Categories
Forex Fundamental Analysis

GBP/CHF Global Macro Analysis – Part 3

GBP/CHF Exogenous Analysis

  1. The UK and Switzerland Current Account Differential

A country’s current account shows the sum of its net exports, net secondary income, and net primary income. In this case, the current account differential is the difference between the UK’s current account balance and Switzerland.

In international trade, when a country has a current account surplus, it means the value of its exports is higher than imports. Thus, its domestic currency is in higher demand in the forex market. Therefore, if the current account differential is positive, it implies that the UK has a higher current account than Switzerland. We can then expect that the price of the GBP/CHF pair will increase. Conversely, a negative differential would mean that Switzerland has a higher current account than the UK. In this case, the price of the GBP/CHF pair is expected to drop.

Switzerland had a current account surplus of $10.11 billion in the third quarter of 2020, while the UK had a $20.97 billion deficit. The current account differential is -$31.08 billion. Hence a score of -7.

  1. The interest rate differential between the UK and Switzerland

Interest rate differential is the swiss interest rate subtracted from the interest rate in the UK. Forex carry traders use a pair’s interest rate differential to establish whether to buy or short the pair. For GBP/CHF, if the interest rate differential is positive, it means that the UK’s interest rate is higher than in Switzerland. This makes traders and investors go long on the pair; hence, a bullish trend.

Conversely, if the interest rate differential is negative, it means that Switzerland’s interest rate is higher than in the UK. Thus, forex traders will short the GBP/CHF pair; hence, a bearish trend.

The Swiss National Bank has maintained the interest rate at -0.75%, while the UK’s interest rate is 0.1%. Therefore, the GBP/CHF interest rate differential is 0.85%. It has a score of 3.

  1. The differential in GDP growth rate between the UK and Switzerland

GDP growth rate differential is the difference between the economic growth in the UK and Switzerland. A negative differential means that the UK’s economy is expanding faster than that of Switzerland. Consequently, the GBP/CHF pair will adopt a bullish trend. Conversely, if the GDP growth rate differential is negative, the swiss economy is growing faster than that of the UK. Hence, the GBP/CHF pair will adopt a bearish trend.

The UK economy has contracted by 5.8% in the first three quarters of 2020, while the swiss economy has contracted by 1.5%. That means the GDP growth rate differential is -4.3%. We assign a score of -3.

Conclusion

Indicator Score Total State Comment
The UK and Switzerland Current Account Differential -7 10 A differential of – $31.08 Switzerland has a $10.11 billion current account surplus, while the UK has a deficit of $20.97 billion
The interest rate differential between the UK and Switzerland 3 10 0.85% The differential is expected to remain at 0.85% all through 2021
The differential in GDP growth rate between the UK and Switzerland -3 10 -4.30% Switzerland’s economy contracted by 1.5% in the first three quarters of 2020 while the UK by 5.8%
TOTAL SCORE -7

The exogenous analysis of the GBP/CHF pair has a cumulative score of -7. Thus, we can expect a short-term downtrend in the pair.

In technical analysis, GBP/CHF’s weekly price is seen bouncing off from the upper Bollinger band.

We hope you find this analysis informative. Let us know if you have any questions in the comments below. Cheers.

Categories
Forex Fundamental Analysis

GBP/CHF Global Macro Analysis – Part 1 & 2

Introduction

The global macro analysis of the GBP/CHF currency pair will involve analysing endogenous and exogenous factors. Endogenous factors drive the domestic GDP growth in the UK and Switzerland. Exogenous factors influence the exchange rate for the currency pair.

Ranking Scale

The analysis will rank the endogenous and exogenous factors on a scale from -10 to +10. The score for endogenous factors will be determined from a correlation analysis with the domestic GDP growth rate. If the score is negative, it means that the endogenous factor has led to the domestic currency depreciation. If positive, it has caused the appreciation of the domestic currency.

The exogenous analysis score is from a correlation analysis with the exchange rate for the GBP/CHF pair. When the score is negative, traders can expect the bearish trend for the pair. If positive, then the pair is expected to have a bullish trend.

Summary – GBP Endogenous Analysis

A -15 score implies that GBP has depreciated since the beginning of 2020.

Summary – CHF Endogenous Analysis

A score of 3 implies that CHF has partially appreciated since the beginning of this year.

Indicator Score Total State Comment
Switzerland Employment Rate -3 10 79.7% in Q3 2020 Slightly below the 80.4% recorded in Q1.
Switzerland Core Consumer Prices 4 10 100.82 points in November Inflation, as measured by the core consumer prices, rose by 0.28 points from January to November
Switzerland Manufacturing Production -2 10 4.7% decrease in Q3 2020 The YoY swiss manufacturing production is recovering
Switzerland Business Confidence 3 10 103.5 in November Swiss KOF Economic Barometer dropped in October and November. The majority of the consecutive drop was driven by private consumption
Switzerland Consumer Spending 5 10 Q3 spending was 91.929 billion CHF Q3 had the highest consumer spending compared to Q1 and Q2.
Switzerland Construction Output -2 10 A 0.4% drop in Q3 2020 Q3 output recovered from the 5% drop in Q2 but is still lower than the 3.1% growth in Q1
Switzerland Government Budget Value -2 10 An expected deficit of 2.2 billion CHF in 2020 Switzerland had a surplus of 8.1 billion CHF in 2019. The projected deficit is on account of aggressive government stimulus program and decreases in revenue due to COVID-19
TOTAL SCORE 3
  1. Switzerland Employment Rate

The Swiss employment rate measures the quarterly change in the percentage of the labour force that is employed. Changes in the number of people employed in the economy are a leading indicator of economic growth. When the economy is expanding, businesses create more job opportunities; hence, higher employment rate. Conversely, a shrinking economy leads to job cuts, which result in a lower employment rate.

In 2020 Q3, the Switzerland employment rate rose to 79.7% from the 6-year lows of 79.1%. Although the Q3 employment rate is lower than the 80.4% recorded in Q1, it shows that the Swiss economy is recovering from the economic shocks of COBID-19. The swiss employment rate scores -3.

  1. Switzerland Core Consumer Prices

Core consumer prices measure the rate of inflation by monitoring the price changes of only a select basket of goods and services. Consumer products with volatile prices are excluded. The rate of inflation is a leading indicator of economic growth. That’s because when inflation rises, it means domestic demand is on the rise, too, hence a higher GDP growth rate. Similarly, a decrease in the inflation rate means domestic demand is depressed, which may be followed by a contracting economy.

In November 2020, the swiss core consumer prices dropped to 100.82 points from 100.89 points in October. However, it is still higher than 100.54 points recorded in January. It has a score of 4.

  1. Switzerland Manufacturing Production

This measures the YoY change in the value of output from the swiss manufacturing sector. This sector plays a significant role in the Swiss economy. Therefore, growth in manufacturing production is accompanied by growth in the labour market and, consequently, the domestic economy’s expansion.

In Q3 of 2020, the YoY swiss manufacturing production dropped by 4.7%. That’s an improvement from the 9.6% drop in Q2. We assign a score of -2.

  1. Switzerland Business Confidence

The KOF Swiss Economic Institute compiles this index. It measures company managers’ optimism based on their perspective of the economy and the growth prospects of their businesses. The business that is surveyed are drawn from multiple sectors in the economy and contains 219 different variables.

In November 2020, the Swiss KOF Economic Barometer dropped to 103.5 from 106.3 in October. This marks the send consecutive month of a drop in the swiss business confidence. Notably, the drop in the index is primarily driven by the manufacturing sector and private consumption. Swiss business confidence has a score of 3.

  1. Switzerland Consumer Spending

This is the value of the total consumption by Swiss households. Domestic consumption is a primary driver of GDP growth. More so, it also an indicator of the performance in the labour market. With a higher rate of employment, disposable income increases, which increases consumer spending.

Swiss consumer spending increased to CHF 91.929 billion in the third quarter of 2020, which is the highest recorded compared to CHF 89.79 billion in Q1 and CHF 82.03 billion in Q2. It has a score of 5.

  1. Switzerland Construction Output

This indicator measures the percentage change in the value paid for construction work in Switzerland. The construction work includes building and engineering works done by public and private companies. Typically, when construction work increases, it is expected to be accompanied by an increase in the employment rate and economic growth.

In the third quarter of 2020, the YoY swiss construction output dropped by 0.4%. That is an improvement compared to the 5% drop in Q2 but still less than the 3.1% growth recorded in Q1. It has a score of -2.

  1. Switzerland General Government Budget Value

This represents the difference between the revenues received by the Swiss government and its expenditures. Government expenditure includes all transfer payments and purchases of goods and services. The general government budget value shows if the Swiss government has a surplus or a deficit. Too much deficit means that the economy is probably not responding to expansionary fiscal policies.

In 2019, the Swiss government had a budget surplus of CHF 8.097 billion. In 2020, the general government budget was expected to hit a deficit of CHF 2.2 billion. This deficit is primarily driven by a significant drop in revenue collection due to COVID-19. It has a score of -2.

In the very next article, you can find the Exogenous analysis of the GBP/CHF currency pair, so make sure to check that out. Cheers.

Categories
Forex Fundamental Analysis

EUR/CHF Global Macro Analysis – Part 3

EUR/CHF Exogenous Analysis

  • The EU and Switzerland Current Account to GDP differential

The ratio of the current account to GDP helps us determine the level of a country’s participation in the international market. When a country has net exports, it means that it will have a current account surplus; and, the larger the surplus, the higher the current account to GDP ratio. Conversely, a country with higher imports than exports; it means it has a current account deficit, and its current account to GDP ratio will be lower.

The domestic currency will be in higher demand in the forex market when a country is a net exporter.

In 2020, the Swiss Current Account to GDP is projected to reach 7.5% and that of the EU 3.4%. Thus, the current account to GDP differential between the EU and Switzerland is -4.1%. That means we should expect that the CHF will be in higher demand than the EUR. Thus, we assign a score of -5.

The interest rate differential for the EUR/CHF pair determines which of these currencies is preferable to investors and carry traders in the forex market. When the interest rate differential is positive, it means that investors will earn more by buying the EUR. Similarly, carry traders will be bullish on the EUR/CHF pair, thus driving the exchange rate higher. A negative interest rate differential implies that the Swiss Franc will be preferable to investors, while carry traders will be bearish on the pair.

The Swiss National Bank has maintained the interest rate at -0.75% throughout 2020, and the ECB interest rate has been at 0%. The interest rate differential for the EUR/CHF pair is 0.75%. We assign a score of 2.

  • The EU and Switzerland GDP Growth Rate differential

The GDP growth differential is the difference between the rate at which the EU and the Swiss economy are growing. This will help us identify which economy is growing faster. A positive GDP growth differential between the EU and Switzerland will result in a higher exchange rate for the EUR/CHF pair. A negative one will lead to a drop in the exchange rate for the pair.

In the first three quarters of 2020, the EU economy has contracted by 2.9% while the Swiss economy contracted by 1.5%. The GDP growth rate differential is -1.4%. We assign a score of -3.

Conclusion

The exogenous factors between the EUR/CHF pair have a score of -6; which implies that the pair can be expected to be on a downtrend in the short term.

As you can see above, the Technical analysis shows that the weekly chart for the EUR/CHF pair has failed to breach the upper Bollinger band successfully and has bounced off of it supporting our fundamental analysis. All the best.

