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Double CPI Day for the EUR & CADCertain weeks stand out in importance, and the week ahead is shaping up to be one of them. On the economic calendar we have the Eurozone & Canada CPI as standouts for Tuesday, UK CPI & FOMC on Wednesday. Such action-packed weeks often provide the catalyst for the next move in the markets. Our attention is currently drawn to the EURCAD for multiple reasons. Firstly, from a technical perspective, we see the EURCAD completing a head and shoulder pattern on a daily timeframe, which is generally associated with a trend reversal. This is further supported by the 200-day simple moving average, which has consistently marked out the trend for the currency pair. With prices recently crossing below the moving average, this could mark a change in the overall trend, potentially heading lower. Further, when looking at the long-term chart, the 1.440 level has been a critical point of support & resistance across its history, with prices often either breaking through with momentum or stopping and bouncing off this level. Looking at each leg of the EURCAD against the USD also reveals an intriguing setup, with the USDCAD trading near the resistance of a descending channel and the EURUSD breaking sharply below its trend support. Both indicate a potentially lower EURCAD. Another interesting comparison we can make is the currency pair with its related markets. Both the Euro and Canadian dollar are deeply tied to the USD; thus, the broad dollar proxy should have some relationship with the pair. By overlaying the inverse dollar index (DXY) and the EURCAD, we see both are closely related with the Inverse DXY pointing towards a slightly lower EURCAD. The same observation applies when we overlay the EURCAD and the Inverse Crude Oil prices, given the correlation of the Canadian dollar with crude prices due to its oil-exporting nature. With CPI numbers out for both economies next week, it is also worth looking at the economic data from both countries. From an unemployment rate perspective, the Eurozone is faring worse than Canada, a trend echoed when we look at YOY GDP. Both indicators suggest a frail Eurozone economy, likely making the central bank more cautious as it tries not to overdo policy tightening and risk sending the Eurozone into a deep recession. On top of that, the recent guidance from both central banks reveals slightly different undertones. The Bank of Canada anticipates higher year-over-year inflation readings, while the ECB forecasts declines in headline inflation and harmonised index of consumer prices (HICP) readings. This further supports the idea that the ECB might be more dovish, while the Bank of Canada could lean towards a hawkish stance. All things considered, the case for a lower EURCAD seems compelling based on the technical charts at key levels, comparisons with other markets, and central bank stances. We could express this view via the CME-listed Euro/Canadian Dollar with a short position at the current level of 1.440, take profit at 1.380 and stop loss at 1.457, offering a risk-reward ratio of 3.5. Alternatively, the currency pair can be synthetically constructed using the more liquid Euro FX Futures and Canadian Dollar Futures. To establish a short position on the EURCAD, one can sell 2 EURO FX Futures and buy 1 Canadian Dollar Future. This approach approximates the hedge for the position, considering that each EURO FX Futures contract represents 125,000 Euros, and each Canadian Dollar Futures contract corresponds to 100,000 Canadian Dollars. At the current exchange rate of roughly 1.44, 1 Euro FX Futures contract is equivalent to approximately 180,000 Canadian Dollars, resulting in a 2:1 ratio. Each 0.0001 per Euro increment for the Euro/Canadian Dollar Futures is 12.50 Canadian dollars, while each 0.000050 per Euro increment for the Euro FX Futures is $6.25 and each 0.00005 per CAD increment for the Canadian Dollar Futures is $5.00. The charts above were generated using CME’s Real-Time data available on TradingView. Inspirante Trading Solutions is subscribed to both TradingView Premium and CME Real-time Market Data which allows us to identify trading set-ups in real-time and express our market opinions. 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 Disclaimer: The contents in this Idea are intended for information purpose only and do not constitute investment recommendation or advice. Nor are they used to promote any specific products or services. They serve as an integral part of a case study to demonstrate fundamental concepts in risk management under given market scenarios. A full version of the disclaimer is available in our profile description. Reference: thoughtleadership.rbc.com www.ecb.europa.eu www.cmegroup.com www.cmegroup.com www.cmegroup.com
Short
by inspirante
2
A technical overview of Soybean Oil Since our last analysis of Soybean Oil, the commodity has completed its head and shoulders pattern, now trading at the resistance formed by the previous neckline. Concurrently, we observe an RSI divergence, where the RSI prints lower highs while the prices chart higher highs. This divergence is generally viewed as a bearish indicator, hinting at possible price declines. When paired with decreasing volume, the case for price exhaustion at this juncture becomes more compelling. The Price & Volume Profile chart serves as another essential tool in pinpointing critical zones. The highlighted POC (‘point of control’) zone represents the price level with the highest frequency of trades. Historically, this has acted as a pivotal support and resistance level for Soybean Oil, demarcating regions of consolidation before prices venture either upwards or downwards. The chart also highlights the volume traded at the different levels as denoted by the volume number at the different price levels. Notably, the current price level showcases a significant volume zone, with the largest volume transacted there. Looking at the 50 & 200-day moving averages we observe a golden cross which signifies bullishness. But not on the 100 & 200-day moving averages. On a relative value basis, we can also compare Soybean Oil to its