ES Futures Trade Idea: Santa Rally Expectationswww.tradingview.com
The ES futures market has maintained a bullish trajectory in 2024, with few pullbacks along the way. Currently, the futures are consolidating near All-Time Highs, setting the stage for a pivotal week ahead.
Key Catalysts to Watch
Wednesday, December 18th, 2024
FED Interest Rate Decision
Summary of Economic Projections (SEP)
FOMC Meeting
These events could provide the momentum needed to fuel a potential Santa Claus Rally. However, whether this materializes remains uncertain.
Additional Economic Data
The economic calendar this week is packed with key data releases, beginning with the preliminary Manufacturing and Services PMI readings at 8:45 AM CT today. On Tuesday, the spotlight will be on November US Retail Sales, while Thursday, December 19th, 2024, brings a flurry of critical updates, including the Bank of England (BOE) and Bank of Japan (BOJ) rate decisions, Q3 US GDP, initial jobless claims, and November existing home sales. The week concludes on Friday, with the release of the FED’s preferred Core PCE Price Index for November at 7:30 AM CT, offering fresh insights into inflation trends.
Key Levels to Watch:
Target for Bulls: 6295-6310
Line in Sand (LIS): 6045-6055
R1: 6105-6115
R2: 6145-6155
R3: 6195-6205
S1: 5970-5960
S2: 5855-5835
Key Support S3: 5735-5745
Possible Scenarios
Scenario 1: Sustained Bullish Movement and Santa Rally
In this bullish case, ES futures break out of the consolidation zone following the FED announcements. This could lead to a year-end rally with prices targeting the Fibonacci extension level at 6312.50, setting the stage for continued gains into Q1 2025.
Scenario 2: Santa Rally Followed by Pullback
Here, the FED-driven Santa rally kicks off but encounters resistance. After the initial bullish push, the market consolidates into year-end as traders await fresh inflows and sector rotations in January for the next directional move.
Both scenarios hinge on key data releases and market reaction to the FED’s guidance. Keep an eye on the Line in the Sand (LIS) at 6045–6055, as it represents a critical level for the ongoing trend.
This week’s calendar is packed with high-impact events that could drive volatility and shape the near-term outlook for ES futures. Stay prepared!
Disclaimer: The views expressed are personal opinions and should not be interpreted as financial advice. Derivatives involve a substantial risk of loss and are not suitable for all investors.
Esfutures
Weekly Recap & Market Forecast $SPX (Nov 17th—> Nov 22th)SPX - Powell changed his narrative on rate cuts, He came out and said he doesn't expect any rate cuts next month because economy is strong and inflation is starting to tick up again. Market started to decline due to new narrative because small businesses desperately needs rate cuts and cheaper loans.
Next resistance: 6,003 and 6,017
Next support: 5,773 followed by 5,640
Weekly Sentiment: Bearish
Weekly Recap & Market Forecast $SPX (Sept 8th—> Sept 13th)Hello Investors! 🌟 September started with a sharp decline as investors pruned risk assets from their portfolios amid concerns over US economic data and rising worries about growth. Let’s break down the key events that influenced the markets this week. 📉
Market Overview:
The week opened with a broad sell-off across equities, commodities, and crypto, as US Treasury yields dropped to their lowest levels in more than a year. Disappointing August ISM manufacturing data set the tone for a week of worse-than-expected economic readings, stoking fears that the elusive “soft landing” may be slipping further away. US equities gave back all the gains made in the second half of August, with much of the selling attributed to multiple compression, particularly in technology stocks. Nvidia was the most prominent example, with its stock falling ~25% from its earnings peak amid historic daily declines in market cap. The S&P 500 faced resistance near the 5,600 level, struggling above 20x next year’s earnings. By the end of the week, the S&P lost 4.2%, the Dow dropped 2.9%, and the Nasdaq tumbled 5.8%, marking the tech index’s worst decline since November 2022.
Stock Market Performance:
📉 S&P 500: Down by 4.2%
📉 Dow Jones: Down by 2.9%
📉 NASDAQ: Down by 5.8%
Economic Indicators:
WTI Crude Oil: Prices slid to their lowest levels since June 2023, prompting OPEC+ to extend its 2.2M bpd voluntary production cuts through November.
Bank of Canada: Cut rates by 25 basis points in a move to boost economic growth, while PM Trudeau faced political challenges after losing support from a key coalition partner.
