Intraday Playbook ES Futures: Trade Setup & Context CME_MINI:ES1!
Big Picture Context
Please see related trade idea.
In this analysis, we refine our intraday levels to identify potential trade setups. We also review recent price action and present a high-probability long trade example that frequently offers favorable risk-reward dynamics when it plays out successfully.
See chart image below reviewing yesterday’s long trade opportunity.
Example Trade Setup: SFP Long
Time frame: 1 hour or 30 mins
• Entry: 5612
• Stop: 5595.50 (below SFP candle)
• Target: 5682 (mCVAH — confluence with recent highs)
• Risk: 66 ticks
• Reward: 280 ticks
• Risk/Reward Ratio: 4.2 R
Note: Past performance is not indicative of future results.
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Intraday Market Structure Review
What has the market done?
• ES Futures have rallied and reclaimed a key technical level.
• Currently trading above:
o March 2025 low
o 2025 mid-year level
o Developing Value Area Low (VAL) for the 2025 Volume Profile
What is the market trying to do?
• Recover prior months' losses.
• Price action is climbing steadily, establishing higher lows.
How well is it doing?
• Despite headline risks, ES futures show resilience.
• Price has painted green candles in the full session for the past 10 consecutive days—a strong bullish structure.
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What Is More Likely to Happen from Here?
Scenario 1: Pullback and Continuation Higher
A pullback toward the 0.618 Fib retracement and mCVAH confluence could offer another long setup, targeting the April 2nd high. This is further supported by NQ already reclaiming those highs, with ES still lagging but showing strength.
Example Trade Idea:
Time frame: 1 hour or 30 mins
• Entry: 5688
• Stop: 5680
• Target: 5724 (May 2 High)
• Risk: 32 ticks
• Reward: 144 ticks
• Risk/Reward Ratio: 4.5 R
Target may be adjusted if relative volume and delta support strong momentum toward April 2nd highs.
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Scenario 2: Further Consolidation
• Sellers push prices back into last week's balance/value area.
• Market consolidates and builds energy for a likely next leg higher.
• No short setup is presented, as current risk and stop placement do not justify initiating short positions.
Important Notes:
• These are example trade ideas not intended to be a recommendation to trade, and traders are encouraged to do their own analysis and preparation before entering any positions.
• Stop losses are not guaranteed to trigger at specified levels, and actual losses may exceed predetermined stop levels.
Cme!
ES Futures: Upcoming Mag 7 Earnings and NFP Report
This week, although there was not much market-moving macro newsflow over the weekend, we are approaching month-end. In addition, several key catalysts are on the horizon, including earnings from the Magnificent 7 and the release of Non-Farm Payrolls (NFP) data, which typically arrives on the first Friday of the month.
The Federal Reserve is currently in its blackout period ahead of the interest rate decision scheduled for May 7th, 2025.
As part of our process, we will be reviewing technical levels and drawing a plan based on current market structure. ES futures are currently trading above the March 2025 lows. A “death cross” — where the 50-day moving average crosses below the 200-day moving average on the daily timeframe — was recently observed. This pattern is commonly touted by analysts as a bear market indicator.
However, in a macro-driven environment, this could potentially be a false signal.
Key Levels:
• mCVAL: 5622
• Upper Neutral Zone: 5620 -5585
• March 2025 Low: 5533.75
• 2022 CVAH: 5384.75
• Lower Neutral Zone: 5171.75 -5150.75
Our scenarios are as follows:
Scenario 1: Range-bound price action
A P-shaped micro composite profile suggests resistance at our neutral zone. It is labeled neutral because the price is trading above the March 2025 lows. However, if the level above acts as resistance, we expect further range-bound price action. Markets may trade below the mCVAL for further price discovery and potentially establish a new short-term range, with the 2024 lows acting as downside support.
Scenario 2: Mag 7 and NFP as bullish catalysts
Four of the Magnificent 7 companies are reporting earnings this week. The Mag 7 collectively represent around one-third of the S&P 500 index by market capitalization. Microsoft and Meta are scheduled to report on Wednesday after the close, while Amazon and Apple report on Thursday after the close.