substitute, such as crude palm oil. Here we see 2 defined regimes pre-2021 and post-2021 where the ratio of the two products significantly increased, suggesting that Soybean Oil became relatively pricier than Crude Palm Oil. We have previously delved into this topic in our article “ Fading the Soybean Oil Premium ” where we anticipated a decline in this ratio. Subsequently, this ratio did correct to the 0.06 mark, only to experience a rapid rebound. This surge was attributed to Soybean Oil appreciating at a faster rate than Crude Palm Oil. Another metric involves contrasting Soybean Oil with its upstream and downstream derivatives: Soybean and Soybean Meal. Once more, we see prices tending to move in tandem until 2021, after which the ratio of Soybean Oil to both Soybean Meal and Soybean underwent a marked shift. With the ratio's support distinctly outlined by pre-2021 resistance, this ratio can be wielded as a metric to identify when Soybean Oil is relatively overpriced compared to its up and downstream products. In conclusion, a blend of technical indicators seems to point towards more downside for Soybean Oil, such as the RSI divergence and declining volume. Also, prices stuck in the POC have generally preceded breakouts and on a relative value basis, Soybean Oil seems over-extended. We can express this bearish view on soybean oil via a short position on the CME soybean Oil futures at the current level of 63.29, with a stop at 67.50 and take profit at 51.00. Prices are quoted in cents per pound and each $0.0001 increment per pound in the Soybean Oil futures contract is equal to 6.00$. The charts above were generated using CME’s Real-Time data available on TradingView. Inspirante Trading Solutions is subscribed to both TradingView Premium and CME Real-time Market Data which allows us to identify trading set-ups in real-time and express our market opinions. 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 Disclaimer: The contents in this Idea are intended for information purpose only and do not constitute investment recommendation or advice. Nor are they used to promote any specific products or services. They serve as an integral part of a case study to demonstrate fundamental concepts in risk management under given market scenarios. A full version of the disclaimer is available in our profile description. Reference: www.cmegroup.com
CBOT:ZL1!Short
by inspirante
BTC CME GAP IDEAS 📊💡In the world of cryptocurrency, Bitcoin (BTC) stands as a cornerstone, continuously captivating the attention of investors, traders, and enthusiasts alike. As we venture into the next few months, the Bitcoin market is marked by both excitement and uncertainty, presenting a myriad of possibilities for those willing to navigate the ever-shifting tides. Bitcoin's price history has been a rollercoaster ride, and this could continue in the short term. A scenario of consolidation and heightened volatility is entirely possible. Regulatory changes, macroeconomic events, or unforeseen market sentiment could lead to periods of sharp price swings. Traders should be prepared for both upward and downward moves. Bitcoin is not an isolated asset; it's influenced by global events. Geopolitical tensions, economic shifts, and unexpected developments in other markets can have a significant impact on Bitcoin's performance. Keeping a close eye on these external factors is crucial when trying to anticipate BTC's trajectory. For instance, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is expected to weigh in on multiple Bitcoin ETF filings in the build-up to early September deadlines. I have outlined a couple of scenarios on the chart. While I don't expect Bitcoin to follow these scenarios precisely, they serve as a framework to understand possible short-term price movements. Stay Tuned for Updates: We will continue to monitor key macro events that could significantly impact the cryptocurrency markets in the near future. These events may provide us with more clarity about Bitcoin's trajectory. Please note that the advice you receive about cryptocurrency should always be taken as guidance and not as definitive instructions on what to do. Investing in cryptocurrency, like any other type of investment, involves risks, including the loss of capital. Always conduct your own research and consult with a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
CME:BTC1!Short
by Blast910
Why the EURUSD might trade higherFollowing Powell's statement at the annual Jackson Hole symposium – “We are prepared to raise rates further if appropriate and intend to hold policy at a restrictive level until we are confident that inflation is moving sustainably down toward our objective.” – markets seem more inclined towards expecting another rate hike in the US. This move, in our analysis, provides the Federal Reserve (the Fed) with added flexibility for future decisions. Meanwhile, the European Central Bank (ECB) echoes a similar sentiment, insisting on remaining stringent as the battle against inflation is ongoing. A dive into headline & core inflation shows a decline in the former for both the EU and US. However, Europe's core inflation remains stubbornly high, without evident signs of decreasing. Further, Europe's robust PMI, in contrast to the sub-50 US print, paired with this sticky core inflation, indicates that the ECB might maintain its tight monetary stance to combat inflation. The Futures and OIS market can give us some insights on market participants’ expectation of the forward rate path. Here we see similar expectations of an increase in rates before cuts are priced in. Generally speaking, interest rate differential is inversely related to the EURUSD, hence in the chart above we see this relationship in play with the US-EU Interest Rate, roughly marking out the inverted EURUSD path. From 2019 to 2022, where we saw the rate differential held constant after a period of decrease, the EURUSD traded higher during that period. Hence whether the ECB tightens further or keep in line with market expectations, we see potential for the EURUSD to trade higher given historical precedence. The US dollar is currently hovering near the upper threshold of a descending channel. The