What does the term ‘swing trading’ mean?

Swing trading refers to a trading strategy that aims to capitalize on short-term price movements in a stock or other asset. Traders who adopt this strategy typically hold positions for a period ranging from a few days to a few weeks, looking to profit from expected upward or downward swings in the market. This approach contrasts sharply with long-term investment strategies, which focus on holding assets for extended periods, generally based on fundamental analysis.

Swing traders utilize technical analysis and market trends to make informed decisions about when to enter or exit trades, often using charts and indicators to identify potential price movements. The goal is to exploit market volatility and achieve gains within a limited timeframe, making it distinct from other trading or investment strategies such as those that focus on options trading or mutual funds.