Open Interest Chain Analysis1. Basics of Open Interest
Open Interest refers to the total number of outstanding derivative contracts (futures or options) that are currently active and not closed or settled. Unlike stock trading, where the number of shares is fixed, derivatives can be created and extinguished through contracts.
If a new buyer and new seller enter a contract → OI increases by 1.
If an existing contract holder closes their position (buy vs sell) → OI decreases by 1.
If an existing position shifts hands (buyer sells to a new buyer) → OI remains unchanged.
Key Points:
OI is reported at the end of the trading day.
OI gives a measure of liquidity and market participation.
Higher OI means greater trader interest and tighter spreads.
2. Difference Between Open Interest and Volume
Many beginners confuse volume with open interest.
Volume: Number of contracts traded during the day (can include multiple trades of the same contract).
Open Interest: Number of outstanding contracts still open at the end of the day.
Example:
Trader A buys 1 lot of Nifty call option from Trader B.
Volume = 1
OI = 1 (new contract created)
If Trader A sells that contract to Trader C:
Volume = 2 (two trades happened)
OI = 1 (still one open contract, just transferred)
So, volume measures activity, while OI measures positions outstanding.
3. Mechanics of Open Interest Creation and Reduction
Understanding how OI increases or decreases helps in interpreting market activity:
New Buyer + New Seller → OI Increases.
Old Buyer + Old Seller Square Off → OI Decreases.
Old Position transferred (buyer sells to new buyer) → OI unchanged.
This is why OI analysis is powerful—it helps in distinguishing between fresh positions and unwinding.
4. Importance of OI in Options and Futures
Open Interest matters because:
It reflects market participation (are traders interested?).
Identifies support/resistance levels (through strike-wise OI).
Highlights trend confirmation or rejection.
Reveals institutional footprints (big money creates large OI).
Useful for strategy adjustments (hedging, spreads, straddles).
5. Open Interest Chain (OI Chain) Explained
An OI Chain is essentially a table of strike-wise option contracts, displaying:
Strike Price
Call OI (with changes)
Put OI (with changes)
Volume
Last Traded Price (LTP)
By analyzing this chain, traders can:
Spot which strikes have maximum call OI (resistance).
Spot which strikes have maximum put OI (support).
Track shift in OI to see if market is building bullish or bearish sentiment.
6. Techniques of OI Chain Analysis
A. Call vs Put OI Analysis
High Call OI at a strike → resistance level.
High Put OI at a strike → support level.
If Call OI increases and price falls → bearish confirmation.
If Put OI increases and price rises → bullish confirmation.
B. Change in OI (Intraday vs Daily)
Rising OI + Rising Price = Long Build-up (Bullish).
Rising OI + Falling Price = Short Build-up (Bearish).
Falling OI + Rising Price = Short Covering (Bullish).
Falling OI + Falling Price = Long Unwinding (Bearish).
C. Put-Call Ratio (PCR)
PCR = Total Put OI ÷ Total Call OI.
PCR > 1 = more puts than calls → bullish sentiment.
PCR < 1 = more calls than puts → bearish sentiment.
Extreme PCR values indicate overbought/oversold conditions.
D. OI Concentration Zones
Maximum Call OI → major resistance.
Maximum Put OI → major support.
These act like psychological barriers where option writers defend positions.
7. Bullish, Bearish, and Neutral Interpretations
Bullish Signs:
Put OI increasing at higher strikes.
Call OI unwinding.
PCR rising above 1.
Long build-up observed in futures.
Bearish Signs:
Call OI increasing at lower strikes.
Put OI unwinding.
PCR falling below 1.
Short build-up in futures.
Neutral/Range-Bound:
Balanced OI between calls and puts.
High OI at both nearest call and put strikes → “straddle zone.”
PCR around 1.
8. Combining OI with Price Action and Volume
Open Interest Chain Analysis is powerful only when combined with price and volume.
Price Up + OI Up + Volume Up → Strong bullish momentum.
Price Down + OI Up + Volume Up → Strong bearish momentum.
Price Sideways + OI Up → Range formation.
Price Up + OI Down → Short covering rally.
Thus, OI confirms whether a price move is genuine or just short-term volatility.
9. Institutional vs Retail Perspective
Institutions (FIIs, DIIs) often write options (sell calls/puts) to collect premium, leading to high OI concentrations.
Retail traders usually buy options, creating temporary OI spikes but often losing to time decay.
Hence, smart traders watch where institutions build OI—those levels become critical.
10. Limitations and Misinterpretations
Lagging Indicator – OI data is end-of-day in many markets.
False Signals – OI can rise due to hedging, not directional bets.
Expiry Week Noise – OI shifts rapidly as contracts near expiry.
Market Structure Differences – In US, OI behaves differently due to weekly expiries vs Indian markets.
Not Standalone – Should be used with price, volume, and broader trend.
11. Practical Case Studies
Case Study 1: Bullish Setup
Nifty at 20,000.
Max Put OI at 19,800, Max Call OI at 20,200.
PCR = 1.2.
Price rising with Put OI addition.
👉 Interpretation: Support strong at 19,800, resistance at 20,200. Bullish bias.
Case Study 2: Bearish Setup
Bank Nifty at 45,000.
Call OI rising at 45,500, Put OI unwinding at 44,800.
Futures showing short build-up.
👉 Interpretation: Resistance building overhead, downside likely.
Case Study 3: Range-Bound Setup
Stock XYZ trading at ₹1000.
Equal OI at 980 Puts and 1020 Calls.
PCR = 1.
👉 Interpretation: Market makers expect sideways movement, straddle possible.
12. Conclusion
Open Interest Chain Analysis is a window into the psychology of derivative markets. It reveals where big players are positioning, what levels they defend, and whether price action has strength behind it.