On Friday, the NFP data will be released. This could serve as a fundamentally net-positive catalyst for U.S. markets, especially in light of recent shocks that have weakened sentiment.
In this scenario, we will be closely watching our neutral zone and mCVAL as potential areas to initiate long trades.
Glossary Index for all technical terms used:
Blue Zones: Neutral zones.
C: Composite (prefix before VAL, VAH, VPOC, VP, AVP)
mC: micro-Composite (prefix before VAL, VAH, VPOC, VP, AVP)
VAL: Value Area Low
VAH: Value Area High
VP: Volume Profile
CME_MINI:ES1!
BCT CMEWe are have 2 target
1) 86850
2) 83200
Friday close in 4h sibi, I think this Sunday NWOG open price down and looking stops lvl 83.200
We are see below 4h bisi after week vi, I think price need move first this area for create sales candle and after hunt 86.850 above NWOG 7 March
I search buy in this two pd area
Lets see what happen after open exchanges
E-mini S&P 500 Outlook for next week. Thought process is the same just like NQ1!. Want massive buyside expansion. But weekly profiles need to be there. Tuesday/Wednesday Low of the Week is what I' personally looking for.
So expecting an SMT Divergence on the Previous Weekly Sellside . And then a massive push up.
2nd Stage Distribution on Market Maker Buy Model. Offset it is. Crosshairs on 5529
GBPUSD. Weekly trading levels 14 - 18.04.2025During the week you can trade from these price levels. Finding the entry point into a transaction and its support is up to you, depending on your trading style and the development of the situation. Zones show preferred price ranges WHERE to look for an entry point into a trade.
If you expect any medium-term price movements, then most likely they will start from one of the zones.
Levels are valid for a week, the date is in the title. Next week I will adjust the levels based on new data and publish a new post.
! Please note that brokers have a difference in quotes, take this into account when trading.
The history of level development can be seen in my previous posts. They cannot be edited or deleted. Everything is fair. :)
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I don’t play guess the direction (that’s why there are no directional arrows), but zones (levels) are used for trading. We wait for the zone to approach, watch the reaction, and enter the trade.
Levels are drawn based on volumes and data from the CME. They are used as areas of interest for trading. Traded as classic support/resistance levels. We see the reaction to the rebound, we trade the rebound. We see a breakout and continue to trade on a rollback to the level. The worst option is if we revolve around the zone in a flat.
Do not reverse the market at every level; if there is a trend movement, consider it as an opportunity to continue the movement. Until the price has drawn a reversal pattern.
More information in my RU profile.
Don't forget to like Rocket and Subscribe!!! Feedback is very important to me!
Bitcoin At $250,000 In 2025: Bull-Market Entry (Buy) Zone ActiveBitcoin's 2025 bull-market buy-zone is still active. Actually, Bitcoin is at a great price right now. We are aiming for a target of $250,000 for this cycle. We are looking at the bottom right now, literally. Any buy below $90,000 is extremely good and below $80,000 a dream come-true. This will be obvious in just a matter of weeks.
How are you feeling today?
I hope the start of the weekend is treating you good.
This is a friendly reminder, Bitcoin has been sideways for months. When Bitcoin drops, it drops but, currently, there are no new lows.
Bitcoin peaked in December 2024 and produced a double-top in January 2025. A small retrace and that's it; the accumulation phase is ongoing and the buy-zone active.
There are many signals that support a correction bottom being in. We looked at these already so you will have to trust me. Leverage is possible on this setup. Leverage for a long-term trade. This is the best possible scenario and the best type of trade.
No complexities. No calculators. No fees. No interest, just buy and hold.
Wait patiently... It will be a very strong rise and the Altcoins will grow even more than Bitcoin. The entire Cryptocurrency market will produce maximum growth.
This post is intended to alert of you a great entry-timing. Great prices as well but timing right now is great. We might have to wait a bit longer, it won't move right away, but with this price you can't go wrong.
I am wishing you tons of profits in 2025 and financial success.
