GOLD heads for all-time record levelsOANDA:XAUUSD held steady near record highs on Thursday (Jan. 23) as investors awaited further guidance from the new Trump administration on trade policies and potential tax cuts.
Gold prices remain near their highest levels since last October as investors consider the impact that President Trump's latest tariff threats against China and the European Union could have on with the global economy.
OANDA:XAUUSD currently trading at nearly $2,752, $40 below its all-time high and up about 2% in the week to date.
Gold was supported by safe-haven demand as investors weighed the new administration's stance on trade. US President Donald Trump has named China, the European Union, Canada and Mexico as potential import tariff targets, although there remains uncertainty about whether he will do so.
Trump said he is considering imposing a 10% tariff on goods imported from China starting February 1. He also promised to impose tariffs on imports from Europe but did not provide further details.
He had previously said that Mexico and Canada could face tariffs of around 25% on February 1.
The Federal Reserve will meet next week as economic growth continues and inflation declines but faces uncertainty from the new administration's policies. The central bank is expected to leave the key interest rate unchanged at its next policy meeting on January 28-29. High interest rates reduce the appeal of non-interest-bearing gold, but with the current market context, the Fed keeping interest rates unchanged is not a potential pressure for gold to adjust significantly.
European Central Bank policymakers unanimously backed further interest rate cuts on Wednesday, signaling that a rate cut next week is almost a foregone conclusion. will be implemented even as the Federal Reserve remains cautious.
Analysis of technical prospects for OANDA:XAUUSD
On the daily chart, gold corrected very slightly but now it has all the conditions for expectations to reach an all-time high.
The main uptrend is reinforced by the break above the green price channel combined with price activity above the $2,750 level noticed by readers in yesterday's edition, along with that the Strength Index Relative RSI also shows that there is still room for price growth ahead.
Currently, the upside momentum is being blocked by the $2,762 technical level and once this level is broken gold could continue to rise with a subsequent target at the all-time high of $2,790.
As long as gold remains above the EMA21, and above the green price channel, it remains bullish in the short to medium term and notable levels are listed below.
Support: 2,750 – 2,730 – 2,725USD
Resistance: 2,762 – 2,790USD
SELL XAUUSD PRICE 2776 - 2774⚡️
↠↠ Stoploss 2780
→Take Profit 1 2769
↨
→Take Profit 2 2764
BUY XAUUSD PRICE 2720 - 2722⚡️
↠↠ Stoploss 2716
→Take Profit 1 2727
↨
→Take Profit 2 2732
Fundamental Analysis
Commodities: 2024 Performance vs. 2025 OutlookBy Ion Jauregui – ActivTrades Analyst
Below is an analysis of the commodities that performed best in 2024 and those expected to lead in 2025.
Top Performers in 2024
1. Gold: Supported by global economic uncertainty, gold demonstrated strong performance as a safe-haven asset, with prices averaging $2,000 per ounce.
2. Copper: Economic recovery and the boom in renewable energy drove demand, reaching record highs in some markets.
3. Cocoa: Adverse weather conditions in West Africa limited production, pushing prices to record levels.
4. Natural Gas: After a weak start in 2023, natural gas rebounded due to a colder-than-expected winter in Europe and Asia.
Expected Top Performers in 2025
1. Copper: Electrification and the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) position copper as a key winner, with expectations of new record highs.
2. Silver: Its use in technology and renewable energy, particularly in solar panels, is expected to boost demand.
3. Coffee: Climate instability in Latin America, coupled with sustained demand, could keep prices elevated.
4. Nickel: Growing battery production for EVs makes nickel a critical metal for 2025.
Comparison: Performance and Outlook Table
Category Commodity/ 2024 Performance/ 2025 Outlook/ Key Drivers for 2025
Precious Metals/ Gold /Excellent/ Stable-Bullish / Inflation, safe-haven demand
Industrial Metals/ Copper / Excellent/ Bullish / Electrification, renewable energy
Industrial Metals/ Silver / Good/ Bullish / Technology, renewable energy
Industrial Metals/ Nickel / Good/ Bullish / EV battery production
Agricultural Products/ Cocoa / Excellent/ Stable / Weather, production stability
Agricultural Products/ Coffee / Good/ Stable-Bullish / Weather, global demand
Energy/ Natural Gas / Good/ Stable /Weather, Asian demand
Energy/ Crude Oil / Stable/ Stable-Volatile / OPEC+ policies, economic recovery
Energy/ Coal / Fair/ Bearish / Energy transition
Conclusion
The performance of commodities in 2024 was driven by economic recovery and climate factors. In 2025, the energy transition will remain a key driver, benefiting metals like copper, silver, and nickel. In contrast, fossil fuels such as coal may face significant challenges due to global decarbonization policies.