Key Takeaways:
OI measures open contracts, not trading volume.
Call OI = Resistance, Put OI = Support.
Change in OI + Price helps identify long/short build-ups.
PCR gives overall sentiment.
Best used with price action and volume.
A disciplined trader does not rely solely on OI but combines it with technical analysis, market structure, and macro events to refine decisions. With practice, OI Chain Analysis becomes a powerful tool for forecasting and risk management.
Beyond Technical Analysis
Navin Fluorine: Supply Zone Breakout Sparks Rally🔍 Technical Analysis
Navin Fluorine Ltd has demonstrated an extraordinary long-term growth trajectory, showcasing a super bullish rally from below ₹100 levels to the current ₹5,000 zone - representing an exceptional 50x growth over the years.
The ₹4,700-₹5,000 zone has been acting as a formidable supply zone over the past year, creating multiple rejection points. However, the game-changing moment arrived with very strong positive Q1 FY26 results that provided the fundamental catalyst needed for a decisive breakout.
With this confirmation, the stock successfully broke above the supply zone and surged to ₹5,444 before pulling back to current levels of ₹4,843. The key now is whether the previous supply zone transforms into a demand zone with bullish candlestick pattern confirmations.
Entry Strategy: Enter on any dips toward ₹4,700-₹4,800 range, ensuring the old supply zone acts as new demand zone.
🎯 Targets:
Target 1: ₹5,500
Target 2: ₹6,000
Target 3: ₹6,500
🚫 Stop Losses:
Critical Support: ₹4,700-₹5,000 (previous supply zone, now key demand zone)
If stock doesn't sustain above this zone, no more expectations on this stock.
💰 Q1 FY26 Financial Highlights (vs Q4 FY25 & Q1 FY25)
Total Income: ₹725 Cr (↑ +3% QoQ from ₹701 Cr; ↑ +38% YoY from ₹524 Cr)
Total Expenses: ₹519 Cr (↓ -1% QoQ from ₹522 Cr; ↑ +23% YoY from ₹423 Cr)
Operating Profit: ₹207 Cr (↑ +16% QoQ from ₹179 Cr; ↑ +107% YoY from ₹100 Cr)
Profit Before Tax: ₹155 Cr (↑ +22% QoQ from ₹127 Cr; ↑ +128% YoY from ₹68 Cr)
Profit After Tax: ₹117 Cr (↑ +23% QoQ from ₹95 Cr; ↑ +129% YoY from ₹51 Cr)
Diluted EPS: ₹23.62 (↑ +23% QoQ from ₹19.15; ↑ +129% YoY from ₹10.32)
🧠 Fundamental Highlights
Navin Fluorine delivered spectacular Q1 FY26 performance with PAT soaring 129% YoY to ₹117 crore, driven by robust revenue growth of 38.5% to ₹725.40 crore. The company is recognized among the fastest-growing specialty chemical stocks with impressive financial metrics.
Market cap stands at ₹24,011 crore (up 42.1% in 1 year) with promoter holding at 27.1%. The stock is trading above all major moving averages (5-day, 20-day, 50-day, 100-day, 200-day), indicating robust upward trend momentum.
Financial strength is evident with 3-year average ROE of 16.7% and RoCE of 19.8%, while revenue grew at CAGR of 18.8% and net profit at 31.6% over the past three years. The company maintains healthy debt-to-equity ratio of 0.56.
The global fluorochemicals industry is expected to grow to $29.61 billion by 2027 at CAGR of 5.06%, driven by surging demand from semiconductors, batteries, and electronic components. Specialty chemicals segment is projected to grow at 12% CAGR between 2020-2025.
Stock has outperformed its sector and reached new 52-week highs, with consistent gains demonstrating strong investor confidence in the specialty chemicals leader's growth prospects.
✅ Conclusion
Navin Fluorine's exceptional 129% YoY PAT surge and successful breakout above ₹5,000 supply zone creates compelling technical and fundamental convergence. The 50x long-term growth story, combined with 42.1% annual market cap increase and industry-leading ROE of 16.7%, validates the breakout thesis. Current consolidation near ₹4,843 offers attractive entry for targeting ₹6,500 levels. Critical support at ₹4,700-₹5,000 zone must hold for sustained bullish trajectory in the specialty chemicals space.
UltraTech: Two-Decade Bull Rally Reaches New Summit🔍 Technical Analysis
UltraTech Cement presents one of the most spectacular long-term growth stories in Indian equity markets. Having observed this stock for two decades, the journey from ₹250 levels to ₹12,000 represents a phenomenal 48x growth over 20 years - a testament to consistent value creation.
The ₹12,000 level acted as formidable resistance from July 2024 to July 2025, creating a year-long consolidation phase. This resistance was finally breached in July 2025, coinciding with confirmation of positive YoY quarterly results that provided the fundamental catalyst needed for the breakout.
Currently trading at ₹12,700, the stock has successfully broken above the psychological ₹12,000 barrier. This breakout, supported by strong fundamental performance, opens up the path for the next leg of the bull rally.
Entry Strategy: Enter on any dips toward ₹12,200-₹12,300 range, ensuring the ₹12,000 level holds as new support.
🎯 Targets:
Target 1: ₹13,000
Target 2: ₹13,500
Target 3: ₹14,000
🚫 Stop Losses:
Critical Support: ₹12,000 (previous resistance, now key support)
If the market doesn't sustain above ₹12,000 level, no more expectations on this stock.
