What is triple witching: a day, a time, a curse? In fact, despite its witchy name, triple witching refers to an important event in the world of stocks and investments that happens four times each year. On the third Friday of March, June, September, and December, the contracts for stock index futures, stock index options, and stock options all expire at the same time: a triple witching. This daylong event, which is sometimes referred to as “Freaky Friday,” is an important day for short-term investors because the markets tend to be turbulent and unpredictable, shifting erratically as traders attempt to offset their orders before the closing bell rings.

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What are Japanese candlesticks? No, we’re not talking about candlesticks made in Japan. We’re talking about a method of communicating investment information on a price chart over an established period of time. Many people find that Japanese candlesticks are an easier way to interpret information as opposed to traditional investment charts. Each candlestick represents a period of time and when you consider the candlestick’s body, wicks, and color, you can understand the price information and use it to make smart investment decisions. Still wondering, “What are Japanese candlesticks?” Read on to learn more.

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