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All information has been prepared by ActivTrades ("AT"). The information does not contain a record of AT's prices, or an offer of or solicitation for a transaction in any financial instrument. No representation or warranty is given as to the accuracy or completeness of this information.
Any material provided does not have regard to the specific investment objective and financial situation of any person who may receive it. Past performance is not reliable indicator of future performance. AT provides an execution-only service. Consequently, any person acing on the information provided does so at their own risk.
Lockheed Martin: A Compelling Addition to Your PortfolioHello,
today we look at a potential company that might benefit in the Trump administration. Lockheed Martin Corp. is a global security and aerospace company, which engages in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration, and sustainment of technology systems, products, and services. It operates through the following business segments: Aeronautics, Missiles and Fire Control (MFC), Rotary and Mission Systems (RMS), and Space.
TECHNICAL ANALYSIS- Checklist
Structure drawing (Trend line drawing on past price chart data)- As shown below
Patterns identification (Naming patterns on past price chart data for future wave)- as shown
Future indication (Reading indicator for future wave)- 0 crossover on the MACD
Future wave (Drawing on future price chart using future indication from indicator)- As shown
Future reversal point (Identifying trend reversal point on price chart using structure)- Target point $660
Global defense spending has surged as nations strengthen their military capabilities, driving demand for advanced weaponry such as fighter jets, which are critical for air combat. These is largely because we are currently facing a resurgence of wars in the globe. In January 2025, over 10 countries hosted extreme levels of conflict, including: Russia, Ukraine, Israel, Gaza, Lebanon, Myanmar, Syria, Palestine, Mexico, Nigeria, Brazil, Taiwan, Colombia, Haiti, Yemen, and Sudan. This trend significantly benefits Lockheed Martin, a leading combat aircraft manufacturer, through steady orders from the Pentagon and U.S. allies.
Long-term, the Pentagon has prioritized modernizing military capabilities to counter aggression from major powers like China and Russia, while managing threats from terrorism and hot spots like Iran and North Korea. Lockheed Martin is well-positioned to capitalize on these priorities with its exposure to key programs such as the F-35 fighter jet, hypersonic missiles, and the militarization of space. In December 2024 Lockheed Martin secured a nearly $12-billion contract to produce 145 additional F-35 Lightning II stealth fighter jets for the US military and its international allies.
The F-35 program, the largest weapons program in history, provides Lockheed Martin with stable revenue streams through procurement and maintenance contracts. As of September 30, 2024, Lockheed had delivered 1,040 F-35 aircraft since the program's inception. Its advanced sensors, mission readiness, and ability to connect air, land, sea, space, and cyber domains have driven strong demand globally. We expect Lockheed to remain a reliable partner in supporting the United States Government’s defense goals.
While the shift towards unmanned systems is being explored, experts like AeroDynamic Advisory Managing Director Richard highlight the continued relevance of manned fighter jets. Richard notes that drones cannot yet match the versatility of jets in intercepting enemy bombers, supporting naval operations, or achieving other strategic objectives. This bodes well for Lockheed Martin's continued success in the sector.
While all these looks quite positive for the industry, the primary risk for defense spending is budgetary pressure. Under cost-cutting measures, Musk through the new cost cutting department DOGE has pointed to defense procurement, which represents less than 4% of the $6.8 trillion 2024 federal budget. Musk’s co-lead, Vivek Ramaswamy, has also advocated for shifting funds toward unmanned platforms instead of traditional fighter jets. While the defense budget might face stress, we anticipate reductions to come from non-military items used by the Department of Defense rather than core defense capabilities. We do not see a significant cut in the arms procurement or a shift to unmanned platforms. Another risk Lockheed Martin faces is associated with its reliance on U.S. military funding, which is inherently political and uncertain. Moreover, competition from SpaceX could challenge Lockheed’s dominance in space-related contracts. In 2023, Lockheed Martin’s space division generated $12.61 billion in revenue, a substantial contribution to its total $67.57 billion revenue for the year. To strengthen its position, Lockheed Martin completed its acquisition of Terran Orbital and its subsidiary Tyvak International, leading manufacturers of modular spacecraft. Lockheed has collaborated with Terran Orbital on several projects, including Space Development Agency programs and technology demonstrations. Should this risk materialize, then we would see a significant income wiped out.