💰 Q1 FY26 Financial Highlights (vs Q4 FY25 & Q1 FY25)
Total Income: ₹21,275 Cr (↓ -8% QoQ from ₹23,063 Cr; ↑ +13% YoY from ₹18,819 Cr)
Total Expenses: ₹16,869 Cr (↓ -9% QoQ from ₹18,456 Cr; ↑ +7% YoY from ₹15,801 Cr)
Operating Profit: ₹4,406 Cr (↓ -4% QoQ from ₹4,608 Cr; ↑ +46% YoY from ₹3,017 Cr)
Profit Before Tax: ₹3,008 Cr (↓ -3% QoQ from ₹3,101 Cr; ↑ +62% YoY from ₹1,857 Cr)
Profit After Tax: ₹2,221 Cr (↓ -10% QoQ from ₹2,475 Cr; ↑ +49% YoY from ₹1,493 Cr)
Diluted EPS: ₹75.54 (↓ -10% QoQ from ₹84.23; ↑ +46% YoY from ₹51.78)
🧠 Fundamental Highlights
UltraTech Cement delivered exceptional Q1 FY26 performance with consolidated net profit surging 49% YoY to ₹2,221 crore, driven by strong volume growth of 9.7% YoY to 36.83 million tonnes. Income rose 13% with EBITDA per MT increasing ₹337.
Market cap stands at ₹3,75,630 crore (up 11.1% in 1 year) with stable promoter holding at 59.2%. The company increased grey cement capacity by 3.5 MTPA in Q1 FY26, bringing total capacity to 192.26 MTPA.
UltraTech has allocated ₹10,000 crore capex for FY26 to bolster capacity and energy efficiency initiatives. Company achieved over 1 GW renewable power installations milestone and expects 7-8% sustainable volume growth.
UltraTech is on track to become world's top cement seller outside China with operational footprint of 34 integrated units, 30 grinding units, and 9 bulk terminals across India. In FY25 alone, the company added 42.6 MTPA capacity, accounting for 55% of the entire sector's expansion.
Strategic positioning includes targeting 209.3 MTPA output by FY27 and maintaining strong operational metrics with focus on sustainability through renewable energy integration.
✅ Conclusion
UltraTech's remarkable 20-year bull run from ₹250 to ₹12,700, combined with 49% YoY PAT growth and successful ₹12,000 resistance breakout, validates the long-term growth thesis. The 192.26 MTPA capacity milestone, ₹10,000 crore FY26 capex, and 1 GW renewable energy achievement position the company as industry leader. Technical breakout toward ₹14,000 appears feasible provided ₹12,000 support holds. Strong fundamentals justify premium valuation in cement sector leadership.
STT Explained – The Silent Tax That Eats Into Your Profits!Hello Traders!
Many traders calculate their profit after entry and exit, but forget a hidden cost that reduces it every single time: STT (Securities Transaction Tax) .
It doesn’t look big on paper, but over time it silently eats into your profits. Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What is STT?
STT is a tax charged on the value of every buy/sell transaction in equities, derivatives, and ETFs.
It was introduced to generate revenue for the government and applies to all market participants.
Example: If you buy shares worth ₹1,00,000, you pay a small percentage as STT. The same applies when you sell. In options and futures, it’s mostly charged on the sell side.
Where Does STT Apply?
Equity Delivery: STT applies on both buy and sell transactions.
Equity Intraday: STT is charged only on the selling side.
Futures: STT applies only on the sell side of the contract.
Options: STT applies on the sell side, but at a higher rate compared to futures.
Why Traders Must Care About STT
It Reduces Net Profit: Even if your trade looks profitable on the chart, STT takes away a portion. In short-term trading, these small cuts add up.
Impacts Scalpers & Option Sellers Most: Since they do high-frequency trading, STT can eat into a large chunk of their returns.
Hidden in Brokerage Statements: Many traders blame “brokerage” for high costs, but in reality, STT is often the bigger factor.
Rahul’s Tip:
Always calculate the real cost of trading , not just entry and exit points. Brokerage, STT, GST, exchange fees, all matter.
Sometimes the best trade is not the most frequent one, but the one with the best cost-to-profit balance.
Conclusion:
STT may look small, but it has a big impact over time.
The difference between a losing trader and a winning trader is often not the strategy, but how well they manage costs like STT.
If this post cleared your doubts on STT, like it, drop your experience in comments, and follow for more trading education that really matters!
India 10-Year Yields and Rupee – A Long-Term SetupThe Bond Yield Story
India’s 10-year government bond yield has been moving inside a long contracting triangle for more than 20 years.
The highs are getting lower.
The lows are getting higher.
Yields are now sitting near the middle, around 6.5%.
This triangle will not last forever. When it breaks, the move can be strong and last for years.
If yields break down: Bond prices go up, borrowing gets cheaper.
If yields break up: Borrowing costs rise, pressure builds on companies and the government.
The Rupee Story
The USD/INR chart shows a very clear uptrend since 2011 .
Every dip has made a higher low.
The line of support is still holding.
Today the rupee is near ₹88 per USD .
This means the rupee has been slowly losing value for many years.
Weak rupee: Imports (oil, gold, electronics) become costlier → inflation risk.
But: Exporters like IT and pharma get some advantage.
Fiscal Pressure
As per a Reuters update on TradingView’s news feed, the GST Council has approved tax cuts on many consumer goods starting September 22, 2025 .
This could boost consumption.
But it may also lead to a large revenue shortfall for the government.
Implication for markets:
Bond yields: More government borrowing could push yields higher.
Rupee: Fiscal stress may keep INR weak against USD.
(source : in.tradingview.com
)
Big Picture
Bond yields are stuck inside a long contracting triangle – a breakout is coming.
The rupee has been in a steady downtrend – the pressure is clear.
Fiscal moves like GST tax cuts add extra risk , tilting towards higher yields and weaker INR.
In short: The charts show yields coiling and rupee sliding . Fundamentals only add more weight to this setup.
Disclaimer: This analysis is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Please do your own research (DYOR) before making any trading decisions.
