4H FVG + 15m CISD Strategy: Multi-Timeframe Precision Model

Overview

The 4H FVG + 15m CISD Strategy is an advanced multi-timeframe trading model that combines higher-timeframe structure analysis with lower-timeframe execution precision. This approach identifies high-probability reversal and continuation zones using 4-hour Fair Value Gaps (FVGs) while confirming entries with 15-minute Change in State of Delivery (CISD) signals.

This strategy leverages institutional order flow concepts to capture smart money movements. By filtering setups through 4H FVGs and executing on 15m CISD confirmations, the model ensures alignment with larger timeframe structure while maintaining precise, low-risk entry points.

Key Philosophy: Trade the higher timeframe bias (4H FVGs) with lower timeframe confirmation (15m CISD) to capture institutional moves with retail-level precision.

Strategy Components

1. 4-Hour Fair Value Gaps (FVGs)

A Fair Value Gap is created when price moves so aggressively that it leaves an imbalance (gap) between candles. Specifically:

These gaps represent inefficiencies that price often returns to fill. The 4H timeframe provides macro-level zones where institutional orders are likely to be placed.

2. Change in State of Delivery (CISD)

CISD is a liquidity-based reversal signal that identifies when smart money has trapped retail traders and is ready to reverse. Two detection methods are used:

The 15-minute timeframe provides precise entry timing after the 4H FVG has been identified.

Why Focus on the Last 3 FVGs?

Recency Equals Relevancy

The most recent FVGs represent the current market structure and fresh institutional imbalances. Older FVGs lose significance as market dynamics evolve. By focusing on only the last 3 FVGs, I ensure:

Strategic Advantage: When price taps into one of the 3 most recent 4H FVGs and a CISD signal forms on 15m, it indicates fresh institutional interest aligning with current market structure, creating the highest probability setup.

Strategy Logic & Execution

Setup Requirements

  1. Identify 4H FVGs: Monitor the chart for the 3 most recent 4-hour Fair Value Gaps (both bullish and bearish)
  2. Wait for Price to Tap FVG: Price must enter one of these 3 FVG zones on the 15 minute chart
  3. CISD Confirmation: Look for a CISD signal on 15m indicating a change in delivery/momentum
  4. Entry Execution: Enter trade when both conditions align:
    • Price is inside a recent 4H FVG zone
    • 15m CISD signal confirms the directional bias

Trade Management

Key Advantages

Technical Implementation

This strategy is coded in Pine Script v5 and features:

Alert Configuration

The indicator provides multiple alert options:

Alerts are configured to trigger once per 15-minute bar, ensuring timely notifications without spam while allowing real-time execution opportunity.

Strategic Philosophy

"Structure over noise. Confirmation over anticipation."

This strategy embodies the principle that successful trading requires patience for high-quality setups. By waiting for 4H structure to align with 15m confirmation, I trade with institutional flow rather than against it. The focus on only the 3 most recent FVGs ensures I'm trading the current narrative, not yesterday's story.

Ongoing Development

This model represents the core entry logic of my trading system. I am actively working to enhance it with:

Technology Stack

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