The 2024 Republican Party platform emphasize the development of a U.S.-made "Iron Dome" and the modernization of the military. An Iron Dome, as defined by Wikipedia, is a mobile all-weather air defense system that intercepts and destroys short-range rockets and artillery shells fired from 4 to 70 kilometers away. For this task we expect collaboration between Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Lockheed Martin on designing and manufacturing the Iron Dome for U.S. use. These two companies have worked together successfully in the past. Notably, in December 2022, Lockheed Martin and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems signed a teaming agreement to jointly develop, test, and manufacture High Energy Laser Weapon Systems (HELWS) in both the U.S. and Israel.
The below are the customers of Lockheed Martin as per their website
Australia, Brunei, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Morocco, Philippines, Poland, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Slovakia, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, Unites states, Israel & others
Financial Summary
Lockheed Martin reported strong financial performance for the quarter ended September 29, 2024:
Net sales: $17,104 million, up from $16,878 million in the same quarter of 2023.
Gross profit: $2,117 million, compared to $2,048 million in Q3 2023.
Operating profit: $2,140 million, an increase from $2,042 million in the same period last year.
Net earnings: $1,623 million, slightly down from $1,684 million in Q3 2023.
Diluted earnings per common share: $6.80, compared to $6.73 in the same quarter of 2023.
For the nine months ended September 29, 2024, the company reported:
Net sales: $52,421 million, up from $48,697 million in the same period of 2023.
Gross profit: $6,240 million, compared to $6,184 million in the same period last year.
Operating profit: $6,317 million, an increase from $6,214 million in the same period of 2023.
Net earnings: $4,809 million, down from $5,054 million in the same period last year.
Diluted earnings per common share: $20.05, compared to $19.97 in the same period of 2023.
Lockheed Martin's business performance for the quarter ended September 29, 2024, was marked by strong contributions from its four business segments:
Aeronautics: Generated $6,487 million in revenue, with the F-35 Lightning II program representing approximately 22% of total consolidated net sales.
Missiles and Fire Control (MFC): Reported an increase in net sales to $3,175 million, up from $2,939 million in Q3 2023.
Rotary and Mission Systems (RMS): Achieved net sales of $4,367 million, compared to $4,121 million in the same period last year.
Space: Recorded net sales of $3,075 million, slightly down from $3,101 million in Q3 2023.
Lockheed Martin Corporation Forecasts Fiscal Year 2024 EPS of Approximately $26.65. Lockheed has no major debt maturities over the next three years and has more than sufficient debt capacity to finance incremental acquisitions and/or weather a potential funding trough.
Challenges and Risks
U.S. Budget Environment: With approximately three-quarters of sales from the U.S. Government, changes in defense spending and funding levels can significantly affect the company's financial performance.
Geopolitical and Economic Environment: Global security concerns, supply chain challenges, inflation, and macroeconomic conditions present risks to the company's operations and profitability.
Operational Risks: The company faces challenges in ramping up production, managing supplier costs, and maintaining operational efficiency.
Foreign Currency Exchange Rates: The company is exposed to risks associated with changing foreign currency exchange rates, although its market risk exposures have not changed materially since December 31, 2023.
Our recommendation
Lockheed Martin continues to experience increased demand for advanced weaponry like the F-35 fighter jet due to increased global conflict. The company’s strong order book positions it well for long-term growth. While risks exist, including budgetary pressures and competition from SpaceX on space militarization, Lockheed Martin’s strategic collaborations and revenue diversification strategies strengthen its outlook.
From a technical standpoint, Lockheed Martin's stock appears to offer an attractive entry point. Since October 2024, the stock has corrected by over 25%, presenting a potential upside opportunity. The MACD indicator suggests a bullish crossover, supported by strong fundamentals.