Option Trading Bull Call Spread (Controlled Bullish Strategy)
Best for: Beginners expecting moderate rise in stock.
Market Outlook: Moderately bullish.
How it works:
Buy a lower strike call.
Sell a higher strike call.
Example:
Nifty at 22,000.
Buy 22,000 call at ₹150.
Sell 22,200 call at ₹80.
Net cost = ₹70.
If Nifty rises to 22,200, max profit = ₹130 (₹200 – ₹70).
Max loss = ₹70 (if Nifty stays below 22,000).
✅ Pros: Limited risk, limited reward.
❌ Cons: Not suitable if stock rises sharply.
Bear Put Spread (Controlled Bearish Strategy)
Best for: Beginners expecting moderate fall in stock.
Market Outlook: Moderately bearish.
How it works:
Buy a higher strike put.
Sell a lower strike put.
Example:
Nifty at 22,000.
Buy 22,000 put at ₹160.
Sell 21,800 put at ₹90.
Net cost = ₹70.
If Nifty falls to 21,800, max profit = ₹130.
Max loss = ₹70.
✅ Pros: Controlled loss, cheaper than naked put.
❌ Cons: Profit capped.
Sensex Structure Analysis & Trade Plan: 4th September 🔎 Higher Timeframe (4H) Outlook
Price rebounded from the 79,800–80,000 demand zone (green box) with multiple wicks showing liquidity grab.
A descending channel breakout attempt is visible → short-term momentum turning bullish.
Overhead supply zones:
80,800–81,000 (immediate)
81,600–81,800 (major resistance + FVG)
Clean Fair Value Gap (FVG) left behind near 80,200–80,350, which may get retested before continuation.
✅ Bias (4H): Mild bullish → until 79,800 holds, upside targets are 80,800 and 81,600.
⏱ Intraday (1H) Structure
Price has broken the short-term downtrend line and reclaimed above 80,500.
Multiple FVGs:
Below current price: 80,300–80,400 → acts as intraday demand.
Above price: 80,800–81,000 → likely first magnet.
Liquidity pools visible above 81,200–81,400 (previous order block).
✅ Bias (1H): Bullish intraday → unless we break below 80,200.
🎯 Scalping / Execution (15M)
Market structure shift (MSS) confirmed after breaking the previous swing high.
Current consolidation around 80,500 after a sharp move.
OB + FVG support: 80,300–80,400 → potential re-entry area.
Next liquidity targets:
80,800 (first test/sell zone)
81,200+ if momentum continues.
📌 Trade Plan for Sensex
Long Setup
Entry: Around 80,300–80,400 (FVG / demand retest)
SL: Below 79,950 (demand invalidation)
Targets:
T1: 80,800
T2: 81,200
T3: 81,600–81,800
Short Setup (countertrend / if rejection seen)
Entry: 80,800–81,000 zone
SL: Above 81,250
Targets:
T1: 80,400
T2: 80,000
⚖️ Summary
Bias: Short-term bullish (demand at 79,800 held).
Key Support: 79,800–80,000.
Key Resistance: 80,800–81,000 → major decision point.
Strategy: Buy dips above 80,200; fade rallies only if rejection at supply.
Banknifty Structure Analysis & Trade Plan: 4th September 🔎 4H Chart Outlook
Strong bounce today with a wide green candle reclaiming 54,000.
Price is inside a short-term rising channel.
Overhead supply zone (54,200–54,400) + FVG remains untested.
Key demand sits at 53,400–53,600, aligned with previous rejection and liquidity sweep.
👉 Bias: Mild bullish, but supply at 54,200–54,400 is the first hurdle.
🔎 1H Chart Outlook
Price has broken above a short-term downtrend and filled the FVG at 53,800–54,000.
Immediate resistance at 54,100–54,200.
If rejected, we can expect a pullback retest into 53,800–53,900 (also aligns with demand zone & FVG).
👉 Bias: Range-bound between 53,800 demand and 54,200 supply.
🔎 15M Chart Outlook
Microstructure shows OB around 53,750–53,800 that pushed the breakout.
Current rejection candle printed at 54,100–54,200 supply zone.
Liquidity resting below 53,900–54,000 (intraday retrace level).
👉 Bias: Short-term sell-on-rise till 54,200 holds.
🎯 Trade Plan for 4th Sept (BankNifty Futures / Options)
🔵 Bullish Scenario
If price sustains above 54,200 with strong candles →
🎯 Targets: 54,400 → 54,600
📍 Stop-loss: below 54,050
🔴 Bearish Scenario
At open, if price fails at 54,100–54,200 and prints rejection →
🎯 Targets: 53,900 → 53,750 → 53,600
📍 Stop-loss: above 54,250
⚡ Intraday Key Levels
Demand: 53,750–53,850
Supply: 54,200–54,400
Range: 53,600 – 54,400
✅ Suggested Strategy:
Sell-on-rise near 54,150–54,200 with puts (strike 53,800 / 53,500).
Switch to long calls only if breakout candle closes above 54,200 with volume.
Nifty Trend Analysis & Trade Plan: 4th September 🔎 Market Structure Analysis (Nifty 50)
🔹 4H Chart (Swing Bias)
Nifty has been recovering inside an ascending channel after the recent downtrend.
Price is hovering around 24,700 resistance, which aligns with a supply/FVG zone.
Multiple rejections seen in this zone → shows sellers are active.
Support zone: 24,580–24,600 (channel base + previous FVG).
Overall: Market is trying to shift from bearish to neutral → but facing overhead supply.
Bias: Neutral-to-bullish as long as 24,580 holds. A break below opens 24,320 demand.
🔹 1H Chart (Intraday Bias)
Price is respecting the rising channel structure.
EMA is turning upward, but rejection near 24,740–24,760 supply zone.
Clean FVG gap support around 24,640–24,660.
