PTGDavid – Bullets from the Trading Desk
• Daily started with a motivational quote:
“When the system ends, it is when your consistency ends.”
— A reminder that disciplined trading systems require consistent execution.
• Shared a market-related post from X:
https://x.com/samuraipips358/status/1912838454087729179
• Noted the start of Cycle Day 2 (CD2):
– Initial expectation was for MATD (Morning After Trend Day) rhythms.
– Price opened inside the prior day’s range, signaling potential balance/consolidation behavior.
• Alerted traders to Crude Oil (CLM) contract rollover to June.
• Notified that OPEX (Options Expiration) was in effect for the day — an important volatility driver.
• Defined Symmetry in market structure:
– Described as “similarity and/or likeness in swing.”
– Important for pattern recognition and identifying potential reversals.
• Shared relevant market sentiment updates, including:
https://x.com/spotgamma/status/1912870287126700515
• Uploaded trading range visuals to support analysis:
– Provided an annotated chart showing range structure and key reference levels.
– Emphasized preservation tactics during range-bound sessions.
• Midday commentary indicated:
– Bulls had defended the 5285 pivot level.
– LIS Zone (Line in Sand) held support, suggesting long bias could be appropriate on dips.
• Noted the trading conditions as “Snaps and Traps” — indicative of whipsaw price action.
– Cautioned traders against over-committing in choppy structure.
• Stated the Trading Theme of the Day with a Kenny Rogers reference:
“Know when to hold ’em, know when to fold ’em, know when to walk away, and know when to run.”
– Reinforced discretionary decision-making under uncertainty.
• Took a midday break, posting a calming beach photo and describing the scene:
– “Sun is glistening on the water and it’s low tide…”
– Personal note to reinforce the importance of mental reset and balance during trading hours.
• Observed that bulls were targeting 5370 late session as a breakout level.
– Phrase used: “Thin 2 Win,” implying low-volume conditions that can favor momentum.
• Confirmed day’s market structure:
– “Textbook Cycle Day 2,” with a Delta-shaped profile indicating consolidation and balance.
– Final theme emphasized: “Do Not Push the String” — avoid forcing trades in non-trending environments.
• Shared the Market On Close (MOC) Imbalance:
– Ended with a significant $2.4 billion sell imbalance, potentially impacting closing price action.
Educational Takeaway:
Cycle Day 2s often reflect market digestion after a directional move. PTGDavid’s insights emphasized key CD2 characteristics — range-bound trade, low conviction breakouts, and the need for capital preservation. His commentary consistently reminded traders to align with the structure of the day, wait for price confirmation, and avoid emotional or forced entries. Observing pivot zones (like 5285) and respecting LIS areas can help traders manage risk and anticipate intraday reversals. Above all, staying mentally balanced, as exemplified by taking mindful breaks, is critical for long-term performance.