The company recently secured an $11.76 billion contract with the United States government to produce and deliver 145 F-35 jets across all three variants of the program. This contract, set for completion by June 2027, provides stability against short-term market volatility. Furthermore, the ongoing geopolitical climate suggests that more nations are likely to increase their defense budgets, bolstering future sales.
Should Lockheed Martin collaborate with Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, there is significant potential to develop a superior version of the Iron Dome, further enhancing sales prospects. Profitability is projected to expand by 10–20 basis points annually, with the segment EBIT margin expected to reach 11% by the end of the decade. we recommend a Buy with a target price of $ 660.
Sources: Lockheed Martin website
Tradingview (News flow) www.tradingview.com
Tradingview (Financials) www.tradingview.com
Bitcoin Halving: Meaning and Implications for TradersBitcoin Halving: Meaning and Implications for Traders
Bitcoin halving is one of the most anticipated events in the crypto world, dramatically altering the supply dynamics of the leading digital asset. By reducing the rate at which new Bitcoin is created, halvings play a key role in its scarcity and long-term value. This article explores what Bitcoin halving means, how it works, and its potential implications for BTC and the broader financial market.
What Is Bitcoin Halving?
In crypto, a halving refers to an event that slashes rewards transaction validators receive for their efforts. Most well-known is the Bitcoin halving, a built-in mechanism in Bitcoin’s code that cuts the reward miners receive for validating transactions and securing the network by half.
Bitcoin's halving is closely tied to the structure of its blockchain. Miners earn rewards by solving complex cryptographic puzzles, which allows them to add a new block to the blockchain. Each block acts as a container for transaction data and serves as a building block in the blockchain, forming a secure, chronological chain of records. However, the reward miners receive for adding a block is not fixed—it is reduced by half every 210,000 blocks. This mechanism ensures Bitcoin's supply remains limited to a maximum of 21 million coins.
Bitcoin’s software has a built-in mechanism for halving, meaning it operates without external control. This decentralised approach means no individual or organisation can alter the next BTC halving date. Each block takes about 10 minutes to mine, meaning a Bitcoin halving event occurs roughly every four years.
After Bitcoin launched in 2009, miners received 50 BTC for each block. Since then, there have been four halvings: in 2012, the reward dropped to 25 BTC, in 2016 to 12.5 BTC, and in 2020 to 6.25 BTC. By the Bitcoin split in 2024, the reward for validating transactions had dropped to just 3.125 BTC.
When the reward is halved, miners face a significant shift in their revenue model. Their costs for electricity, hardware, and maintenance remain the same, but the number of Bitcoins they earn per block drops. This can force miners to rely more on transaction fees—paid by users who want their transactions processed quickly—or to scale operations with more efficient equipment to stay competitive.
This reduction affects more than just miners. As seen in the Bitcoin halving chart above, it tightens incoming supply. Simultaneously, demand often remains steady or grows, creating conditions that have historically preceded significant price movements. However, halving doesn’t directly alter the network’s functionality—transactions continue as usual.
When is the next Bitcoin halving? The upcoming Bitcoin halving cycle is forecasted in 2028, reducing the reward for transaction validation to 1.5625 BTC.
What Happens After Bitcoin Halving?
Bitcoin halving events often create ripple effects across the entire ecosystem, and historical trends provide valuable insights into what typically follows. One of the most notable outcomes has been significant price volatility. After previous halvings in 2012, 2016, and 2020, Bitcoin experienced substantial price increases within the following 12-18 months. For instance:
- Bitcoin Halving 2012: BTC rose from about $12 to over $1,000 within a year.
- Bitcoin Halving 2016: It increased from $650 to roughly $20,000 by late 2017.
- Bitcoin Halving 2020: BTC surged from $8,000 to an all-time high of over $60,000 in 2021.
That stands true for the Bitcoin halving in 2024. Bitcoin price after halving in 2024 rose from around $64,000 in April to almost $100,000 in November. Explore BTC’s movements post-halving with live Bitcoin CFD charts in FXOpen and TradingView.
