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Strategy Library·Intermediate· 4 min

Opening range breakout

One of the oldest, cleanest intraday setups for NQ.

What it is

Mark the high and low of the first 15–30 minutes of the US cash session (9:30–10:00 ET). Trade the break of that range in the direction of the day's opening drive.

Why it works

The opening range absorbs overnight news and positioning. A clean break of it typically signals which side won.

Entry & stop

Enter on the close of the first candle outside the range. Stop = other side of the range. Target = range width × 1–2.

Filter

Skip on obvious FOMC / CPI mornings or when the range is unusually wide — the risk is not worth the R:R.

Watch it on the chart
Chart breakdown
OPENING RANGE · first 15–30 minOR HIGH BREAK
NQ 1-min chart with opening range boxed and the breakout entry shown.
Key takeaways
  • Use the first 15–30 min high/low as your range.
  • Trade the break, not the middle.
  • Stop = other side of the range.
  • Skip on major news mornings.
Quick check

Opening range is 40 points. Price breaks the high on the 10:05 candle. Ideal stop?

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Educational simulation only. Not financial advice. Prop firm rules vary between companies — always read the official rules of the specific firm before trading.