Categories
Forex Fundamental Analysis

EUR/CHF Global Macro Analysis – Part 1 & 2

Introduction

In conducting the global macro analysis of the EUR/CHF pair, we’ll focus on endogenous economic factors that contribute to the growth of GDP in the EU and Switzerland. Exogenous factors that influence the exchange rate of the EUR/CHF in the forex market will also be analysed.

Ranking Scale

A sliding scale of -10 to +10 will be used to rank the impact of endogenous and exogenous factors.

The ranking of the endogenous factors will be based on their correlation analysis with the GDP growth rate. A negative score implies that they resulted in the contraction of the economy hence depreciating the domestic currency. A positive score implies that they led in economic expansion hence appreciation of the domestic currency.

The exogenous factors are ranked based on their correlation with the EUR/CHF exchange rate. A positive score means that the pair lead to an increase in the exchange rate, while a negative ranking means that the exchange rate has decreased.

EUR Endogenous Analysis – Summary

The EUR’s endogenous analysis has a score of -3. This implies that the Euro had marginally depreciated in 2020.

CHF Endogenous Analysis – Summary

The change in the level of employment covers the quarterly developments in the labour market in Switzerland. The statistic includes the changes in both fulltime and parttime employment. Typically, changes in employment is a result of changes in business activities.

In Q3 of 2020, 5.08 million people were employed in Switzerland compared to 5.02 million in Q2. The employment level is still below the 5.11 million registered in Q1. We assign a score of -4.

  • Switzerland GDP Deflator

Switzerland GDP deflator is used to calculate the change in real GDP in terms of prices of all goods and services produced within the country. This is a comprehensive measure of inflation compared to measures like CPI and PPI, which only focus on a small portion of the economy.

In Q3 2020, Switzerland GDP deflator rose to 98.8 from 98 in Q2.  Up to Q3, the GDP deflator has increased by 0.8 points. The increase in inflation can be taken as an indicator that the economy is bouncing back from the economic shocks of the coronavirus pandemic. We assign a score of 3.

  • Switzerland Industrial Production

This indicator shows the changes in output for firms operating in the manufacturing, mining, quarrying, and electricity production. Although Switzerland is not heavily dependent on industrial production, it is still an integral part of the economy.

In Q3 2020, the industrial production in Switzerland increased by 5% from a drop of 9% in Q2. The YoY industrial production for Q3 was down 5.1%. For the first three quarters of 2020, the industrial production is down 3.8%. We assign a score of -3.

  • Switzerland Manufacturing PMI

This is an indicator of the economic health of the Swiss manufacturing sector. The purchasing managers are surveyed based in a questionnaire which covers the output in the sector, suppliers’ deliveries, inventories, new orders, prices, and employment. A PMI of above 50 shows that the Swiss manufacturing sector is expanding, while below 50 shows that the sector is contracting.

In November 2020, Switzerland manufacturing PMI rose to 55.2 from 52.3 in October. This is the highest reading since December 2018 and the fourth consecutive month of expansion since July. We assign a score of 7.

  • Switzerland Retail Sales

The retail sales measure the consumption of final goods and services by households in Switzerland. The expenditure by households drives the aggregate demand in the economy, which results in the changes in GDP.

In October 2020, Switzerland retail sales increased by 3.2% from a drop of 3.2% in September. YoY retail sales increased by 3.1% in October from 0.4% in September. Up to October 2020, the average retail sales has increased by 0.84%. We assign a score of 1.

  • Switzerland Consumer Confidence

About 1000 Swiss households are surveyed in January, April, July and October. They are evaluated based on their opinions about the economy, job security, financial status, inflation, and purchases. Consumer confidence tends to be higher when the economy is expanding and low during recessions.

In Q4 2020, the Swiss consumer confidence dropped to -12.8 from 12 in Q3. Although it is higher than it was in Q2 at the height of the pandemic, it is still lower than in Q1. The expectations on households’ financial situation also dropped to -6.6 from -4.2 in Q2. Households were increasingly pessimistic about the labour market and their job security. this can be attributed to the uncertainties that surround the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. We assign a score of -2.

  • Switzerland Government Gross Debt to GDP

This is the total amount that the Swiss government owes to both domestic and international lenders is expressed as a percentage of the GDP. It helps us to understand and evaluate the size of the debt relative to the size of the economy. At below 60%, the government is seen as being able to service its debt obligations and have room to acquire more debt without straining the economy.

In 2019, the Switzerland government gross debt to GDP was 41% same as in 2018. In 2020, it is expected to range between 49% and 51% due to aggressive expenditure to alleviate the shocks of coronavirus pandemic. We assign a score of -1.

In the very next article, you can find the exogenous analysis of the EUR/CHF Forex pair. Please check that and let us know if you have any questions below. Cheers.

Categories
Forex Fundamental Analysis

USD/CHF Global Macro Analysis – Part 1 & 2

Introduction

When conducting the global macroeconomic analysis, endogenous and exogenous factors are considered. These analyses can be used to explain the price dynamic of a currency pair. In this case, we will analyze the endogenous factors that drive the economy in the US and Switzerland. We will also analyze the exogenous factors that primarily drives the price of the USD/CHF pair.

Ranking Scale

A sliding scale from -10 to +10 will be sued to ranks the impact of the individual endogenous and exogenous factors on the currency. A negative ranking for the endogenous factors means that they had a depreciating impact on the individual currencies, while a positive ranking means they resulted in currency appreciating.

Similarly, a negative ranking for the exogenous factors implies that they’ve had a bearish impact on the currency pair, while a positive ranking means they’ve had a bullish impact.

Summary of USD Endogenous Analysis

From the above table, we can see a clear deflationary effect on the USD currency and implies that it has depreciated in its value since the beginning of the year. You can find the complete USD Endogenous Analysis here.

Summary of CHF Endogenous Analysis

Overall, the endogenous analysis of CHF has a score of -5. That implies that the CHF is expected to have depreciated marginally in 2020.

  • Switzerland Inflation Rate

The rate of inflation is used to measure the changes in the price of consumer goods in Switzerland over a specified period – usually monthly or yearly. Here are the components of the CPI in Switzerland: Housing and energy, which accounts for 25% of the total CPI weight; 16% for healthcare; Transport accounts for 11%; Food and non-alcoholic drinks 11%; hotel and restaurant services 8%; 4% for Household goods and services; and clothing 3%. Education, communication services, and alcoholic beverages cumulatively account for 7% of the total CPI weight.

In November 2020, the YoY CPI in Switzerland dropped by 0.7%, while the MoM CPI dropped by 0.2%. The fall in prices of the hotel and holiday packages contributed to the drop in the inflation rate. The Switzerland CPI is at the lowest point since January 2018.

Based on our correlation analysis, we assign the Switzerland rate of inflation a score of -3.

  • Switzerland Unemployment Rate

This economic indicator shows the percentage of the total Swiss labor force that is actively seeking a job. Note that not all unemployed portion of the working-age population are seeking employment; so, they are not captured by the unemployment rate.

The unemployment rate can also be used to show the rate at which the economy is adding or cutting job opportunities. This can be used to show economic growth.

In October 2020, the Swiss unemployment rate was 3.2%, down from highs of 3.4% in May, while the employment rate in Q3 2020 was 79.7%. Although it is higher than the 79.1% registered in Q2, it is still significantly lower than the pre-pandemic rate of 80.4%.

The Swiss unemployment rate has a high correlation with the GDP, but since it only increased marginally, we assign it a score of -2.

  • Switzerland Manufacturing PMI

The Swiss procure.ch Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index surveys the executives in the manufacturing sector. The index is a measure of the Swiss manufacturing sector’s performance and serves as a leading indicator for business expectations.

The Manufacturing PMI is an aggregate of five components: new orders, which a weight of  30%, output 25%, employment 20%, supplies 15%, and inventory 10%. The manufacturing sector is expected to expand when the index is above 50 and contract when the index is below 50.

In November 2020, the Swiss procure.ch Manufacturing PMI increased to 55.2, the highest since December 2018. Based on the correlation analysis with the GDP, we assign a score of 7 since it shows a robust expansion.

The Swiss services industry employs over 60% of the working population and accounts for 73% of Switzerland’s GDP. This makes the services PMI a crucial indicator of the overall economy. The Services PMI is obtained through a comprehensive survey of 300 purchasing managers in the services sector to evaluate the changes in business activities.

The survey covers areas such as customer new orders, purchasing, and sales prices, and changes in the employment level.

In November 2020, the Swiss services PMI dropped to 48 from 50.4 in October, primarily attributed to new orders’ contraction. Although it is almost double the 21.4 recorded in April, it is still lower than the 57.3 recorded in January 2020. We, therefore, assign it a score of -4.

  • Switzerland Consumer Confidence

In Switzerland, consumer confidence is used to evaluate households’ opinion on the overall economy and their financial position. Typically, consumer confidence is higher when there is high GDP growth, and the unemployment rate is low.

In the fourth quarter of 2020, the Swiss consumer confidence was -12.8, better than Q2 -39.3. Consumer confidence is used to show the likelihood of how much households will spend in the economy. Hence we assign it a score of -2.

  • Switzerland Government Gross Debt to GDP

The Swiss government debt is the totality of the government’s amount owed to both domestic and foreign lenders. This debt is expressed as a percentage of the GDP o help determine the indebtedness of the economy. Lenders also use this metric to determine if there is a possibility of default by the government. Typically, government debt that is less than 60% of the economy is considered ideal.

In 2019, Switzerland’s government gross debt to GDP was 41%, and it’s projected to hit 49% in 2020 due to increased government expenditure to curb the economic slowdown brought about by the coronavirus pandemic. However, the Swiss government’s gross debt to GDP has been steadily declining since 2004, averaging at around 37%. Based on our correlation analysis and the fact that it has marginally increased in 2020, we assign a score of -1.

Now we know that both USD and CHF have depreciated according to their respective endogenous indicators. Please check our next article to know if this pair is expected to be bullish or bearish in the near future according to their exogenous indicators. Cheers.

Categories
Forex Signals

NZDCHF Bearish channel in Action

Introduction

NZDCHF has been moving in a downward channel since the beginning of September.

After the most recent push by the sellers attempted to breach past the bottom of the channel, but failed and came right back in. The reaction from the buyers came in quite strong but ended up holding below the Resistance at 0.60907. This puts the channel currently in a halt state.

On the 1H timeframe, the buyers began to make higher highs and higher lows. However, after reaching the Resistance, there were no further higher highs. In other words, the market went into a consolidation state.

Soon later, the sideways movement tuned into lower high sequences, indicating that the sellers are making an attempt to take the market at least to the recent low (0.60296), ahead of the market going back to the top of the channel.

In hindsight, the higher demand at the bottom of the channel eventually led to the price head to higher levels. And the reason for the demand kicking in could be due to the strengthening of the New Zealand Dollar.

Categories
Forex Assets

How Expensive Is It To Trade The CHF/SAR Forex Exotic Pair?

Introduction

CHF/SAR is the acronym for the Swiss Franc against the Saudi Riyal. It is classed as an exotic currency pair as it usually has moderate trading volume. In this case, the Swiss Franc (on the left) is the base currency, and the Saudi Riyal (on the right) is the quote currency. The SAR (Saudi Riyal) is the official currency of Saudi Arabia, and one SAR is divided into 100 halalas.

Understanding CHF/SAR

To find out the comparative value of one currency, we require an additional currency to compare. If the base currency’s value goes down, the value of the quote currency moves up and contrariwise. If the market cost of this pair is 4.0742, then this amount of SAR is required to buy one unit of CHF.

