Advise for new futures trader.

Discussion in 'Index Futures' started by Vas62, May 11, 2003.

  1. TGregg

    TGregg

    Watch out when you go to increase your trading size.

    I would trade 5 ES and rake in pretty good money, but everytime I kicked up to 10 I got creamed. There's a person who goes by the handle of p^t who said he's fond of the saying "You have to earn the right to trade size." Thanks again, p^t.

    It's very likely that you'll be able to convince yourself that since you've abstracted the trading process for x contracts, you'll still be abstract for 2x - but you'll be wrong.

    Anyway, don't make big jumps in size like I did - once yer making money, increase *slowly*.

    Also, thanks to ElectricSavant. Seeing his post inspired me to post something hopefully useful.

    EDIT: Very interesting to note that the only appearance from my very lengthy Ignore List is Saynt Chaosity.
     
    #31     May 16, 2003
  2. DblArrow

    DblArrow

    I have heard others state something similar, have you anylized why, i.e. slippage, commissions, fear and greed. Given you are trading the same methodology.

    I have recently doubled up on one item I trade and have not noticed this.

    Make 'em pretty, Chris
     
    #32     May 16, 2003
  3. TGregg

    TGregg

    In my case it was strictly emotion. About 25% of my trading was discretionary (I'm reducing that now). I exagerated a bit when I said I got creamed every time, but overall I lost money trading 10 contracts.
     
    #33     May 17, 2003
  4. I have been trading stocks profitably for about 2.5 years, nothing big but enough to pay expenses and save a little, as of late the profits are shrinking more and more to the point where i am starting to be afraid that i won't make much if this trend continues.

    I understand that you need to searching for better strategies if the ones currently using are not working, so i have been thinking lately if i have to stick to stocks or start venturing into futures.

    My question is, If i have been trading stocks profitably for some time and have always been disciplined about my trading.
    I still fear that trading Futures will be a complete new thing.

    I hope some of you experienced traders that have traded Stocks and or Futures can advice.

    Thank you in advance,
     
    #34     May 17, 2003
  5. I've been trading stocks for a few months now and am getting started in futures. So far, trading futures seems simpler and easier to me.

    -FastTrader :cool:
     
    #35     Jul 22, 2003