RTY 15min Challenge

Past challenge from 2026-03-12. See the correct answer and explanation below.

RTY15minadvanced
2026-03-12

SCENARIO

Russell 2000 (RTY) is at 2,080. While the S&P and Nasdaq are making new session highs, RTY is lagging -- it failed to break above 2,090 twice today and is now pulling back. The relative strength vs ES (RTY/ES ratio) is declining. A bearish divergence has formed on RSI(14) -- price made equal highs but RSI made a lower high.

Market Context

Small caps have underperformed large caps for 3 straight weeks. Regional bank concerns are weighing on the Russell. The trend on the daily chart is down.

Key Levels

2090Double top resistance
2080Current price
206515min support / VWAP
2050Daily support
Explanation

When a market lags its peers during a broad rally, it is a sign of relative weakness. The double top at 2,090 with RSI divergence on a daily downtrend provides a high-conviction short setup. Enter short at 2,080 with a stop at 2,095 (above the double top) targeting 2,065 first (VWAP) and 2,050 (daily support) for a 1:2+ R:R.

Prop Firm Implications

apex-trader-funding

RTY has smaller point values than ES/NQ, making it easier to manage risk for Apex accounts with tighter trailing drawdowns.

Related Firm Rules