JOLTS Jobs Data: Missed estimates significantly, falling below 8M job openings for just the second time this year. The ratio of job openings to unemployed workers dropped below a key Fed gauge, reinforcing the case for rate cuts.
ADP Employment Report: Hit a three-year low, showing declining pay growth for those who didn’t change jobs, adding to concerns about labor market weakness.
Fed’s Beige Book: Revealed flat or declining economic activity in nine out of twelve districts, suggesting economic sluggishness that could influence the Fed’s next moves.
August Jobs Report: Showed further labor market deceleration, with downward revisions to June and July payrolls. The report kept the door open for more aggressive Fed action, with FOMC officials signaling that at least 50 basis points will be debated at the September 18th meeting.
Treasury and FX Markets:
Yield Curve: Continued to normalize as the US 2-year yield traded 4 basis points below the 10-year rate.
Futures Markets: Priced in over 100 bps of cuts by the end of 2024 and ~225 bps by September 2025.
Dollar/Yen Exchange Rate: Traded close to its August lows, while the VIX volatility index rose above 23 but remained below early August highs.
Corporate News:
Docusign: Posted strong quarterly results and guidance, getting back on track after struggles during the post-pandemic period.
Hewlett Packard Enterprises: Delivered respectable earnings but saw shares fall, as investors were unimpressed with guidance.
Broadcom: Reported an uninspiring Q3, leaving investors with more questions about the pace of AI growth, contributing to broader tech sector pressure.
Nvidia: There was speculation that NVDA had received a subpoena from the DOJ, but this turned out to be false news. While they are under investigation, no formal subpoena has been served yet.
M&A News:
Nippon Steel’s Acquisition of US Steel: Faces challenges as reports suggest the Biden Administration may block the deal on national security grounds.
Verizon: Agreed to acquire Frontier Communications for $9.6B, expanding its fiber network and positioning itself for future growth.
Looking for a buying opportunity for the ES minis.🔉Sound on!🔉
Thank you as always for watching my videos. I hope that you learned something very educational! Please feel free to like, share, and comment on this post. Remember only risk what you are willing to lose. Trading is very risky but it can change your life!
S&P500 - Clues to BUYThe S&P 500 is my favorite market to trade however my strategy struggles when price enters All Time Highs by design. I tend to try and hold positions into ATH's and beyond but this recent uptrend has proven too aggressive for my entries (See attached ideas). Last weeks close is a very subtle clue about institutional intention to buy this market.
My intuition says S&P500 is likely to move higher and start the price exploratory process between 5600 - 5350. This is a common process pattern through the summer months observed historically (institutional investors allocate before leaving for summer vacation maybe?) Unfortunately, it also means any trades for me have reduced odds until price clearly defines levels that provide my strategy an edge.
As price explores above, I'll be mindful of quick tests of support. I personally would not be comfortable with any swing long entries above 5290, which seems unlikely. From a day trade perspective, 5325 should provided good support and I doubt price trades below it for very long. Time/Price analysis indicates 5600 is a good level to watch for exhaustion of this push. 5185 and 5510 could offer some setups. Daily closes below 5300 invalidates this idea.
Any trades related to this idea in the weeks to come will be posted below. Likes and Follows are appreciated
Options Blueprint Series: Backspreads as a Portfolio Hedge1. Introduction
Backspreads are a versatile options strategy as they allow traders to benefit from significant moves in the underlying asset, particularly when there is an expectation of increased volatility.
2. Understanding Backspreads
A backspread is an advanced options strategy involving the sale of a small number of options and the purchase of a larger number of out-of-the-money options. This setup creates a position that benefits from large price movements in the underlying asset.
3. Generic Uses of Backspreads
Backspreads offer traders a flexible tool to capitalize on significant price movements and shifts in market volatility. Here are some common uses:
Market Sentiment Alignment:
Bullish Sentiment (Call Backspreads): Traders use call backspreads when they expect a significant upward move. This strategy involves selling a smaller number of lower-strike call options and buying a larger number of higher-strike call options.
Bearish Sentiment (Put Backspreads): Conversely, put backspreads are used when traders anticipate a significant downward move. This involves selling a smaller number of higher-strike put options and buying a larger number of lower-strike put options.
Volatility Trading:
Backspreads are particularly useful in trading volatility. They create positions with positive Vega, meaning they benefit from increases in implied volatility. This makes backspreads an excellent choice during times of market uncertainty or expected volatility spikes.