If price sustains above 24,660 → can push toward 24,800–24,850 resistance.
Below 24,600 → structure weakens, pullback likely.
Bias: Intraday bullish above 24,660 | Bearish below 24,600.
🔹 15M Chart (Execution View)
Clear rejection from supply near 24,740–24,760.
Demand zones marked at 24,640–24,660 (short-term OB + FVG).
Another strong demand at 24,560–24,580.
If demand holds, scalps to the upside remain valid.
Break below 24,560 → triggers downside momentum.
📌 Trade Plan for 4th September (Nifty Futures/Options)
🔺 Long Setup (Bullish Bias)
Entry: Above 24,660 on 15m confirmation (green candle close).
Target 1: 24,740
Target 2: 24,800–24,850 (major supply).
SL: Below 24,600.
Rationale: Riding channel structure with EMA support.
🔻 Short Setup (Bearish Bias)
Entry: On rejection from 24,740–24,760 OR breakdown below 24,600.
Target 1: 24,560
Target 2: 24,480
Target 3: 24,320 (if heavy selling persists).
SL: Above 24,770 (for rejection short) or above 24,640 (for breakdown short).
Rationale: Supply rejection and failed channel hold.
🎯 Key Levels to Watch
Resistance Zones: 24,740–24,760 | 24,800–24,850
Support Zones: 24,640–24,660 | 24,560–24,580 | 24,320
👉 In short:
Bias is neutral-to-bullish intraday, but risk of pullback if 24,600 breaks.
Preferred Plan: Longs above 24,660 toward 24,800. Shorts only if supply holds or 24,600 breaks.
Volume Profile & Market Structure AnalysisIntroduction
In modern financial markets, traders and investors rely on both price and volume to make informed decisions. While traditional technical analysis focuses heavily on price charts, patterns, and indicators, volume profile analysis introduces a powerful dimension: it shows not just where price has moved, but also where the most significant trading activity has occurred.
Markets are not simply a story of price fluctuations — they are a narrative of participation, commitment, and liquidity. By studying how much volume has traded at each price level, traders gain insights into which levels matter most to participants. This is where the volume profile becomes a key tool.
Coupled with market structure analysis — which identifies trends, ranges, supply-demand zones, and institutional footprints — traders can develop a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanics that drive market movement.
This guide explores the concepts of volume profile and market structure in detail, blending theory with practical application.
1. Understanding Volume in Trading
Volume represents the number of contracts, shares, or lots traded during a specific period.
High volume = Strong participation, more conviction.
Low volume = Weak participation, possible indecision.
Price movement alone can be deceptive. A rally with low volume may simply be speculative or driven by a few participants. Conversely, a rally with high volume suggests genuine market consensus and institutional interest.
Thus, when price is studied together with volume, we see where money is flowing in and out of the market.
2. What is Volume Profile?
Volume Profile is a charting tool that displays trading activity over a chosen time period at specified price levels. Unlike the typical volume indicator shown below price bars (which measures activity over time), volume profile shows how much volume was transacted at each price level.
It usually appears on the side of the chart as a histogram.
Key elements:
Point of Control (POC):
The price level with the highest traded volume. It’s often seen as the market’s “fair value.”
Value Area (VA):
The range where around 70% of trading activity occurred.
Value Area High (VAH): Top of the value range.
Value Area Low (VAL): Bottom of the value range.
High Volume Nodes (HVN):
Price zones where large amounts of trading took place — representing strong support/resistance.
Low Volume Nodes (LVN):
Price levels with little trading — often act as rejection zones where price moves quickly through.
In essence, volume profile reveals where participants are most interested in trading.
3. Why Volume Profile Matters
Identifies strong support/resistance: Prices with high volume tend to act as magnets.
Reveals institutional activity: Large players accumulate or distribute around high-volume zones.
Helps detect breakouts/fakeouts: If price moves away from a value area with volume, it’s often more sustainable.
Guides risk management: Stop-loss and target levels can be aligned with volume nodes.
For example, if the POC is at 15,000 in Nifty futures, traders know this is a strong pivot point. If price is above POC, bias is bullish; if below, bearish.
4. Building Blocks of Market Structure
While volume profile explains where participants are most active, market structure explains how the market moves.
Market structure refers to the repetitive patterns of price behavior, shaped by supply and demand imbalances.
a) Phases of Market Structure
Accumulation: Institutions build positions after a downtrend. Volume increases slowly.
Markup: Price trends upward, breaking resistance levels.
Distribution: Institutions unload holdings to late buyers at higher prices.
Markdown: Market declines as selling pressure outweighs demand.
b) Market Structure Basics
Higher Highs (HH) & Higher Lows (HL): Uptrend.
Lower Highs (LH) & Lower Lows (LL): Downtrend.
Equal Highs/Lows: Range or consolidation.
Traders map these swings to understand whether the market is bullish, bearish, or neutral.
5. Integrating Volume Profile with Market Structure
When combined, these two frameworks become powerful:
Trend confirmation: In an uptrend, high-volume nodes forming higher also confirm strong institutional support.
Range identification: A wide value area often signals consolidation.
Breakout validation: If price breaks above value area with high volume, chances of continuation are strong.
Liquidity hunts: Price may dip into low-volume nodes to trap traders before reversing.
Example: If Bank Nifty is making higher highs but each move is supported by rising POC levels, it confirms strength in the trend.
6. Practical Applications for Traders
a) Day Trading with Volume Profile
Identify intraday POC and VAH/VAL.
Trade rejections from value extremes (fade strategy).
Trade breakouts above VAH or below VAL with volume confirmation.
b) Swing Trading
Use weekly/monthly volume profiles.
Enter near HVNs (support zones) and exit near opposing HVNs.
