Can traders survive high-frequency trading?

I thought I'd share an interesting article by Dennis Dick, CFA which was featured in the latest CFA Institute Magazine - Staying a Step Ahead. It's an insightful article into the world of day trading, and if you'd like a copy, visit yourlifeyourplan.ca:

The world of day trading has had quite a shake-up in the past few years; the reason - high frequency trading (HFT) by computers, which can respond in milliseconds and can process thousands of orders per second. Is this the end for humans in the world of day trading?

Humans can still stay a step ahead, because a computer can only do what it is programmed to do. It is important that traders continue to develop new strategies, and invest in training and education - The focus should be on psychological issues from behavioral finance, which will help traders match the consistency of HFT.

Traders must constantly adapt to a dynamic trading environment in order to succeed. It takes time and dedication, and there will always be setbacks, but if a trader is willing to work hard and to develop new strategies, the astute trader can still stay one step ahead of the machines.

GB