previous 3-times when RSI reached such levels marked the turnaround point for the dollar. On a longer-term chart, we see the EURUSD trading right above the 1.08 level which has been a key support & resistance level going back to 1970s. Zooming in, the EURUSD pair now trades on the lower band of an ascending channel with RSI pointing oversold. Again, the past 3 times when RSI were at this level marked the reversal point for the EURUSD. Hence, whether the ECB reacts with more hikes as expected by market participants, or it stays the expected course, the EURUSD is likely to trade higher as we look back in history. Supported by technical, and the potential for a weaker dollar as it trades near resistance, we favour a long position in the EURUSD Futures at the current levels of 1.0827 with a stop loss at 1.05 and take profit at 1.130. Each 0.00005 increment per EUR in the EURUSD futures contract equals to 6.25$. The charts above were generated using CME’s Real-Time data available on TradingView. Inspirante Trading Solutions is subscribed to both TradingView Premium and CME Real-time Market Data which allows us to identify trading set-ups in real-time and express our market opinions. 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 Disclaimer: The contents in this Idea are intended for information purpose only and do not constitute investment recommendation or advice. Nor are they used to promote any specific products or services. They serve as an integral part of a case study to demonstrate fundamental concepts in risk management under given market scenarios. A full version of the disclaimer is available in our profile description. Reference: www.cmegroup.com www.cmegroup.com
CME:6E1!Long
by inspirante
USDCNH - Testing new highsThe trajectory of the USDCNH is a burning question as it approaches the highs witnessed in November 2022. Recent weeks have seen China's economic robustness wane, and as a result, attempts by its central bank to ease the situation have led to a weakening of the CNH. This dynamic becomes clearer when considering the interest rate differential between China and other nations. In contrast to the U.S., which is on a rate-hiking journey, China's recent interest rate reductions have amplified the rate gap between the two nations. Overlaying the USDCNH currency pair with this interest rate differential reveals a clear correlation: as the differential grows, the USDCNH rises in tandem, driven by the depreciating CNH against the USD. A possible factor behind this movement is the "carry trade", where investors borrow in CNH at low-interest rates to invest in higher-yielding assets. This phenomenon isn't unique to the USDCNH. Japan, another country that has adopted an easing stance, exhibits similar patterns. As the rate differential between the U.S. and Japan expands, so does the USDJPY currency pair. Examining the dollar independently, there's potential for an upward surge. It's currently trading close to the top edge of a descending channel, with the RSI indicating it isn't oversold yet. With the Jackson Hole Symposium slated for later this week, all eyes and ears will be sensitive to any unexpectedly hawkish remarks from the Federal Reserve Chair, which could lead to another surge in the dollar, driving the USDCNH higher. On the one hand, the dollar has the potential to break higher based on technical, on the other hand, the PBOC is likely to ease policy further as it deals with the economic fallout of its property sector. Considering the above in an eventful week when the Jackson Hole Symposium is to be held, we see opportunity for a risk managed long position in the USDCNH at the current level of 7.3126 with a tight stop at 7.245 and take profit at 7.460. Each 0.0001 per USD increment in the USDCNH future is equal to 10 CNH. The charts above were generated using CME’s Real-Time data available on TradingView. Inspirante Trading Solutions is subscribed to both TradingView Premium and CME Real-time Market Data which allows us to identify trading set-ups in real-time and express our market opinions. 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 Disclaimer: The contents in this Idea are intended for information purpose only and do not constitute investment recommendation or advice. Nor are they used to promote any specific products or services. They serve as an integral part of a case study to demonstrate fundamental concepts in risk management under given market scenarios. A full version of the disclaimer is available in our profile description. Reference: www.cmegroup.com
CME:CNH1!Long
by inspirante
Why Silver stands out.In the ever-evolving landscape of global economics, precious metals like silver, often serve as key indicators and safe havens. This week, we'll explore the factors making silver an interesting prospect in today's market. Current Macroeconomic Indicators: The latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) data indicates a slight increase in the US for July, registering at 3.2%, up from the previous month's 3%. Predictive models from the Reserve Bank of Cleveland suggest an impending rise for the August CPI. Concurrently, the Reserve Bank of Atlanta's GDPNow model projects a rise in GDP figures. Silver, Inflation & GDP: The above becomes important when historical data reveals that significant spikes in silver prices often follow periods of simultaneous rises in GDP and inflation. Notably, in years that saw increases in both indicators, silver recorded gains of 38% and 46% in 2009 and 2020, respectively. Conversely, 2002 saw a modest 2% return. Silver vs. Gold: A measure of relative value between the two major precious metals via the ratio of Silver to Gold, further substantiates the idea of a potential strength in Silver. The ratio is trading just off a trend support-turned-resistance and at the upper end of the symmetrical triangle. Resistance here can play out in the format of silver strengthening relative to gold. Yields and Silver: The longstanding inverted relationship of yield and silver can be observed in the chart, but the ratio provides some insights into the limits of this relationship. What’s immediately obvious to us post 2008 there has