355: He Makes A Living Algo Trading in Forex - Scott Welsh (@swelsh66)
Jun 20, 2022
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Scott Welsh, a full-time algo trader, shares his best tips on algo trading including the importance of continuous optimization, focusing on specific instruments and strategies, the role of coding in trading, and a profitable forex trading strategy involving the RSI indicator. He also discusses the mindset of trading algorithms and the frustrations of reversals.
Algo trading requires discipline and avoiding constant re-optimization of strategies.
Time exits can be effective in forex trading strategies to secure profits and guard against reversals.
Deep dives
Importance of Algo Trading and Trend Following
The podcast episode discusses the importance of algo trading and trend following in trading. The speaker emphasizes that they trade mostly with algorithms and prefer algos that don't require human intervention. They believe in trend following strategies and have developed multiple versions of their algo for trading. They stress the importance of sticking to a strategy and not constantly re-optimizing it. The speaker also shares their experience with trading competitions and how it has changed their mindset and approach to trading.
Effective Use of Time Exits in Trading
The episode explores the use of time exits in trading strategies. The speaker discusses how they use time exits in their forex trading strategies to lock in profits and protect against reversals. They highlight that time exits are particularly useful in forex trading due to the nature of currency relationships and political factors. They share their initial skepticism towards using time exits but acknowledge that it has proven to be effective for their trading. The speaker emphasizes the importance of having metrics and clear goals for trading strategies.
Mindset and Discipline in Algo Trading
The podcast episode delves into the mindset and discipline required for successful algo trading. The speaker shares their personal experience of being a disciplined algo trader and the challenges of avoiding emotional biases. They discuss the importance of not interfering with trades and the need to avoid constantly checking P&L and account balances. The speaker draws parallels to the movie Moneyball and highlights the benefits of focusing on numbers and statistics rather than emotional reactions. They also mention the benefits of participating in trading competitions and the impact it has on their mindset and approach to trading.
Finding Trading Strategies and the Value of Ideas
The episode explores the process of finding trading strategies and the value of ideas in trading. The speaker emphasizes the importance of reading trading books and finding ideas from various sources. They discuss the significance of trend following strategies and breakout strategies. The speaker shares their experience of finding and coding different strategies, while also acknowledging the need for finding skilled coders. They also mention the importance of sharing ideas and the benefits of participating in trading contests for developing and refining trading strategies.
In episode 355 of the Desire To Trade Podcast, Etienne sits down with Scott Welsh, a full-time algo trader. Scott trades automated trading strategies for a living. You'll learn his best tips on algo trading and how you can start trading algorithms yourself.