders can expect that around 68% of the time, the stock’s daily return will be between -1.5% and 2.5%.
Market Sentiment
- Rising: An increasing standard deviation can signal growing uncertainty or a transition period in the market. It might precede major news events, economic changes, or market corrections. Traders often watch for rising volatility as a precursor to market shifts, adjusting their positions accordingly.
- Falling: A decreasing standard deviation can indicate calming markets or consolidation phases, where prices move around a mean. This might suggest that the market is absorbing recent volatility, leading to potential trend formation. Traders may see this as a period to prepare for future directional moves.
Risk Assessment
- Portfolio Management: The measure helps in assessing the risk level of an asset or portfolio. A higher value in a portfolio suggests greater overall risk, prompting traders to diversify or adjust their holdings to manage exposure.
- Comparative Analysis: By comparing the standard deviation of different assets, traders can identify which securities align with their risk tolerance. For instance, a conservative trader might prefer assets with lower standard deviations for their smaller price fluctuations.
Performance Evaluation
- Sharpe Ratio: Standard deviation is a key component in calculating the Sharpe Ratio, which measures risk-adjusted returns. A lower figure, in conjunction with a high return, indicates better performance on a risk-adjusted basis. Traders use this to compare the efficiency of different investments.
Indicators Using Standard Deviation
Standard deviation is a fundamental tool in trading, utilised in various indicators to assess volatility and inform strategies. To explore the indicators discussed below and apply them to live charts, head over to FXOpen’s free TickTrader platform.
Standard Deviation Indicator
- Description: The standard deviation indicator directly displays an asset’s standard deviation on a chart. It visually represents the deviation of the asset over a specified period.
- Interpretation: When the value is high, the market is experiencing more significant swings. Conversely, a low deviation suggests a market with less fluctuation. Traders often use this indicator to gauge the current volatility and adjust their strategies accordingly.
Bollinger Bands
- Description: Bollinger Bands consist of three lines: a simple moving average (SMA) in the middle and two standard deviation lines (one above and one below the SMA).
- Interpretation: The width of the bands reflects volatility. When the bands widen, it indicates increased volatility, while narrowing bands suggest the opposite. Bollinger Bands are commonly used to identify overbought or oversold conditions. Prices touching the upper band may signal an overbought market, while prices touching the lower band may indicate an oversold market. Traders use this information to make decisions about potential entry or exit points.
Relative Volatility Index
- Description: The Relative Volatility Index (RVI) uses the standard deviation of high and low prices over a specified period to measure volatility.
- Interpretation: The RVI is used to measure the volatility of a financial instrument, comparing price changes to price ranges over a specified period. It helps traders identify potential trend reversals or continuations by signalling periods of heightened or diminished market activity.
Practical Implementation of Standard Deviation in Trading
Traders utilise this statistical measure for several practical applications to enhance their trading strategies and risk management.
Risk Management
It helps in setting price targets and stop-loss levels. By understanding the typical price range, traders can place stop-loss orders beyond the expected range to avoid premature exits. For example, if the expected deviation is $2, a stop-loss might be set at $4 away from the entry level to account for typical fluctuations.
On the other hand, a trader may extend or tighten their profit target based on the market’s standard deviation. If it indicates volatility is low, they might prefer to set a target closer to the current price vs in a highly volatile market.
Evaluating Positions
When choosing or evaluating a potential position, traders might consider this measure to gauge expected volatility. A higher value signals higher potential market swings, indicating more risk. This may help in aligning trades with individual risk tolerance levels.
Identifying Extreme Price Movements
Bollinger Bands are particularly useful here. These bands are set at a distance of two or three standard deviations from a moving average. Movements outside these bands indicate extreme values. For instance, a spike beyond three standard deviations occurs only 0.03% of the time in a normal distribution, suggesting a strong signal. Traders might view a breach above the upper band as a potential selling point and a breach below the lower band as a buying opportunity.
Limitations of Standard Deviation
While standard deviation is a valuable tool in trading, it has certain limitations:
- Assumes Normal Distribution: It presumes data follows a normal distribution, which isn't always true in financial markets where extreme events can occur more frequently.