4. Hedging an Equity Portfolio using with S&P 500 Futures Put Backspreads
Put backspreads offer an effective way to hedge a long equity portfolio against sharp downward moves. By setting up a put backspread, traders can create a position that not only provides downside protection but also benefits from increased market volatility.
Setting Up a Put Backspread for Hedging:
Sell 1 OTM Put: The initial step involves selling one out-of-the-money (OTM) put option. This option will generate a premium, which can be used to offset the cost of the puts that will be purchased.
Buy 2 Lower OTM Puts: Next, purchase two lower OTM put options. These options will provide the necessary downside protection. Depending on the strike selected, the cost of these puts will be fully or partially covered by the premium received from selling the higher-strike put.
Constructing a Positive Vega Position:
The structure of the put backspread results in a position with positive Vega. This characteristic is particularly valuable as volatility typically rises during periods of sharp declines.
Risk Profile:
Below is the risk profile of a put backspread used for hedging purposes as described in section #6 below.
5. Market Scenarios
Understanding how a put backspread behaves under different market scenarios is crucial for effective trade management and risk mitigation. Here, we explore the potential outcomes:
Market Moving Up or Staying the Same: Flat P&L
If the market moves up or remains around the current level, the put backspread will likely expire worthless.
Market Moving Down Sharply: Increased Profitability
If the market experiences a sharp decline, the put backspread would potentially become profitable.
Impact of Increased Volatility: Enhanced Gains
A rise in implied volatility benefits the put backspread as higher volatility increases the value of the bought puts more than the sold put, adding to the overall profitability of the strategy.
Maximum Risk and Trade Management:
Maximum Risk: Limited to the difference between the strike prices minus the net credit received (or plus the net debit paid).
Trade Management: It is essential to actively manage the position.
6. Trade Example
To illustrate the application of a put backspread as a hedge, let's consider a detailed trade example using S&P 500 Futures Options.
Trade Rationale:
Current Market Condition: The S&P 500 Futures have just created a new all-time high, indicating that the market is at a crucial juncture. From this point, the market could either continue its upward trajectory or experience a severe change of direction.
Implied Volatility (VIX): The VIX, which measures the implied volatility of options, is currently very low at 11.99. This low volatility environment makes it an ideal time to enter a backspread, as any future increase in volatility will significantly benefit the position.
Trade Setup:
Underlying Asset: S&P 500 Futures
Current Price: 5447
Strategy: Put Backspread
Expiration Date: December 2024
Specifics:
Sell 1 OTM Put: Sell 1 4600 put option
Buy 2 Lower OTM Puts: Buy 2 4100 put options
Entry Price:
Sell 1 4600 Put: Receive $2,160 premium per contract (43.2 points)
Buy 2 4100 Puts: Pay $1,068.5 premium each; total $2,137 for two contracts (21.37 points x 2)
Net Cost:
The net cost of the backspread is the premium paid for the bought puts minus the premium received from the sold put.
Net Cost: $2,137 (paid) - $2,160 (received) = $23 net credit
As seen below, we are using the CME Group Options Calculator in order to generate fair value prices and Greeks for any options on futures contracts.
Maximum Risk:
500 – 0.46 = 499.54 points (distance between strike prices minus the net credit received).
7. Importance of Risk Management
Risk management is a fundamental aspect of successful trading and investing. It involves identifying, analyzing, and mitigating potential risks to protect capital and maximize returns. When implementing a put backspread as a portfolio hedge, understanding and applying robust risk management practices is crucial.
Using Stop Loss Orders and Hedging Techniques:
Stop Loss Orders: Placing stop loss orders helps limit potential losses by automatically closing a position when the market reaches a certain price level. This ensures that losses do not exceed a predetermined amount, providing a safety net against adverse market movements.
Hedging Techniques: Utilizing hedging strategies, such as combining put backspreads with other options or futures contracts, can provide additional layers of protection. This approach can help manage risk more effectively by diversifying exposure and reducing the impact of unfavorable market conditions.
Importance of Avoiding Undefined Risk Exposure:
Defined Risk Strategies: Employing strategies with clearly defined risk parameters, such as put backspreads, ensures that potential losses are limited and known in advance. This contrasts with strategies that expose traders to unlimited risk, which can lead to catastrophic losses.
Position Sizing: Properly sizing positions based on risk tolerance and account size is essential. This involves calculating the maximum potential loss and ensuring it aligns with the trader's risk management plan.
