The index level is my filter today. If the broader market cannot hold support, I am less interested in aggressive long setups.

Curious how others are reading this, especially on the higher timeframe.

Volume and range expansion are the two details I am watching. If the breakout happens on weak movement, I would rather wait for a second confirmation.

Good point, I would still wait for confirmation.

The biggest mistake I want to avoid here is confusing volatility with confirmation. A fast candle is not a full trade plan.

This is close to how I am reading the chart too.