FOMO (Fear of Missing Out)
Trading PsychologyQuick Definition
The anxiety that an exciting or interesting event may currently be happening elsewhere, often leading to impulsive trading decisions.
Detailed Explanation
FOMO in trading refers to the emotional response that causes traders to enter positions hastily for fear of missing potential profits. This psychological phenomenon often leads to buying at market tops or chasing momentum without proper analysis. FOMO can cause traders to abandon their trading plans, ignore risk management rules, and make impulsive decisions based on emotion rather than logic. It's particularly common during strong bull runs or when seeing others profit from trades. Overcoming FOMO requires discipline, a solid trading plan, and the understanding that there will always be new opportunities.
Real Trading Example
Seeing Bitcoin rise 20% in a day, a trader experiences FOMO and buys at the peak, only to see it correct 15% the next day.