Spread

Forex brokers have two distinct prices for currency pairs, which are classified as the bid and ask price. The bid price is the offering price, and ask is the buy price. The distinction between the ask and the bid price is known as the spread. The spread is how brokers make their income. Below are the spreads for CHF/SAR currency pairs in both ECN & STP brokers.

ECN: 9 pips | STP: 14 pips

Fees

A Fee is basically the compensation we pay to the broker each time we execute a spot. There is no compensation charged on STP account models, but a few additional pips are charged on ECN accounts.

Slippage

Slippage refers to the distinction between the trader’s anticipated price and the original price at which the trade is executed. It can occur at any time but often occurs when the market is fast-phased and volatile. Also, sometimes slippage occurs when we place a large number of orders at the same time.

Trading Range in CHF/SAR

The amount of money we will earn or lose in a specific timeframe can be evaluated using the trading range table. It is an illustration of the minimum, average, and maximum pip movement in a currency pair. This can be assessed simply by using the ART indicator with 200-period SMA. 

Procedure to assess Pip Ranges

  1. Add the ATR indicator to your chart
  2. Set the period to 1
  3. Add a 200-period SMA to this indicator
  4. Shrink the chart so you can assess a large time period
  5. Select your desired timeframe
  6. Measure the floor level and set this value as the min
  7. Measure the level of the 200-period SMA and set this as the average
  8. Measure the peak levels and set this as Max.

CHF/SAR Cost as a Percent of the Trading Range

The cost of trade widely varies on the broker and differs based on the volatility of the market. This is because the total cost also includes slippage and spreads, excluding the trading fee. Below is the interpretation of the cost variation in terms of percentages. The understanding of it is discussed in the subsequent sections.

ECN Model Account

Spread = 9 | Slippage = 5 |Trading fee = 8

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 9 + 8 = 22

STP Model Account

Spread = 14 | Slippage = 5 | Trading fee = 0

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 14 + 0 = 19

The ideal way to trade the CHF/SAR

The CHF/SAR is an exotic-cross currency pair, and it is volatile. For example, the average pip movement on the 1H timeframe for this pair is ~37pips. From the earlier tables, it is clear that the higher the volatility, the lower is the cost of the trade. Nevertheless, this is not an added benefit, as it is risky to trade when the markets are incredibly volatile.

Trading in such timeframes will ensure low expenses just as reduced liquidity. It will also involve fewer costs by placing orders using limit/pending orders instead of market orders. This will substantially reduce the total cost with slippage being zero.

STP Model Account (Using Limit Orders)

Spread = 14 | Slippage = 0 | Trading fee = 0

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 0 + 14 + 0 = 14

While reading the above tables, if the ratios are larger, more significant are the trade costs. Likewise, if the proportions are small, lower are the costs. This can be inferred as the trading costs are more significant for low volatile markets and smaller for high volatile markets. I hope this article will support you to trade this pair in a much efficient way. Cheers!

Categories
Forex Assets

Everything About Trading The CHF/THB Forex Exotic Pair

Introduction

CHF/THB is the abbreviation for the Swiss Franc against the Thai Baht. It is classified as an exotic-cross currency pair as it usually has a low trading volume. In this case, the Swiss Franc (on the left) is the base currency, and the Thai Baht (on the right) is the quote currency. The THB is the official currency of Thailand, and it is further split up into 100 satangs.

Understanding CHF/THB

The market price of CHF represents the value of THB that is required to purchase one CHF(Swiss Franc). It is quoted as 1 CHF per X THB. If the market cost of this pair is 34.350, then this amount of THB is required to buy one unit of CHF.

Spread

The distinction between the asking price and the offering price is labeled as the spread. ECN and STP account model will have various spread values; The approximate spread values of CHF/THB pair in both the accounts are mentioned below:

ECN: 30 pips | STP: 35 pips

Fees

The fee is the commission that one pays while entering a trade. A few extra pips are charged on ECN accounts, but there is no fee charged on STP accounts.

Slippage

The mathematical difference between the price expected by the trader and the given price by the broker can be termed slippage. Its cost varies on two factors, i.e., the market’s high volatility and broker’s implementation speed.

Trading Range in CHF/THB

The trading range helps us understand the minimum, average, and maximum pip movement in various time frames. These values assist us in determining the risk, which could be caused by trade. The same is in shown in the below table:

Procedure to assess Pip Ranges

  1. Add the ATR indicator to your chart
  2. Set the period to 1
  3. Add a 200-period SMA to this indicator
  4. Shrink the chart so you can assess a large time period
  5. Select your desired timeframe
  6. Measure the floor level and set this value as the min
  7. Measure the level of the 200-period SMA and set this as the average
  8. Measure the peak levels and set this as Max.

CHF/THB Cost as a Percent of the Trading Range

The cost variations in trade can be determined by applying the total cost to the table mentioned below. The cost percentage of the trading range represents the difference in fees on the trade and various time frames for differing volatility.

ECN Model Account

Spread = 30 | Slippage = 5 |Trading fee = 8

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 30 + 8 = 43 

STP Model Account

Spread = 35 | Slippage = 5 | Trading fee = 0

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 35 + 0 = 40

The Ideal way to trade the CHF/THB

The CHF/THB is an exotic-cross currency pair, and this market’s volatility is moderate. For instance, the average pip movement on the 1H timeframe is 51 pips. We should understand the higher the volatility, the lower will be the cost to implement the trade. However, this is not an added advantage as trading in a volatile market means more risk.

For example, in the 1M time frame, the Maximum pip range value is 1984, and the minimum is 310. When we evaluate the trading fees for both the pip movements, we can see that for 310pip movement fess is 13.87%, and for the 1984 pip movement, the fee is only 2.17%. With the mentioned example, we can conclude that trading the CHF/THB currency pair will be comparatively expensive.

Categories
Forex Assets

Trading Costs Involved While Trading The ‘CHF/CNY’ Exotic pair

Introduction

CHF/CNY is the abbreviation for the Swiss Franc against the Chinese Yuan. It is categorized as an exotic-cross currency pair with moderate volatility and low trading volume. Here, the Swiss Franc (on the left) is the base currency, and the Chinese Yuan (on the right) is the quote currency. The Chinese Yuan(CNY) is also known as the Renminbi, which is also the official currency of China.

Understanding CHF/CNY

The market price of CHF represents the value of CNY that is compelled to purchase one CHF. It is quoted as 1 CHF per X CNY. If at all the market price of this pair is 7.5423, then this amount of CNY is required to buy one unit of CHF.  

Spread

The distinction between the asking price and the offering price is termed as the spread. ECN and STP account models will have different spread values. The estimated spread values of CHF/CNY pair in both the accounts are mentioned below:

ECN: 19 pips | STP: 24 pips

Fees

The fee is the commission that one pays for the trade. There is no commission charged on STP accounts, but a few additional pips are charged on ECN accounts.

Slippage

The variation between the trader’s expected price and the executed price offered by the broker is referred to as slippage. Its cost varies on the volatility of the market and the broker’s implementation speed.

Trading Range in CHF/CNY

The trading range is represented in a tabular form to understand the pip movement of a currency pair in different timeframes. These values help us determine the profit, which will be generated from trade. To obtain the worth, you will need to multiply the below pip value with the volatility value.

Procedure to assess Pip Ranges

  1. Add the ATR indicator to your chart
  2. Set the period to 1
  3. Add a 200-period SMA to this indicator
  4. Shrink the chart so you can assess a large time period
  5. Select your desired timeframe
  6. Measure the floor level and set this value as the min
  7. Measure the level of the 200-period SMA and set this as the average
  8. Measure the peak levels and set this as Max.

CHF/CNY Cost as a Percent of the Trading Range

We can ascertain the cost variations in trade by implementing the total cost to the below-mentioned table. The values are achieved by identifying the proportion between total cost and volatility value, and they are represented in the form of a percentage.

ECN Model Account

Spread = 19 | Slippage = 5 |Trading fee = 8

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 19 + 8 = 32

STP Model Account

Spread = 24 | Slippage = 5 | Trading fee = 0

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 24 + 0 = 29

The Ideal way to trade the CHF/CNY

Understanding the above table is very simple. The proportion of the total cost of trade is directly relative to the value. It is seen that the rates are approximately high on the minimum section and the other way around. The perfect time to enter the market might be where CHF/CNY’s volatility is between the average pip movement.

To lower your risk, it is recommended to trade when the volatility is near the minimum levels. In this case, the volatility is low, and the costs are marginally high compared to the average and the max values. But, if your primary worry is on lowering costs, you may trade when the market volatility is close to the maximum values.

Trading in such timeframes will assure low expenses just as smaller liquidity. It will also include fewer costs by placing orders using limit/pending orders instead of market orders. This will substantially reduce the total cost with slippage being zero.

STP Model Account (Using Limit Orders)

Spread = 24 | Slippage = 0 | Trading fee = 0

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 0 + 24 + 0 = 24

I hope this article will aid you to trade this pair in a much efficient way. Cheers!

Categories
Forex Assets

Trading The CHF/MYR Exotic Forex Pair & Comprehending The Costs Involved

Introduction

CHF/MYR is the abbreviation for the Swiss Franc against the Malaysian Ringgit, and it is considered an exotic currency pair. In this case, the CHF is the base currency, and the MYR is the quote currency. The franc is the official currency of Switzerland and Liechtenstein, while MYR is the official currency of Malaysia.

Understanding CHF/MYR

The market value of CHF/MYR defines MYR’s value that is obliged to buy one franc. It is priced as 1 CHF per X MYR. If the price of the pair is 4.5465 in the market, then these many Malaysian ringgit units are required to buy one CHF.

Spread

The distinction in price between the bid and ask price is determined as Spread. Bid and ask prices are set by the broker. This pip difference is where most of the brokers generate their revenue. Below are the Spread values of CHF/MYR Forex pair in both ECN & STP accounts.

ECN: 44 pips | STP: 49 pips

Fees

The fee is the price you spend on each spot you open with the broker. There is no fee imposed on STP account models, but a few extra pips are charged on ECN accounts.

Slippage

The difference between the price at which, trader implements the trade, and the price he receives from the broker is termed Slippage. This fluctuates based on the broker’s execution speed and the market’s volatility.

Trading Range in CHF/MYR

The total money you will gain or lose in a particular timeframe can be measured utilizing the trading range table. This represents the maximum, average, and minimum pip movement in a currency pair.

Procedure to assess Pip Ranges

  1. Add the ATR indicator to your chart
  2. Set the period to 1
  3. Add a 200-period SMA to this indicator
  4. Shrink the chart so you can assess a large time period
  5. Select your desired timeframe
  6. Measure the floor level and set this value as the min
  7. Measure the level of the 200-period SMA and set this as the average
  8. Measure the peak levels and set this as Max.

CHF/MYR Cost as a Percent of the Trading Range

The cost of trade alters based on the volatility of the market. This is for the reason that the total cost involves Slippage and spreads apart from the trading fee. Below is the interpretation of the cost variant in terms of percentages. The understanding of it is reviewed in the following sections.

ECN Model Account

Spread = 44 | Slippage = 5 |Trading fee = 8

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 44 +8 = 57

STP Model Account

Spread = 49 | Slippage = 5 | Trading fee = 0

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 49 + 0 = 54

Trading the CHF/MYR

The CHF/MYR is not an extremely volatile currency pair. For instance, the average pip movement on the 1H timeframe is only 84 pips. Note that the elevated the volatility, the smaller is the cost of the trade. However, this cannot be considered a benefit as it is risky to trade extremely volatile markets.

