Tammy Da Costa, CFTe®

Short bio

Tammy is an economist and market analyst with a deep passion for financial markets, particularly commodities and geopolitics. She employs a top-down analytical approach, integrating macroeconomic fundamentals with technical analysis, using price action as a key guide to provide comprehensive market insights.

Current work at FXStreet

Tammy serves as a Senior News Reporter at FXStreet, where she delivers timely and insightful content on the forex and commodities markets. Her responsibilities encompass producing fresh articles that analyze market movements, crafting technical pieces that delve into price action and technical analysis for various forex pairs and commodities, and writing news articles that cover significant economic events and their market implications. Through her work, Tammy provides traders and investors with valuable perspectives to navigate the dynamic financial landscape.

Previous financial experience

Tammy brings over a decade of experience in the financial services industry, having held roles in client services, anti-money laundering compliance, and back-office operations at international banks and financial institutions. 

Transitioning to the Contracts for Difference (CFD) sector, she has spent more than ten years with global CFD brokers, beginning as a derivatives trader and later serving as a market analyst.

In this capacity, Tammy continues to provide live coverage of economic events, analysing market reactions, and offering insights into the broader economic and financial implications of these developments.

Awards

Tammy's passion for trading was ignited when she secured second place in the 2008 JSE Investment Challenge, a milestone that propelled her into the world of finance. Beyond the trading floor, Tammy has demonstrated exceptional communication skills, earning accolades in public speaking and Eisteddfod competitions.

Educational background

• Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Economics and Econometrics - University of Johannesburg (UJ)

Completed a comprehensive program emphasizing both theoretical and quantitative economic analysis, equipping for roles in economic research, forecasting, and policy development.

• Diploma in Investment Analysis and Portfolio Management - University of South Africa (UNISA)

Acquired specialized knowledge in investment strategies, portfolio construction, and performance evaluation, enhancing expertise in financial markets.

• Certified Financial Technician (CFTe) - International Federation of Technical Analysts (IFTA)

Earned the CFTe designation in 2022, demonstrating proficiency in technical analysis and market forecasting.

• Chartered Market Technician (CMT) Level III Candidate - CMT Association

Currently pursuing the final level of the CMT program, with anticipated completion in 2025/2026, to further deepen technical analysis skills.
 

Featured quote

Warren Buffett - “It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it. If you think about that, you’ll do things differently.”

Ray Dalio - “If you’re not failing, you’re not pushing your limits, and if you’re not pushing your limits, you’re not maximizing your potential.”

 

Extra-curricular activities

Beyond the financial markets, Tammy channels creativity and energy into hip-hop dancing, avidly follows both international and local cricket matches, enjoys trail running, hiking, and camping adventures, cherishes time with dogs, and is a passionate reader committed to continuous learning.