In this episode, Brian Montes discusses the hazards of trading or holding stocks just before earnings announcements. He emphasizes that as a swing trader, it is important to not hold over earnings due to the uncertainty of how the stock will react and the potential for large drawdowns. Brian provides examples of recent earnings reports from companies like Meta, Disney, and Plantair where despite solid results, the stock prices dropped significantly. He highlights the importance of being...

In this episode, Brian Montes discusses the idea of quitting a full-time job to become a full-time trader. He highlights the misleading information about the ease of trading and emphasizes the importance of understanding that trading is a journey that takes time and experience. Brian provides several reasons why quitting a job to trade full-time may not be the best move, including financial instability, lack of experience, emotional stress, insufficient capital, limited diversification,...

In this episode, Brian Montes discusses how to manage a choppy market as a swing trader. A choppy market is characterized by significant price fluctuations without a clear trend. Brian provides several strategies for managing choppy markets, including noticing the chop, adopting the right mindset, running the numbers with technical analysis, thinking short term, buying at support and selling at resistance, and embracing the idea of selling options. He emphasizes the importance of risk...

In this episode, Brian Montes discusses how swing traders can benefit from bear markets or downturns by using inverse ETFs. He explains the process of short selling and the risks involved and then introduces inverse ETFs as an alternative. He provides examples of inverse ETFs for the NASDAQ and S&P indices and discusses their unique characteristics and suitability for trading during market downturns. Brian emphasizes the importance of position sizing, risk management, and monitoring the...

In this episode, Brian Montes discusses classical chart analysis, which is essential for swing trading. He introduces three primary types of charts: bar charts, candlestick charts, and line charts. Bar charts provide a comprehensive view of price movements and are good for identifying trends and patterns. Candlestick charts originated in Japan and are widely used for all types of trading. They offer insights into market sentiment and indicate bullish or bearish settlement. Line charts...

In this episode, Brian Montes discusses the concept of front running in swing trading. Front running is buying into positions ahead of news-driven events or external sources to get ahead of the crowd and gain an edge. However, front-running is risky because it is based on assumptions rather than facts. Brian provides examples of front running in the stock market, such as anticipating the inflation report or earnings announcements. He emphasizes that front running is equal to guessing and...

In this episode, Brian Montes discusses the importance of understanding and embracing market pullbacks in swing trading. He explains that pullbacks are a natural part of the ebb and flow within a bull market cycle and are different from severe market corrections or bear markets. Pullbacks allow for the consolidation of gains, reset market sentiment, create buying opportunities, and increase volatility for trading opportunities. Brian also provides tips for overcoming challenges during...

In this episode, Brian Montes discusses the top five bad trading habits that can hold swing traders back from reaching their full potential. The habits include revenge trading, micromanaging trades, over allocation of a position, talking to others about open positions, and overtrading. Brian emphasizes the importance of recognizing and managing emotions, being patient and selective in trade setups, and avoiding unnecessary risks. The episode concludes with a reminder to reflect on personal...

In this episode, Brian Montes discusses why new swing traders should focus on trading stocks and ETFs before venturing into options. He highlights the simplicity and straightforwardness of trading stocks compared to the complexity of options. Brian emphasizes the importance of learning technical analysis, reward-to-risk ratio management, and chart patterns when trading stocks. He also explains that stocks offer a more forgiving learning curve and greater flexibility and liquidity compared to...

In this episode, Brian Montes discusses the importance of taking profits in swing trading. He emphasizes the need to develop a methodology for booking profits and managing risk. Brian shares his personal trading strategy, which involves assuming that every trade will go against him and actively managing risk. He explains how to set reward-to-risk ratios and determine profit targets based on technical analysis. Brian also discusses the significance of resistance and support levels in...

In this episode, Brian Montes discusses the importance of position sizing in swing trading. Position sizing refers to the allocation of capital to each trade based on risk tolerance and trade strategy. It is crucial for both new and experienced traders in various trading styles. Proper position sizing helps manage risk, protect trading accounts from significant losses, and optimize the risk-reward ratio. Strategies for effective position sizing include using a fixed dollar amount, percentage...

Understanding how a top down trading strategy can help your trading business is a must know for new traders. In this episode, Brian Montes discusses the concept of a top-down trading strategy and how it can enhance your trading game. A top-down trading strategy involves analyzing the market from a macro perspective down to individual stocks. It starts with studying economic indicators and market trends, then moves on to sector and subsector analysis. Finally, it focuses on stock selection...

We cannot improve what is not measured. This rule applies to a trading business just as much as it applies to all other businesses. In this episode, Brian Montes discusses the power of journaling trades and why it is important to document your trading experience. He explains that journaling allows traders to analyze their decisions, track what is working and what is not, and learn from their experiences. Brian emphasizes the benefits of journaling, including self-accountability,...

One of the biggest question new traders have is "How do I select a brokerage platform" We are here to help navigate you through that decision! In this episode, Brian Montes discusses how to choose a brokerage account for trading and investing in the stock market. He emphasizes the importance of selecting the right brokerage account, as it serves as the gateway to the financial markets. Brian provides insights on factors to consider when choosing a brokerage account, such as investment...

Do you ever wonder how seasoned traders know so much? It's experience and time that builds the knowledge base. The good news is that everyone who trades has to take that first step of learning. To start new traders on their path to learning how to swing trade, this episode provides basic introductory information on the stock market. It covers topics such as the market itself, market exchanges, ticker symbols, sectors, bid and ask prices, types of orders, stop loss, and trading terminology....

Welcome to part #2 of our two-part series discussing my 20 (personal) trading rules. In this episode, I'm laying out my essential rules to ensure your trading system is built on discipline, not luck. Step into my world as I reveal how to dodge the traps of illiquid stocks and the chaos of sudden overnight gaps. You'll witness how I navigate these turbulent waters, using my recent Wayfair trade to illustrate the fine art of taking partial profits, striking that crucial balance to protect...

The best way to increase your chances of creating a consistent and profitable trading business is by developing a list of rules that govern when and why you you place a trade. Over time I have created 20 rules that support my Disciplined Traders mindset and approach to trading. This episode is a treasure trove of guidance, where I unveil the first ten of my twenty golden rules to navigate the twists and turns of trading. You're promised not just tactics but a whole new disciplined mindset...

Prepare to unlock the secrets of the stock market with your host, Brian Montes, as we navigate the labyrinth of trading terminology and techniques that will empower your investment journey. Ever wondered what a stock truly represents or why options trading might just be too hot to handle for starters? We've got you covered. From recognizing bull market trends to the golden rules of swing trading, our insights will equip you with the tools to stride confidently through earnings season and...

Embark on a stock market odyssey that demystifies the allure of scalping's rapid returns, day trading's dynamic maneuvers, and swing trading's strategic plays. As your guide, I'm here to illuminate the path toward aligning your financial ambitions with a trading style that fits like a glove. We'll dissect the high stakes of scalping, where quick decisions can lead to quick rewards or lessons learned, and the adrenaline-fueled world of day trading, with its potential to turn market...