Also, the higher or lesser the percentages, the higher or lower are the costs on the trade. We can conclude that the costs are elevated for low volatile markets and high for extremely volatile markets.

To reduce your risk, it is proposed to trade when the volatility is near the average standards. In this case, the volatility is low, and the costs are slightly high related to the average and the maximum values. But, if your primary concern is on lowering costs, you may trade when the market volatility is near the maximum values.

Categories
Forex Assets

Trading Costs Involved While Trading The ‘CHF/SEK’ Forex Exotic Pair

Introduction

The acronym of CHF/SEK is Swiss Franc, paired with the Swedish Krona. In this exotic Forex pair, CHF is the official currency of Switzerland and is also the fifth highly traded currency in the Forex market. In contrast, SEK stands for the Swedish Krona, and it is the official currency of Sweden.

Understanding CHF/SEK

In the Forex market, to ascertain the relative value of one currency, we need an alternate currency to assess. The market value of CHF/SEK helps us to understand the power of SEK versus the CHF. So, if the trade rate for the pair CHF/SEK is 9.8418, it means to buy 1 CHF, we need 9.8418 SEK.

CHF/SEK Specification

Spread

Spread is the variable between the ask-bit price that is set at the exchanges. Below are the spread values of the CHF/SEK currency pair in both ECN & STP accounts. The spread charges for ECN and STP brokers for CHF/SEK are given below.

ECN: 45 | STP: 50

Fees

For every place, a trader enters the broker charges some fee for it. A trader must know that this fee is applicable on ECN accounts only and not on STP accounts.

Slippage

Slippage is the price variation between the trader’s execution and at which the broker implemented the price. The variance is due to high market volatility and slow execution speed.

Trading Range in CHF/SEK

A trading range is the interpretation of the volatility in CHF/SEK in numerous timeframes. The values are attained from the Average True Range indicator. One can use the table as a risk management tool to distinguish the profit/loss that a trader is possessed.

Below is a table explaining the minimum, average, and max volatility (pip movement) on a variety of timeframes.  

 Procedure to assess Pip Ranges

  1. Add the ATR indicator to your chart
  2. Set the period to 1
  3. Add a 200-period SMA to this indicator
  4. Shrink the chart so you can assess a large time period
  5. Select your desired timeframe
  6. Measure the floor level and set this value as the min
  7. Measure the level of the 200-period SMA and set this as the average
  8. Measure the peak levels and set this as Max.

CHF/SEK Cost as a Percent of the Trading Range

The entire cost of the trade varies based on the volatility of the market. So, we must find out the instances when the costs are less to place ourselves in the market. Below is a table explaining variation in the costs based on the change in the market volatility.

Note: The percentage costs represent the comparative scale of costs and not the fixed costs on the trade.

ECN Model Account

Spread = 45 | Slippage = 5 | Trading fee = 8

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 45 + 8= 58

STP Model Account

Spread = 50 | Slippage = 5 | Trading fee = 0

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 50 + 0 = 55

The Ideal way to trade the CHF/SEK

The two components a trader should consider while trading any security in the markets are – Volatility & Cost. With the help of the above tables, let us evaluate these two factors to trade the CHF/SEK ideally.

We can see that the pip difference is substantially high among the minimum volatility and the average volatility in every timeframe. For a day trader, the objective is to make revenue from the pip movement of the market. But, if there is barely any pip movement in the price, it becomes difficult to make profits out of the market. Therefore, it is perfect to trade when the volatility is at the average value.

The cost increases as the volatility decline, and they are inversely proportional to each other. In other words, highly volatile markets have the lowest costs. However, it is relatively risky to trade markets with higher volatility though the costs are low. Therefore, to maintain stability among the cost and volatility, traders may discover instances when the volatility is close to the average values or a little above it.

Categories
Forex Assets

Asset Analysis – Trading The CHF/BRL Exotic Forex Pair

Introduction

The abbreviation of CHF/BLR is Swiss Franc, paired with the Brazilian Real. In this pair, CHF is the native currency of Switzerland and is also the fifth vastly traded currency in the Forex market. Likewise, BRL stands for the Brazilian Real, and it is the official currency of Brazil. This is classified as an exotic Forex pair.

Understanding CHF/BRL

In the Forex market, to ascertain the relative value of one currency, we need another currency for comparison. When we buy a currency (recognized as the base currency), we are indirectly selling another currency (known as the quote currency). The market value of CHF/BRL helps us to comprehend the power of BRL against the CHF. So, if the trade rate for the pair CHF/BRL is 5.7715, it means to buy 1 CHF, we need 5.7715 BRL.

CHF/BRL Specification

Spread

Spread is the difference among the bid-ask price that is set at the exchanges. Below are the spread values of the CHF/BRL currency pair in both ECN & STP accounts. The spread charges for ECN and STP brokers for CHF/BRL pair are as follows:

ECN: 24 | STP: 29

Fees

For every spot, a trader enters the stockbroker charges a specific fee for it. Traders must know that this fee is charged only on ECN accounts and does not apply to STP accounts.

Slippage

Slippage is the price distinction between the broker executed price and the trader execution price. The difference is caused due to the market’s high volatility and slow execution speed.

Trading Range in CHF/BRL

A trading range is the explanation of the volatility in CHF/BRL in numerous timeframes. The values are attained from the Average True Range indicator. One can use the table as a risk management tool to distinguish the profit/loss that a trader is possessed.

Below is a table indicating the minimum, average, and max pip movement in several timeframes.

Procedure to assess Pip Ranges

  1. Add the ATR indicator to your chart
  2. Set the period to 1
  3. Add a 200-period SMA to this indicator
  4. Shrink the chart so you can assess a large time period
  5. Select your desired timeframe
  6. Measure the floor level and set this value as the min
  7. Measure the level of the 200-period SMA and set this as the average
  8. Measure the peak levels and set this as Max.

CHF/BRL Cost as a Percent of the Trading Range

The total cost of the trade changes based on the volatility of the market, hence we must number out the occasions when the costs are less to place ourselves in the market. The table below displays the variation in the costs based on the change in the market’s volatility.

Note: The ratio represents the relative scale of costs and not the fixed costs on the trade.

ECN Model Account

Spread = 24 | Slippage = 5 | Trading fee = 8

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 24 + 8= 37

STP Model Account

Spread = 29 | Slippage = 5 | Trading fee = 0

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 29 + 0 = 34


The Ideal way to trade the CHF/BRL

With the help of the above tables, let us assess these two factors to the trade the CHF/BRL. Volatility and cost are two elements a trader must consider for trading any security in the Forex market.

In various timeframes, we can see the pip movement being very high between the minimum volatility and the average volatility. As a day trader, the aim is to make profits from the pip variation in the market. It becomes tricky to extract some profits from the market if there are no variations in the pip value.

When the cost goes higher, the volatility of the market decreases. In other words, the market with high volatility have minimal costs. To strike a balance between the volatility and the cost, traders should find an appropriate time when the volatility is close to the average values or slightly about it.

Additionally, traders can also reduce their total costs by placing ‘limit orders’ instead of ‘market orders.’ This will ultimately cut the slippage on the trade and consequently lower the total cost. In the below example, the total cost would decrease by five pips, which is a modest reduction for just altering the type of order execution.

STP Model Account (With Limit Orders)

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 0 + 29 + 0 = 29

Categories
Forex Assets

Examining The Volatility Of CHF/TRY Forex Exotic Pair

Introduction

The abbreviation of CHF/TRY is Swiss Franc, paired with the Turkish Lira. In this pair, CHF is the official currency of Switzerland and is also the fifth highly traded currency in the Forex Exchange market. In contrast, TRY stands for the Turkish Lira, and it is the official currency of Turkey. This pair is classified as an exotic pair.

Understanding CHF/TRY

In the Foreign exchange market, to determine the relative value of one currency, we need an alternative currency to evaluate. Hence, when we are buying a currency (base) we are simultaneously selling one (the quote currency). The market value of CHF/TRY helps us to understand the power of TRY against the CHF. So, if the trade rate for the pair CHF/TRY is 7.1972, it means to buy 1 CHF, we need 7.1972 TRY.

CHF/TRY Specification

Spread

Spread is the distinction between the ask-bit price that is set at the exchanges. Below are the spread values of the CHF/TRY currency pair in both ECN & STP accounts. The spread charges for ECN and STP brokers for the CHF/TRY pair can be found below.

ECN: 35 pips | STP: 40 pips

Fees

For every position, a trader enters the stockbroker charges some fee for it. Traders must know that this fee is charged only on ECN accounts and not on STP accounts.

Slippage

Slippage is the price difference between the trader’s execution and at which the broker executed the price. The difference is because of the high market volatility and slow execution speed.

Trading Range in CHF/TRY

A trading range is the interpretation of the volatility in CHF/TRY in several timeframes. The values are obtained from the Average True Range indicator. One can use the table as a risk management tool to identify the profit/loss that a trader is possessed.

Below is a table indicating the minimum, average, and max volatility (pip movement) on various timeframes.

Procedure to assess Pip Ranges

  1. Add the ATR indicator to your chart
  2. Set the period to 1
  3. Add a 200-period SMA to this indicator
  4. Shrink the chart so you can assess a large time period
  5. Select your desired timeframe
  6. Measure the floor level and set this value as the min
  7. Measure the level of the 200-period SMA and set this as the average
  8. Measure the peak levels and set this as Max.

CHF/TRY Cost as a Percent of the Trading Range

The total cost of the trade fluctuates based on the volatility of the market. So, we must figure out the occasions when the costs are less to place ourselves in the market. Below is a table demonstrating the variant in the costs based on the change in the volatility of the market.

Note: The percentage rates represent the relative scale of costs and not the fixed costs on the trade.

ECN Model Account

Spread = 35 | Slippage = 5 | Trading fee = 8

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 35 + 8= 48

STP Model Account

Spread = 40 | Slippage = 5 | Trading fee = 0

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 40 + 0 = 45

The Ideal way to trade the CHF/TRY

Volatility and cost are the two components traders take into consideration for trading any security in the market. With the assistance of the above tables, let us evaluate these two factors to trade the CHF/TRY Forex pair.

As we can see, the pip variation is significantly high between the minimum volatility and the average volatility in each timeframe. As a day trader, our aim is to make income from the market’s pip movement. But, if there is hardly any movement in the price, it becomes tricky to make profits from the market. Thus, it is ideal to trade when the volatility is at the average value.

The cost of trade rises as the volatility decrease. They are inversely proportional. In other words, highly volatile markets have minimum costs. Though it is quite risky to trade markets with higher volatility, it can be considered by aggressive traders with optimal money management techniques in place as the costs are low. Hence, to retain a balance among the cost and volatility, traders may find trading occasions when the volatility is near the average values or a little above it.

Categories
Forex Assets

Analyzing The Costs Involved While Trading The ‘CHF/BGN’ Exotic Pair

Introduction

CHF/BGN is the abbreviation for the Swiss Franc and the Bulgarian Lev exotic pair. Here, CHF is the base currency, while BGN is the quote currency. The pair as a whole explains the number of units of the quote currency (BGN) that is required to buy a single unit of the base currency (CHF). BGN stands for The Bulgarian Lev, and it is the official currency of Bulgaria.