been a regime change in this relationship as yield grinded lower and silver remains elevated. With no immediate large catalyst on the horizon, it is likely the current regime will hold and hence, the ‘floor’ in this relationship is near. Meaning relative to current levels of yield, Silver is trading on the lower side. Equities vs ‘real’ economy: Beyond being a precious metal, silver's industrial applications—from automotive to solar panels and electronics manufacturing—make it a bellwether for the 'real' economy, akin to copper. Comparing the Nasdaq 100 against industrial metals illustrates a disparity between equities and the 'real' economy, positioning silver as significantly undervalued relative to peers like copper and gold. Positioning: Current market positions, particularly among net Non-Commercials, seem to favor silver with a growing bullish sentiment. Technical Analysis: A noteworthy observation is the persistence of the 22.5 level as a pivotal support and resistance mark for silver, a trend tracing back to the 80s. Prices currently thread above this level and remain supported by an uptrend that began in August 2022. Additionally, RSI points to oversold, and in the past 4 instances when RSI reached such levels, prices quickly rebounded thereafter. Against the above factors, we see support for Silver, on multiple fronts, such as economic cycle, relative value against equities, and underpriced when compared against gold. Hence, to express our view on Silver, we can set up a long position on the Silver Futures at the current level of 22.67 with a stop at 21.8 and take profit at 25.10 . Silver prices are quoted in U.S. dollars and cents per troy ounce and each 0.005 move is equal to 25 Dollars. The charts above were generated using CME’s Real-Time data available on TradingView. Inspirante Trading Solutions is subscribed to both TradingView Premium and CME Real-time Market Data which allows us to identify trading set-ups in real-time and express our market opinions. 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 Disclaimer: The contents in this Idea are intended for information purpose only and do not constitute investment recommendation or advice. Nor are they used to promote any specific products or services. They serve as an integral part of a case study to demonstrate fundamental concepts in risk management under given market scenarios. A full version of the disclaimer is available in our profile description. Reference: www.cmegroup.com www.atlantafed.org www.clevelandfed.org
COMEX:SI1!Long
by inspirante
Cracking the Crack SpreadThe ‘crack spread’ is a term used in the oil industry that refers to the differential between the price of crude oil and the petroleum products extracted from it, such as gasoline and heating oil. The name comes from the process of 'cracking' crude oil in a refinery to produce these valuable products. The spread serves as a measure of refining margin, or profitability, for oil refineries. When the prices of petroleum products are high relative to the price of crude oil, the crack spread widens, and refining margins increase, making it profitable for refineries. Conversely, when the price of crude oil is high relative to the products, the crack spread narrows, and refining can become less profitable or even unprofitable. The crack spread is typically expressed in terms of the ratio between the input (crude oil) and the outputs (refined products). For example, a 3:2:1 crack spread assumes that three barrels of crude oil can produce two barrels of gasoline and one barrel of heating oil. In the futures market, the crack spread can be traded by buying crude oil futures and selling futures in its products, thus locking in the margin between input and output prices. This can serve as a form of hedging against price risk for those involved in the oil industry. This week, we will delve into various factors influencing the crack spread and evaluate their potential impact on the current spread; Geopolitical Concerns SPR Refill One of the key points mentioned when we last covered oil was the potential refills of the SPR which are still pending as an attempt to purchase up to 6 million barrels was abandoned at the last minute. As the drawdown in the SPR continues, it seems inevitable that the Biden administration will have to replenish the reserve, likely pushing oil prices higher due to increased demand. Russia Ukraine escalation The simmering tensions of the Russia-Ukraine conflict leave us wondering if the price of crude oil might escalate further. The ongoing conflict focuses on a key port in the Black Sea. Consequently, this could potentially impact up to 20% of oil exports from Russia. Although most major nations no longer rely on Russia for oil supply, some countries are still buying from Russia. This leads to the concern that such countries might have to turn to the open market to make up for their supply shortage one day. Seasonality Crack falls in the 2nd half of the year Seasonal trends indicate a pattern where the 3:2:1 crack spread declines in the second half of the year. This trend has persisted for 6 out of the past 10 years, with the average decline of 29%. Three of the remaining four years closed flat, with one year ending approximately 20% higher. Economic Growth Current economic growth weak but some soft landing expected The year-on-year GDPs for major economies are trailing their long-term averages, indicating still fragile economic growth as industries and consumers grapple with sticky inflation and high rates. Weak economic growth generally dampens the crack spread, as industries and consumers cut back on spending, reducing the demand for refined products. Currency Interplay Between Dollar, Crude, and Crack Spread The Inverse Dollar and Crude Oil has as long-standing positive correlation up until the Russian-Ukraine Crisis when both Crude Oil and the dollar move sharply higher. As this relationship now begins to normalize again, any weakness in the dollar could provide the fuel for Crude & the Crack Spread to rally again. The crack spread is also highly correlated with Crude Oil outright prices, hence any view on crude oil can also be expressed using the Crack