Investor sentiment is a powerful force because markets move on expectations as much as they do on data. When investors feel confident, they tend to buy more aggressively, which can push prices higher even if fundamentals haven’t changed. The same thing happens in reverse when fear takes over. Selling pressure increases, liquidity dries up, and prices fall faster than the underlying value might justify. This emotional cycle often creates trends, reversals, and sharp swings that technical traders watch closely.

Sentiment also plays a key role in how investors interpret news. A positive report in a fearful market might be ignored, while a small negative headline in an optimistic environment can be brushed aside. This selective reaction shapes market momentum. Large funds and institutional traders track sentiment indicators because they reveal how the crowd is positioned and whether a move is likely to continue or fade.

Social media and rapid information flow amplify these emotional waves. Market opinions spread quickly, turning small concerns into widespread panic or pushing enthusiasm into full speculation. This can lead to bubbles when optimism becomes excessive or deep corrections when fear dominates. Although sentiment doesn’t replace analysis, it influences timing, risk perception, and the willingness to take positions.

Understanding sentiment helps traders stay aligned with market psychology instead of fighting it. Those who recognise emotional extremes can avoid chasing tops, panic-selling bottoms, and making decisions based on impulse rather than logic.