Understanding CHF/BGN

In the Forex market, we always purchase the base currency while selling the quote currency and vice versa. Here, the market value of CHF/BGN helps us to comprehend the potential of BGN against the CHF. So if the exchange rate of the pair CHF/BGN is 1.8384, it means to buy1 CHF we need 1.8391 BGN.

CHF/BGN Specification

Spread

Spread in exchange is the distinction between the bid-ask price proposed by the broker. It is quantified in terms of pips and fluctuates on the type of account and kind of broker. Below is the spread for the CHF/BGN pair in both ECN & STP accounts.

Spread on ECN: 7 | STP: 12

Fees

Fees are the commission charged by the broker for each trade a trader takes. The fee varies on both types of accounts and brokers. For our analysis, we have maintained the fee flat at five pips.

Slippage

A trader will not get the price that he demands, due to the volatility in the market. The original price varies from the asked price. The difference is termed as slippage. For instance, if a trader performs a trade at 1.8384, the actual price received would be 1.8391. The difference between the two pips is called slippage.

Trading Range in CHF/BGN

The trading range is a tabular interpretation of the min, average, and maximum pip movement in a specific timeframe. Obtaining understanding about this is essential because it helps manage risk and determine the appropriate times of the day to enter-exit a trade with minor costs.

Below is a table representing the minimum, average, and maximum pip movement (volatility) in various timeframes.

Procedure to assess Pip Ranges

  1. Add the ATR indicator to your chart
  2. Set the period to 1
  3. Add a 200-period SMA to this indicator
  4. Shrink the chart so you can assess a large time period
  5. Select your desired timeframe
  6. Measure the floor level and set this value as the min
  7. Measure the level of the 200-period SMA and set this as the average
  8. Measure the peak levels and set this as Max.

CHFBGN Cost as a Percent of the Trading Range

The above table illustrates the number of pips the currency pair move in the various timeframe. We will apply these values to identify the cost ratio when the volatility is minimum, average, and maximum. The cost percentage will then help us sort the ideal time of the day to enter the trades.

The understanding of the cost percentage is straightforward. If the percentage is elevated, then the cost is high in that specific timeframe and range. If the percentage is low, then the cost is comparatively low for that timeframe and range. The total cost on every trade is calculated by adding up the spread, slippage, and trading fee.

ECN Model Account

Spread = 7 | Slippage = 5 | Trading fee = 8

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee  = 5 + 7 + 8 = 20

STP Model Account

Spread = 12 | Slippage = 5 | Trading fee = 0

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee  = 5 + 12 + 0 = 17

The Ideal way to trade the CHF/BGN

It is not recommended to enter and exit the trade at any time of the day. To manage their trade, a trader must consider various timeframes during the day to reduce both risk and cost of the trade. This is made possible by understanding the above two tables.

In the minimum column, the percentages are generally high. This means the cost is very high when the volatility of the market is low. For example, on the 1H timeframe, when the volatility is three pips, the cost percentage is 666%. This means that one must accept high costs if they enter or exit trades when the volatility is around three pips. Preferably, it is advised to trade when the market’s volatility is above the average.

Additionally, it is considerably better if one trades placing the limit orders instead of market orders, as it invalidates the slippage on the trade. In doing so, the costs of each trade will reduce by approximately 40%.

STP Model Account (Using Limit Orders)

Spread = 12 | Slippage = 0 | Trading fee = 0

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 0 + 12 + 0 = 12

Categories
Forex Assets

Everything About Trading The CHF/DKK Forex Asset Class

Introduction

The abbreviation of CHF/DKK is Swiss Franc, paired with the Danish Krone. Here CHF is the official currency of Switzerland and is also the fifth highly traded currency in the Forex market. In contrast, DKK stands for the Danish Krone, and it is the official currency of Denmark and the provinces of Greenland and the Faroe Islands.

Understanding CHF/DKK

In the Foreign exchange market, to ascertain the comparative value of one currency, we need an alternative currency to evaluate. Once when we buy a currency, which is identified as the base currency and simultaneously sell the quote currency. The market value of CHF/DKK helps us to comprehend the power of DKK against the CHF. So if the trade rate for the pair CHF/DKK is 6.9915, it means to buy 1 CHF, we need 6.9915 DKK.

CHF/DKK Specification

Spread

A spread is described as a distinction between the buying & offering price of a Forex pair. In other words, it is a distinction between the ask-bid price of an asset. Below is the spread charges for ECN and STP stock brokers for CHF/DKK pair.

ECN: 12 | STP: 17

Fees

A Fee is a cost that we traders pay to the broker for achieving a trade. The Fees differ on the type of broker (STP/ECN) we use.

Slippage

When we want to implement a trade at a specific market rate, but as a replacement for it, the trade gets implemented at a different rate, and that is because of the slippage. Slippage occurs when we deal with a volatile market, and when we execute a large order at the same time.

Trading Range in CHF/DKK

The trading range in the table below will ascertain the amount of money we will gain or lose in each timeframe. We have the interpretation of the minimum, average, and maximum pip movement in a currency pair in the below table. Now we will use the ATR indicator that demonstrates the price movement in a currency pair.

Below is a table demonstrating the minimum, average, and max volatility (pip movement) on numerous timeframes.

Procedure to assess Pip Ranges

  1. Add the ATR indicator to your chart
  2. Set the period to 1
  3. Add a 200-period SMA to this indicator
  4. Shrink the chart so you can assess a large time period
  5. Select your desired timeframe
  6. Measure the floor level and set this value as the min
  7. Measure the level of the 200-period SMA and set this as the average
  8. Measure the peak levels and set this as Max.

CHF/DKK Cost as a Percent of the Trading Range

The price of trade differs on the type of broker and fluctuates based on the volatility of the market. The aggregated cost of trade involves spread, fees, and occasionally slippage if the volatility is high. To reduce the cost of the trade, we can use limit orders as an alternative for market execution.

ECN Model Account

Spread = 12 | Slippage = 5 | Trading fee = 8

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 12 + 8= 25

STP Model Account

Spread = 17 | Slippage = 5 | Trading fee = 0

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 17 + 0 = 22

The Ideal way to trade the CHF/DKK

CHF/DKK is an exotic currency pair. Here, the average pip movement in 1hr timeframe is 99, which implies higher volatility. The greater the volatility, the greater is the risk and low cost of the trade and the other way around. Considering the above tables, we can see from the trading range that when the pip movement is lower, the proportion is high, and when the pip movement is elevated, the proportion is low.

The ratios are higher in the minimum column. This indicates the cost is high when the volatility of the market is lower. For example, on the 1H timeframe, when the volatility is 24 pips, the cost percentage is 104.17%. Meaning, one must accept high costs if they enter or exit trades when the volatility is around 24 pips. So, preferably, it is suggested to trade when the market volatility is higher than the average.

Categories
Forex Assets

CHF/SGD – Trading Costs Involved While Trading This Forex Exotic Pair

Introduction

CHF/SGD is the short form for the Swiss Franc against the Singapore Dollar. It is classified as an exotic Forex currency pair. Currencies in the Forex market are always traded in pairs. The key currency in the pair (CHF) is the base currency, while the subsequent one (SGD) is the quote currency.

Understanding CHF/SGD

The market value of CHF/SGD determines the value of SGD required to buy one Swiss Franc. It is quoted as 1 CHF per X SGD. Therefore, if the market price of this pair is 1.4699, then these many Singapore Dollar units are necessary to buy one CHF.

Spread

The spread is the distinction between the bid-ask price. Generally, these two prices are set by the stockbrokers. The pip contrast is through which brokers generate revenue.

ECN: 12 pips | STP: 17 pips

Fees

The fee is the commission you pay to the broker on each spot you open. There is no fee charged on STP account models, but a few extra pips on ECN accounts.

Slippage

Slippage is the distinction between the price at which the trader implemented the trade and the actual price he got from the broker – this change based on the volatility of the market and the broker’s implementation speed.

Trading Range in CHF/SGD

The trading range table will help you ascertain the amount of money that you will win or lose in each timeframe. This table represents the minimum, average, and maximum pip movement in a currency pair.

Procedure to assess Pip Ranges

  1. Add the ATR indicator to your chart
  2. Set the period to 1
  3. Add a 200-period SMA to this indicator
  4. Shrink the chart so you can assess a large time period
  5. Select your desired timeframe
  6. Measure the floor level and set this value as the min
  7. Measure the level of the 200-period SMA and set this as the average
  8. Measure the peak levels and set this as Max.

CHF/SGD Cost as a Percent of the Trading Range

The price of the trade fluctuates based on the volatility of the market. Therefore, the total cost involves slippage and spreads, excluding from the trading fee. Below is the interpretation of the cost difference in terms of percentages.

ECN Model Account

Spread = 12 | Slippage = 5 |Trading fee = 8

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 12 + 8 = 25

STP Model Account

Spread = 17 | Slippage = 5 | Trading fee = 0

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 17 + 0 = 22

Trading the CHF/SGD

The CHF/SGD is not a volatile pair. For example, the average pip movement on the 1H timeframe is only 22 pips. If the volatility is higher, then the cost of the trade is low. However, it involves an elevated risk to trade highly volatile markets. Also, the higher/lesser the percentages, the greater/smaller are the costs on the trade. So, we can conclude that the costs are higher for low volatile markets and high for highly volatile markets.

To diminish your risk, it is advised to trade when the volatility is around the average values. The volatility here is low, and the costs are a slightly high matched to the average and the maximum values. But, if the priority is towards lowering costs, you could trade when the volatility of the market is near the maximum values with optimal risk management.

Advantage on Limit orders (STP Model Account)

For orders that are executed as market orders, there is slippage applicable to the trade. But, with limit orders, there is certainly no slippage applicable. Only the spread and the trading fees will be accounted for by calculating the total costs. Hence, this will bring down the cost considerably.

Spread = 17 | Slippage = 0 | Trading fee = 0

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 0 + 17 + 0 = 17

Categories
Forex Assets

Asset Analysis – Trading The ‘CHF/PLN’ Forex Exotic Pair

Introduction

CHF/PLN is the abbreviation for the Swiss Franc alongside the Poland złoty. It is categorized as an exotic currency pair that usually has high volatility and low trading volume. Here, the CHF is the base currency, and the PLN is the quote currency. CHF is the official currency of Switzerland, whereas PLN is the national currency of Poland.

Understanding CHF/PLN

The current value of the pair represents the value of PLN that is corresponding to one CHF. It is quoted as 1 CHF per X PLN. For example, if the value of this pair is 4.1627, these many units of PLN are required to buy one Swiss Franc.

CHF/PLN Specification

Spread

In trading, the difference between the bid-ask price is described as the spread. Spread normally fluctuates from broker to broker. The estimated spread on ECN and STP accounts is given below.

ECN: 49 | STP: 54

Fees

There is a small fee or payment charged by the broker for each trade a trader does. This varies on both types of accounts and broker. There are zero fees charged on STP accounts, but a few extra pips are charged on ECN accounts.

Slippage

The difference between the cost at which the trader executed the trade and the cost he received from the broker is termed as Slippage. Fundamentally, Slippage hangs on two factors – Broker’s execution & market’s volatility

Trading Range in CHF/PLN

The trading range is a tabular interpretation of the minimum, average, and maximum pip movement in a different timeframe. Having expertise about this is necessary because it helps in handling risk as well as determine the appropriate times of the day to enter and exit a trade with marginal costs. Below is a table that illustrates the minimum, average, and maximum volatility (pip movement) on several timeframes.

