A blow-off top is one of the cleanest short setups in the market. Here’s how I identify and trade it on MNQ. What it looks like: – A strong, near-vertical push higher on the 15M or lower timeframe – Volume spikes as retail chases the move late – Price stalls or wicks hard at a resistance level (often a 4H or daily high) – The move exhausts — buyers run out of fuel What I wait for: – 4H bias is already bearish or at a key resistance zone – 1H shows momentum fading (lower highs forming on the push up) – 15M gives me the trigger: a strong bearish candle closing below the most recent swing low after the top forms Entry / Risk: – Short entry on the 15M break of structure after the top – Stop above the wick high – Target the last significant 1H or 4H support level – Standard sizing: 3 contracts in, 2 off at first target, 1 runner Key thing to watch: Don’t short into the move while it’s still going. Wait for the structure break. Shorting a blow-off top too early is how you get squeezed. Drop your examples below or ask questions — this is a living document.