- Historical Data Dependence: It relies on historical data to define future volatility, potentially missing unforeseen market changes.
- Ignores Direction: It reflects volatility but doesn't indicate the direction of market movements, making it less useful for trend analysis.
- Sensitivity to Outliers: Extreme values can skew the measure, leading to inaccurate volatility assessments.
- Not a Standalone Tool: It should be used alongside other indicators and analysis techniques to provide a comprehensive market view.
The Bottom Line
Understanding and utilising standard deviation is vital for effective trading and risk management. By incorporating this measure, traders can better analyse volatility and make informed decisions. To apply these insights in real-world trading, open an FXOpen account and start leveraging advanced tools and strategies today.
FAQs
Is Volatility the Same as Standard Deviation?
Volatility and standard deviation are related but not identical. Volatility relates to how much variation exists in an asset’s price over a period of time. Standard deviation is a statistical measure used to quantify this volatility. Essentially, it provides a numeric value for volatility, indicating how much an asset's price deviates from its average.
How to Calculate the Volatility of a Stock?
To calculate stock volatility, traders determine the standard deviation of its returns over a specific period. They collect the daily closing prices, calculate the daily returns, and then compute the standard deviation of these returns. This gives the annualised volatility, reflecting the stock's fluctuation rate.
What Is a Good Standard Deviation for a Stock?
A "good" standard deviation depends on the trader’s risk tolerance and strategy. Lower values might suggest potentially less risk and less market fluctuation, suitable for conservative traders. Higher values indicate greater risk and potential reward, appealing to risk-tolerant traders. Generally, it’s best to seek a balance.
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.
Understanding Trends and Waves in TradingIntroduction
In trading education, recognising price movements is crucial. Prices move in trends, and these trends move in waves. Understanding these waves is essential for successful trading.
The Two Types of Waves
Impulsive/Primary Trend
Comprises a minimum of five waves.
Dictates the overall direction of price movement.
Corrective/Secondary Trend
Comprises a maximum of three waves.
Provides insights into the ongoing trend.
This phase is the most critical for traders to master.
Conclusion
To trade successfully in a trending market, it’s vital to learn how to accurately count waves. Mastering this skill can significantly enhance your trading decisions. Best wishes for your trading success!
Measured Moves: A Guide to Finding TargetsMeasured Moves: A Guide to Finding Targets
Visualizing the boundaries of price movement helps anticipate potential swing points. The concept of measured moves offers a structured framework to estimate future price behavior, based on the observation that each swing move often mirrors the size of the previous one, assuming average price volatility remains consistent. While not exact, this approach provides a practical method to approximate the extension of a swing move.
Background
Determining profit targets across various methods and timeframes can be challenging. To address this, I reviewed the tactics of experienced traders and market research, noting key similarities and differences. Some traders relied more on discretion, while others used technical targets or predetermined risk-to-reward ratios. Levels of support and resistance (S/R) and the Fibonacci tool frequently appeared, though their application varied by trader.
Based on current evidence, levels appear most relevant when tied to the highest and lowest swing points within the current price structure, for example in a range-bound market. In contrast, sporadic or subtle levels from historical movements seem no more significant than random points. The Fibonacci tool can provide value since measurements are based on actual price range; however, the related values have limited evidence to support them.
To explore these ideas, I conducted measurements on over a thousand continuation setups to identify inherent or consistent patterns in swing moves. It’s important to emphasize that tools and indicators should never be used blindly. Trading requires self-leadership and critical thinking. The application of ideas without understanding their context or validity undermines the decision-making process and leads to inconsistent results. This concept formed the foundation for my analysis, ensuring that methods were tested rather than taken at face value.
Definitions
Trending price movement advances in steps, either upward or downward. This includes a stronger move followed by a weaker corrective move, also known as a retracement.
When the corrective move is done and prices seem to resume the prevailing trend, we can use the prior move to estimate targets; this is known as a projection.
For example, if a stock moves up by 10%, pauses, and subsequently makes another move, we can utilize that value to estimate the potential outcome. Well thats the idea..
Data
Through manual measurements across various timeframes, price structures, and stock categories, I have gathered data on retracements and projections. However, this information should not be considered precise due to market randomness and inherent volatility. In fact, deviations—such as a notable failure to reach a target or overextensions—can indicate a potential structural change.