Spread. The crack spread hit an all-time high in June 2022 amidst the Russia-Ukraine tensions. Currently, the spread trades at a higher range relative to the past two decades and seems to face some resistance at the previous all-time high in 2013. On a shorter timeframe, the crack spread appears to be breaking out of a symmetrical triangle to the upside, typically a signal of bullish continuation. With prices slightly dipping, this could present an enticing opportunity. On balance the impending risk of the geopolitical event breaking out as well as the structurally weakening dollar seems to outweigh the seasonality and economic weakness effect. To express our view on the 3:2:1 crack spread, we can set up a long position on the crack spread. This can be set up by buying 2 RBOB Gasoline Futures & 1 NY Harbor ULSD Futures and selling 3 Crude Oil Futures at the current level of 114.5, stop loss at 97 and take profit at 140. The calculation of the 3:2:1 crack spread should also be noted as: (2 * RBOB Gasoline Futures + 1 * NY Harbor ULSD Futures ) * 42 – (3 * Crude Oil Futures). The factor 42 is multiplied to the RBOB Gasoline Futures and NY Harbor ULSD Futures as the two are quoted in USD per gallon, this converts the price quotation in Barrel terms, which is the same as Crude Oil Futures. The charts above were generated using CME’s Real-Time data available on TradingView. Inspirante Trading Solutions is subscribed to both TradingView Premium and CME Real-time Market Data which allows us to identify trading set-ups in real-time and express our market opinions. 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 Disclaimer: The contents in this Idea are intended for information purpose only and do not constitute investment recommendation or advice. Nor are they used to promote any specific products or services. They serve as an integral part of a case study to demonstrate fundamental concepts in risk management under given market scenarios. A full version of the disclaimer is available in our profile description. Reference: www.eia.gov www.cmegroup.com www.cmegroup.com www.cmegroup.com www.cmegroup.com
NYMEX:RB1!Long
by inspirante
2
EURJPY in Focus: ECB Hikes and the BoJ’s Yield Curve ControlChristine Lagarde's remarks about an open-minded ECB, coupled with a robust labor market and persistently high inflation in the eurozone, continue to provide the ECB with reasons to lean towards hiking. While headline inflation may be trending downwards, core inflation remains steadfast in the eurozone. Following the meeting on July 27, the ECB raised interest rates by 25 basis points, elevating the key interest rate to 4.25%—its highest level since 2008. Interestingly, the U.S. seems to be leading the way in this regard. Inflation and core inflation peaked earlier in the US, and the Federal Reserve has been raising rates more rapidly than the ECB. Given that the EU's inflation rates remain higher than those in the US and that the unemployment rate in the EU is still low, further hikes by the ECB appear plausible—especially considering that the U.S. continues to hike, albeit at a more advanced stage. Last week, the Bank of Japan (BoJ) garnered attention by widening its yield curve control band, signaling a move towards policy normalization. Yet, markets remain skeptical. The subsequent whipsaw move placed the USDJPY pair at levels higher than those before the announcement. The yield differential between the EUR and JPY interest rates exhibits a positive relationship, with the EURJPY appreciating as the yield gap widens. With the previous yield differential increase resulting in a 21% rise in the EURJPY, the currency pair's current 14% ascent seems to have room to grow further, particularly given the larger yield difference compared to past instances. However, it's worth noting the 1999 – 2000 period, where the yield differential increased, but market reactions lagged significantly. From a technical perspective, we observe the EURJPY breaking out of a 30-year symmetrical triangle, often interpreted as a bullish continuation signal. Upon closer examination, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) indicates that the market is not yet oversold, and the moving average cross still favours upward trajectory. In conclusion, the ECB's potential inclination towards continued hikes, combined with market skepticism over the BOJ's recent moves, could lead to a stronger EUR and a softer JPY. A suitable strategy to capitalize on this view might be to take a long position in CME EURO/JAPANESE YEN Futures, quoted as Japanese Yen per Euro Increment. Entering at the current level of 156 with a stop at 152.5, and a take profit at 168, would provide a reasonable risk-reward ratio. It's worth noting that each 0.01 Japanese yen per Euro increment move equals 1250 yen. The charts above were generated using CME’s Real-Time data available on TradingView. Inspirante Trading Solutions is subscribed to both TradingView Premium and CME Real-time Market Data which allows us to identify trading set-ups in real-time and express our market opinions. 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 Disclaimer: The contents in this Idea are intended for information purpose only and do not constitute investment recommendation or advice. Nor are they used to promote any specific products or services. They serve as an integral part of a case study to demonstrate fundamental concepts in risk management under given market scenarios. A full version of the disclaimer is available in our profile description. Reference: www.cmegroup.com
Long
by inspirante