Procedure to assess Pip Ranges

  1. Add the ATR indicator to your chart
  2. Set the period to 1
  3. Add a 200-period SMA to this indicator
  4. Shrink the chart so you can assess a large time period
  5. Select your desired timeframe
  6. Measure the floor level and set this value as the min
  7. Measure the level of the 200-period SMA and set this as the average
  8. Measure the peak levels and set this as Max.

CHF/PLN Cost as a Percent of the Trading Range

The number of pips the currency pair change in various timeframes is demonstrated in the table above. With this, we apply these values to get the cost percentage when the volatility is minimum, average, and maximum. This cost percentage will help us sort out an ideal time of the day to enter trades.

The understanding of the cost percentage is easy. If the percentage is above average, then the cost is higher for that specific timeframe and range. If the percentage is at a low level, then the cost is comparatively low for that timeframe and range. Note that, the total cost on a particular trade is calculated by combining the spread, Slippage, and trading fee.

ECN Model Account

Spread = 49 | Slippage = 5 | Trading fee = 8

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 49 + 8= 62 

STP Model Account

Spread = 54 | Slippage = 5 | Trading fee = 0

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 54 + 0 = 59

The Ideal way to trade the CHF/PLN

There are specific times a trader must deal with their trade to decrease both hazard and cost on the trade. This can be made feasible by understanding the above tables. Entering and exiting trades during any time of the day is highly not advised.

The percentages are most elevated in the min column. This means the cost is fairly high when the volatility of the market is low. For instance, on the 1H timeframe, when the volatility is 27 pips, the cost percentage is 218.5%. Meaning, one must bear high costs if they open or close trades when the volatility is around 27 pips. So, ideally, it is proposed to trade when the market volatility is above the average mark.

Categories
Forex Assets

How Best To Trade The ‘CHF/AUD’ Forex Currency Pair?

Introduction

CHF/AUD is the acronym for the Swiss Franc against the Australian Dollar, and it is an exotic Forex currency pair. Here, the CHF is the base currency, and the AUD is the quote currency. Both CHF and AUD are major currencies and are vastly traded in the foreign exchange market. CHF is the official currency of Switzerland, while AUD is the national currency of Australia.

Understanding CHF/AUD

The price of this pair in the trade market defines the value of AUD equivalent to one Swiss Franc. It is quoted as 1 CHF per X AUD. For instance, if the value of this pair is 1.5318, these many Australian Dollars are required to acquire one CHF. 

Spread

The difference between the ask-bid price is referred to as Spread, which is charged by the broker. This value is different in the ECN and STP accounts. The estimated Spreads for CHF/AUD pair is given below.

ECN: 17 pips | STP: 22 pips

Fees & Slippage

A fee is a price that one pays for the trade. There are zero fees charged on STP accounts, but a few pips are charged on ECN accounts. Slippage is the difference calculated between the price by the trader and the price the trader received from the broker.

Trading Range in CHF/AUD

The trading range is represented in the tabular format to showcase the pip movement of a currency pair in various timeframes. These values are useful in ascertaining the profit that can be generated from trade in advance. To discover the trading costs, we must multiply the below volatility value with the pip value of this pair.

Procedure to assess Pip Ranges

  1. Add the ATR indicator to your chart
  2. Set the period to 1
  3. Add a 200-period SMA to this indicator
  4. Shrink the chart so you can assess a large time period
  5. Select your desired timeframe
  6. Measure the floor level and set this value as the min
  7. Measure the level of the 200-period SMA and set this as the average
  8. Measure the peak levels and set this as Max.

CHF/AUD Cost as a Percent of the Trading Range

The trading range is obtained by identifying the ratio between total cost and volatility; it expressed in terms of percentage. Below is the representation of the cost differences of traders in various timeframes and volatilities.

ECN Model Account

Spread = 17 | Slippage = 5 |Trading fee = 8

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 17 + 8 = 30

STP Model Account

Spread = 22 | Slippage = 5 | Trading fee = 0

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 22 + 0 = 27

Trading the CHF/AUD

When the percentage value is higher, the cost of the trade gets more expensive. From the above tables, we can conclude the values are significant in the min column and relatively less significant in the max column. It means that the costs are high when the market’s volatility is low. It is not advisable to trade when both the volatility and cost of trading is high. Balancing both these factors is ideal to trade when the pair’s volatility is in the range of the average values.

Additionally, to lower your costs even further, you can place trades using limit orders instead of market orders. By executing limit orders, the slippage will not be involved in the calculation of the total costs. And this will set the cost of the trades low by a decent number. An example of the same is given below.

STP Model Account (Using Limit Orders)

Spread = 22 | Slippage = 0 |Trading fee = 0

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 0 + 22 + 0 = 22

Categories
Forex Assets

Asset Analytics – Trading The CHF/HKD Foreign Exchange Pair

Introduction

CHF/HKD is the abbreviation for the Swiss Franc against the Hong Kong Dollar. It is categorized as an exotic currency pair that usually has high volatility and low trading volume. Here, the CHF (on the left) is the base currency, and the HKD (on the right) is the quote currency.

Understanding CHF/HKD

The market price of CHF/HKD represents the value of HKD that are obliged to purchase to one CHF. It is quoted as 1 CHF per X HKD. If at all the market price of this pair is 8.1718, then this amount of HKD is required to buy one CHF.  

 

Spread

The difference between the bid-ask price is described as the spread. Its value differs from the ECN account model and STP account model. The approximate value for the two is specified below:

ECN: 35 pips | STP: 40 pips

Fees

A fee is a price that one pays to the broker for executing a trade. There is no fee charged on STP accounts, but a few pips are charged on ECN accounts.

Slippage

The difference between price called for by the client and price that was offered by the broker is described as the slippage. Its value varies on the volatility of the market and the broker’s execution.

Trading Range in CHF/HKD

The trading range is that the tabular representation of the pip movement of a currency pair in several timeframes. These values are useful in determining the profit, which will be generated from trade in advance. To seek out the worth, you need to multiply the below volatility value with the pip value of this pair.

Procedure to assess Pip Ranges

  1. Add the ATR indicator to your chart
  2. Set the period to 1
  3. Add a 200-period SMA to this indicator
  4. Shrink the chart so you can assess a large time period
  5. Select your desired timeframe
  6. Measure the floor level and set this value as the min
  7. Measure the level of the 200-period SMA and set this as the average
  8. Measure the peak levels and set this as Max.

CHFHKD Cost as a Percent of the Trading Range

By implementing the total cost to the mentioned table, we can ascertain the cost differences in a trade. The values are attained by finding a proportion between total cost and volatility value and are indicated as a percentage.

ECN Model Account

Spread = 35 | Slippage = 5 |Trading fee = 8

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 35 + 8 = 48 

STP Model Account 

Spread = 40 | Slippage = 5 | Trading fee = 0

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 5 + 40 + 0 = 45

The Ideal way to trade the CHF/HKD

Comprehending the above tables is important. The ratio to the total cost of trade is directly proportional to the value. It is seen that the rates are nearly high on the min section (less volatility) and the other way around. Now, the perfect chance to enter the market would be the point at which the volatility of CHF/HKD is somewhere between the average pip movement. Trading this pair during such minutes will guarantee low trading costs just as lower liquidity.

You can reduce the trading costs by placing orders using limit/pending orders instead of market orders. This will considerably reduce the total cost with slippage being zero. I hope this article will assist you in trading this pair in a much efficient way. Cheers!

Categories
Forex Assets

What Should You Know Before Trading The CHF/JPY Currency Pair

Introduction

CHFJPY is a symbolic representation of the Swiss franc against the Japanese yen. Here, CHF is the base currency, and JPY is the quote currency. Since it does not have USD involved, it is classified as a cross-currency pair.

Understanding CHF/JPY

The market price of this pair is the number of JPY that are required to purchase one CHF. It is quoted as 1 CHF per X JPY. For example, it’s current value is 112.31, then 112.31 yen are needed to buy one Swiss franc.

Spread

Spread in forex is the difference between the bid price of a currency and the ask price of it. And this pip difference is used up by the brokers as a form of fee. However, it is not a fixed value. It varies from brokers to brokers.

ECN: 1.3 | STP: 2.1

Fees

Spread is not the only form of fee that is levied by the brokers. There is a commission on the trade as well. The commission is nil on STP accounts, but pips on ECN accounts.

Slippage

When entering a trade using market orders, the trader does not get the exact price he intended when he executed it. There might be a difference in pips. This difference is referred to as slippage. Slippage may be in favor of or against the trader.

Trading Range in CHF/JPY

The trading range is simply a representation of the minimum, average, and maximum pip movement in a currency pair. With these values, one can assess how much money a trader will be risking in a particular timeframe. For example, if the average pip movement on the 4H in this pair is 15 pips, then a trader can expect to win or lose $150.6 in about 4H or so.

Procedure to assess Pip Ranges

  1. Add the ATR indicator to your chart
  2. Set the period to 1
  3. Add a 200-period SMA to this indicator
  4. Shrink the chart so you can determine a large time period
  5. Select your desired timeframe
  6. Measure the floor level and set this value as the min
  7. Measure the level of the 200-period SMA and set this as the average
  8. Measure the peak levels and set this as Max.

CHF/JPY Cost as a Percent of the Trading Range

Apart from knowing the profit or loss can one can incur in a given timeframe, it is necessary to assess the cost of these trades as well. Below is a table that represents the cost variation in different volatilities. And these costs are determined by finding the ratio between the total cost and the volatility.

ECN Model Account

Spread = 1.3 | Slippage = 2 |Trading fee = 1

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 2 + 1.3 + 1 = 4.3

STP Model Account

Spread = 2.1 | Slippage = 2 | Trading fee = 0

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 2 + 2.1 + 0 = 4.1

The Ideal way to trade the CHF/JPY

The forex market is open 24hours. However, it is not ideal to enter the market at any time. There are times when the costs are low, and times when it’s high.

The percentages in the table are directly proportional to the costs of the trade. It is seen that the percentages are high in the minimum column, and low in the maximum column. Hence, we can conclude that costs are inversely proportional to the volatility of the market. Now, when it comes to choosing the right time to trade, it is best to enter during those times when the volatility of the market is around the average values. This will ensure enough volatility in the market and low costs as well.

In addition, placing orders using limit/pending orders reduces costs too because this will completely nullify the slippage on the trade and will bring down the total cost significantly.

Categories
Forex Assets

What Should You Know Before Trading The GBP/CHF Currency Pair?

Introduction

GBPCHF is the abbreviation for the Great Britain pound and the Swiss franc. Since USD is not involved in this pair, it is called a minor currency pair. However, there is an excellent liquidity and volatility in this pair. In this pair, GBP is the base currency, and CHF is the quote currency. GBPCHF is often referred to as “pound Swiss franc.”

Understanding GBP/CHF

The value of GBPCHF determines the Swiss francs required to purchase one pound. It is quoted as 1 GBP per X CHF. For example, if the value of GBPCHF is 1.2740, then one needs to pay 1.2740 Swiss francs to buy a pound.

GBP/CHF Specification

Spread

Spread is the difference between the bid price and the ask price in the market. The bid price is the price used for shorting, and the bid price is the price used for buying a currency pair. These prices differ from broker to broker as well as the account type.

ECN: 0.8 | STP: 1.6

Fees

For every trade a trader takes, there is a fee associated with it. This fee is basically the commission charged by the broker. This fee varies from broker to broker. Note that there is no fee on STP accounts, and on ECN accounts, the fee is around 6 to10 pips.

