NQ 15min Challenge

Past challenge from 2026-03-02. See the correct answer and explanation below.

NQ15minintermediate

2026-03-02

SCENARIO

NQ is at 19,850. It dropped 200 points from the session high of 20,050 in a clean downtrend. Price just bounced off 19,800 (a prior day support level) and printed a hammer candle on the 15min chart. RSI(14) is at 28. Volume on the bounce was average.

Market Context

FOMC meeting minutes released yesterday, hawkish tone. Tech stocks under pressure all week. The 19,800 level was support 3 sessions ago.

Key Levels

20050Session high

1995020 EMA on 15min

19850Current price

19800Prior day support

Explanation

A single hammer candle at support with average volume in a strong downtrend is not enough confirmation. The macro backdrop (hawkish FOMC) favors further downside. RSI can stay oversold much longer than your account can stay solvent. Wait for a higher low on the 15min or a break back above the 20 EMA at 19,950 before considering a long. Counter-trend trades require exceptional setups.

Prop Firm Implications

apex-trader-funding

Apex trailing drawdown is intraday. A failed bounce attempt could immediately tighten your drawdown buffer with no recovery.

Related Firm Rules

Apex Trader Funding

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