Copper Conundrum: Diverging Indicators Point to More DownsideThe last time we looked at copper was last October, and the trade played out nicely in our favor. Much has happened since then and we think another opportunity lies on the horizon now. Revisiting the same analysis now we observe the following… China, being the largest copper buyer, its currency pair CNHUSD traditionally shares a high correlation with copper. However, a divergence has emerged since May 2023. Moreover, copper's wide usage in manufacturing - from batteries to appliances and industrial machinery - makes China's import and export figures a good indicator of global economic health. These figures currently paint a gloomy picture, with YOY Exports & Imports pointing lower. Again, we notice a divergence between copper prices and these economic numbers. The Gold/Copper ratio, usually confined within a certain range, has recently tried to break higher. Despite facing resistance, the movement may still have momentum. Previous breaks upward have proven to be quite rapid. One way this could play out is if copper trades lower, the Gold/Copper ratio tends to trend higher. From a price action perspective, copper seems to be breaking out from a seven-month bull flag, inching towards the 4.00 price level. However, the significant resistance at 4.00 casts doubts on the breakout's success. Further fuelling this doubt is the emergence of a Simple Moving Average (SMA) death cross on the daily timeframe. On a shorter timeframe, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) suggests slight overselling, while the overall price structure is encapsulated in a symmetrical triangle. Summing up, we foresee short-term downside for copper due to diverging macro factors from copper’s price and a downward trend in the dollar. Moreover, price action suggests overbought levels and looming resistance. CME has the Full-sized Copper Contract or the Micro Copper Futures which we can use to express this view, taking a short position at the current level of 3.904, stop loss at 4.10 and take profit at 3.55 the next level of support and subsequently 3.30 if the symmetrical triangle breakout happens. Each $0.0005 price move in copper per pound is equal to $1.25 for the micro copper futures and $12.50 for the full-sized copper futures. The charts above were generated using CME’s Real-Time data available on TradingView. Inspirante Trading Solutions is subscribed to both TradingView Premium and CME Real-time Market Data which allows us to identify trading set-ups in real-time and express our market opinions. 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 Disclaimer: The contents in this Idea are intended for information purpose only and do not constitute investment recommendation or advice. Nor are they used to promote any specific products or services. They serve as an integral part of a case study to demonstrate fundamental concepts in risk management under given market scenarios. A full version of the disclaimer is available in our profile description. Reference: www.cmegroup.com www.cmegroup.com www.cmegroup.com
COMEX:HG1!Short
by inspirante
Soybeans poised for a drop?Soybeans have certainly caught our attention as a classic head and shoulders pattern has emerged, suggesting a possible trend reversal. This implies a potential drop equivalent to the height from the head to the neckline, taking us towards the 900 level. Could this be signalling more downside in the soybean market? The current price action is intriguing as an attempt to break the neckline was rejected and prices now hover just below the neckline. Is this the prime moment to consider a short position on soybeans? We think it's worth exploring, and here's why... As we’ve last pointed out in the “It’s Corn!” idea in March, prices of the 3 major agriculture crops, Soybean, Wheat and Corn generally move together. Back then, we were highlighting the excessive premium in Corn futures as well as the break of a technical chart pattern. Now, we're witnessing a similar tale with Soybean stepping into the spotlight. From 2019 until now, these three crops have jockeyed for position in terms of percentage gain. Currently, Soybean is in the lead, when compared to Wheat and Corn, in terms of % gain from pre-COVID times and the onset of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Another way to look at it is to compare the ratio between Soybean & Corn as well as Wheat. The Soybean/Corn ratio is now at the higher end of its 7-year range, and while the Soybean/Wheat ratio not as extreme, is still closer to its range top. Another interesting dynamic we can look into is the Natural Gas – Fertilizers – Soybean dynamic. As natural gas is a key input in fertilisers production, the spectacular fall in natural gas prices has preceded falling fertiliser prices. This in turn, impacts soybean prices as well. Hence, we see a potential downside for Soybean as it trades at a premium as compared to Corn & Wheat. We can consider a short position on the Soybean Futures at the current level of 1340 with a stop at 1450 and take profits at 1250 followed by a subsequent take profit level at 900. This will allow profits on the anticipated downward move while also considering the head and shoulders pattern's target. CME’s Soybean Futures is quoted in U.S. cents per bushel. Each 0.0025 increment equal to 12.5$. The charts above were generated using CME’s Real-Time data available on TradingView. Inspirante Trading Solutions is subscribed to both TradingView Premium and CME Real-time Market Data which allows us to identify trading set-ups in real-time and express our market opinions. 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 Disclaimer: The contents in this Idea are intended for information purpose only and do not constitute investment recommendation or advice. Nor are they used to promote any specific products or services. They serve as an integral part of a case study to demonstrate fundamental concepts in risk management under given market scenarios. A full version of the disclaimer is available in our profile description. Reference: www.cmegroup.com
CBOT:ZS1!Short
by inspirante
Every CME that is open right now.I have put some effort into this update of my CME chart, and I believe I have covered everything. Although CMEs do expire, I have marked all of the "open ones" in this case. The main reason I focus on CME gaps is that when I see a price heading towards a gap, there is a higher likelihood of it being reached. So if my take profit (TP) is close to a gap, I would typically set the TP closer to the gap instead. I hope this information is as helpful to you as CME has been to me over the years. If you're interested, you can check out my profile and join me and others in the community I am involved with.