Align swing trades with broader market structure (trend direction).
c) Position Trading
Focus on long-term volume profiles (quarterly/yearly).
Look for accumulation/distribution footprints of institutions.
Hold positions around POC shifts (where market’s fair value is migrating).
7. Volume Profile Strategies
Strategy 1: Value Area Rejection
If price moves above VAH but volume doesn’t confirm, expect a return back inside the value area.
Works best in range-bound markets.
Strategy 2: Value Area Breakout
If price breaks VAH/VAL with strong volume, trade in the breakout direction.
Works best in trending markets.
Strategy 3: POC Reversal
When price revisits the POC after a strong move, watch for reversal or continuation signals.
Strategy 4: Low-Volume Node Play
Price tends to move quickly across LVNs since there’s little resistance there.
8. Market Structure Strategies
Strategy 1: BOS (Break of Structure)
When price breaks a previous swing high in an uptrend → confirms continuation.
Strategy 2: CHoCH (Change of Character)
When price shifts from making HH/HL to LH/LL → signals reversal.
Strategy 3: Liquidity Grab
Market often sweeps previous highs/lows to trigger stop-losses before moving in the real direction.
Strategy 4: Supply/Demand Zones
Identify areas of sharp moves with high volume → strong institutional orders likely exist there.
9. Case Study Example (Nifty Futures)
Imagine Nifty is trading around 19,800.
Daily volume profile shows POC at 19,750.
VAH = 19,820, VAL = 19,700.
Scenario:
Price breaks above VAH with strong volume → continuation likely.
If it rejects above 19,820 and comes back inside → fade trade down to POC.
Market structure shows HH/HL → aligns with breakout trades.
Thus, both tools together offer context + execution clarity.
10. Psychological Edge of Volume Profile & Market Structure
Traders feel more confident when trades are backed by objective volume data rather than just subjective chart patterns.
Understanding market structure helps avoid emotional decisions by providing a map of price behavior.
Together, they reduce overtrading and improve patience by waiting for high-probability zones.
Conclusion
Volume Profile and Market Structure are two complementary tools that transform how traders view the market.
Volume Profile shows the hidden story of participation, liquidity, and fair value.
Market Structure provides the roadmap of how price evolves over time.
Together, they:
Identify high-probability trading zones.
Reveal institutional footprints.
Help traders avoid emotional decisions.
However, success lies not in the tools alone but in how consistently and patiently traders apply them with risk management. Over time, these methods can provide a decisive edge in understanding and navigating financial markets.
UNIVCABLES Price ActionUniversal Cables Limited is currently trading near ₹736 as of early September 2025, continuing its upward momentum from the past six months where the share price surged more than 46%. The stock has a 52-week high of ₹867 and a low of ₹408, showing substantial volatility but also strong resilience during the year. Market capitalization stands at about ₹2,550 crore, placing it firmly in the mid-cap segment for the cables and electricals industry.
The company reported outstanding financial results for Q1 FY26, with net sales rising to ₹600 crore—a 22% year-on-year increase. Profit after tax jumped nearly 489% year-on-year to ₹32.91 crore. Operating profits and margins have also expanded, powered by a rise in sales volumes and efficiency improvements. The earnings per share for the quarter was ₹9.50, reflecting a solid jump from the same period last year.
Valuation wise, Universal Cables carries a price-to-earnings ratio around 21 and a price-to-book ratio close to 0.72, which suggests it still trades at reasonable levels compared to sector averages. However, the debt-equity ratio has risen to 0.48, indicating the company is using more leverage, which may impact liquidity but is manageable for growth. Dividend yield remains modest, with a final dividend of ₹4 per share announced for the period.
Technically, the stock is in an uptrend, trading well above key moving averages, and volume patterns indicate strong trading interest. Near-term sentiment is positive, though some profit taking is possible around resistance zones near the recent highs. Universal Cables benefits from product diversity and sector demand, and if financial momentum continues, the outlook remains constructive for medium-term investors.
02SEP2025-Nifty 50: A Day of Consolidation and Sudden DeclineIntraday Chart Analysis & Key Data Points (as of September 2, 2025):
Opening and Early Session: The Nifty 50 opened strong, trading with a bullish bias. For the first three hours, the index was in a consolidating range, indicating a tug-of-war between buyers and sellers, but with a slight upward momentum. The intraday high was 24,756.1.
The Breakdown: A significant shift occurred around 1:30 PM. The index broke below its consolidation range, leading to a sharp and rapid decline. This move saw Nifty plummet by over 230 points from its day's high. The index closed at 24,579.6, below the psychologically important 24,600 mark.
FII/DII Activity: The market movement aligns with the FII (Foreign Institutional Investor) and DII (Domestic Institutional Investor) data.
FIIs: Were net sellers in the cash market, offloading shares worth ₹1,652.11 crore. In the derivatives segment, they were net sellers in index options, which confirms their bearish stance.
DIIs: Provided support by being net buyers, absorbing some of the selling pressure from FIIs.
Technical Levels: The sharp sell-off tested crucial support levels. The immediate support zone is identified between 24,300 and 24,200. The day's low of 24,522.35 is also a key level to watch. On the upside, the resistance zone is now around 24,650-24,700.
Derivatives Data: The Put-Call Ratio (PCR) for the day declined to 0.71, indicating a bearish sentiment. A PCR below 1.0 suggests that more puts (bearish bets) were traded than calls, pointing to a negative outlook. Additionally, the India VIX, a volatility index, also showed a slight decline.
Analysis of Conditions and Possibilities:
The market is in a "sell-on-rally" mode. The consolidation followed by a sharp breakdown suggests that institutional players were booking profits, which overpowered the initial bullish sentiment. The FIIs' bearish stance, especially in the derivatives market, is a significant red flag.
