A trade to me can mean anything nowadays. However, if you're short term trading, which to me is up to 3 to 6 months, always check their fiscal position, previous Board management success, stage of business plan, always predicate news flow, sentiment within the industry, check their registry (Director's holding/trading patterns/substantial holders/ Top 20 % etc) and above all, compare and contrast the company with others within the same sector. Look for inherent value and contrary to many other's beliefs, this may even mean a falling share price or a stagnant one rather than the constant search for upwards share price momentum and volume. Many believe a stop loss is necessary - I find that if true due dilligence is completed, it's mostly completely unnecessary, assuming all remains equal and global macros have not suddenly changed for the worst. IMO.
