📖 Overview
Schwager on Futures: Technical Analysis provides a comprehensive examination of technical analysis methods for trading futures markets. The book covers chart patterns, indicators, trend analysis, and practical trading applications.
The text combines theoretical foundations with real-world examples from Schwager's extensive market experience. Each concept is explained through detailed charts, statistics, and case studies that demonstrate practical implementation.
The material progresses from basic principles to advanced trading concepts, including momentum analysis, Elliott Wave Theory, and market psychology. Technical tools are presented alongside risk management strategies and position sizing techniques.
This work stands as a reference text that bridges the gap between academic theory and trading floor reality, emphasizing the integration of multiple analysis methods rather than relying on isolated indicators or systems.
👀 Reviews
Readers commend the book's systematic coverage of technical analysis fundamentals and Schwager's clear teaching style. Many note it serves as a reference guide they return to repeatedly.
Positive points from reviews:
- Detailed explanations of chart patterns and indicators
- Strong focus on risk management principles
- Inclusion of real trading examples
- Mathematical concepts explained in accessible terms
Common criticisms:
- Dense material requires multiple readings
- Some concepts could use more visual examples
- Price data and examples from 1990s feel dated
- Length (800+ pages) can be overwhelming
Ratings:
Amazon: 4.5/5 (89 reviews)
Goodreads: 4.3/5 (156 ratings)
Notable reader comments:
"The chapter on moving averages alone is worth the price" - Amazon reviewer
"Best explanation of Elliott Wave I've found" - Goodreads user
"Too academic at times, could use more practical trading applications" - Trader's forum post
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Technical Analysis of Stock Trends by Robert D. Edwards and John Hagee The foundational work establishes core principles of technical analysis through pattern recognition and chart formation study.
Trading Systems and Methods by Perry Kaufman A detailed examination of systematic trading approaches, including trend following, mean reversion, and momentum strategies for futures markets.
Intermarket Technical Analysis by John J. Murphy The book explores relationships between global markets and how technical analysis applies across different asset classes.
🤔 Interesting facts
🔹 Jack Schwager interviewed dozens of successful traders for his famous "Market Wizards" series before writing this technical analysis guide, incorporating many of their proven strategies and insights.
📊 The book deconstructs over 75 different chart patterns and technical indicators, making it one of the most comprehensive resources for futures trading analysis.
💡 While focused on futures trading, many principles in the book have been successfully applied to forex, stocks, and cryptocurrency markets by modern traders.
📈 The author emphasizes that technical analysis is as much art as science, and dedicates significant portions of the book to the psychological aspects of trading.
🌟 Schwager wrote this book while serving as Director of Futures Research for Prudential Securities, bringing both academic knowledge and real-world trading floor experience to the material.