Less than 1% of active traders outperform bank FDs: Quick money not guaranteed

The year 2023 witnessed an unprecedented surge in new traders and investors. Despite a market correction, the Nifty 50 exhibited a noteworthy 20% annual rise, indicating the ongoing bullish trend.

Only 11 per cent individual traders made an average profit of ₹1.5 lakh. In this, active traders that made an average ₹1.9 lakh profit stood at 10 per cent. In this too, excluding the outliers, 6 per cent individual traders made an average profit of nearly ₹3,400.

Drawing from years of market experience, it’s clear that while the landscape may evolve, one constant remains: the influence of greed. Amidst the allure of quick gains, it’s essential to recognize that the stock market, over the long haul, proves to be one of the most challenging arenas to achieve effortless profits. The advent of social media has further propagated a rose-tinted outlook on trading, enticing countless individuals into the market, often without a complete understanding of the realities.

Staying attuned to market trends is paramount. A frequently employed approach among newcomers involves purchasing stocks when they hit their 52-week lows. This strategy rests on the assumption that a stock, having plummeted significantly, is poised for a rebound. However, the truth lies in the observation that stock prices tend to exhibit sustained trends – prolonged upward or downward movements. Thus, the prudent path entails trading stocks that display upward momentum and divesting those experiencing downward trends.

A crucial facet to avoid is the “averaging down” tendency, a trap leading to wealth erosion. Known as the disposition effect, this behavioral tendency prompts individuals to offload stocks that have appreciated while retaining or acquiring assets that have declined.

Effective trading hinges on reversing this pattern – cutting losses and riding the wave of winners. Placing faith in hope as a trading strategy is ill-advised. Although increasing stock purchases during a sharp price decline might yield occasional success, it generally proves unwise in the broader context.

In the dynamic world of stock trading, arming oneself with knowledge and embracing strategic approaches can offer a competitive edge. As markets evolve and new participants join the fray, the age-old wisdom of seasoned traders serves as a guiding light, steering investors away from common pitfalls and towards a more informed and effective trading journey.