What's the truth about trading during major news events like non-farm payroll releases or central bank announcements? Should beginners completely avoid these periods?

Definitely avoid trading directly through major news events when starting out. Spreads widen dramatically, price action becomes irrational and unpredictable, and stops get hunted regularly. Even experienced traders often stand aside during high-impact releases. Your edge, whatever it is, likely doesn't account for these volatility spikes and you'll be wrong-footed consistently.

Got absolutely destroyed trading through my first major announcement thinking it was opportunity rather than danger. Price moved both directions violently before settling, stopping me out twice before going my original direction anyway. Now I close positions before major events and wait for dust to settle afterward. Protecting existing positions matters more than chasing event volatility at this stage: https://forextides.com/en/3k-investment/