After watching the chain for a while, I’ve had a bit of a realization: about “sandwich” trades and arbitrage—you think what you’re seeing is “opportunity,” but a lot of the time it’s really just you paying fees to whoever is faster. Especially when the market suddenly whips around and slippage kicks in—being even a half step behind turns into someone else’s profit source, while you’re left with only “why is the fill price so outrageous.” These days, I actually prefer to go slower instead: split orders, use limit prices, and chase fewer hot pools. I’d rather miss out than become fuel for the market.

Over the past two days, the unlock calendar has been talked about over and over in terms of sell-off pressure. I do look at it too, but honestly, what I’m more afraid of is emotions squeezing liquidity through a narrow gate—so in the end, whoever moves faster gets to decide… For now, I’ll just remind myself before bed: slowing down isn’t embarrassing.