- Set the chart to H4 timeframe, zoom out completely, and then zoom in twice. Check whether the market is in an uptrend or downtrend.
- Draw the Fibonacci retracement from support to resistance (or vice versa).
- Focus on the 23.6%, 38.2%, 50%, and 61.8% retracement levels — these are the key points where I place my pending orders, combined with the overall chart analysis.
Using the 13-Week COT Index for Confirmation
In addition to technical analysis, I use the 13-week COT Index to confirm trade direction.
COT Index Formula:
COT Index = (Current Net – Net Low) / (Net High – Net Low) × 100
- Current Net → The latest net position, calculated as Longs – Shorts in the Non-Commercial category (large speculators).
- 13-Week Net High → The highest net value in the past 13 weeks.
- 13-Week Net Low → The lowest net value in the past 13 weeks.
How to get the data:
- Go to the CFTC website (https://www.cftc.gov/) or use platforms like Tradingster or Barchart COT.
- Select the desired asset (EUR, USD, CAD, etc.).
- Locate the Non-Commercial section and note the weekly Long and Short values.
- Calculate the Net:
COT Index = (Current Net – Net Low) / (Net High – Net Low) × 100 - Find the highest and lowest Net values in the last 13 weeks, then apply the formula above.
Interpretation:
- Near 0% → Net close to the lowest value of the period → potential buy, provided it aligns with technical analysis and Fibonacci levels.
- Near 100% → Net close to the highest value of the period → potential sell, provided it aligns with technical analysis and Fibonacci levels.
Combining technical analysis (Fibonacci) with market sentiment (COT Index) greatly increases my trade accuracy.
Risk Management
If one pending order is triggered and has a stop loss risking 1%, I move all other pending orders to avoid exceeding my risk limit.
If the risk limit has not been reached, I keep the other pending orders in place until the limit is reached.
Once the triggered trade’s stop loss is moved into profit, the other pending orders can be placed back at their Fibonacci levels.
I risk 1% or 2% of my capital per trade. Don’t be greedy — compound interest will work in your favor over time.
Patience is key — some trades will remain open for days. Accept stop losses — losing is also part of trading.
The chart stays clean, with very few indicators.
I’m not claiming to be the ultimate authority, so I may be wrong sometimes. I’m here to learn from everyone.
Finally, I want to thank Shahab8b — I’ve learned a lot from his forum posts, and I hope to keep learning here with all of you.
https://www.forexfactory.com/thread/...is-trade-ideas