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What Are The BEST HOURS to Place Trades? | 5.20 | One Lucky Dog LIVE!

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Trade ideas

Trade idea

Nvidia Shorting calls on Nvidia

The speaker sold 205 puts and 250 calls on Nvidia, expecting limited price movement. The trade is based on the assumption that the stock will not move significantly, allowing the seller to profit from the premium. The speaker plans to cover the position at $1.50 if the price reaches that level, aiming for a 25% return. The trade is considered high-risk due to the potential for significant price movements.

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StrategyShorting calls on Nvidia
AssetEquity
ExpirationFriday
Time horizonShort-term
Entry / triggerNvidia closes at 204
Target / exit167
Invalidation / stopIf the price rises above 250
SpeakerSpeaker
Structure / legs
  • 205 puts
  • 250 calls
Risks
  • Significant price movement in either direction
  • Failure to cover the position at the planned price
  • Market volatility leading to unexpected outcomes
Trade idea

MU Scalping

The speaker executed a scalping trade on MU, entering at $666 and exiting at $686 for a $20 profit. The trade was based on the expectation of short-term price movements in a highly volatile market. The strategy relies on quick execution and the ability to capitalize on intraday price swings. The speaker later noted that the stock had risen to $736, indicating the potential for further volatility. This trade idea is suitable for traders who can quickly identify and act on short-term price movements in volatile stocks.

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StrategyScalping
AssetEquity
Time horizonIntraday
Entry / triggerIdentify short-term price movements in highly volatile stocks
Target / exitQuick profit from intraday price swings
Invalidation / stopExit if price moves against the trade or if the volatility subsides
SpeakerTom Sosnoff
Risks
  • Adverse price movements in short time frames
  • Market volatility may not persist
  • Execution risk due to fast-moving prices
Short-term ScalpingequityscalpingMUIntraday
Trade idea

Snowflake earnings strangle

The speaker suggests selling a June earnings strangle on Snowflake, noting that the stock is trading around $163 and the expected move is $30. The strangle has a high IVR of 91 and a probability of profit of 82%. The speaker also mentions adjusting the put side if the stock sells off further, but the trade is still considered valid as it's outside the expected move on the put side and gives room on the call side for a potential surprise.

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Strategyearnings strangle
Assetstock
ExpirationJune
Time horizonaround earnings date
Entry / triggerbefore earnings date
Target / exitprofit of 82%
Invalidation / stopif the stock moves beyond the expected range
SpeakerUnknown
Structure / legs
  • put
  • call
Risks
  • Market volatility
  • unexpected earnings results
  • liquidity issues
sellEquity
Trade idea

SLV strangle

The speaker suggests maintaining the same strangle or adjusting the strikes up by a buck for SLV, given the stock is up slightly. This trade idea is based on the assumption that the stock will continue to move in a favorable direction, allowing for profit from the strangle. The expected move of $8 is mentioned, indicating a potential for significant price movement. The trade is considered a short-term strategy with a focus on capturing volatility.

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Strategystrangle
Assetcommodity
Expiration215
Time horizonshort-term
Entry / triggerstock is up small
Target / exitmove the strikes up by a buck
Invalidation / stopif the stock moves significantly against the trade
Speakerspeaker
Structure / legs
  • 60-80 strangle
Risks
  • market volatility
  • unexpected price movements
  • liquidity issues
Trade idea

Bonds hedge

The speaker is long bonds, having bought them last night and sold them out, but still holding short puts. They consider bonds a good hedge, especially given their recent performance as a market leader. The speaker suggests that bonds will indicate the direction of the market, making them a useful indicator for future market movements.

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Strategyhedge
Assetfixed_income
Time horizonshort-term
Entry / triggerBonds have been the leader for the last couple of days
Target / exitNot specified
Invalidation / stopNot specified
SpeakerSpeaker
Risks
  • Market volatility
  • Interest rate changes
  • Economic downturn
Trade idea

Nvidia strangle

The speaker executed a strangle on Nvidia with strikes at 205 and 250, collecting $200 on a one lot. The trade allows for a higher probability of profit and a greater credit compared to a defined risk strategy like an iron condor. The trader is comfortable with the extra risk for the potential higher return, and the trade can be adjusted based on the expected move.