Precise Entries and Exits:
Entry Points: Entering trades at optimal levels, based on technical analysis, support and resistance and UFO levels, and market conditions, enhances the probability of success. In the case of put backspreads, entering when volatility is low and market conditions are favorable increases the potential for profitability.
Exit Points: Setting clear exit points, including profit targets and stop loss levels, helps manage risk and lock in gains. Regularly reviewing and adjusting these levels based on market developments ensures that positions remain aligned with the trader's overall strategy.
Continuous Monitoring and Adjustment:
Regular Review: Continuously monitoring market conditions, position performance, and risk parameters is essential for effective risk management. This involves staying informed about economic events, market trends, and changes in volatility.
Adjustments: Making timely adjustments to positions, such as rolling options, adjusting stop loss levels, or hedging with additional instruments, helps manage risk dynamically and adapt to changing market conditions.
By incorporating these risk management practices, traders can effectively use put backspreads to hedge their portfolios and protect against significant market downturns.
8. Conclusion
In summary, put backspreads offer a powerful tool for hedging long equity portfolios, especially in low volatility environments and/or when markets are at all-time highs. By understanding the mechanics of put backspreads, their application in various market scenarios, and the importance of active risk management, traders can enhance their ability to protect their investments and capitalize on market opportunities.
When charting futures, the data provided could be delayed. Traders working with the ticker symbols discussed in this idea may prefer to use CME Group real-time data plan on TradingView: www.tradingview.com This consideration is particularly important for shorter-term traders, whereas it may be less critical for those focused on longer-term trading strategies.
General Disclaimer:
The trade ideas presented herein are solely for illustrative purposes forming a part of a case study intended to demonstrate key principles in risk management within the context of the specific market scenarios discussed. These ideas are not to be interpreted as investment recommendations or financial advice. They do not endorse or promote any specific trading strategies, financial products, or services. The information provided is based on data believed to be reliable; however, its accuracy or completeness cannot be guaranteed. Trading in financial markets involves risks, including the potential loss of principal. Each individual should conduct their own research and consult with professional financial advisors before making any investment decisions. The author or publisher of this content bears no responsibility for any actions taken based on the information provided or for any resultant financial or other losses.
Trade Plan NQ Futures: week starting May 5th, 2024 Trade Plan NQ Futures: week starting May 5th, 2024
Based on the provided levels for the NQH2024 futures contract, here's a weekly trade plan focusing on trading from the pivot to the upside or downside targets:
Weekly Pivot: 17847 Current Price: 18000
Upside Targets:
First Target: 18090
Second Target: 18348
Third Target: 18605
Downside Targets:
First Target: 17731
Second Target: 17560
Third Target: 17378
Trade Plan:
Long Trades: Look for buying opportunities if the price remains above the weekly pivot (17847).
Entry: Consider entering long positions on pullbacks towards the pivot (17847) or if the price breaks above the current price (18000).
Targets: Target the upside levels of 18090, 18348, and potentially 18605.
Stop Loss: Place a stop loss below the pivot or below significant support levels identified during the week.
Short Trades: Consider shorting the market if the price breaks below the weekly pivot (18847) or the current price (18000).
Entry: Enter short positions on breakdowns below the pivot (17731) or the current price (18000).
Targets: Aim for downside targets of 17731, 17560, and potentially 17378.
Stop Loss: Place a stop loss above the pivot or above significant resistance levels identified during the week.
Risk Management:
Ensure proper risk management by sizing positions appropriately based on the distance to target and stop loss levels.
Consider using trailing stops to lock in profits as the price moves in your favor.
Monitor the market closely for any changes in price action or news events that could affect the trade.
Note: Always adapt your trading plan based on real-time market conditions and adjust your approach as necessary to manage risk effectively.
Prep and Lean ES/NQ/SPX Wednesday ES Trade Plan
Inflection: 5095
Upper lvls: 5115 / 5127 / 5137
Aggressive Inflection: 5076
Lower lvls: 5052-5056 / 5030-5038 / 5005
NQ Trade Plan
Inflection: 17628
Upper lvls: 17660 / 17776 / 17818-17838 / 17901-17937
Lower lvls: 17507 / 17356-17370 / 17283-17293 / 17163
SPX Pivot 5036
Stay Frosty!