CME:BTC1!
by CryptoBanda
How to position for yield curve un-inversions!It has been some time since we delved into the intricate world of interest rates and their prospective trajectories. With the yield curve experiencing significant movement in recent weeks, it's high time we reassess our stance. Following a staggering 500 basis points increase, we now find ourselves potentially nearer to the end of the rate hike cycle than ever before. The recent hawkish pause announced in the last meeting has left market participants on tenterhooks, pondering the future course of action in the ongoing battle against inflation. Given the downward trend in inflation and the possibility of at least one more rate hike, 'real' yields have ascended beyond the 0% level, as depicted in the chart above. Since the 2010s, real yields have consistently struggled to surpass the 1.2% level. However, the recent lower inflation prints place the 'real' yield at a new decade high of 1.25%. So, how does the yield curve inversion behave during periods of real yields? Interestingly, in three of the past four instances, the curve 'un-inverted' once real yields exceeded 0. Of greater significance is the yield curve's response after the Fed cuts rates. Since 1989, this has been a key signal of the yield curve un-inversion. Given this event's proximity and the current 2Y-10Y yield curve, we contemplate the optimal strategy to capitalize on this likely un-inversion. One approach is to examine all possible inversion combinations between the 2, 5, 10, and 30-year yields. All these combinations present an inverted curve, except for the 10Y-30Y segment. Upon dissecting the analysis to focus solely on 2-year inversions, we observe the following: The 2-year inversion is generally the steepest, with the 2Y-10Y ranking as the most inverted segment of the yield curve. All inversions anchored with the 2Y are at their all-time highs, plunging us into uncharted waters. In contrast, the 5-year and 10-year yields exhibit more subdued movements. Their inversions have yet to reach all-time highs, and the overall range of movement is relatively restrained. Therefore, to maximize returns on the un-inversion move, one could position to short either the most inverted section of the curve, the 2Y-10Y, or the 2Y-30Y, which typically experiences the largest movement upon un-inversion. Handily, CME has the Micro Treasury Yield Futures, quoted in yield terms, which allows us to express this view in a straightforward manner allaying the complications with DV01 calculation. By creating a short yield spread position, we are not merely speculating on the direction of individual yields but rather on the relative movement between them. Trading the yield spread instead of just an outright position in a single part of the curve also protects us from parallel shifts in the yield curve, especially in volatile times like these. This strategy takes advantage of the yield curve dynamics, particularly the inversion trend we've been observing. We create the short yield spread position by taking a short position in the Micro 2-Yr Yield Futures and a long position in the Micro 10-Yr Yield Futures or Micro 30-Yr Yield Futures to express the curve un-inversion view, with 1 basis point move equal to 10 USD. The charts above were generated using CME’s Real-Time data available on TradingView. Inspirante Trading Solutions is subscribed to both TradingView Premium and CME Real-time Market Data which allows us to identify trading set-ups in real-time and express our market opinions. 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 Disclaimer: The contents in this Idea are intended for information purpose only and do not constitute investment recommendation or advice. Nor are they used to promote any specific products or services. They serve as an integral part of a case study to demonstrate fundamental concepts in risk management under given market scenarios. A full version of the disclaimer is available in our profile description. Reference: www.cmegroup.com www.cmegroup.com www.cmegroup.com
TVC:US02YShort
by inspirante
We’ve been here before. 2000’s Nasdaq vs Today.The Nasdaq's formidable recovery from the October 2022 bottom resulted in an impressive 42% surge, a rare feat for a major index. However, as it grapples with resistance at the 15250 level this past week, we are compelled to question if this upward momentum is running out of steam. Notably, historical instances where the Relative Strength Index (RSI) soared past the 70 level have often been followed by a downward shift for the index. We diligently monitor the Nasdaq's ratio against other major indices to gauge its relative value. At its current level, the Nasdaq seems to be trading at a premium compared to several other major indices. When we consider this ratio, the Nasdaq appears to be near its all-time highs. In fact, it's trading close to or above the levels seen during the dot-com bubble of the 2000s in all comparisons. When juxtaposed with the S&P and Dow, we find that this level is not unprecedented; each time the ratio has previously reached this level, it was swiftly corrected. Drawing a parallel between the economic conditions of the 2000s and now, it seems that we are in familiar territory, or as they say, ‘we’ve been here before’. To illustrate the similarities, let's consider the dot-com peak in March 2000 as a reference point. The current economic indicators closely mirror those from the 2000s, as reflected in measures such as Dollar strength, inflation, unemployment, and interest rates. In particular, the US 2Y-10Y spread indicates an inversion of the yield curve that surpasses even the extent seen during the 2000s. Simultaneously, the other indicators nearly align with their respective levels from that period. This begs the question: What has been propelling the Nasdaq higher? Could it be the hype surrounding AI and technology, or is it the liquidity in the market? We posit that it's a combination of both factors, as the tech rally and increased reserve balance seem to coincide with the ratio’s upward movement. Although we don't foresee a tech bubble bursting as it did in the 2000s, there's undeniable enthusiasm for the Nasdaq. Given the current setup's striking resemblance to the 2000s, we can glean lessons from