The Hidden Edge: Trend Following Meets Broadening Formation
If you’ve ever had that sinking feeling of watching your Forex trade go against you – like buying a one-size-fits-all outfit that fits absolutely nobody – welcome to the club. Today, we’re talking about how not to get fitted for regret. Enter: Trend Following with a side of Broadening Formation, also known as the “Market Doesn’t Know Itself” pattern.
The trend-following strategy with a broadening formation isn’t your average Joe trading move. It’s an advanced approach, one that calls for laser precision and a little market wizardry. Stick around, and we’ll uncover the hidden secrets of broadening formations and how they can make your trend-following strategy bulletproof. And if you’re thinking, “Trend following is like a bad ex that comes and goes,” you’re partly right – but I promise, there’s a happy ending if you know what to do.
Unpacking the Chaos: What on Earth is a Broadening Formation?
Have you ever heard of a market pattern that looks like it’s stretching before an Olympic sprint? Broadening formations do just that – imagine a market price moving in wider and wider swings, leaving your average trader looking like they’re trying to catch an off-leash dog. These formations hint at increased volatility, and while most traders see chaos, trend followers find opportunities.
Broadening formations, like the ones seen on top-down breakouts, signal an expansion in price volatility – which means a potential setup for capturing large price movements. Traders can visualize this pattern as a reverse megaphone, and if used correctly, it’s a pattern that can unlock extraordinary trend opportunities. It’s as if the market is just waiting for someone bold enough to ride the wave it’s throwing out.
Why Most Traders Get It Wrong (And How You Can Avoid It)
Broadening formations often confuse traders because they defy the predictable in-and-out style many have gotten used to. Instead of nicely hugging a trendline, the price bounces wider, challenging you to look for rhythm amidst chaos. It’s like trying to predict a squirrel’s next jump. Many traders take one look at the broadening formation, panic, and click out – kind of like that overenthusiastic click on the “sell” button we all regret.
But here’s where the real magic happens: Broadening formations reveal when price action is getting serious about a trend continuation – or a reversal. Instead of running, embrace it. Learn to trust the broader swings as a cue that a trend following setup is forming. Picture it as the market warming up before the real sprint.
The Hidden Formula Only Experts Use
Experts know that with trend following, it’s not about beating the market at every small move; it’s about riding the big waves that most people are too scared to catch. Trend following combined with broadening formations becomes a two-part dance: (1) First, identify where these exaggerated price swings suggest a reversal is imminent. (2) Next, follow that trend with the confidence of a shark sensing opportunity.
One proven technique is the “Swing and Stick” approach: Wait for that moment when the price – after creating a series of exaggerated highs and lows – sticks to the direction it’s found. It’s a balancing act between caution and action, but when you catch it, it’s like capturing lightning in a bottle.
Are You Falling for These Common Myths?
Myth #1: Broadening formations are inherently bearish. Many novice traders look at this expansive pattern and think, “Sell, sell, sell!” But in truth, it’s not always a sign of weakness. It’s a sign of indecision, and often that can lead to the most powerful bullish reversals.
Myth #2: Volatility is bad. We get it – volatility can make the market feel as calm as juggling flaming knives. But, for trend followers, broadening formations signal when to get excited. It’s not just chaos; it’s energy that’s about to release, and if you’re in the right place, you’re on for a thrilling ride.
How to Ride a Broadening Formation Like a Pro
Step 1: Spot the Pattern – Look for at least three consecutive higher highs and lower lows. Remember, this pattern’s all about volatility on a bender. It needs to spread its wings, so be patient while spotting it.
Step 2: Look for a Catalyst – Trend following with a broadening formation means watching for fundamental news that could trigger movement in favor of the trend. Check those economic indicators (which, by the way, you can find on StarseedFX’s Forex News Today). Knowing what’s influencing the market gives you an advantage over those waiting on “fate.”
Step 3: Strategize with Risk Management – You’ll never be right every time, but if you’ve got a risk management plan – such as the StarseedFX Free Trading Plan, you’re already ahead. The broadening formation thrives on volatility; ensure your stops are logically placed and provide room for the pattern to complete.
Step 4: Initiate the Trade – The trend emerges as the price breaks out of the broadening structure. Go with it, placing your entry in line with the breakout direction. It’s like the market’s given you a signal: “Let’s go!”
The Game-Changing Insights: Why Trend Following with Broadening Formations is a Trader’s Hidden Gem
- Increased Profit Opportunities: The wide price swings mean you’re not just trading pennies – you’re swinging for real price action that matters.
- Advanced Setup for a Trend Reversal or Continuation: Depending on the swing’s result, broadening formations can indicate strong reversals or continuations – it’s your job to position yourself for the ride.
- Test the Fear and Win: Broadening formations often look intimidating, but knowing what you’re dealing with can put you ahead of most traders who shy away at first glance.
Real Traders, Real Results
According to John Bollinger, creator of the famous Bollinger Bands, “Broadening formations are like flashing beacons that something is brewing – volatility isn’t the enemy. It’s a signpost for traders with courage.” That courage can separate those who make real progress from those forever chasing shadows.
Take trader example Chris H. from StarseedFX’s community. He once shared how a broadening formation tipped him off to a trend reversal during a wild NZDUSD swing. After understanding the tell-tale signals, he confidently entered the reversal trend, profiting significantly as others hesitated.
Wrap-Up: Mastering Trend Following with Broadening Formations
Broadening formations are the market’s way of signaling potential opportunities that are often missed by those playing it safe. They offer the type of volatility trend followers thrive on. By taking the time to understand this pattern – and viewing it not as chaos, but as strategic expansion – you position yourself on the right side of the trade.
So, are you ready to stop running from the squirrel and ride the wave of expanding volatility like a pro? Start by diving deeper into advanced techniques and the resources we offer at StarseedFX.
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Image Credits: Cover image at the top is AI-generated
PLEASE NOTE: This is not trading advice. It is educational content. Markets are influenced by numerous factors, and their reactions can vary each time.

Anne Durrell & Mo
About the Author
Anne Durrell (aka Anne Abouzeid), a former teacher, has a unique talent for transforming complex Forex concepts into something easy, accessible, and even fun. With a blend of humor and in-depth market insight, Anne makes learning about Forex both enlightening and entertaining. She began her trading journey alongside her husband, Mohamed Abouzeid, and they have now been trading full-time for over 12 years.
Anne loves writing and sharing her expertise. For those new to trading, she provides a variety of free forex courses on StarseedFX. If you enjoy the content and want to support her work, consider joining The StarseedFX Community, where you will get daily market insights and trading alerts.
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