As this study was conducted with a manual approach, there is a high risk of selection bias, which raises concerns about the methodology's reliability. However, it allows for a more discretionary perspective, enabling observations and discretion that might be overlooked in a purely automated analysis. To simplify the findings, the presented values below represent a combination of all the data.
Retracement Tool
In the context of price movements within a trend, specifically continuation setups, retracements typically fall between 20% and 50% of the prior move. While retracements beyond 50% are less common, this does not necessarily invalidate the setup.
From my observations, two distinct patterns emerge. First, a shallow retracement where the stock consolidates within a narrow range, typically pulling back no more than 10% to 20% before continuing its trend. Second, a deeper retracement, often around 50%, followed by a nested move higher before a continuation.
For those referencing commonly mentioned values (though not validated), levels such as 23.6%, 38.2%, 44.7%, and 50% align with this range. Additionally, 18% frequently appears as a notable breakout point. However, I strongly advise against relying on precise numbers with conviction due to the natural volatility and randomness inherent in the market. Instead, a more reliable approach is to maintain a broad perspective—for example, recognizing that retracements in the 20% to 50% range are common before a continuation. This approach allows flexibility and helps account for the variability in price action.
Projection Tool
When there is a swing move either upward or downward, we can utilize the preceding one of the same type for estimation. This approach can be used exclusively since it is applicable for retracements, projections, and range-bound markets as long as there has been a similar price event in recent time.
In terms of projection, the most common range is between 60% and 120% of the prior move, with 70% to 100% being more prevalent. It is uncommon for a stock to exceed 130% of the preceding move.
Frequently mentioned values in this context include 61.8% and 78.6% as one area, although these values are frequently surpassed. The next two commonly mentioned values are 88.6% and 100%, which are the most frequent and can be used effectively on their own. These values represent a complete measured move, as they closely mimic the magnitude of the prior move with some buffer. The last value, 127%, is also notable, but exceeding this level is less common.
Application
The simplest application of this information is to input the range of 80% to 100% into the projection tool. Then, measure a similar prior move to estimate the subsequent one. This is known as the measured move.
There are no strict rules to follow—it’s more of an art. The key is to measure the most similar move in recent times. If the levels appear unclear or overly complicated, they likely are. The process should remain simple and combined with a discretionary perspective.
Interestingly, using parallel channels follows the same principle, as they measure the range per swing and project average volatility. This can provide an alternative yet similar way to estimate price movement based on historical swings.
The advantage of this method is its universal and adaptable nature for setting estimates. However, it requires a prior swing move and is most effective in continuation setups. Challenges arise when applying it to the start of a new move, exhaustion points, or structural changes, as these can distort short-term price action. For instance, referencing a prior uptrend to project a downtrend is unlikely to be effective due to the opposing asymmetry in swing moves.
In some cases, measured moves from earlier periods can be referenced if the current range is similar. Additionally, higher timeframes take precedence over lower ones when determining projections.
This is nothing more than a tool and should be used with a discretionary perspective, as with all indicators and drawing tools. The true edge lies elsewhere.
Example Use
1. Structure: Identify an established trend or range and measure a clear swing move.
2. Measured Move: Apply the measurement to the subsequent move by duplicating the line to the next point or using a trend-based Fibonacci extension tool set to 100% of the prior swing.
The first two points define the swing move.
The third point is placed at the deepest part of the subsequent pullback or at the start of the new move.
3. Interpretation: While this is a simple tool, its effective use and contextual application require experience and practice. Remember, this process relies on approximation and discretionary judgment.
The Wildest Forex Stories You Won’t Believe Actually HappenedIf you think the forex market is all about boring spreadsheets, economic data, and mind-numbing chart patterns, think again. Beneath the surface of the world’s largest financial market lies a treasure trove of jaw-dropping, laugh-out-loud, and occasionally heart-wrenching tales.
Some of these stories will make you double-check your stop-losses, while others might tempt you to try your hand at trading—if only for the adrenaline rush.
Here’s a whirlwind tour of the forex market’s wildest moments. Spoiler alert: truth really is stranger than fiction.
