Quote from Samson77:
Eric
Congratulations well done but I have to tell you that working 2 hours per day I can average 8-11% per month with my swing trades and options writing combined and have done so for 17 years also.
So it seems like a lot of work for your returns.... so where's the advantage of all the extra hours?
I think with returns that you suggest, you have no need to consider shorter term trading strategies. However, to answer the question more generically, "Where's the advantage?" => For me, I find that shorter term trading strategies typically offer several advantages versus longer term 'swing trading,' which I might define as average trade durations of 1-4 weeks.
First, successful daytrading offers the ability to better control risk. Typically, longer trade durations require the trader to allow a greater cushion for their stop loss orders. With daytrading, you can have very tight stop loss protection that might typically be impossible in a trade setup for a month long trade.
Also, with daytrading, you have the potential to make higher returns by constantly cashing in your trades and reallocating your capital to new, better opportunities. That said, I am sure there are many swing traders that might have higher returns than I do. The same can be said for daytraders, as well. My goal is not to have the highest return versus others, but just to have a very lucrative, consistent and low risk return for myself.
You mention averaging 8-11% return per month with your swing and option trading for the past 17 years, if I understand correctly. That is very impressive. Starting with a $1000 account, and averaging 8% per month for 17 years, you would now have over $6.5 billion ($1.7 trillion, if compouned at 11%). Very nice! I guess after taxes and living expenses, it would probably be less than that, though. What are the typical percentage drawdowns that you have seen during those 17 years of averaging 8-11% per month?
-Eric