Thank you for reading.
If you are new, feel free to follow.
Master Ananda for you (formerly Alan Santana).
Namaste.
Liberation, Altercation or Doom? ES Futures weekly planCME_MINI:ES1!
Quick Update
The upcoming week is poised to be critical for financial markets as President Donald Trump's so-called "Liberation Day" on April 2 approaches. On this date, the administration plans to implement new tariffs aimed at reducing the U.S. trade deficit by imposing reciprocal duties on imports from various countries.
As April 2 looms, the full impact of these tariffs remains uncertain, leaving markets and investors in a state of heightened anticipation.
We may get clarity on the tariff situation on April 2, 2025.
Universal tariff announcement of categories of imports may clarify US administration’s maximum tariff escalation approach.
A phased out and unclear tariff approach may keep markets in limbo.
Economic Calendar
Keep an eye on the data docket, NFP and other key releases are due this week.
Tuesday, Apri 1, 2025 : ISM Manufacturing PMI, JOLTS Job Openings
Wednesday April 2, 2025 : ADP Employment Change, Factory Orders MoM
Thursday April 3, 2025 : Balance of Trade, Imports, Exports, ISM Services PMI, Initial Jobless Claims
Friday, April 4, 2025 : Non-Farm Payrolls, Unemployment rate, Average Hourly Earnings MoM,Average Hourly Earnings YoY, Fed Chair Powell Speech
Key Levels to Watch:
Yearly Open 2025 : 6001.25
Key Resistance : 5850- 5860
LVN : 5770 -5760
Neutral Zone : 5705-5720
Key LIS Mid Range 2024 : 5626.50
2024-YTD mCVAL : 5381
2022 CVAH : 5349.75
August 5th, 2024 Low : 5306.75
Scenario 1: Bold but Strategic Tariffs (Effective Use of Tariff to reduce trade deficit and raise revenue) : In this scenario, we may see relief rally in ES futures, price reclaiming 2024 mid-range with a move higher towards key resistance level.
Scenario 2: Maximum pressure, maximum tariff (All out trade war) : In this scenario, we anticipate a sell-off with major support levels, such as 2024- YTD mCVAL, 2022 CVAH and August 5th, 2024 low as immediate downside targets.
Scenario 3: Further delays in Tariff policy (A negotiating tool, with looming uncertainty) : In this scenario, sellers remain in control and uncertainty persists, while we anticipate that rallies may be sold, market price action may remain choppy and range bound.
Gold Above $3,000 and MoreAccording to the World Gold Council, more than 600 tons of gold — valued at around $60 billion — have been transported into vaults in New York. Why are they doing that?
Since Donald Trump election in November, there is around $60 billion worth of gold that has flowed into a giant stockpile in New York.
The reason why physical gold is flowing into the US is because traders are afraid Trump might put tariffs on gold.
Gold Futures & Options
Ticker: GC
Minimum fluctuation:
0.10 per troy ounce = $10.00
Micro Gold Futures & Options
Ticker: MGC
Minimum fluctuation:
0.10 er troy ounce = $1.00
1Ounce Gold Futures
Ticker: 1OZ
Minimum fluctuation:
0.25 per troy ounce = $0.25
Disclaimer:
• What presented here is not a recommendation, please consult your licensed broker.
• Our mission is to create lateral thinking skills for every investor and trader, knowing when to take a calculated risk with market uncertainty and a bolder risk when opportunity arises.
CME Real-time Market Data help identify trading set-ups in real-time and express my market views. If you have futures in your trading portfolio, you can check out on CME Group data plans available that suit your trading needs www.tradingview.com
Trading the Micro: www.cmegroup.com
S&P 500 E-mini Futures VWAP Breakout Strategy Sharing a solid intraday idea for you all – something I’ve been running on the S&P 500 E-mini Futures (30-min chart) lately, and it’s been delivering clean setups.
VWAP Breakout Play
I’m focusing on simple VWAP-based breakouts. Here’s the breakdown:
The setup:
• Wait for price to break above or below the VWAP with strong momentum (big candles + solid volume).
