Stocks are rarely static. Prices ebb and flow, constantly moving up and down.
While seemingly random, Gary Fullett knows that Wyckoff’s Method makes these movements less unpredictable.
Wyckoff’s Method is a technical, data-driven approach used to identify market forces and their influence. Developed by Richard D. Wyckoff, these theories and analysis help traders make sense of major price fluctuations. While it was a novel concept in the early 1900s, this method is widely established today. In fact, it’s largely considered one of the most complete and comprehensive trading processes.
After codifying these practices, Richard D. Wyckoff started a school to pass this knowledge on to aspiring traders. In this way, Gary Fullett is carrying on this legacy.
Gary Fullett and his company, LTG Trading, are on a mission to teach others. The Illinois-based firm offers mentoring and education services centered on this method. Members have access to exclusive newsletters, live trading webinars, and interactive seminars. Much of this coursework is designed to help students put these principles into practice.
Drawing on his experience as a former floor trader, Gary Fullett discusses the five steps of Wyckoff’s Method and the importance of applying this approach to every stock trade.
1. Determine the present (and future) of the market.
The first step requires a brief lesson in supply and demand. When a stock’s supply can’t meet its demand, prices rise. Conversely, when supply is higher than demand, stock prices will fall. Evaluate these patterns to determine what position you should take and its duration. Use both point-and-figure and bar charts of a market index to conduct this analysis.
2. Select stocks that align with this trend.
A stock should be in harmony with the market as a whole. Find stocks that exhibit greater increases than the market during upturns. When the market is trending down, look for the opposite. This grants a greater opportunity for returns. However, don’t be afraid to drop an issue if you’re unsure. This is applicable during any market cycle. This approach works in bear and bull markets.
3. Choose stocks with a “cause” to meet minimum objectives.
Picking a position should reflect your target price. In Wyckoff’s Method, this is described as “cause and effect.” A stock’s count within the trading window represents a cause, triggering an effect with a subsequent price jump. Act on any stock that meets or exceeds your minimum objective. Again, Gary Fullett highly recommends the use of point-and-figure graphs.
4. Identify a stock’s readiness to move.
Ask yourself: Is it time to make a move? In his process, Richard D. Wyckoff proposed nine tests to determine a stock’s readiness to be bought or sold. In addition to analyzing the data, apply these tests during both peaks and valleys. Rank your stocks in order of preference.
5. Time your commitment.
Timing is key. Maximize your returns by predicting when prices will climb or drop. This begins by reviewing a stock as it exists within the larger market. The odds of a successful transaction are boosted when it has the power of the entire market behind it.