The “Flash Crash” That Shook the Yen
Imagine logging into your trading platform, coffee in hand, only to see the yen skyrocket in a matter of minutes. That’s precisely what happened on January 3, 2019, when the USD/JPY pair nosedived by 4% in less than 10 minutes. The culprit? A rare combo of thin holiday liquidity, panicked algorithms, and a trigger-happy market reacting to Apple’s earnings warning .
Traders watching the carnage were left rubbing their eyes in disbelief as billions of dollars evaporated faster than you can say “where’s my stop loss.” Some savvy players profited handsomely, while others were left staring at margin calls and wondering if they’d just witnessed a glitch in the Matrix.
Lesson learned : Low liquidity markets can be as risky as walking on thin ice.
George Soros: The Man Who Made $1 Billion in a Day
No list of wild forex stories is complete without the ultimate trading flex: George Soros’s legendary short against the British pound in 1992. Dubbed “Black Wednesday,” this was the day Soros and his Quantum Fund went toe-to-toe with the Bank of England—and won.
Convinced by his partner Stanley Druckenmiller that the pound was overvalued and would be forced out of the European Exchange Rate Mechanism (ERM), Soros bet billions on its decline. The result? A cool $1 billion profit in a single day, a humiliated Bank of England, and Soros’s elevation to trading legend.
Lesson learned : Never underestimate the power of conviction—or billions in leverage.
The Swiss Franc Tsunami
On January 15, 2015, the Swiss National Bank (SNB) shocked the world by unpegging the Swiss franc from the euro . In the blink of an eye, the EUR/CHF pair plummeted as much as 19%, and chaos erupted across the forex market. Brokers went under, traders were wiped out, and even the most seasoned professionals were left scrambling for answers.
Lesson learned : Central banks play by their own rules, and when they change the game, expect pandemonium.
The Trader Who Bet Against the Euro—and Won Big
Meet John Taylor, the founder of currency hedge fund FX Concepts and one of the original forex market wizards. In the early 2000s, Taylor made a name for himself by betting against the euro when everyone else was bullish. Armed with a combination of macroeconomic analysis and a deep understanding of market psychology, he rode the euro’s decline to rack up massive profits.
His contrarian approach earned him a reputation as a forex maverick, proving that going against the herd can pay off big—if you’ve done your homework. But not for long. Long story short: FX Concepts got up to $14 billion in assets in 2008 and declared bankruptcy in 2013.
Lesson learned : In forex, sometimes the best trades are the ones no one else sees coming. But also—it’s tough to know when to call it quits.
The Currency Crash That Inspired a Coup
In 1997, the Asian Financial Crisis sent shockwaves through global markets, but few places felt it as acutely as Indonesia. The rupiah lost more than 80% of its value , sparking widespread economic turmoil and political unrest that ultimately led to the resignation of President Suharto after 31 years in power.
While most forex traders were focused on the numbers, the crisis served as a stark reminder that currencies aren’t just lines on a chart—they’re the backbone of entire economies.
Lesson learned : Forex trading can shape history in ways few other markets can.
The Pound’s Post-Brexit Rollercoaster
In June 2016, the Brexit referendum sent the British pound on a ride so wild it could rival any theme park attraction. As the "Leave" vote defied polls and pundits, the pound plummeted 10%, hitting levels not seen since the 1980s . Traders who had been banking on a "Remain" victory were left scrambling, while those betting against the pound made a killing.
The chaos didn’t stop there. In the months and years that followed, every Brexit-related headline became a market-moving event. Negotiation updates? Pound down. Political drama? Pound down. A tiny glimmer of clarity? Pound up—until the next twist.
This wasn’t just a currency reacting to uncertainty; it was a masterclass in how politics can take control of forex markets.
Lesson learned : Currencies are deeply tied to national identity and global sentiment. And when politics enters the mix, expect fireworks.
What’s Your Wildest Forex Story?
The forex market is a place of extremes—extreme risk, extreme reward, and extreme stories that prove truth is stranger than fiction.
Have your own wild forex story to share? Maybe you caught the Swiss franc wave or survived a flash crash with your account intact. Drop your tale in the comments and let’s get talking!