What is Momentum Trading

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Momentum refers to the rapidity of price movement. It tracks how fast a certain security’s volume or price moves on the financial board. Commonly treated as a rate of an asset, this, too, has its imperative role in technical analysis as it also functions as an oscillator necessary in identifying and determining persisting trends. Thus, momentum, also known as momentum trading strategies, is one of the most efficient and profit-driven techniques that investors can use to their advantage. 

One advantage of momentum is its capacity to function as a trading technique. Its fundamental premise is so simple that when prices, earnings, or revenues accelerate, traders are given an opportunity to place either long or short positions in expectation that it will tread in either ascending or descending movement. This strategy focuses on short swings instead of analyzing the fundamental value of stocks. 

Generally, momentum day trading observes movement derived from price breaks and completely dismisses continuation or reversals. It is important to note that an investor can only place a position according to how strong a specific trend is persisting. Know that it is ideal to buy if stocks or assets are treading bullish. Contrary to this, the sell position is highly recommended once stocks run a bear. This kind of setup fails to acknowledge the commonly-practiced structure of trading- buy low and sell high. Instead, it aims to profit by placing long on low swings and opening short on highs.  

To explain further, it works the same way as a train. Once the engine of a train starts running, it gains acceleration, builds speed, and starts moving slowly. After accelerating, it will now move with velocity. To prepare for its next stop, it will decelerate. It can be concluded that an ideal point to place a trade is in the middle part since it is the point that projects a strong level of velocity.

What matters most with momentum investors is the overall performance of securities. They endeavor in such as this is one viable way of acquiring a large volume of returns. Ascending stocks are called hot stocks, and those that head downward are referred to as cold.  

Momentum Trading Indicators

A trend line is an important tool since it helps investors identify persisting trends. Functioning as a connection between high and low prices, its significance offers investors the chance to buy if it is up and the opportunity to sell if it is down. Simply put that an upward trend line indicates an uptrend, and a downward position signifies a downtrend. 

Momentum Trading Risks

Similar to other trading techniques, momentum trading has its own fair share of risks. By engaging in this kind of setup, a trader goes against the positions of other traders. As this is the case, price trends and movements are indefinite. A trader is encouraged to be vigilant and attentive since stock and asset markets are complicated. In a way, it carries unexpected reversals or corrections mainly from external and economic factors that heavily sway the overall market sentiment and condition.

Read more:

Momentum day trading strategies 

What are the risks of momentum trading