Weekly Plan ES Futures 4/14/2024[Weekly plan: ESH2024
NYSE:ES FUTURES 4/14/2024
5250 >> 5297 >>> 5333
Weekly pivot: 5181, Now 5166, Weekly open TBD
5134>> 5093 >>> 5057
------------------------------------
Based on the provided levels for the ESH2024 futures contract, here's a weekly trade plan focusing on trading from the pivot to the upside or downside targets:
Weekly Pivot: 5181
Weekly Open: TBD
Current Price: 5166
Upside Targets:
First Target: 5250
Second Target: 5297
Third Target: 5333
Downside Targets:
First Target: 5134
Second Target: 5093
Third Target: 5057
Trade Plan:
Long Trades: Look for buying opportunities if the price remains above the weekly pivot (5181).
Entry: Consider entering long positions on pullbacks towards the pivot (5181) or if the price breaks above the weekly open (5263).
Targets: Target the upside levels of 5250, 5297, and potentially 5333.
Stop Loss: Place a stop loss below the weekly pivot or below significant support levels identified during the week.
Short Trades: Consider shorting the market if the price breaks below the weekly pivot (5181) or the current price (5166).
Entry: Enter short positions on breakdowns below the pivot (5181) or the current price (5166).
Targets: Aim for downside targets of 5134, 5093, and potentially 5057.
Stop Loss: Place a stop loss above the pivot or above significant resistance levels identified during the week.
Risk Management:
Ensure proper risk management by sizing positions appropriately based on the distance to target and stop loss levels.
Consider using trailing stops to lock in profits as the price moves in your favor.
Monitor the market closely for any changes in price action or news events that could affect the trade.
Note: Always adapt your trading plan based on real-time market conditions and adjust your approach as necessary to manage risk effectively.
#ES has biggest Red Day of 2024 with weekend geopolitical risk#ES plan for Monday.
#Bullish setup - #ES reclaims 5177 which would be failed breakdown of the yellow bull flag. Then #ES works is way up to the VPOC at 5202
#Bearish setup #ES loses 5163 which would be a breakdown of the white rising trendline. This would target 5134-5136.
Options Blueprint Series: Calendar Spreads - Timing the MarketIntroduction to Calendar Spreads
Calendar spreads, also known as time spreads or horizontal spreads, are advanced options strategies that involve buying and selling two options contracts on the same underlying asset, such as the S&P 500 Futures, but with different expiration dates. The strategy aims to profit from the differing time decay rates of the short-term and long-term options. Traders often deploy calendar spreads to capitalize on expected stable or sideways market conditions.
Why S&P 500 Futures Options for Calendar Spreads?
The S&P 500 index, encapsulating the performance of 500 of the largest companies listed on stock exchanges in the United States, serves as a premier gauge of U.S. equities. Its derivative products, notably the S&P 500 Futures Options, present traders with a fertile ground for executing calendar spread strategies. These options inherit the index's broad market exposure and liquidity, making them an ideal candidate for such strategies. Let's delve into the contract specifications and characteristics that make S&P 500 Futures Options and Micro Options particularly suited for calendar spreads.
Contract Specifications:
S&P 500 Futures Options (Standard): These contracts are based on the E-mini S&P 500 futures. Each contract represents an agreement to buy or sell the futures contract at a set price before the option expires. The standard option contract size typically mirrors the underlying futures contract, which is valued at $50 x S&P 500 Index.
Micro S&P 500 Futures Options: Introduced as a more accessible variant, Micro S&P 500 Futures Options are 1/10th the size of their standard counterparts. This smaller contract size reduces the capital requirement, making it more appealing for individual traders and those looking to fine-tune their market exposure. The contract size for Micro Options is $5 x S&P 500 Index, maintaining the leverage and flexibility of the standard options but at a scale more manageable for a wider range of investors.
Characteristics Beneficial for Calendar Spreads:
Liquidity: Both standard and micro contracts benefit from high liquidity, ensuring tight bid-ask spreads. This liquidity facilitates easier entry and exit from positions, a critical factor when managing calendar spreads that require precision in timing and the ability to adjust positions quickly in response to market movements.
Volatility Patterns: Understanding and anticipating volatility patterns is crucial for the success of calendar spreads. The S&P 500's inherent volatility, influenced by economic indicators, corporate earnings, and geopolitical events, can affect options pricing and the optimal structuring of calendar spreads.
Strategic Flexibility: The availability of both standard and micro contract sizes provides traders with flexibility in managing their market exposure and tailoring their strategies to match their risk appetite and investment goals.
