It’s New Year’s Eve, and if you’re anything like me, you’re already thinking about what 2025 might have in store for the markets — and for your trading account.
Yesterday, I talked about some of the lessons I’ve picked up over my 30+ years in trading.
But as we move into a new year, I want to shift the focus forward. Because here’s the thing: Every lesson we’ve learned is just a stepping stone to what’s next.
And in 2025, I think what’s next is adaptability.
The Market’s Always Changing
If there’s one constant in trading, it’s that the market never sits still.
Think back to this year: From rate hikes to earnings surprises to unexpected geopolitical headlines, the markets threw us curve balls almost daily. And yet, we adapted. We adjusted our strategies, hedged when needed, and pounced when the opportunities were there.
But what I’ve learned is that adaptability isn’t just about tweaking your trades. It’s about how you approach the market.
Trading with a Clear Mind
Here’s what I’m working on as I head into 2025: trading with less noise.
By “noise,” I mean all the distractions — the headlines, the opinions, the emotions that can cloud your judgment.
In my experience, the traders who succeed long-term are the ones who can tune out the noise and focus on the data that actually matters.
It’s not about being right all the time. It’s about having a clear plan and sticking to it, even when the market tries to shake your confidence.
Start Your Year with Simplicity
So, here’s a challenge you might want to try:
Simplify your trading.
Instead of chasing every move or overloading your charts with a dozen indicators, focus on the basics:
- Key levels like opens, highs, and lows.
- Volume and momentum.
- And, most importantly, your risk/reward setup.
Sometimes the simplest strategies are the ones that work best.
The First Trade of 2025
When the markets open again Thursday, I want you to think about your first trade of the year.
Not because it’s some magical “New Year trade” — it’s not. But because it’s an opportunity to set the tone for how you want to trade in 2025.
Are you trading with a plan? Are you managing your risk? Are you chasing the noise, or are you sticking to what you know works?
For me, it’s going to be about making sure my first trade is as clean and intentional as possible. Because if you start the year with clarity and discipline, maybe you can carry that momentum through the months ahead.
Here’s to a Prosperous 2025
Whatever your trading goals are for the new year, I hope you take a minute tonight to reflect on how far you’ve come.
This year had its ups and downs, but you’re here, you’re learning, and you’re improving.
That’s what matters.
Happy New Year, everyone. Let’s make 2025 our best trading year yet.
— Geof Smith
P.S. Gold took off in 2024 after I made my epic gold prediction this time last year. Here’s my big prediction for 2025.