Market sentiment tends to shift sharply around halving events. Increased media coverage highlights the reduced supply rate, often drawing retail traders and new participants into the market. This heightened attention can lead to speculative trading, with traders positioning themselves in anticipation of price changes. However, this speculation also increases short-term volatility, as not all price movements reflect genuine demand.
In the long run, halving events have reinforced Bitcoin’s standing as a deflationary asset. Reduced supply growth can contribute to higher valuations, provided demand remains consistent or increases. Institutional participants, including investment funds and corporate treasuries, often use halving as a rationale for deepening their Bitcoin holdings. These organisations view Bitcoin’s scarcity model as a hedge against inflation or a unique store of value, further boosting demand after halvings.
That said, some analysts argue that the halving effect is less pronounced over time. Since halvings are widely known, they claim the event is "priced in" as traders factor it into their strategies well in advance. Rather than an immediate spike, it can take several months or longer for the historical pattern of price increases to materialise.
Broader Implications for the Crypto Market
BTC halving events don’t just impact Bitcoin, they often send ripples throughout the entire cryptocurrency market. As Bitcoin dominates the market in terms of value and influence, its performance post-halving can set the tone for other digital assets. Historically, when Bitcoin experiences a price surge after a halving, altcoins tend to follow suit as investor confidence and liquidity increase across the sector.
This isn’t purely speculative. Increased attention to Bitcoin during halving events often draws new participants into the market. Some, intrigued by Bitcoin’s supply narrative, also explore alternatives like Ethereum or other blockchain projects. This heightened activity can lead to innovation within the space, as projects aim to capitalise on the influx of interest.
Halving events also tend to highlight the decentralised nature of blockchain systems, reinforcing the economic models behind many cryptocurrencies. Investors and developers often revisit the mechanics of other coins, such as those with their own deflationary models or differing consensus mechanisms, sparking new discussions about long-term value.
Additionally, Bitcoin halvings often coincide with periods of increased media coverage and regulatory scrutiny. Governments and institutions are likely to evaluate their stance on cryptocurrencies during these high-visibility events, potentially influencing adoption rates and legislative developments across the industry.
Risks and Challenges Surrounding Bitcoin Halvings
While Bitcoin halvings are often associated with excitement and long-term potential, they also come with their share of risks and challenges. These events can create significant uncertainties, not just for Bitcoin but for the broader market.
Increased Volatility
Halvings frequently spark increased speculation, resulting in significant price fluctuations. Traders positioning themselves ahead of a halving can cause sudden surges, but profit-taking afterwards might lead to equally rapid declines. This volatility can make short-term market conditions challenging to navigate.
Speculative Bubbles
The media hype around halvings often attracts inexperienced traders chasing quick returns. This influx of speculation can inflate prices beyond sustainable levels, increasing the risk of market corrections once the excitement fades.
Potential Market Saturation
Critics argue that the halving narrative may lose impact over time as the market matures. With halvings widely anticipated, their effects might be increasingly priced in, reducing their influence on Bitcoin’s value.
Regulatory Attention
Halvings tend to amplify Bitcoin’s visibility, which can invite heightened scrutiny from regulators. Unclear or restrictive regulatory developments during or after a halving could dampen market sentiment.
The Bottom Line
Bitcoin halving is a key event that influences the supply, demand, and pricing trends within the cryptocurrency market. Its implications reach beyond Bitcoin, influencing the broader ecosystem and potential trading opportunities. Whether you're analysing historical trends or exploring market sentiment, halvings remain essential to understanding Bitcoin's unique economic model. To trade Bitcoin CFDs and take advantage of potential market opportunities in other cryptocurrencies, consider opening an FXOpen account today and trade with tight spreads, low commissions, and a wide range of technical analysis tools.
FAQ
What Does Bitcoin Halving Mean?
Bitcoin halving is an occurrence where the payout miners earn for validating transactions on the network is slashed in half. There’s a Bitcoin halving every 4 years, or after 210,000 blocks are mined, designed to control Bitcoin’s supply. By reducing the issuance of new coins, halving ensures BTC remains scarce, with a maximum supply capped at 21 million.
When Was the Last Bitcoin Halving?
The last Bitcoin halving was in April 2024. After the halving, payouts decreased from 6.25 BTC to 3.125 BTC per successful block validation.
What Happens When Bitcoin Halves?
