1. Overview of MT4 Time Display
MetaTrader 4 (MT4) is a trading platform widely used by traders worldwide. However, when using it in Japan, it’s important to be aware of the “time lag” that occurs. MT4 is typically set to GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) +2 or +3, which is different from Japan Standard Time (JST). For this reason, traders often need to consider the impact of this time difference.
Differences Between MT4 and Japan Time
The MT4 server time is usually set to GMT+2 or GMT+3, based on the closing time of the New York market. In contrast, Japan Standard Time (JST) is GMT+9, which results in a 7-hour time difference during winter and a 6-hour difference during summer (daylight saving time). This time lag can affect the display time of charts and the start and end of daily candlesticks, potentially impacting the timing of your trades.
2. Main Reasons for MT4 Time Lag
The main reason MT4 server time is set to GMT+2 or GMT+3 is to align with international trading hours. It is common practice for the daily candlestick to be finalized to coincide with the closing time of the New York market, and this system is adopted by many brokers around the world.
Reason for Basing on New York Market Closing Time
The New York market plays a crucial role in the global financial market. Therefore, many brokers use the closing time of this market as a standard for finalizing daily candlesticks, making it easier for traders worldwide to analyze charts at the same time. This consistency in the formation time of daily candlesticks is particularly beneficial for maintaining the integrity of technical analysis.
3. Impact of Time Lag on Trading
The MT4 time lag particularly affects the finalization time of daily and 4-hour candlesticks, directly influencing the timing of trades. This lag can cause candlestick patterns to appear differently on your charts, potentially affecting your trading strategy.
Impact of Daily Candlestick Finalization Time
Since the daily candlestick finalization time differs from Japan time, the location of key resistance and support lines can be shifted. This can change how you read trend lines on a daily basis and how oscillator indicators react, sometimes requiring a re-evaluation of your strategy.
Impact of 4-hour Candlestick Finalization Time
The 4-hour candlestick plays an important role in identifying short-term trends and entry points. However, the time lag can make the true market flow appear different. For example, movements that occur at night in Japan might be affected by market flows in overseas time zones, which can lead to errors in trading decisions, so caution is advised.
4. Solutions for the Time Lag
There are several ways to resolve the time lag. Below, we will explain the main countermeasures in detail.
Using a Japan Time Display Indicator
The simplest way to display Japan time on MT4 is to use a Japan time display indicator. The article “How to Display Japan Time on MT4/MT5: Recommended Indicators and How to Choose” explains specific indicator types and how to install them. By using an indicator that clearly shows Japan time, you can focus on trading without worrying about the time lag.
Using a Japanese FX Broker’s MT4
Some domestic FX brokers in Japan offer MT4 that is aligned with Japan time. By using MT4 from such a domestic broker, you can set the server’s standard time to JST and not have to worry about time lag issues with daily and 4-hour candlesticks. We also mention specific brokers and their advantages, proposing a clear solution for the user.
5. How to Deal with the Time Lag on the MT4 Mobile App
The MT4 mobile app, unlike the PC version, does not allow for easy changes to the server time. Therefore, it’s important to note that displaying Japan time can be difficult. When trading on a smartphone, you must be aware of the time lag.
Key Points for Using the MT4 Mobile App
To account for the time lag on the MT4 mobile app, it can be effective to use it in conjunction with the PC version or to use other time management apps. It is also important to plan your trades in advance, considering entry and exit timing, even on the mobile app. This allows you to trade with minimal impact from the time lag.
6. Summary
This article explained the issue of the MT4 time display lag and its solutions. It is important to note that the MT4 time lag differs from Japan time, especially regarding the finalization of daily and 4-hour candlesticks. By using MT4 from a domestic broker or utilizing an indicator, you can resolve the time lag and execute accurate trades.
References
MT4の取引時間が日本時間と異なる理由とその解決策について詳しく解説します。MT4の時間設定は国際的なグリニッジ標準時（…