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Strategystrangle
Assetstock
Expirationnot specified
Time horizonNot explicitly stated, but the trade was executed in the morning.
Entry / triggerMarket volatility is high, and the trader is comfortable with undefined risk.
Target / exitNot explicitly stated, but the trader collected $200 on a one lot.
Invalidation / stopNot explicitly stated, but the trader mentions the expected move and the potential for being two times the expected move.
SpeakerTom Sosnoff
Structure / legs
  • 205 put
  • 250 call
Risks
  • Higher risk compared to defined risk strategies
  • Potential for larger losses if the market moves against the trade
Trade idea

Trade idea Undefined Risk Trade

The trader prefers undefined risk trades over defined risk trades because they offer more flexibility for adjustments and rolling, which is easier to manage. These trades also have shorter holding periods due to faster decay, allowing the trader to reach their profit target more quickly. This is particularly advantageous for high volatility stocks, where undefined risk trades can provide a richer edge.

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StrategyUndefined Risk Trade
Time horizonShorter holding period, typically faster decay.
Entry / triggerWhen the trader is willing to take on more risk for potential higher returns and prefers flexibility in adjustments and rolling.
Target / exitTo reach the profit target faster due to the shorter holding period and faster decay of undefined risk trades.
Invalidation / stopIf the trade moves against the trader's expectations and the risk becomes too high.
SpeakerSpeaker
Risks
  • Higher risk due to undefined risk profile
  • Requires more active management and monitoring
Trade idea

MSFT Buy on pullbacks

The speaker suggests that Microsoft may present a buying opportunity following a pullback, given the perceived overvaluation and the tendency of investors to repurchase after selling. This implies a potential short-term reversal or consolidation phase.

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StrategyBuy on pullbacks
AssetEquity
Time horizonShort-term
Entry / triggerPotential pullbacks following overvaluation concerns
Target / exitNot specified
Invalidation / stopNot specified
SpeakerSpeaker
Risks
  • Market volatility
  • Overvaluation may persist
  • Lack of clear entry point

Insights

Insight

Market Commentary on Volatility and Trading Activity

The speaker discusses the current market conditions, noting that the S&P 500 has risen by 12 points, though it was previously up by 30 points. The Nasdaq is also mentioned as being up. The speaker highlights their active trading activity, having made 22 trades already that morning, indicating a high level of market engagement and volatility. This suggests that the market is experiencing significant movement, which can present both opportunities and risks for traders.

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Applicable when
  • high market volatility
  • active trading environment
Limitations
  • The speaker's personal trading activity does not necessarily reflect broader market trends or performance.
Insight

Market Volatility and Sector Rotation

The transcript highlights the extreme volatility in the tech sector, particularly in chip stocks like Nvidia, AMD, and others. It suggests that the market is experiencing rapid sector rotation, with stocks fluctuating significantly. The speaker notes that the market's reaction to potential negative news, such as a slowdown in AI growth, could lead to sharp declines in these stocks. This insight emphasizes the importance of monitoring sector-specific news and the potential for rapid price movements in high-growth industries.

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Applicable when
  • High-growth sectors
  • Sector rotation
  • Market sentiment shifts
Limitations
  • The analysis is based on a single conversation and may not represent broader market trends.
  • The potential for AI-related news to impact the market is speculative.
Insight

Market Volatility and Scalping Strategy

The transcript highlights the extreme volatility in chip stocks, with some moving 10-15% in a single day. This volatility creates opportunities for scalping strategies, where traders aim to capture small profits quickly. The speaker mentions a successful scalping trade on MU, making $20 on a $666 entry at $686, and later noting that the stock had risen to $736. The key mechanism is identifying short-term price movements and exiting quickly to lock in gains. This strategy is effective in highly volatile markets but requires quick decision-making and risk management.

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Applicable when
  • High volatility in stocks
  • Short-term trading opportunities
Limitations
  • Requires quick execution
  • Not suitable for long-term holding
  • Risk of adverse price movements in short time frames
Insight

Market Liquidity and Trading Hours

The speaker notes that the liquidity and trading dynamics have changed significantly with the rise of high-frequency trading. In the past, the first and last hours of the trading day were the busiest, but now, due to automated systems, the markets are virtually the same throughout the day. The speaker emphasizes that the time of day does not significantly impact trading opportunities, as long as the trade is set up and can be filled at the desired price. However, the first 5 minutes and the last 5 minutes of the trading day are noted as potentially volatile periods.

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Applicable when
  • high-frequency trading environment
  • modern financial markets
Limitations
  • The speaker's opinion is based on personal experience and may not apply universally
  • The impact of market conditions and volatility can vary depending on the asset class and market regime
Insight

Market Liquidity and Trading Hours

The speaker emphasizes that liquidity is crucial when trading, especially during after-hours sessions. They note that while the market is generally fine during the day, after-hours trading can be less liquid and more volatile. This insight highlights the importance of choosing liquid instruments and being cautious about trading outside regular hours.