Slippage

Slippage in trading is the difference between the price requested by the trader and the price given by the broker. Due to variation in volatility and the broker’s execution speed, it is not quite possible to get the exact intended price. Slippage happens only on market orders.

Trading Range in GBP/CHF

Knowing the number of pips the currency pair moved in a given timeframe is a good add-on to a trader’s analysis. This will help them get an idea of the profit/loss that can be made in a specified amount of time. For example, if the average pip movement on the 1D timeframe is 50 pips, then a trader can expect to gain or lose $517.5 (50 pips x 10.35 value per pip).

Procedure to assess Pip Ranges

  1. Add the ATR indicator to your chart
  2. Set the period to 1
  3. Add a 200-period SMA to this indicator
  4. Shrink the chart so you can determine an extensive period
  5. Select your desired timeframe
  6. Measure the floor level and set this value as the min
  7. Measure the level of the 200-period SMA and set this as the average
  8. Measure the peak levels and set this as Max.

GBP/CHF Cost as a Percent of the Trading Range

The cost as a percent of the trading range depicts the magnitude of the variation in the cost in different timeframes for different variable volatility. The percentages are useful in determining the ideal time to enter into this currency pair with marginal costs. Below are the tables representing the cost percentages for minimum, average, and maximum volatility.

ECN Model Account 

Spread = 0.8 | Slippage = 2 |Trading fee = 1

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 2 + 0.8 + 1 = 3.8

STP Model Account

Spread = 1.6 | Slippage = 2 | Trading fee = 0

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 2 + 1.6 + 0 = 3.6

The Ideal way to trade the GBP/CHF

The lower the percentage, the lower are cost on the trade. In the table, we can infer that the costs are on the lower side in the max column. This implies that the cost of the trade is less when the volatility of the market is low and vice versa. Now, when it comes to the best time to trade this pair, it is ideal to pick at times when the volatility is decent, and the costs are affordable. For example, a 1D trader may trade during those times when the volatility is around 100 pips.

Moreover, the total cost of the trade can be reduced by entering and exiting trades using limit/pending orders. This way, the slippage on the trade will be fully cut off. The impact on the cost percentage when slippage is made 0 is shown below.

Total cost = Spread + trading fee + slippage = 0.8 +1 + 0 = 1.8

From the above table, it is evident that the costs have reduced by over 50% or so. Hence, it is preferable to trade using limit orders rather than market orders.

Categories
Forex Assets

USD/CHF Currency Pair – Everything You Should Know!

Introduction

USD/CHF is the abbreviation for the US dollar and the Swiss franc. This pair is a major currency pair. USD is the base currency, while CHF is the quote currency. The pair as a whole tells how many units of the quote currency is needed to purchase one unit of the base currency. Trading USDCHF is as good as saying, trading the ‘Swissie.’

Understanding USD/CHF

The exchange value of USDCHF represents the number of Swiss francs required to buy one US dollar. For example, if the value of USDCHF is 0.9820, to purchase one USD, the trader must pay 0.9820 Swiss francs.

USD/CHF Specification

Spread

Spread in trading is the difference between the bid price and the ask price offered by the broker. It is measured in terms of pips and varies on the type of account and type of broker.

Spread on ECN: 0.8

Spread on STP: 1.6

Fees

There is a small fee or commission charged by the broker for every trade a trader takes. This depends on both types of accounts and broker. For our analysis, we have kept the fee fixed at one pip.

Slippage

Due to volatility in the market, a trader does not usually get the price that he demanded. The actual price differs from the demanded price. This difference is referred to as slippage. For example, if a trader executes a trade at 0.9890, the real price received would be 0.9892. This difference of two pips is known as slippage.

Trading Range in USD/CHF

The trading range is a tabular representation of the minimum, average, and maximum pip movement on a particular timeframe. Having knowledge about this is necessary because it helps in managing risk as well as determining the right times of the day to enter and exit a trade with minimal costs.

Below is a table that depicts the minimum, average, and maximum volatility (pip movement) on different timeframes.

USD/CHF PIP RANGES

Procedure to assess Pip Ranges

  1. Add the ATR indicator to your chart
  2. Set the period to 1
  3. Add a 200-period SMA to this indicator
  4. Shrink the chart so you can assess a large time period
  5. Select your desired timeframe
  6. Measure the floor level and set this value as the min
  7. Measure the level of the 200-period SMA and set this as the average
  8. Measure the peak levels and set this as Max.

USD/CHF Cost as a Percent of the Trading Range

The number of pips the currency pair move in each timeframe is shown in the above table. Now, we apply these values to find the cost percentage when the volatility is minimum, average, and max. This cost percentage will then help us filter out the most optimal time of the day to take trades.

The comprehension of the cost percentage is simple. If the percentage is high, then the cost is high for that particular timeframe and range. If the percentage is low, then the cost is relatively low for that timeframe and range.

Note that, the total cost on a single trade is calculated by adding up the spread, slippage, and trading fee.

ECN Model Account

Spread = 0.8 | Slippage = 2 | Trading fee = 1

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 2 + 0.8 + 1 = 3.8

STP Model Account

Spread = 1.6 | Slippage = 2 | Trading fee = 0

Total cost = Slippage + Spread + Trading Fee = 2 + 1.6 + 0 = 3.6

The Ideal way to trade the USD/CAD

Entering and exiting trades during any time of the day might not be the smartest move. There are particular times of the day a trader must manage their trade to reduce both risk and cost on the trade. This can be made possible by comprehending the above two tables.

The percentages are highest in the min column. Meaning, the cost is pretty high when the volatility of the market is low. For example, on the 1H timeframe, when the volatility is 2.5 pips, the cost percentage is 152%. This means that one must bear high costs if they open or close trades when the volatility is around 2.5 pips. So, ideally, it is recommended to trade when the market volatility is above the average mark.

Apart from that, it is much better if one trades using the limit orders rather than market orders, as it nullifies the slippage on the trade. In doing so, the costs of each trade will reduce by about 50%.

Categories
Forex Trading Strategies

The Connors & Raschke’s 80-20 Strategy


Introduction


 

The original Connors & Raschke’s 80-20 Strategy is an intraday strategy that was published in Street Smarts by Larry Connors and Linda Raschke.

It is based on the Taylor Trading Technique, which is a manual for swing trading. Taylor’s method was the result of the observation that the markets move within a cycle that is made up of a buy day, a sell day, and a sell short day. That setup was further investigated by Steve Moore ar the Moore Research Center.

Mr. Moore focused on days that closed in the top 10% of the range for the day. Then, he checked on for the percent of time next day prices exceeded the previously established high, and, also, for the percentage of times it also closed higher.

His results showed that when prices closed in the top/bottom 10% of its range, it had an 80-90% chance of following-through the next session, but only 50% of them closed higher/lower. This fact implied an excellent possibility of reversal.

Derek Gibson, said Connors, found out that the market has an even higher chance of reversing if the set-up bar opened in the opposite end of the range. That is, a candlestick with short wicks and a large body. Therefore this pre-condition was added. To create more opportunities, they lowered the percent of the daily range from 90 to 80, because it didn’t affect the system’s profitability.


Long Setups


  1. Yesterday, the asset opened in the top 20% and closed in the lower 20% of its daily range.
  2. Today the market must trade at least 5-15 ticks below yesterday’s low. This is a guideline.
  3. An entry buy stop is then placed at yesterday’s low, once the trade is being filled, and an initial protective stop near the low extreme of today’s action.

Move the stop to lock in profits. This trade is a day trade only.

 


Short setups


  1. Yesterday the asset opened in the bottom 20% and closed in the higher 20% of its daily range.
  2. Today the market must trade at least 5-15 ticks above yesterday’s high This is a guideline.
  3. An entry sell stop is then placed at yesterday’s high, after being filled, and an initial protective stop near the upper extreme of today.

Move the stop to lock in profits. This trade is a day trade only.

 


Example of a trade


 

The Connors & Raschke's 80-20 Strategy


Testing the Strategy


We tested this strategy using the backtesting capabilities of the Multicharts64 version 11 Platform.

The naked strategy, as is, in EURUSD, USDGPY, and USDCHF over a range of 17 years, were positive in all cases. Below the equity curves for the three pairs:

 


Examining the parameter map


 

The figure above shows the parameter maps of the USD_CHF and the EUR_USD pairs. We see that the return of the strategy increases as the parameters move to the 50% level, meaning that the importance of the starting and ending point (Open to Close) in the previous candlestick is not essential. The critical fact is the next day’s break above(below) the previous highs(lows) and the subsequent return to that level (False Breakout).

 


Example of  50-50 System with optimized stops and targets on the EURUSD


 

As we said, this is a 50-50 system, meaning that we don’t care in which part of the candle is the Open and Close. This is a simple false breakout system.

We see that the curve is quite good over its 17-year history. Starting with 10,000 dollars, the final equity reached $72,000, for a 6X profit figure.

 

Looking at the Total Trade Analysis table, we can observe that this system is also robust, with almost 40% winners and an average Ratio Win to Average loss ( Reward/risk) of 2.19.

 

The shuffled Trades Analysis shows that the system is very reliable, with a likelihood of small drawdowns, depicting a max consecutive loss of 16 trades.

 

The Net Profit distribution Analysis shows that there is a 75% probability of getting a 5X equity profit over 16 years and a 25% probability of getting a 7X profit figure.

 

Above is the Max Consecutive Losing Streak analysis, which shows that there is less than 10% probability of ending above a 16 losing streak. Although you think that a 16-losing-streak is terrible, it is not, but we need to be prepared psychologically to endure it. This figure is the one needed to help us conservatively decide our risk strategy.

As I already mentioned in other strategy analyses, you, as a trader, need to decide which percent of your equity you can lose without losing your temper. Many don’t like to lose any amount so they shouldn’t trade, because losing streaks are part of the trading job. Many would say 10% while others 50%. That figure has a close relation to the rate of growth of your trading account because it will decide the size of your position.

And here it comes the way to do it. Once we know the distribution of drawdowns of our trading system, we, as traders, want to minimize the probabilities that a losing streak goes beyond our max drawdown figure. This is an approximation, but its good enough to allow us to decide the best position size for our risk tastes.

Let’s say we are an average-risk trader, and we will be upset if we lose ¼ of our account. Using this trading system, and admitting a 10% probability of error, we would choose 16 as the losing streak to compute our size per trade.

Therefore, we divide 25% equity drawdown by 16, which is 1.56%. In this case, we must trade using a 1.56% risk on every trade. That means that the cost of a trade computed by the distance from entry to stop-loss levels, multiplied by the dollar pip risk and by the number of contracts should be 1.56% of your current equity balance.

Let’s simplify it using elementary math:

Percent Risk (PR) = MaxDD / Max_losing_Streak

Dollar Risk = PR x Equity_Balance

Dollar Risk = (Entry-Stop) x PipCost x Nr_of_Contracts

Let’s call Entry-Stop, Pips. And NC the Number of Contracts. Then the equation is:

Dollar Risk = Pips x PipCost x NC

Let’s move the elements from this equation to compute the Nr of contracts.

NC = Dollar_Risk / (Pips x PipCost)

 

That’s all. Every trade will be different, and the distance in pips from entry to stop loss will be different, but we can compute the number of contracts quickly:

Let’s do an example. Our current balance is right now $12.000, and we want to enter a trade with 20 pips of risk, and our cost per pip is $10 per lot. Which is my optimal size?