When Bitcoin halves, the rate at which new coins enter circulation decreases. This often impacts supply dynamics, miner revenues, and market sentiment. Historically, these milestones have been followed by increased price activity, heightened volatility, and greater media attention.
Will BTC Go Up After Halving?
Historically, Bitcoin’s price has risen in the months and years following a halving. However, while past performance shows this trend, the market’s future behaviour depends on factors such as demand, adoption, and broader economic conditions.
When Is the Next Halving of Bitcoin?
So when will Bitcoin halve again? The upcoming BTC halving is anticipated around April 2028. At that point, the payout for validating transactions will fall from 3.125 BTC to 1.5625 BTC.
At FXOpen UK, Cryptocurrency CFDs are only available for trading by those clients categorised as Professional clients under FCA Rules. They are not available for trading by Retail clients.
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Levels discussed on Livestream 22nd Jan 202522nd January 2025
DXY: consolidating between 108 and 108.20, below 107.80 could trade down to 107 support level. (price should stay below 108.50)
NZDUSD: Buy 0.57 SL 20 TP 80 (hesitation at 0.5750)
AUDUSD: Look for retracement and reaction at 0.6300
GBPUSD: Sell 1.229 SL 40 TP 120 (hesitation at 1.2230)
EURUSD: Buy 1.0480 SL 40 TP 120 (hesitation at 1.0540)
USDJPY: Range bound between 155 and 156.50
EURJPY: Buy 163 SL 40 TP 150
GBPJPY: Do nothing for now
USDCHF: Could trade lower down to 0.9020 support
USDCAD: Sell 1.4290 SL 30 TP 60
XAUUSD: Needs to break 2760 to trade up to 2775 (CHOPPY CHOPPY)
Fundamental Market Analysis for January 23, 2025 USDJPYThe Japanese yen (JPY) rose during the Asian session on Thursday following the release of better-than-expected Japanese trade balance data, although it remains close to a one-week low against its US counterpart from the previous day.The Bank of Japan (BoJ) is expected to raise interest rates imminently, a prospect which continues to support the yen. Additionally, the Federal Reserve's (Fed) anticipated interest rate cuts this year are a factor in the subdued US Dollar (USD) price action, which is limiting the USD/JPY pair's recovery from a more than one-month low reached on Tuesday.
Nevertheless, JPY bulls seem reluctant to take a risk and prefer to adopt a wait-and-see approach ahead of the crucial two-day Bank of Japan meeting that starts this Thursday. Concerns over US President Donald Trump's tariff plans and risk-on sentiment may also deter further yen appreciation, but the diverging policy expectations of the BoJ and Fed require some caution before confirming that the USD/JPY pair has formed a short-term bottom.Traders now await Trump's speech at the World Economic Forum to build momentum ahead of the expected BoJ decision on Friday.
Trade recommendation: Watching the level of 156.500, trading mainly with Buy orders
My projection didn't changeI still keep it LONG-Term for 1H-4H. The big difference is that the price pump without a very good liquidity, for that particular reason couldn't break ATH(all time high). This time I'll wait once more for taking the bottom liquidity to going to target 3. If the price start to pump again, without take the liquidity of the bottom, gonna be long but just until near ATH max. The only way to break ATH without take the liquidity of the bottom is with a good fundamental, could be lower tax interest from USA dep of economy, Trump alleging about crypto and specifically bitcoin, or other potencial news that satisfy the wallet of the market maker and big whales. Pretty Much it... Wolf Champions!!!
Ralph Lauren: Elevate Your Wealth with the Essence of Luxury◉ Abstract
Ralph Lauren is thriving in the booming luxury apparel market. The company, founded in 1967, has a market cap of $11.83 billion and generates nearly 44% of its revenue from North America, totaling $2.93 billion. The industry is valued at approximately $110.13 billion in 2024 and projected to reach $151.32 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 6.56%.
Recent technical analysis shows Ralph Lauren's stock has outperformed the NYSE Composite index with a 66% annual return. Despite a slight revenue increase of 2.9% year-on-year, EBITDA soared to $1,024 million, reflecting strong financial health. With a current P/E ratio of 17.4x, Ralph Lauren presents an attractive investment opportunity amidst rising global wealth and consumer demand for luxury goods.