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Applicable when
  • after-hours trading
  • liquidity
  • market volatility
Limitations
  • The speaker's advice is based on general market behavior and may not apply to all instruments or market conditions.
Insight

Trade Timing and Market Conditions

The speaker discusses the optimal time for trading, emphasizing that the best time is between 9:30 and 11:30 AM, with the last hour being less effective due to reduced momentum and price action. This insight highlights the importance of timing in trading strategies, particularly for scalping and short-term trades. The applicable conditions include active market hours and the presence of significant price movements. Limitations include the potential for different market behaviors on different days and the need for individual trader adaptation.

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Applicable when
  • active market hours
  • significant price movements
Limitations
  • different market behaviors on different days
  • need for individual trader adaptation
Insight

Self-Audit and Career Flexibility

A self-audit is a valuable exercise to identify personal strengths and shortcomings, which can help in making informed decisions about career paths. It is important to recognize that career paths can change multiple times over a lifetime, and one should not feel pressured to have a fixed plan. The speaker emphasizes that it is okay to not know what one wants to do with their career and that flexibility is key. This insight applies to individuals who are uncertain about their career direction and need guidance on how to approach their professional development.

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Applicable when
  • uncertainty about career direction
  • need for self-assessment
Limitations
  • Requires self-honesty and introspection
  • May not be suitable for those with immediate career goals
Insight

Adaptability in Industry and Personal Development

The speaker emphasizes the importance of adaptability within an industry, noting that despite being in the same field for over four decades, they have evolved and changed their approach multiple times. This adaptability is likened to the flexibility required in personal development, such as learning a new sport like tennis. The speaker also highlights the value of continuous learning and the ability to pivot, suggesting that staying relevant requires ongoing adaptation.

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Applicable when
  • long-term career planning
  • personal growth
  • industry evolution
Limitations
  • The analogy to tennis may not directly apply to all industries
  • The speaker's personal experience may not be universally applicable
Insight

Defined vs. Undefined Risk in Options Trading

The speaker explains that defined risk strategies, like iron condors, involve buying protection (wings) which reduces the probability of profit but provides a higher credit. Undefined risk strategies, like strangles, do not require buying protection, allowing for a higher probability of profit and a greater credit. The choice between the two depends on the trader's risk tolerance and comfort with the extra risk for the potential higher return. The speaker emphasizes that there is no theoretical pricing advantage or disadvantage, and the decision is about how the trader wants to live with the risk.

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Applicable when
  • trading with defined risk
  • trading with undefined risk
Limitations
  • Requires trader to be comfortable with higher risk
  • Higher probability of profit may not always materialize
Insight

Defined vs. Undefined Risk Trades

Defined risk trades, such as iron condors, are easier to manage because they have a fixed risk profile, allowing traders to 'let it go' without worrying about multiple legs. However, undefined risk trades, like strangles, offer more flexibility for adjustments and rolling, making them easier to manage for active traders. These trades also have shorter holding periods due to faster decay, enabling traders to reach their profit targets more quickly. This is particularly advantageous for high volatility stocks, where undefined risk trades can provide a richer edge.

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Applicable when
  • High volatility stocks
  • Active traders who prefer flexibility
Limitations
  • Defined risk trades may be more suitable for risk-averse traders
  • Undefined risk trades require more active management and monitoring
Insight

Understanding VIX Futures and Spot Market Dynamics

The VIX future represents the future price of the VIX at the next expiration, while the VIX spot market reflects the current market conditions. The VIX future is often lower than the spot market, indicating backwardation, which is a state where near-term volatility is higher than longer-term volatility. This is typically observed during periods of global conflict or crisis. The VIX is historically high, and its current level suggests a high level of market fear. The VIX future is a useful tool for understanding market expectations, but it is not a reliable trading product due to its complexity and volatility.

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Applicable when
  • periods of global conflict or crisis
  • high volatility in financial markets
Limitations
  • The VIX is not a reliable trading product due to its complexity and volatility
  • The VIX future is a reference tool, not a direct trading instrument
Insight

Market Overvaluation and Seller's Regret

The speaker expresses concerns about the overvaluation of certain stocks, particularly Microsoft, suggesting that investors often experience seller's remorse and quickly repurchase these stocks after selling. This indicates a potential market regime where stocks are perceived as overpriced, and investor behavior is characterized by rapid re-entry following sales.

