Been trading for about 8 months now and mostly stick to technical analysis. Charts, patterns, support resistance levels.
Starting to wonder if I’m missing out by not diving into fundamentals. Economic news, interest rates, all that stuff seems overwhelming but maybe necessary.
What’s been your experience mixing both approaches?
Fundamentals mess up my technical setups too often.
Many traders focus on one area and that can work well. I’ve mainly used technical analysis and it has served me. Fundamentals can provide broader insights but do not always lead to immediate market moves. Major news can impact prices briefly but technical levels remain important. Consider integrating key economic updates without diving too deep into complicated theories.
Technical analysis can be sufficient for retail traders. Since you are still learning after 8 months, adding fundamentals might complicate your decisions. Focus on technicals but keep an eye on major news events like NFP or central bank announcements. These can disrupt your technical setups. When fundamentals and technicals agree, the trades will likely perform better. If they conflict, consider sitting out. Master one method fully before combining both to avoid confusion and missed opportunities.
After 8 months you’re still building your foundation. Adding fundamentals now might actually hurt your progress.
I spent my first 2 years purely on technicals. Got consistent with reading price action, support and resistance, basic patterns. Only then started layering in economic calendar events.
The thing is, fundamentals don’t move markets the way textbooks say they should. I’ve seen perfect setups get destroyed by random news that had nothing to do with the actual economic data.
My approach now: stick with your technical analysis but avoid trading 30 minutes before and after major news releases. NFP, Fed meetings, inflation data - just stay out during those times.
Once you’re profitable with technicals for at least 6 months straight, then consider adding fundamental filters. But don’t rush it. Too many moving parts will mess with your head.
I trade mostly on technicals while watching key news. It’s been working well for me.