Bearish Scenario: If Nifty breaks below the 24,500 level and fails to hold the 24,300-24,250 support zone, it could trigger further selling pressure. The next possible targets on the downside could be 24,150 and potentially 24,000. This scenario is likely if global markets remain weak or if FIIs continue to be aggressive sellers.
Bullish/Consolidation Scenario: A minor bounce or consolidation cannot be ruled out. The heavy short buildup in Nifty stocks could lead to a short-covering rally. If the index manages to hold the 24,500 support and reclaims the 24,650 level, it could signal a temporary reversal. However, given the overall sentiment, any such upward move might be met with selling at higher levels.
Trading Plan for the Next Day:
Given the high volatility and negative sentiment, a cautious approach is recommended.
For Aggressive Traders (Bearish Outlook):
Entry: Look for a breakdown below the day's low of 24,522.35. A short position can be initiated with a stop-loss just above the consolidation range, for instance, around 24,650.
Target: The first target would be the 24,300-24,250 support zone. If this level is breached, the next target would be 24,150.
For Cautious Traders (Wait-and-Watch):
It's best to wait for a clear directional trend to emerge. Avoid initiating long positions until Nifty reclaims and sustains above the 24,700 resistance level.
Alternatively, you can consider a "sell on rise" strategy. If Nifty rallies towards the 24,650-24,700 zone and shows signs of weakness (e.g., bearish candlestick patterns), a short position could be initiated with a tight stop-loss.
Key Takeaways:
The market sentiment has shifted from bullish to bearish.
FIIs are the primary drivers of this bearish trend.
Crucial support levels are at 24,500 and then 24,300-24,250.
Resistance is now at 24,650-24,700.
As a retail trader, it is crucial to manage risk and avoid trading against the prevailing trend. A long position is extremely risky under current conditions.
LTIM: The Final Squeeze – Breakout or Breakdown?LTIMINDTREE: The Big Squeeze! ⚡ Which Way? 🐂🐻
Timeframe: Daily
Trade Type: Swing/Positional
Pure Price Action Setup: LTIMINDTREE is compressing into a textbook Symmetrical Triangle on the daily chart. This is a classic consolidation pattern where the market is building energy for a significant breakout. Volatility is collapsing into a tight apex!
Key Decision Levels:
Bullish Trigger: A decisive daily close above 5350 (the recent upper trendline resistance).
Bearish Trigger: A decisive daily close below 5067 (the rising lower trendline support).
The Trade Plan:
👉 BULLISH BREAKOUT Scenario 🐂
Entry: On a close above 5350.
Confirmation: A significant increase in volume on the breakout candle should confirm buyer commitment.
Target 1: 5554 (Previous major high)
Final Target: 6042 (All-Time High & Pattern Confluence)
SL: Below the breakout candle or the lower trendline.
👉 BEARISH BREAKDOWN Scenario 🐻
Entry: On a close below 5067.
Confirmation: A noticeable spike in volume on the breakdown would validate seller dominance.
Target 1: 4939 (Initial support zone)
Final Target: 3767 (Major Swing Low & Pattern Confluence)
SL: Above the breakdown candle or the upper trendline.
Pattern Depth & Significance:
The triangle's maximum depth is measured from its origin: the high of 6042 (Feb 5) to the low of 3767 (Apr 7).
This is a 2,275-point range.
In percentage terms, that's a ~60.3% move from high to low.
Why this matters: The energy stored in a pattern of this scale suggests the resulting breakout could be powerful and sustained. Always trail your stop loss after Target 1 is hit! 🔒
Risk Management is NON-NEGOTIABLE!
This is a high-risk, high-reward setup. Your stop loss is your best friend.
📜 Disclaimer: This is an educational example of technical analysis and NOT financial advice. Trading carries a high level of risk. You should consider whether you can afford to take the risk of loss. Perform your own research before making any trade decisions.
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Sensex structure analysis and trade plan: 3rd September 🔹 4H Chart (Swing Bias)
Trend: Still bearish; lower highs and lower lows intact inside a descending channel.
FVG Supply: Around 81,600–81,800 remains untested and acts as a strong supply cap.
Recent Reaction: Price rejected sharply from ~80,600 (near 20 EMA & supply).
Demand Zone: 79,800–79,600 (highlighted green box) is the last demand block; defended intraday but being retested.
✅ Bias: Bearish to sideways
Resistance: 80,600–80,800
Demand: 79,800–79,600
🔹 1H Chart (Intraday Bias)
Breakdown: Price lost 20 EMA and structure after retesting 80,600.
FVG: Fresh bearish FVG between 80,400–80,600 → short re-entry zone.
Support: Demand block at 79,800–79,600 is holding for now, but repeated testing weakens it.
Channel: Price is respecting downward sloping channel resistance.
✅ Bias: Bearish with possible pullback
Short re-entry: 80,400–80,600 (FVG & channel resistance)
Targets: 80,000 / 79,800 → 79,600
SL: Above 80,800
🔹 15m Chart (Execution View)
Order Flow: Break of market structure (BOS) at 80,300; sellers stepped in aggressively.
OB + FVG: Overlapping bearish order block & FVG at 80,400–80,600 = ideal short zone.
Liquidity: Sell-side liquidity resting below 79,800 → likely sweep area.
✅ Trade Plan for Tomorrow (3rd Sept):
Primary Setup (Short Bias):
Look for rejection / bearish PA at 80,400–80,600.
Short entry in that zone.
Targets: 80,000 → 79,800 → 79,600.
Stop loss: Above 80,800.
Alternate Bullish Scenario (if 79,800 demand holds with strong reversal):
Buy only after clean BOS above 80,600.
Target: 81,000–81,200.
But probability lower while within channel.