Read full analysis here . . .
◉ Introduction
The global luxury apparel market is currently experiencing significant growth, driven by various factors including increasing disposable incomes, brand loyalty, and the rising influence of social media on consumer behaviour.
Here’s a detailed overview of the market size and growth outlook:
◉ Current Market Size
According to Mordor Intelligence, the global luxury apparel market was valued at approximately USD 110.13 billion in 2024, with expectations to grow to USD 151.32 billion by 2029, reflecting a CAGR of 6.56%.
◉ Growth Drivers
● Increasing Wealth: The rising number of millionaires globally and growing middle-class affluence, particularly in regions like Asia-Pacific, are significant contributors to luxury apparel demand.
● Consumer Trends: There is a growing perception that luxury goods enhance social status, which fuels consumer interest in high-end fashion.
● Digital Influence: Enhanced online shopping experiences and the effective use of social media for marketing have opened new avenues for luxury brands to reach consumers.
◉ Regional Insights
● Europe
Dominant Market: Holds a market share of approximately 34% to 43%. The presence of numerous luxury brands and high purchasing power among consumers drive demand, supported by significant tourist spending on luxury goods.
● North America
Strong Demand: The U.S. is a key player, characterized by a wealthy consumer base and increasing brand loyalty, particularly among younger generations who view luxury items as status symbols.
● Asia-Pacific
Fastest Growing Market: Anticipated to grow rapidly due to rising disposable incomes and brand awareness, especially in countries like China and India.
● Latin America
Emerging Potential: Currently holds a smaller market share but shows promise for growth as consumer awareness and travel increase.
● Middle East & Africa
Limited Contribution: This region contributes the least to the luxury apparel market, although countries like the UAE are seeing growth due to tourism.
The overall outlook for the luxury apparel market remains optimistic, supported by evolving consumer preferences and increasing global wealth.
Amidst the global luxury apparel market's promising growth prospects, we have identified Ralph Lauren as a prime opportunity for investment. With its robust financial performance and impressive technical indicators, Ralph Lauren is well-positioned to propel success.
◉ Company Overview
Ralph Lauren Corporation NYSE:RL is a renowned American fashion company known for its high-quality, luxury lifestyle products. Founded in 1967 by the iconic designer Ralph Lauren, the company has become a global symbol of timeless style and sophistication. The company offers a wide range of products, including apparel, footwear, accessories, home goods, fragrances, and hospitality. Ralph Lauren's iconic polo shirt and strong brand identity have contributed to its success, making it a global leader in the luxury fashion industry.
◉ Investment Advice
💡 Buy Ralph Lauren Corporation NYSE:RL
● Buy Range - 190 - 193
● Sell Target - 245 - 250
● Potential Return - 27% - 30%
● Approx Holding Period - 8-10 months
◉ Market Capitalization - $11.83 B
◉ Peer Companies
● Tapestry NYSE:TPR - $10.59 B
● Levi Strauss NYSE:LEVI - $8.57 B
● PVH Corp. NYSE:PVH - $5.44 B
● Columbia Sportswear Company NASDAQ:COLM - $4.87 B
◉ Relative Strength
The chart clearly illustrates that Ralph Lauren has greatly outperformed the NYSE Composite index, achieving an impressive annual return of 66%.
◉ Technical Aspects
● Monthly Chart
➖ The monthly chart clearly shows that the stock price faced several rejections near the 190 level, which ultimately triggered a significant drop, brought the price down to the 66 level.
➖ Afterward, the price experienced various fluctuations and, after a prolonged consolidation phase, developed an Inverted Head & Shoulders pattern.
➖ Upon breaking out, the price surged upward but encountered resistance again at the previous resistance zone.
➖ However, after a pullback, the stock has successfully surpassed this resistance for the first time in almost 11 years.
● Daily Chart
➖ On the daily chart, the price has formed a Rectangle pattern following a brief consolidation phase and has recently made a breakout.
➖ If the price can hold above the 190 level, we can expect a bullish movement in the coming days.
◉ Revenue Breakdown - Location Wise
Ralph Lauren Corporation is a global luxury brand with a strong presence in various regions.
➖ North America remains Ralph Lauren's biggest market, contributing nearly 44% of its total revenue, which amounts to $2.93 billion.
