Initial Balance Orderflow Breakout

Using an imbalance cluster for entry timing produces a tighter entry with better risk-to-reward (1:2–1:3) compared to a mechanical candle-close entry (1:2). A volume bubble at the top of a breakout candle signals absorption by passive orders and suggests the breakout move may fail. For mechanical IBOB entries, the stop is anchored below the session Point of Control because a return to that level invalidates the breakout thesis. The IBOB setup triggers when a 5-minute candle closes above or below the 15-minute opening range, accompanied by a large trade bubble in the center of the candle body.