As we celebrated Father’s Day this past weekend, I began to think about how stock trading has changed over time. Market structure and trading activity is far different than a generation or two ago – and it will continue to evolve. How stock trading has changed over time My dad was a stock broker back…
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Is a recession on the horizon? Economic data points to some negatives, and the bond market could certainly sway the outlook. Many analysts say Fed policy is supporting economic growth. However, an important factor no one really talks about is trader psychology, which could cause a recession this year. Consumer spending and tariffs are two…
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The retail sector was obliterated during the recent earnings season. The post-holiday period is often quiet for retailers, but winter 2019 was far worse that usual. One by one, retailers have been taken out back and shot. The retail ETF (XRT) is near multi-month lows, even though most markets are up double digits. This brings…
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That’s right kids – we just experienced a spectacular bear market rally. It blew in like a hurricane, lasted through the first four months of 2019 and nearly broke all the bears in the process. Much of that bullish progress has now evaporated. It’s still hard to believe that the markets rallied 25% from those…
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Trading volatile markets is not easy. As uncertainty starts to pile up, it’s natural to look for answers. You want to be confident that you’re making the right trades at the right time. “Markets are not supposed to move like this,” you quietly whisper. So you start watching, listening and even grabbing for something –…
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Mish Schneider on How to Plant Your Money Tree – Webinar Recap We were thrilled to welcome Mish Schneider back for another lively options trading webinar. Bob and Mish discussed her new book, Plant Your Money Tree, which guides readers on understanding the economy’s six phases and using those for guidance as you grow your wealth.…
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Every now and then, it’s a smart idea to take a step back and do a risk management review. I’m sure most of you are well-prepared and on the right track. You have put good trading systems and strategies in place, and you take home more green than red. A review allows you to fine-tune…
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With the markets getting pounded lately, I am looking at the names that have held up. MasterCard is one of them. While the stock has endured some selling this past week, it appears to be contained. The chart shows a better consolidation than its competitors (Visa and American Express). Money flows have been very positive,…
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When the VIX is low, as it is now, traders tend to become complacent. Instead, you should use move with caution and buy protection, because you never know what is coming down the pike. Just look at last week’s action. The markets flirted with a total breakdown that would have pushed the bulls aside. But…
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If you’ve been trading as long as I have, then you’ve heard all the market myths and anecdotes. There are holiday-related myths, like the “Santa Claus Rally,” and there are calendar-related myths like, “As January goes, so goes the year.” The one myth that really freaks people out is, “Sell in May, then go away”,…
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