Incorporating S&P 500 Futures Options into calendar spread strategies not only leverages these inherent characteristics but also taps into the dynamic interplay of time decay and market movements. Traders must, however, remain vigilant of the underlying market conditions and adapt their strategies to align with evolving market dynamics.
Constructing a Calendar Spread
To construct a calendar spread with S&P 500 Futures Options, a trader needs to undertake a series of thoughtful steps. Initially, one must select an appropriate strike price that aligns with their market outlook. Typically, at-the-money (ATM) or slightly out-of-the-money (OTM) options are preferred due to their sensitivity to time decay, which is a pivotal component of this strategy.
Example Setup:
Buying a Long-term Option: Consider purchasing a long-term put option on the S&P 500 Futures with an expiration date 30 days from now. The selection of a long-term option is strategic, as it retains its time value better compared to shorter-term options.
Selling a Short-term Option: Simultaneously, sell a short-term put option on the S&P 500 Futures with the same strike price as the long-term call but with an expiration date 5 days away. This option is expected to lose time value rapidly, which is beneficial for the seller.
As seen on the below screenshot, we are using the CME Options Calculator in order to generate fair value prices and Greeks for any options on futures contracts.
Underlying Asset: S&P 500 Futures (Symbol: ES1! or MES1!)
Strategy Setup:
o Buy 1 OTM put option with a strike price of 5260 (Cost: 44.97)
o Sell 1 OTM put options with a strike price of 5260 (Credit: 7.78)
Net Debit: 37.19 (44.97 – 7.78)
Maximum Profit: Achieved if prices are at 5260 at expiration.
Maximum Risk: Limited to the net debit of 37.19.
The essence of this setup lies in capitalizing on the accelerated time decay of the short-term sold option relative to the slower decay of the long-term bought option. Ideally, the underlying asset's price will be close to the strike price at the short option's expiration, maximizing the profit from its time decay while still benefiting from the long-term option's retained value.
Adjustments for Market Movements:
f the market moves significantly, the spread can be adjusted by rolling the short-term option forward to the next month, potentially locking in gains or reducing losses.
A successful calendar spread hinges on precise timing and a keen understanding of volatility. The trader must monitor the implied volatility of the options, as an increase in volatility can enhance the spread's value, while a decrease can diminish it.
Potential Market Scenarios and Responses
Optimal Market Condition : The calendar spread thrives in a market exhibiting minimal price movement, particularly around the strike price of the options involved in the spread. This stability allows the trader to exploit the differential time decay effectively.
Market Moves Against the Position : In the event of adverse market movements, the trader might need to adjust the strategy. This could involve rolling the short option to a different strike or expiration date, or possibly closing the position early to mitigate losses. Flexibility and proactive risk management are paramount, as market conditions can change rapidly.
The construction and management of a calendar spread with S&P 500 Futures Options involve a delicate balance of market prediction, timing, and risk management. By judiciously selecting strike prices, expiration dates, and adjusting in response to market movements, traders can navigate the complexities of calendar spreads to seek profit from the nuances of time decay and implied volatility in the options market.
Risk Management
Effective risk management is crucial when trading calendar spreads, particularly with S&P 500 Futures Options, due to the potential for rapid changes in market conditions. Identifying and mitigating potential losses involve several strategies:
Position Sizing: Keeping each trade to a reasonable proportion of the total portfolio reduces the impact of any single trade's loss. Diversification across different strategies and assets can also help manage systemic risks.
Stop-Loss Orders: Implementing stop-loss orders for the position can help limit losses. This is especially important if the market moves sharply in an unexpected direction, affecting the spread unfavorably.
Continuous Monitoring and Adjustments: The calendar spread requires regular monitoring and potential adjustments to respond to changes in the underlying asset's price or volatility. This may involve rolling out the short position to a further expiration date or adjusting strike prices to better align with the market conditions.
Hedging: In some scenarios, traders might consider using additional options strategies or the underlying futures contracts themselves to hedge against significant market moves. This approach can help protect the portfolio from large, unexpected shifts in the market.
Conclusion
Calendar spreads offer a sophisticated strategy for traders looking to profit from the nuances of time decay and volatility in the options market, particularly with S&P 500 Futures Options. This strategy suits those with a nuanced understanding of market movements and the patience to monitor and adjust their positions over time. While calendar spreads can offer attractive opportunities for profit, especially in sideways markets, they also require diligent risk management and an active trading approach.
