In the high-stakes world of forex and futures trading, success often hinges on more than just market knowledge it’s about mindset, strategy, and adaptability. A rare collection of interviews with 18 top traders from the 1990s offers timeless wisdom that still resonates today. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned trader, these insights can sharpen your edge in the forex arena.
🔍 1. Volatility and Liquidity Are King
George Angell emphasizes that day trading demands markets with high volatility and deep liquidity. He exclusively trades the S&P 500 futures intraday, avoiding overnight positions. His mantra: “Let the market tell you where it wants to go.” He avoids stops, preferring “action points” to exit trades, and believes discipline and sufficient capital are essential for survival.
🧠 2. Psychology Meets Technicals
Jake Bernstein, a psychologist turned trader, blends technical analysis with behavioral insight. He uses price patterns, seasonality, and cycles, and warns against thin markets like palladium. His advice? “Trade for the bigger moves and manage risk.”
📈 3. Rules + Discretion = Edge
Tom Bierovic trades with a strict rule-based system but allows himself discretionary exits. He focuses on trending markets and uses a 2:1 reward-to-risk ratio. His golden rule: “Develop a trading style compatible with your psychological makeup.”
⏳ 4. Cycles and Oscillators
Walter Bressert relies on time cycles and oscillators to identify market rhythm and emotional extremes. He believes mechanical systems help control emotions and favors liquid markets like the S&P 500, T-bonds, and Swiss franc for intraday trading.
⌛ 5. Market Timing Is Everything
Tom DeMark is a pioneer in technical indicators and market timing. His tools focus on price exhaustion and contrarian signals. He stresses that discipline and money management outweigh even the best systems.
⚖️ 6. Options for Risk Control
George Fontanills uses options to hedge futures positions and go delta neutral, allowing him to sleep well at night. He looks for high-volatility markets and trades contrarian to public sentiment. His advice: “Trade small until you learn what you’re doing.”
💡 Final Takeaways for Forex Traders
- Know your market: Each market has unique characteristics. Specialize.
- Control risk: Use stops, action points, or options just don’t ignore risk.
- Stay objective: Technical analysis works best when it’s clear and mechanical.
- Adapt your style: Your strategy must align with your personality.
- Study relentlessly: Every successful trader emphasizes preparation and continuous learning.
These champions didn’t just master charts they mastered themselves. In forex, that’s half the battle won.
