Trading the Measured Move

Book excerpt: A timely guide to profiting in markets dominated by high frequency trading and other computer driven strategies Strategies employing complex computer algorithms, and often utilizing high frequency trading tactics, have placed individual traders at a significant disadvantage in today's financial markets. It's been estimated that high-frequency traders—one form of computerized trading—accounts for more than half of each day's total equity market trades. In this environment, individual traders need to learn new techniques that can help them navigate modern markets and avoid being whipsawed by larger, institutional players. Trading the Measured Move offers a blueprint for profiting from the price waves created by computer-driven algorithmic and high-frequency trading strategies. The core of author David Halsey's approach is a novel application of Fibonnaci retracements, which he uses to set price targets and low-risk entry points. When properly applied, it allows traders to gauge market sentiment, recognize institutional participation at specific support and resistance levels, and differentiate between short-term and long-term trades at various price points in the market. Provides guidance for individual traders who fear they can't compete in today's high-frequency dominated markets Outlines specific trade set ups, including opening gap strategies, breakouts and failed breakout strategies, range trading strategies, and pivot trading strategies Reveals how to escape institutional strategies designed to profit from slower-moving market participants Engaging and informative, Trading the Measured Move will provide you with a new perspective, and new strategies, to successfully navigate today's computer driven financial markets