May 31, 2006

May Review

The steep drop of the markets in May was a sort of test. I heard somewhere it was the steepest drop since 1994 or something like that. I passed the test because I was profitable for the month, but I would only give myself a C- because I could have done a lot better with such a strong move. Anyway I am learning from the new twists of the market as they play out.
I was planning on increasing my R value to 1.2% for the month, but I decreased this value during the steep drop and towards the end of the month, so I didn't really risk that much most of the time. For June I will try to use 1.2% for my average R value.
Starting in June I am going to hold some positions overnight while continuing to daytrade. I decided on this because I think it will take advantage of the extra leverage that I have access to. So far, since I started trading at the end of January, I have not used more than 600% of my equity at a time (I have access to 1000%). I am hoping that this will allow me to increase my profits with little added risk. I'm starting out small just to see how well it works. I am excited about it, though, because this is more like the type of trading I did before.
I have slacked on my journal-keeping and I plan to be more diligent with this from now on. I didn't think I needed it as much as I do and was lazy about it.
I am also planning on meditating for 30 minutes before the market opens each day. It seems to help me focus and trade without fear or greed. It also reminds me of the importance of what I am doing.

Comments

I can never say anything about meditation. It's helped me in every aspect of my life when I do it regularly for 6 months. When I don't do it, I get all wacky and flustered.

Posted by: Thomas at June 1, 2006 05:25 AM

Do you use a prop firm? Who do you use for 10X leverage?

Thanks.

Posted by: John at June 1, 2006 09:58 AM

ughhh the one

Posted by: Maynard at June 1, 2006 05:29 PM

Wow.. 600% sounds a bit scary but I guess with proper risk control on per trade and overall exposure you can be fine with that.

Posted by: TraderEyal at June 1, 2006 06:58 PM

Tom - do you still meditate?
John - yes I use a prop firm, but I'd rather not say who.
Eyal - With tight stops in liquid stocks, 600% has been fine. I am shooting for 1000%.

Posted by: Ugly at June 3, 2006 09:39 AM

Thanks anyway.

Posted by: John at June 3, 2006 11:40 AM


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