• I always confirm with a momentum indicator like MACD or RSI to filter out the noise.
Entries:
• Breakout Long: When price pushes above VWAP + momentum aligns.
• Breakout Short: When price dumps below VWAP + momentum confirmation.
Exits & Stops:
• Scale out at session highs/lows or key pivots.
• Stop-loss goes just beyond VWAP to keep the risk tight.
• If momentum fades, I’m out.
Why I like it:
VWAP attracts institutional flow, and combining it with momentum gives this strategy a solid edge, especially around U.S. session opens when volatility kicks in.
Give it a try and tweak it to your liking!
ES Futures Market Outlook & Key LevelsCME_MINI:ES1!
As we discussed in last week’s TradingView blog, the ES futures are currently undergoing a 10% correction. You can access the full context through the link here.
Rollover Notice:
Today marks the rollover of ES futures to the June 2025 contract. The rollover adjustment using Friday’s settlement prices for ESH2025 and ESM2025 is +52.25. To map out the new levels for ESM2025, simply add +52.25 to the levels on ESH2025.
Note: TradingView will roll over the continuous ES1! chart on Tuesday, March 18, 2025.
Key Events This Week: This week, all eyes will be on the FOMC rate decision , FOMC press conference , and the Summary of Economic Projections (SEP ), which includes the Fed’s dot plot, inflation expectations, and growth forecasts for the next two years. This release will set the tone for market movements, at least until the clarity of the looming reciprocal tariffs deadline on April 2, 2025.
Key Levels to Watch:
• Bullish LIS / Yearly Open 2025: 5,949.25
• Key Level to Reclaim: 5,795 - 5,805
• Resistance Zone: 5,704.50 - 5,719.75
• Bearish LIS / Mid Range 2024: 5,574.50
• 2024-YTD mCVAL: 5,449.25
• 2022 CVAH: 5,280.25
Market Scenarios:
Scenario 1: Fed Support ("Fed Put")
The Fed is widely expected to hold rates steady this week. However, markets are forward-looking, so the key focus will be on the updated SEP forecast and the Fed’s press conference. A dovish stance and flexibility to support the US economy, including rate cut expectations moving to the May/June meetings, will drive sentiment. This would imply markets pricing in more rate cuts throughout 2025. The CME Fedwatch tool is a useful resource for tracking Fed fund probabilities and comparing these with the dot plot projections.
Scenario 2: Trade War 2.0
If the Fed remains in a "wait and see" mode, maintaining a restrictive stance while uncertainties surrounding Trade War 2.0 persist, markets may face heightened volatility. The combination of a restrictive Fed policy and geopolitical tensions could act as a double whammy for markets.
Recap ES Futures Weekly PlanCME_MINI:ES1!
In this TradingView blog, we’ll recap the price action and share our insights from the weekly trade plan posted on March 3rd, 2025.
Our Scenario 3 highlighted mounting risks, with weaker economic data reigniting the stagflation theme. While the price action largely aligned with our expectations, it extended further downward than anticipated. Economic data was mixed: PMIs exceeded expectations, while the NFP report came in lower than forecasted. The unemployment rate ticked up to 4.1%, and average hourly earnings data showed mixed results. The Month-over-Month figures were in line with expectations, but Year-over-Year average hourly earnings came in slightly lower at 4% versus the consensus of 4.1%.
In addition, headline news and tariff uncertainties dampened sentiment across the board.
Our approach primarily involves volume profiling and market auction theory to map out price levels and set expectations based on the prevailing market context at the start of each week. However, as fundamentals, macroeconomic factors, geopolitics, and headline news gain increasing significance and impact the market, we draw on our accumulated experience to incorporate these elements into our analysis.
When market regimes shift, technical analysis alone often proves insufficient. A strong understanding of fundamentals, macroeconomic conditions, and geopolitics is crucial to staying aligned with what’s actually happening in the markets, rather than relying on your personal thoughts and assumptions.
Given the myriad factors influencing the economy and markets, traders should recognize that each approach has its merits. We recommend sticking with the strategy that works best for you.