📌 Summary:
Sensex structure is still bearish, with rallies into 80,400–80,600 likely to get sold into. Tomorrow’s trade should be sell on rise unless price gives a strong breakout above 80,800 (invalidating the bearish structure). Watch 79,800–79,600 carefully; a clean breakdown can accelerate fall toward 79,200–79,000.
Banknifty Structure Analysis & Trade Plan: 3rd September 🔎 Higher Timeframe (4H) Outlook
Trend Bias: Clear bearish market structure — price rejected from supply around 54,000–54,100 and printed a strong bearish candle.
Key Supply Zones:
54,400–54,500 (FVG + strong supply)
54,000–54,100 (fresh supply that caused the last drop)
Demand Zone: 53,300–53,450 (green zone marked)
Observation: Price broke short-term bullish corrective channel, resuming bearish trend.
✅ Bias: Bearish on 4H until demand around 53,300–53,450 is tested.
⏱ 1H Chart Structure
Trendline Break: Price broke rising structure and retested supply.
FVG: Fresh bearish Fair Value Gap at 53,800–54,000.
EMA: Acting as dynamic resistance, price closed below.
Support: Immediate support around 53,600–53,650.
⚠️ If support breaks, expect a quick slide to 53,300 zone.
📉 15M Intraday Chart
Break of Structure (BOS): Confirmed at 53,800, marking bearish intent.
Order Blocks:
Bearish OB at 53,950–54,050 (likely short entry zone if retested).
Bullish OB around 53,350–53,400 (possible intraday bounce).
Liquidity: Sell-side liquidity resting below 53,500.
📝 Trade Plan for 3rd September
🔻 Bearish Scenarios
Short on Pullback to Supply
Entry: 53,900–54,000 (FVG zone)
Stop Loss: Above 54,150
Target 1: 53,600
Target 2: 53,350
Breakdown Play
If 53,600 support breaks with momentum, enter short.
SL: Above 53,800
Target: 53,300 demand zone
🔼 Bullish Scenarios (Low Probability)
Only valid if 53,300 demand zone holds with strong rejection.
Intraday bounce possible towards 53,700–53,800, but overall still a sell-on-rise market.
✅ Final Bias
Primary Bias: Bearish → Sell on rise.
Invalidation: If Bank Nifty sustains above 54,100, bearish view is invalidated.
Key Levels to Watch:
Resistance: 53,900–54,100
Support: 53,600 & 53,300–53,350
Nifty Structure Analysis & Trade Plan: 3rd September 🔹 4H Chart (Swing Bias)
Trend: Market still in broader downtrend, but we saw a corrective bounce.
Supply Zones:
24,700–24,800 (fresh supply zone, rejected strongly)
25,000–25,100 (major FVG + OB confluence)
Demand Zones:
24,300–24,350 (previous OB + demand block)
Observation: Price got rejected exactly from 24,700 supply and closed near 24,575. Weakness showing continuation bias.
✅ Bias: Bearish below 24,700 | Expect re-test of 24,300
🔹 1H Chart (Intraday Bias)
Price attempted a breakout but failed, leaving a large bearish rejection candle from 24,700.
Current structure: MSS (Market Structure Shift) → downtrend continuation confirmed.
Fair Value Gap (FVG) formed near 24,650–24,700 → this becomes intraday supply zone.
EMA is overhead, acting as resistance.
✅ Bias: Sell on rallies toward 24,650–24,700
🔹 15M Chart (Execution Levels)
OB (Order Block) formed at 24,650 → aligns with higher timeframe supply.
Minor demand visible around 24,500–24,520 (liquidity sweep possible).
If 24,500 breaks, expect quick slide to 24,300 demand.
📌 Trade Plan for 3rd September
Primary Setup (Sell on Rally)
Entry: 24,650–24,700 (supply + FVG zone)
Stop Loss: Above 24,780
Targets:
T1 = 24,500
T2 = 24,350
Extended = 24,300
Alternative Setup (Breakdown Play)
If price opens weak and breaks 24,500 cleanly:
Entry: Below 24,480 after retest
SL: Above 24,600
Target: 24,300
Invalidations
If price sustains above 24,800 on 1H close → bearish plan invalid, upside open toward 25,000–25,100 supply.
👉 Overall, structure favors short positioning with Sell-on-Rally bias, unless bulls reclaim 24,800.
Nifty Intraday Expiry Setup! Sep 02 - Cup & Handle in Play!Body:
Nifty 15m is painting a classic price action setup! A nice rounding cup ☕ is aiming for the resistance zone ⚡
⚔️ Key Levels:
Resistance: 24680 - 24700
Support: 24595 - 24600
The Playbook:
✅ Handle Formation (Ideal): Price hits resistance, makes a U-turn to test 24595-600 as support to form the handle. Then we wait for the next breakout!
🔻 Break DOWN (Support Breaks):
T1: 24500
T2: 24400
🔺 Break UP (Resistance Breaks):
T1: 24800 - 24840
T2: 24900 - 24920
No directional trades between support & resistance! Wait for the break for a clear signal. 🚦
Disclaimer: This is purely an educational idea and not trading advice. Please do your own research and understand the risks involved before trading.
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Intraday Alert: Nifty Bank Symmetrical Triangle! Nifty Bank is squeezing into a tight Symmetrical Triangle on the 15-min chart! Expect a strong intraday breakout soon.
Pattern: Symmetrical Triangle
Timeframe: 15 Minutes
Strategy: WAIT for the breakout. No trades inside the pattern.
🟢 LONG above resistance
🎯 Target: 54300
❌ Stop: Below breakout candle
🔴 SHORT below support
🎯 Target: 53600
❌ Stop: Above breakdown candle
Patience pays!
⚠️ Disclaimer: This is NOT trading advice. This post is for educational purposes only. Trading is high risk. Please do your own research and consult a SEBI registered advisor before making any trade decisions.
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