that period to position ourselves optimally. One potential strategy could be to short the Nasdaq 100 Futures on CME outright at the current level of 15086, with the take profit at 13900 and a stop loss at 15600. Alternatively, investors expressing a bearish view on the Nasdaq 100 ratio could consider shorting 2 Nasdaq 100 Futures and going long on 3 S&P500 Futures. In the second setup, the dollar value of the position is equal, as the contract value of the Nasdaq 100 Futures and the S&P500 Futures is approximately the same, at roughly 600,000 USD for the full-sized contract at the current price level for both index. The same setup can be replicated using the micro Nasdaq 100 and S&P500 futures at the same ratio, where the position value is now roughly 60,000 USD. For each 1 point move in the standard size E-MINI S&P 500 Futures contract, the equivalent value is 50 USD and 5 USD for the Micro contract. Similarly, each 1 point move in the standard-sized E-MINI Nasdaq 100 Futures contract equates to 20 USD, and 2 USD for the micro contract. Trading this spread could potentially benefit from a margin offset of up to 70%, meaning that the capital required to initiate this trade is significantly reduced. This setup could be particularly attractive for traders seeking to optimize their capital usage while gaining exposure to these major indices. The charts above were generated using CME’s Real-Time data available on TradingView. Inspirante Trading Solutions is subscribed to both TradingView Premium and CME Real-time Market Data which allows us to identify trading set-ups in real-time and express our market opinions. 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 Disclaimer: The contents in this Idea are intended for information purpose only and do not constitute investment recommendation or advice. Nor are they used to promote any specific products or services. They serve as an integral part of a case study to demonstrate fundamental concepts in risk management under given market scenarios. A full version of the disclaimer is available in our profile description. Reference: www.cmegroup.com www.cmegroup.com www.cmegroup.com www.cmegroup.com
NASDAQ:NDXShort
by inspirante
Is It Time to Follow the Oracle's Lead?You may have heard of a certain Warren Buffett, and it seems like he might be onto something... Buffett, known as the "Oracle of Omaha," has demonstrated remarkable investment timing, or perhaps an innate ability to steer investment flows. This was clearly illustrated by his investment in Japan, which triggered a rally in the Nikkei to decade-long highs. While that window may have closed, Buffett has been discreetly bolstering his stake in another entity - Occidental Petroleum (OXY). If we scrutinize the timing of his purchases, it's apparent that Buffett likely had a price floor in mind. Intriguingly, his first purchase occurred when Crude was trading at a 15-year high! This leads us to examine Oil, which has been trading nearly 40% lower since mid-2022. Since our last discussion about oil, the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) has been further depleted, reaching its lowest level since 1983. The result of this drawdown is a diminished impact on energy costs as evidenced by the energy inflation index, which has not only passed its peak but has now turned negative. Interestingly, the Canadian dollar and the Norwegian Krone, currencies of major oil-exporting countries, have been outpacing the commodity typically correlated with them, Crude Oil. On the whole, it seems the energy commodity sector may have bottomed out, with all types of Oil and natural gas trading on an upward trajectory. In consideration of these factors, the outlook for oil leans towards the bullish side. The scarcity of oil in the SPR and the absence of energy inflation as a significant contributor to overall CPI make it unlikely for the U.S. to release more oil to depress energy prices. Coupled with the buoyant trend in the energy commodity space and the recent outperformance of major oil-exporting countries' currencies, it appears to be an opportune moment to consider a long position on oil. At the current price level of 72.33, risk managed trade points to setting the stops at the previous support of 66 and take profit level at 85. Each Crude Oil Future contract is equal to 1000 barrels of crude oil. Each 0.01 point increment in Crude Oil Futures is equal to 10 USD . The same view can also be expressed with greater precision using the Micro WTI Crude Oil, where each Micro contract is equal to 100 barrels of crude oil and each 0.01 point increment is equal to 1 USD. The charts above were generated using CME’s Real-Time data available on TradingView. Inspirante Trading Solutions is subscribed to both TradingView Premium and CME Real-time Market Data which allows us to identify trading set-ups in real-time and express our market opinions. 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 Disclaimer: The contents in this Idea are intended for information purpose only and do not constitute investment recommendation or advice. Nor are they used to promote any specific products or services. They serve as an integral part of a case study to demonstrate fundamental concepts in risk management under given market scenarios. A full version of the disclaimer is available in our profile description. Reference: www.cmegroup.com www.cmegroup.com www.eia.gov tradingeconomics.com
NYMEX:CL1!Long
by inspirante
Decoding Bitcoin's Latest CME Gap: An Insightful AnalysisOver the past weekend, Bitcoin experienced a significant sell-off, causing a price discrepancy to form, commonly referred to as a 'gap'. This gap is discernible between the present Bitcoin market price and the closing price from last Friday (as per New York time). Notably, these gaps, often identified in futures markets such as the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME), can serve as potential signals for traders. It's currently anticipated that this gap could be filled in the near future. The phenomenon of 'filling the gap' refers to the price retracing its steps back to the level before the gap was formed, thus restoring market equilibrium. The market's response to this development will be closely watched by traders and investors alike.
Long
by p3nchan
1