Quote from richard_m:
I learned a hard (expensive)lesson when I first starting trading . Markets DO NOT trend or move directionally most of the time. Markets (all markets) spend most of the time in consolidation or range trading at some level.
Of course if you are a scalper or very short term trader trader you may not care, but it is an important concept to keep in mind when making decisions. I think the inner self always wants us to believe that a big move is coming and we can go ahead and order our Porshe 911.
This is not officail by any means, but the data comes from a very respected group of traders.
Markets only spend about 6% of the time trending. The other 94% of the time is spent in normal range trading or building value. If this is something that you do not agree with, do your own research. Again, it is very important to grasp and will explain why the more experienced traders may take your money when it appears you should join the herd in the daily directional move.