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Options traders in Singapore are a unique breed. They are highly analytical and thrive on making quick, profitable trades. However, greed can sometimes affect their judgement, leading to disastrous consequences. This article will explore how greed can influence an options trader’s decision-making process and look at some strategies that can help traders overcome this obstacle.
Let’s look at strategies traders can use to overcome greed and make rational decisions.
Have a plan and stick to it
The best way to avoid being swayed by greed is to have a trading plan and stick to it. A trading plan should include your entry and exit points, as well as your stop-loss levels. It is essential to be disciplined and not deviate from the plan, even if you are tempted.
Set realistic goals
It is important not to get caught up in the fever of greed and instead set realistic goals for yourself. If you aim too high, you may end up taking unnecessary risks to achieve your targets. Aiming low can also be counterproductive, as it may lead to complacency. An excellent way to find the right balance is to set challenging but achievable goals.
Use trailing stops
A trailing stop is a type of stop-loss order that allows you to protect your profits while still allowing the trade to run its course. It works by automatically moving your stop-loss level closer to the current market price as the trade moves in your favour. It helps to minimise losses if the trade turns against you while still allowing you to make a profit if the trade goes in your favour.
Use limit orders
When you use a limit order, you specify the maximum amount you are willing to pay for a security or the minimum price you are willing to sell it. It ensures that you only buy or sell securities at a comfortable price. It also helps prevent you from over-trading, as you will be less likely to enter into a trade if the price is incorrect.
Use dollar-cost averaging
Dollar-cost averaging is an investment strategy that involves buying a fixed amount of security at fixed intervals. It helps to reduce the effects of market volatility on your portfolio and allows you to buy securities at a lower average price. It is an excellent way to minimise the risk of investing in volatile markets.
Diversify your portfolio
Diversification is the key to reducing risk in your portfolio. You can spread your risk across different industries and countries by investing in different asset classes. It will help to protect your portfolio from the effects of market volatility.
Review your trades regularly
It is essential to review your trades regularly to identify any mistakes you may have made. It will help you learn from your mistakes and avoid making them in the future.
Keep a journal
Keeping a trading journal can be a helpful way to track your progress and identify any areas where you need to improve. It can also help you keep a check on your emotions, as you will be able to look back and see how they have affected your trading decisions.
Seek professional help
It may be helpful to seek professional help. A therapist or counsellor can help you understand your emotions and how to deal with them.
Take breaks
When you feel yourself getting caught up in the excitement of trading, it may be helpful to take a break. It will allow you to clear your head and return to the market with a fresh perspective.
Taking breaks is also essential for another reason; it can help you avoid making impulsive decisions. When you are tired, you are more likely to make mistakes. By taking a break, you can ensure that you make decisions based on logic rather than emotion.
In conclusion
These are just some ways that traders can overcome greed and make rational decisions. It’s important to remember that greed is one of the primary emotions that can lead to bad decision making. If you can control your emotions, you will be better able to make rational decisions and succeed in trading (see here).