Our Dollar Risk is 1.56% of $12,000 or $187

NC = 187 / (20 x 10) = 0.93 lots, or 93 micro-lots.

 


Computing the Performance of the System


 

Now we want to know how much on average are we going to get, monthly, from this system. That is easily computed using the numbers above. We know that this system’s history is 205 months long, and it had 1401 trades, which is seven trades per month on average. Evidently, this system trades very scarcely, but we can hold a basket of assets. Thus, If we manage to get a basket of 10 holdings, including pairs, crosses, indices, and metals, we could trade 70 times per month. And those trades will not overlap most of the time if the assets are chosen uncorrelated.

Based on our risk profile and the average Reward-to-risk ratio, we know that our average winning trade will be 2.2 times our average losing trade.

So,

AvgWin = 411

AvgLoss = 187

Our winning percentage is 40%, so our losing one is 60%

Then on a 10-asset basket, there will be 28 winners and 42 losers monthly, then:

Gross Profit: 411*28 = 11,508

Gross Loss:  42*187 =  7,854

Average Monthly Net Profit =11,508 – 7,854 = 3,654

This is an average 30,4% monthly from a $12,000 balance. Not bad!

 


Note: The computations and graphs were done using Multicharts 11 trading platform.

 

 

Categories
Forex Market Analysis

Are The Global Indices Bouncing Back?

Global Indices

In the last week, we have seen some bullish momentum come into the US Equity indices. We have experienced a bullish week and for now, this appears likely to extend into next week. What is interesting to note from a technical perspective is that we have now seen over the last week is a major structural break to the upside, albeit at different times with the Nasdaq leading the way, followed by the SP500 and then the DJ30. Despite all of the concerns about the global equity space, we are very close to all-time highs once more, these are definitely markets to watch over the coming weeks. Elsewhere in the global equity space, the FTSE has been the star performer and is currently trading very close to its all-time high around the 7790 level as we observe a fairly straight linear move to the upside from the 6852 lows back in March.

EURUSD

This week has seen USD bulls give back some of the territory they conquered over the past few weeks. At this stage, it looks like the move lower in the USD is a correction and will likely provide better levels to consider longs from in the near term. When observing this pullback, we can identify two significant levels of key resistance in EURUSD, firstly, around the 1.2072 and then the more important level of 1.2155, if the price gets that far. It is also worth noting that the 1.2155 level marked the significant breakout point of consolidation a few weeks back.

USDJPY

In contrast, the USDJPY has not really behaved like many other of the major dollar pairs, meaning both the dollar and the yen are both weak.  Looking at the chart below, we can see the consolidation between 108.61 and 110.04. So, the next step for this market is to be patient and wait for the breakout of either the upside level of 110.04, which is the higher probability trade or a structural failure back below the 108.61, either way, it could prove a decent trading opportunity.  However, it would take a move above 110.04 to confirm a resumption of the uptrend in this market.

GBPUSD

Cable is also looking vulnerable and the recent consolidation has taken on the appearance of a bear flag which, if correct, signals an extension lower. Sterling is also likely to remain vulnerable near-term following the BOE decision last week not to hike rates. Furthermore, the recent double top confirmation further highlights the potential for a continuation of the bearish technical outlook.

USDCHF

It might also be worth keeping an eye on the USDCHF market as well, which has this week traded back above parity at the 1.0000 level. It is also interesting to note that the EURCHF continues to hover below 1.2000, a level which the Swiss National Bank defended resolutely for so long until they removed the 1.2000 peg at 9am on the 15th Jan 2015. A break of this level to the upside any time soon would be significant and further highlight the bearish CHF outlook across the board.

GOLD

Gold has pulled away from its range base around $1303 as USD bullish pressure eases. Price actions suggest that the range based on $1303 is somewhat exposed, meaning a confirmed break below $1303 would represent a significant technical break for the yellow metal. If alternatively, gold continues to push higher next week, then we would need to consider the possibility of a move towards the top of the range around the $1357 level instead, however, a bit of patience right now is probably the wisest option.

Crude Oil

Crude oil has extended trend gains this week aided by Donald Trump’s decision to pull the US out of the Iran nuclear deal. For now, the ability for this market to hold prices above the $70 level provides an overall bullish technical signal.  We all know the current OPEC and Non-OPEC agreement till December 2018, is designed to restrict the supply of oil on a global basis in order to push the price of oil higher.  The Saudis, we believe are looking for prices to push to the $80-$85 level so don’t be surprised if we see these prices before the end of the year.

US 10 Year Note

To conclude, this weekly round-up, we should look at what is happening with the US 10-Y note, which has largely consolidated over the last couple of weeks. With yields in the US breaking above the 3% level, we are likely to see the price of the 10-year note push lower at least in the short term. The key bear trigger again is a move below the April low of 118.95, this is a market to watch over the coming weeks.

Categories
Forex Market Analysis

Outlook for 10.24.2017

EUR/USD

The US Dollar is hesitant as President D. Trump told reporters he is very close to a decision about who should chair the Federal Reserve, which includes current Fed Chair, Janet Yellen. It also weighs on the US currency the rumors about Trump’s plan to reform taxes.

On the Euro front, European Central Bank is expected to announce on Thursday a possible timetable for a reduction of its asset purchases, as economic data suggest the Eurozone might witness a higher than expected economic expansion in 2017. Reducing asset purchases might, likely, be accompanied with a continuation of low interest rated, as Eurozone inflation data seems to be stable

Sideways channel movement on the EUR/USD pair

The Euro 1-hour price has been trending down since Oct, 19 when it draws an almost perfect triple top (1). Yesterday it touched Oct, 18th lows and bounced from there, and piercing up the downward trendline

Overall, the EUR/USD pair seems to trade in a sideways channel, but its current price may allow for a profitable trade, with a target touching the upper trend line (fig.1).


GBP/USD

JP Morgan analysts are convinced that shorting the GBP is still the way to go

The GBP is, still, affected by the Brexit process, but no major news about it is expected today. Slower consumer expending and softening of economic sentiment press policymakers to keep interest rates unchanged, which weighs on the British currency.

Daniel Hui, a foreign exchange strategist at J.P. Morgan said that their conviction to short the GBP is still high because they felt UK rate hikes were “overpriced”, given the “weak starting point for UK growth” and the reality of a Brexit shock that keeps dominating the medium-term outlook.

There is evidence that today’s lows might be the start of a new up-leg that may carry GBP/USD prices up to, at least, the highs of this lateral channel

GBP/USD daily price is experiencing a sideways movement, after retracing more 70% of its upward movement from its lows in August 2017

Possible scenarios:

  1. Today’s lows (1.31653) might be the start of a new up-leg that may carry GBP/USD prices up to, at least, the highs of this lateral channel (1.32272), provided that prices cross over the downward trend line.
  2. If the price does not continue up and reverse near the BB mean, then the downward leg is continuing to its next floor, at 1.31, and a good reward to risk trade is possible at about 1.3177.


USD/JPY

Japan was in focus yesterday, as prime minister, Shinzo Abe is back in power

Japan was in focus yesterday, as prime minister, Shinzo Abe is back in power, after his victory this weekend, that drove the yen downward yesterday. Today, we see a bounce that set prices to test the highs of yesterday’s session. Tuesday, the Japanese currency, instead of focusing on Japan’s manufacturing PMI, slightly lower in October, it seems to pay more attention to interest rate differentials.

Mid-term, the USD/JPY is trading on a lateral price channel whose low is at about 107.7 and it’s high is at 114.34. Currently, the price, trading at 113.71, is moving closer to the top of that channel.

A short-term bottom at (1) in sync with the MACD signal crossover, marks the start of a new uptrend. The red 10-period BB is sloping strongly up, so prices are heading for a test of the recent highs at (3), and, potentially break them up.

The best possible action here is to scalp on a short timeframe, such as 15 min charts or shorter, being aware that we are at the highs of a mid-term channel. Long and short-swing trades must wait for a clear signal or news event


USD/CHF

The Swiss National Bank (SNB) is keeping an expansive monetary policy that drives Swiss CHF down

The Swiss National Bank (SNB) considers the CHF to be over-valued, so it is keeping an expansive monetary policy that is driving the Swiss currency down. The SNB policy of negative interest rates contributes to the downward currency trend.

To sum up, the Swiss economy is slowing down, its growth rate (+0.3%) is losing track compared to the one registered in the Eurozone (+2.3%) in the second 2017 quarter.

USD/CHF is at overbought but still strongly moving up

The USD/CHF weekly is on a sideways channel with a lower limit at 0.942, and an upper limit at 1.0365. Its current price – 0.9896- is at about the middle of this channel. On a daily and weekly basis, the price is in overbought territory.

Today the USD/CHF is trading strongly up, and its hourly chart is currently at overbought territory as well, with its price touching the 3rth Bollinger band (+3STD) (1). On such a strong trend, the best thing to do is wait for a price pullback to create a short-term support near the mean of the Bollinger bands (2) and set a long trade there.


AUD/USD

Tomorrow, Australia’s quarterly inflation data will be released.

The Aussie is under pressure as the soft Chinese housing data was weaker than expected. China is a major partner for Australia, and China’s economic health shakes Australian currency for the good and the bad. The Housing Price Index grew in China by 6.3%, after an 8.3% increase in August. Next Wednesday, Australia will release its quarterly inflation figures.

AUD/USD is currently in a downtrend

The AUD/CAD pair, on a weekly chart, is moving on a downward leg, in a sideways channel that started in Jan 2015. The channel has a slight upward bias.

On the daily chart, the AUD/USD pair is down-trending after drawing a double top (July and September 2017). Actually, the price is below the -1 Bollinger Band showing that the downtrend is still in place

The most probable scenario for the AUD/USD pair is to go down to at least 0.766, or, even deeper, to touch the lower weekly trend line (0.7518). The MACD crossover to the downside confirms the bearish bias of this currency pair


USD/CAD

USD continues to show strength against the Canadian currency. Tomorrow’s interest rate decision by the Bank of Canada will bring a confirmation (or denial) to the strong uptrend od this currency pair. The odds of a new rate hike are getting lower, after weak economic data ahead of the BoC meeting.

Canada Wholesale sales rose by just 0.5% in line with forecasts, although, it seems the market expected a bit more increment.

USD/CAD moving up with strength
The USD/CAD pair, on a weekly chart, is in the middle of a retracing trend, starting at the beginning of September, which has retraced 35% of the length of the downward move. Its daily chart shows the currency pair approaching the ceiling of a potential wide and sideways price channel. The other notable fact being, a price breakout through 1.25953, starting a new impulsive leg up.


NZD/USD

NZ Government to reform RBNZ process to set rates.

The Kiwi dollar is under pressure since the government announced its plans to reform the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. NZ Labor-led coalition said it will modernize the bank’s process for rate-setting and adapt it into a format that was more “growth-friendly”. Giving hints about expansionist monetary policy. Analysts say the RBNZ reform is already well priced by the market, and have downplayed its impact on interest rate expectations.

NZD/USD is currently at the bottom of a down-trending channel

On a daily chart, the NZD/USD pair is trending down on a channel that started on July, 27. Actually, the price is oversold, well below the -2 Bollinger Band. The price is near a mid-term support, so it’s in the process of bottoming out, as is clearly seen in its hourly chart.

A possible scenario for the next few hours is a retracement from here to test resistance points at about 0.695. If it stalls without breaking 0.6908, and MACD turns bearish the retracement is failing, and the downtrend might resume testing the lows made in May 2017.