Momentum trading, a widely adopted investment approach, centres on purchasing and holding assets with noticeable recent price surges in a specific direction.
Put simply, momentum traders seek out ascending stocks, purchasing them with the anticipation that the trend will persist shortly.
This piece delves into the comprehensive steps integral to executing a momentum trading strategy. An actual illustration is provided to elucidate the methodology. While the example revolves around stocks, this strategy can be applicable across various markets such as cryptocurrencies and others.
Phase 1: Identifying Momentum Indicators
The initial stride in momentum trading entails pinpointing the momentum indicators that will be employed to assess potential trades. These indicators facilitate the recognition of stocks amassing or shedding momentum, thus enabling the anticipation of future price shifts.
Commonly utilized momentum indicators encompass the Relative Strength Index (RSI), Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD), and Stochastic Oscillator. These tools gauge trend vigour and direction, aiding traders in deciding optimal entry and exit moments for trades.
Phase 2: Spotting Momentum Stocks
Following the identification of momentum indicators, the subsequent step involves scanning the market for stocks that display robust momentum. The objective is to locate stocks that have sustained upward or downward trends over a substantial duration, accompanied by compelling signals from momentum indicators.
Employing a stock screener proves effective in filtering stocks based on specific criteria like price, market capitalization, volume, and momentum indicators. This streamlines the list of potential trades, focusing on stocks with the highest probability of success.
Phase 3: Analyzing Stock Fundamentals
Prior to executing any trade, a thorough analysis of a stock's fundamentals is crucial to ascertain its viability. Criteria such as sound financials, a capable management team, and a competitive edge within the industry are pivotal in the evaluation process.
Furthermore, the stock's valuation, prospects for earnings growth, and historical dividend performance should be evaluated to determine its attractiveness as an investment. Integrating technical and fundamental analysis enables more informed trading decisions, thereby mitigating risks.
Phase 4: Entry and Exit Strategy
Once a stock exhibiting robust momentum and solid fundamentals is identified, the subsequent step involves entering the trade. This encompasses purchasing the stock at an advantageous price and instituting a stop-loss order to cap potential losses.
Setting the stop-loss order slightly below the entry price guarantees an exit if the stock begins to decline. Simultaneously, a profit target is established to secure gains upon the stock attaining a predetermined price.
Phase 5: Vigilant Trade Monitoring
The final phase of momentum trading necessitates vigilant monitoring of trades, entailing adjustments to stop-loss and profit target orders when warranted. This involves closely tracking the stock's price fluctuations and adapting orders accordingly.
Should the stock's momentum persist, and the profit target is met, capitalizing on gains and exiting the trade is prudent. Conversely, if the stock's performance triggers the stop-loss order, exiting the trade is advised to minimize losses.
Momentum Trading: Real-Life Example with Apple Inc. (AAPL)
A real-world illustration of employing a momentum trading strategy with Apple Inc. (AAPL) stock is explored. In late 2020, AAPL stock demonstrated an upward trajectory and robust momentum, rendering it an ideal candidate for a momentum trade.
Leveraging a stock or cryptocurrency screener, AAPL was identified as a potential trade, and its fundamentals underwent scrutiny. This analysis revealed robust financials, a dependable management team, and a competitive advantage in the technology sector.
Furthermore, an assessment of the stock's valuation and potential for earnings growth yielded the conclusion that it was a prudent investment.
To initiate the trade, AAPL stock was purchased at $116 per share, coupled with a stop-loss order at $112 per share. A profit target of $130 per share was also established, grounded in the analysis of momentum and potential price movements.
In the ensuing weeks, AAPL stock sustained its momentum, reaching the $130 per share profit target. The trade was closed, yielding a 12.1% profit within a brief span.
By blending technical and fundamental analysis, a stock exhibiting strong momentum and solid fundamentals was identified, leading to a profitable trade over a short duration.
In Conclusion
Momentum trading, a prevalent investment tactic, offers the potential for swift profits through the identification of stocks marked by substantial price movements and robust fundamentals.
By adhering to the outlined steps and integrating technical and fundamental analysis, the likelihood of success is augmented, while risks are minimized.
Utilizing stop-loss orders to curtail potential losses and adjusting profit targets and stop-loss orders in response to price shifts is essential.
With dedication and adherence to the approach, momentum trading can emerge as a potent tool for generating profits within the stock market.