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Best Trading Insight for Australian Momentum Traders: Why Being Right Isn't Everything

  • Writer: Anita Arnold
    Anita Arnold
  • Sep 18
  • 4 min read

Updated: Sep 19

The Trading Ego Trap That Costs Fortunes

"I spent a decade letting my ego get in the way of trading." This admission from Gary Glover captures one of the most expensive mistakes momentum traders make—believing that being right is more important than protecting capital.

In Australian momentum trading, this psychological trap destroys more accounts than market crashes. At Finer Market Points, our analysis of member behaviour reveals a clear pattern: successful traders focus on risk management first, ego validation last.

This article explores the fundamental mindset shift that separates profitable momentum traders from those who struggle, drawing from Gary's hard-earned experience and systematic approach to ASX market psychology.

After a decade of letting ego drive trading decisions, Gary Glover shares why being right matters far less than managing risk when you're wrong.

The Counterintuitive Truth About Trading Success

Being Wrong Is Not The Problem

The most liberating realisation in momentum trading is this: you don't need to be right to be profitable. As Gary explains, "It's just way way more important to not lose money when you're wrong."

This insight challenges everything new traders believe about market success. They enter thinking smart analysis equals consistent profits. Reality proves otherwise.

Consider this mathematical truth: even with a 40% win rate—meaning you're wrong 60% of the time—systematic risk management can generate substantial returns. The key lies in the risk-reward ratio, not prediction accuracy.

The "Eat Like an Elephant" Philosophy

"Eat like an elephant and poop like a bird"—this principle sits prominently on Gary's trading board for good reason. It encapsulates the entire momentum trading philosophy in one memorable phrase.

What this means in practice:

  • Win big: When momentum moves in your favour, let profits run

  • Lose small: When wrong, exit quickly with minimal damage

  • Stay systematic: Apply this consistently across all positions

Our analysis of successful FMP members shows this approach working across different market conditions. Members who embrace being wrong while managing risk systematically outperform those chasing perfect accuracy.

The Mathematics of Trading Psychology

Why "Can't Go Broke Taking Profits" Is Dangerous

A common trading saying suggests you "can't go broke taking profits." Gary challenges this dangerous thinking: "You actually can, because if your losses are double your wins, you can go broke."

The mathematics are stark:

  • 40% win rate with 1:1 risk-reward = gradual losses

  • 40% win rate with 1:2 risk-reward = steady profits

  • 60% win rate with 2:1 risk-reward = still losing money

Most successful momentum traders operate with win rates around 40-45%. The difference between profit and loss lies entirely in position sizing and risk management.

Understanding Win Rate Reality

"Most traders have a win ratio at best around 40-45 percent," Gary notes. This reality check helps set proper expectations for momentum trading success.

Why win rates don't determine profitability:

  • Market unpredictability ensures wrong calls

  • Momentum can reverse without warning

  • Sector rotation creates systematic challenges

  • Individual stock behaviour defies analysis

The traders who accept this reality and build systems around it consistently outperform those chasing higher accuracy.

Practical Risk Management Psychology

Weekly Loss Acceptance

"I have losing trades every week," Gary admits. This transparency about regular losses demonstrates healthy trading psychology.

Successful momentum traders expect weekly losses because:

  • Market dynamics change constantly

  • Sector leadership rotates unpredictably

  • Economic conditions shift momentum patterns

  • Individual positions face unexpected news

The goal isn't eliminating losses but managing their size relative to wins.

The Risk Containment Framework

Containing losses requires both psychological acceptance and systematic execution. Gary emphasises: "Just manage the risk, keep it small."

Effective risk containment includes:

  • Position sizing: Never risk more than planned

  • Stop-loss discipline: Exit when wrong, regardless of ego

  • Sector diversification: Avoid concentration risk

  • Market condition awareness: Adjust size based on volatility

Our member community regularly discusses how this framework provides confidence during difficult periods.

Advanced Member Insights on Trading Psychology

The concepts covered here form the foundation of successful momentum trading psychology. FMP YouTube members access the complete framework through our weekly 3030 Report, featuring:

Real-time examples of risk management in current ASX conditions✓ Detailed position sizing strategies for different momentum patterns✓ Launch Pad opportunity analysis released to members 24+ hours before public✓ Community discussions with Gary Glover and experienced momentum traders✓ Ability to submit specific questions about trading psychology and risk management

This Week's 3030 Report Features: → Psychology case studies from recent momentum failures→ Specific risk management levels for current Launch Pad opportunities→ Sector rotation insights affecting position sizing decisions→ Member success stories demonstrating "eat like an elephant" principles

Complete Educational System: → 800+ video library covering every momentum psychology concept→ Weekly live analysis with Gary Glover demonstrating real-time decisions→ Member community for sharing risk management experiences→ Submit your specific trading psychology questions for analysis

Early Access Advantage: → Launch Pad opportunities 24+ hours before public release→ Member-only alerts for significant momentum developments

[ACCESS THIS WEEK'S PSYCHOLOGY ANALYSIS - BECOME A YOUTUBE MEMBER]

Watch how members use Thursday's 3030 List to identify the best momentum stocks before market close, giving them first-mover advantage on ASX leaders

Current members report increased confidence through systematic risk management education

Key Takeaways

The insights from this analysis highlight that trading success stems from psychology, not prediction accuracy. Remember that ego management and systematic risk containment form the foundation of profitable momentum trading.

For Australian investors, understanding that being wrong is acceptable—even expected—provides a significant psychological advantage. The "eat like an elephant, poop like a bird" approach offers a systematic framework for long-term success.

FMP members receive additional insights through our weekly 3030 Report, released Fridays, featuring detailed analysis of momentum psychology and risk management applications. Members also have the opportunity to submit specific requests for trading psychology analysis.

Continue developing your momentum trading education by exploring our related content on [VCP pattern psychology] and [sector rotation risk management].


Disclaimer: Finer Market Points Pty Ltd, CAR 1304002, AFSL 526688, ABN 87 645 284 680. This general information is educational only and not financial advice, recommendation, forecast or solicitation. Consider your objectives, financial situation and needs before acting. Seek appropriate professional advice. We accept no liability for any loss or damages arising from use.



 
 
 

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