Forex trading one minute strategy refers to a high-frequency, short-term trading method where traders enter and exit positions within a one-minute timeframe. Also known as “scalping,” this strategy relies on speed, precision, and disciplined execution to capture small price movements multiple times throughout a session.

This article explains how to build and execute a reliable one-minute forex strategy, including indicators, currency pairs, trading rules, risk management, and a practical case study for beginners and experienced scalpers.

Key Takeaways

• One-minute strategies are ideal for scalping and short-term volatility exploitation.
• Key indicators include moving averages, Bollinger Bands, and RSI.
• This approach requires fast execution, low spreads, and strict discipline.
• Best suited for major currency pairs during high-liquidity sessions.

Why Use a One-Minute Forex Strategy?

Scalping the one-minute chart enables traders to:

• Make multiple trades in a short amount of time.
• Benefit from small price fluctuations with low exposure.
• Trade with minimal overnight risk.
• Exploit news-related volatility during major sessions.

However, this strategy also comes with challenges like increased stress, frequent losses, and the need for low latency execution.

Recommended Currency Pairs

Focus on major pairs with tight spreads and high liquidity:

• EUR/USD
• GBP/USD
• USD/JPY
• USD/CHF
• GBP/JPY

Best Indicators for One-Minute Forex Trading

Indicator	Purpose
EMA (9 & 21)	Spot short-term trend direction
RSI (14)	Identify overbought/oversold conditions
MACD	Confirm trend strength and entry signals
Bollinger Bands	Gauge volatility and breakout potential
Volume	Confirm momentum and entry validity

Forex One-Minute Strategy: Rules and Setup

Step 1: Chart Setup

• Use 1-minute timeframe.
• Add 9-EMA and 21-EMA.
• Add RSI (14) and Bollinger Bands.

Step 2: Entry Rules

• Buy when:
  • 9 EMA crosses above 21 EMA.
  • RSI > 50.
  • Price bounces off the lower Bollinger Band.
• Sell when:
  • 9 EMA crosses below 21 EMA.
  • RSI < 50.
  • Price touches the upper Bollinger Band and stalls.

Step 3: Stop Loss & Take Profit

• Stop loss: 5–8 pips depending on pair and volatility.
• Take profit: 8–12 pips or risk:reward ratio of 1:1.5.

Step 4: Risk Management

• Risk no more than 1% of your account per trade.
• Limit daily trades to avoid overtrading.
• Use a demo account to practise before going live.

Case Study: One-Minute Scalping in EUR/USD

Sara, a trader based in London, enrolled in a Forex Course and began experimenting with a one-minute strategy during the London session. By combining the 9/21 EMA crossover with Bollinger Band signals and RSI filters, she executed 8 trades over a two-hour window. She achieved a 75% win rate by sticking to strict rules and using a reputable low-spread broker with fast execution.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Pros	Cons
Fast returns	Mentally demanding
Low capital requirement	High transaction costs (spreads/fees)
Reduced overnight risk	Requires fast internet and execution
Abundance of trading setups	Higher risk of overtrading

Frequently Asked Questions

Is one-minute forex trading profitable?

Yes, if executed with discipline, proper risk management, and fast execution. However, it requires skill and consistency.

Which platform is best for one-minute forex trading?

MT4, cTrader, and TradingView are ideal due to customisability and low-latency order execution.

How much capital do I need for this strategy?

You can start with £500–£1000, but tight risk controls are crucial. Low leverage and micro lots are recommended.

Is the one-minute strategy suitable for beginners?

It’s better for experienced traders. Beginners should start with longer timeframes before scalping.

What time of day is best for one-minute forex trading?

London and New York sessions offer the most liquidity and volatility, making them ideal for one-minute trades.