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Applicable when
  • Overvalued stocks
  • High volatility in stock prices
Limitations
  • The speaker's opinion is subjective and not based on quantitative analysis
  • The behavior described is anecdotal and may not represent broader market trends

Q&A

Q&A

What is the current state of the S&P 500?

The S&P 500 is up 12 points, with a high of the day around 7415. It is currently at 7387.

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Actionable takeawayThe S&P 500 has shown upward movement, with a notable high of 7415, indicating potential for further gains or consolidation.
Q&A

What is the expected move for Nvidia?

The speaker estimates the expected move for Nvidia to be around $13, based on previous market movements.

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Actionable takeawayThe expected move for Nvidia is around $13, based on historical data.
Q&A

Is there a best time of the day to trade?

The speaker suggests that there is no single best time to trade, as they have been trading throughout the day, including before the market opens. They question whether the first and last hour of the trading day offer any particular advantage, indicating that the effectiveness of trading times may depend on market conditions and individual strategies.

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Actionable takeawayThere is no universally best time to trade; effectiveness depends on market conditions and individual strategies.
Q&A

Is there a best time of the day to trade?

The speaker states that there is no best time of the day to trade, as the markets are virtually the same throughout the day due to high-frequency trading. However, the first 5 minutes and the last 5 minutes of the trading day are noted as potentially volatile periods.

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Actionable takeawayThe speaker suggests that the time of day does not significantly impact trading opportunities, as long as the trade is set up and can be filled at the desired price. However, the first 5 minutes and the last 5 minutes of the trading day are noted as potentially volatile periods.
Q&A

What is the expected move for Snowflake?

The expected move for Snowflake is $30.

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Actionable takeawayTraders should consider the expected move when setting up their strangle strategy.
Q&A

What is the best time to trade?

The best time to trade is between 9:30 and 11:30 AM, with the last hour being less effective due to reduced momentum and price action. This is based on the speaker's experience and observations of market behavior.

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Actionable takeawayTraders should focus on the morning hours for better trading opportunities, as the market is more active and volatile during this time.
Q&A

Do you think most people will be honest with themselves?

The speaker suggests that people tend to be more honest with themselves than with others, but they may shy away from acknowledging their shortcomings when discussing them with others. This implies that self-honesty is a challenge, and it is important to engage in self-audits to uncover these shortcomings.

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Actionable takeawaySelf-audits can help uncover personal shortcomings and improve self-awareness.
Q&A

What was the speaker's racket of choice back then?

The speaker mentioned that they did not use a T2000 racket but had a Slazenger wood racket. They later moved to the Wilson T2000, which was considered a significant change.

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Actionable takeawayThe speaker's transition from a wood racket to a modern composite racket highlights the evolution of sports equipment and personal adaptation.
Q&A

Why would I do an undefined risk trade when I can do a defined risk trade?

The speaker explains that undefined risk trades, like strangles, offer a higher probability of profit and a greater credit compared to defined risk strategies like iron condors. The choice depends on the trader's risk tolerance and comfort with the extra risk for the potential higher return.

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Actionable takeawayUndefined risk trades can offer higher potential returns but come with higher risk compared to defined risk strategies.
Q&A

Can you talk about the VIX in relation to the VIX cash?

The VIX future is the actual spot market, representing the current market conditions. The VIX cash market is the future price of the VIX at the next expiration. The VIX is currently at 20.25, which is historically high, indicating a high level of market fear. The VIX future is lower than the spot market, indicating backwardation, which is a state where near-term volatility is higher than longer-term volatility.

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Actionable takeawayThe VIX future and spot market provide insights into current and future market volatility. The VIX is currently at a historically high level, indicating a high level of market fear.
Q&A

Can you talk about the VIX like in relation to the VIX cash?

The VIX future is the actual spot market, representing the current level of expected volatility. It is a derivative that reflects the market's expectation of future volatility. Traders can look at the VIX future to gauge the market's sentiment about future volatility.

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Actionable takeawayThe VIX future is a useful tool for gauging the market's expectation of future volatility, which can inform trading decisions.
Q&A

What is the speaker's opinion on Microsoft's stock price?

The speaker believes Microsoft's stock is overpriced and that investors often experience seller's remorse, leading to rapid repurchases after selling.

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Actionable takeawayInvestors should be cautious about overvalued stocks and consider the potential for rapid price reversals.