Encouraging further education and risk-aware trading practices is essential for success in options trading. Traders should continually seek to expand their knowledge of market conditions, options strategies, and risk management techniques to refine their trading approach and better navigate the complexities of the financial markets.
By embracing a disciplined approach to trading calendar spreads, investors can explore the potential of this strategy to enhance their trading arsenal, leveraging the dynamic nature of S&P 500 Futures Options to tap into market opportunities while managing the inherent risks of options trading.
When charting futures, the data provided could be delayed. Traders working with the ticker symbols discussed in this idea may prefer to use CME Group real-time data plan on TradingView: www.tradingview.com This consideration is particularly important for shorter-term traders, whereas it may be less critical for those focused on longer-term trading strategies.
General Disclaimer:
The trade ideas presented herein are solely for illustrative purposes forming a part of a case study intended to demonstrate key principles in risk management within the context of the specific market scenarios discussed. These ideas are not to be interpreted as investment recommendations or financial advice. They do not endorse or promote any specific trading strategies, financial products, or services. The information provided is based on data believed to be reliable; however, its accuracy or completeness cannot be guaranteed. Trading in financial markets involves risks, including the potential loss of principal. Each individual should conduct their own research and consult with professional financial advisors before making any investment decisions. The author or publisher of this content bears no responsibility for any actions taken based on the information provided or for any resultant financial or other losses.
ES / SPY In A Correction Phase After A Measured MoveThree weeks prior, the market completed a bullish leg measured move. This pattern is significant as markets often exhibit a tendency to move in pairs, a phenomenon observable across all time frames. This behavior is rooted in the psychological aspects of market dynamics, wherein the market tends to repeat actions twice. This concept is underscored by market geometry, which includes two-legged pullbacks, measured moves, second entries, among others.
The market recently reached 5256, a likely target for many traders, followed by the formation of an inside bar. This development has led to a three-week consolidation phase for ES as it assimilates the previous move before potentially initiating another.
The bullish outlook remains intact as long as the price holds above 5126 on the weekly timeframe. The upcoming FOMC meeting adds an additional layer of significance to these levels, as they will likely determine whether a higher timeframe pullback ensues or if the current trend continues.
S&P 500 approaches key resistance at 5165Watch This Resistance Level on the S&P 500 ( ES Futures ).
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We are not registered or licensed in any jurisdiction whatsoever to provide investing advice or anything of an advisory or consultancy nature.
and are therefore are unqualified to give investment recommendations.
Always do your own research and consult with a licensed investment professional before investing.
This communication is never to be used as the basis of making investment decisions, and it is for entertainment purposes only.
3/3 Weekly Plan. ES Futures March ESH24 Weekly Pivot is 5,114Welcome to the Weekly Trading Plan, where we dive deep into market and volume profile analysis to navigate the dynamic landscape of trading. Each week, we dissect key market trends, identify significant support and resistance levels, and leverage volume profile insights to uncover optimal entry and exit points.
Our approach blends technical precision with a keen understanding of market psychology, empowering traders to make informed decisions in the face of uncertainty. Through comprehensive analysis and strategic planning, we aim to capitalize on emerging opportunities while mitigating potential risks.
Join us as we embark on a journey of discovery, mastering the art of trading through disciplined analysis and thoughtful execution. Welcome to a community where knowledge is power, and success is within reach. Let's chart a course to profitability together in the exciting world of trading.
3/3 Weekly Plan. ES Futures March ESH24 Weekly Pivot is 5,114
Targets
5,145
5,194
5,259
Targets
5,089
5,032
4,997
Now trading at 5,141
Alerts
You will receive alerts in this channel every time NQ hits (2M candle close):
Weekly opening 5,141
Weekly pivot at 5,114
Each weekly target.
Side notes
ES is currently OTFU in (D-W-M). Daily OTFU would come to an end if 5101.25 is breach during Monday's RTH session.
2/12 Weekly Plan. ES Futures March ESH24 Weekly Pivot is 5,0342/12 Weekly Plan. ES Futures March ESH24 Weekly Pivot is 5,034
Targets
5,065
5,089
5,127
Targets
4,997
4,975
4,954
Now trading at 5,043
Alerts
You will receive alerts in this channel every time NQ hits (2M candle close):
Weekly opening TBD
Weekly pivot at 5,034
Each weekly target.
Side notes
ES is currently OTFU in (D-W-M).