➖ In Europe , the brand is seeing consistent growth, with revenue reaching around $2 billion, making up about 30% of total earnings.
➖ Asia , especially China, is becoming a key player for Ralph Lauren, generating approximately $1.58 billion, or 24% of total revenue.
◉ Revenue & Profit Analysis
● Year-on-year
➖ In the fiscal year 2024, the company achieved a modest revenue increase of 2.9%, totaling $6,631 million, compared to $6,443 million in the prior year.
➖ On the other hand, EBITDA growth has been remarkable, soaring to $1,024 million from $801 million in FY23. The current EBITDA margin stands at an impressive 15.5%.
➖ Additionally, diluted earnings per share (EPS) experienced a substantial year-over-year rise of 28%, reaching $9.71 in FY24, up from $7.58 in FY22.
● Quarter-on-quarter
➖ In terms of quarterly performance, the company reported a decline in sales over the last three quarters, with the most recent quarter showing sales of $1,512 million, down from $1,568 million in March 2024 and $1,934 million in December 2023.
➖ Nevertheless, EBITDA demonstrated significant growth in the June quarter, climbing to $265 million from $176 million in March 2023.
◉ Valuation
● P/E Ratio
➖ Current P/E Ratio vs. Median P/E Ratio
The current price-to-earnings ratio for this stock stands at 17.4x, which is notably elevated compared to its four-year median P/E ratio of 5.7x. This suggests that the stock is presently overvalued.
➖ Current P/E vs. Peer Average P/E
When evaluating the stock's Price-To-Earnings Ratio of 17.4x, it shows a more attractive valuation, as it is lower than the peer average of 25.5x.
➖ Current P/E vs. Industry Average P/E
RL is positioned at a more appealing price point, with a Price-To-Earnings Ratio of 17.4x, which is significantly less than the US Luxury industry's average of 19.x.
● P/B Ratio
➖ Current P/B vs. Peer Average P/B
The current P/B ratio reveals that the stock is considerably higher than its peers, with a ratio of 5x compared to the peer average of 3x.
➖ Current P/B vs. Industry Average P/B
In comparison to the industry average, RL's current P/B ratio of 5x indicates that it is substantially overvalued, as the industry average is only 2.2x.
● PEG Ratio
A PEG ratio of 0.54 suggests that the stock is undervalued relative to its expected earnings growth.
◉ Cash Flow Analysis
In fiscal year 2024, operational cash flow experienced remarkable growth, reaching $1,069 million, a substantial increase from $411 million in fiscal year 2023.
◉ Debt Analysis
The company currently holds a long term debt of $1,141 million with a total equity of $2,367 million, makes long-term debt to equity of 48%.
◉ Top Shareholders
➖ The Vanguard Group has significantly increased its investment in this stock, now owning an impressive 8.23% stake, which marks a 3.9% rise since the end of the March quarter.
➖ Meanwhile, Blackrock holds a stake of around 4.11% in the company.
◉ Conclusion
After a thorough evaluation, we find that Ralph Lauren Corporation is strategically poised to thrive in the expanding luxury apparel market, driven by increasing disposable incomes and a growing appetite for high-end products.
Bitcoin Miners 3COINBASE:BTCUSD NASDAQ:MARA NASDAQ:RIOT NASDAQ:CLSK NASDAQ:HUT
Let's see what the charts say.
Comment what you think about the charts.
Comment any tips or suggestions.
COINBASE:BTCUSD NASDAQ:IBIT AMEX:GBTC NASDAQ:COIN NASDAQ:MSTR NASDAQ:MARA NASDAQ:HUT NASDAQ:RIOT NASDAQ:CORZ NASDAQ:CLSK NASDAQ:IREN NASDAQ:BTDR NASDAQ:WULF
MNQ!/NQ1! Day Trade Plan for 01/22/25MNQ!/NQ1! Day Trade 🎯 for 01/22/25
📈 22147.5 (NEXT LEVELS: TBD)
📉 21567.75 (NEXT LEVELS: TBD)
1/2 way mark 📈 22002 & 📉 21712.75
Like and share for more daily ES/NQ levels 🤓📈📉🎯💰
*These levels are derived from comprehensive backtesting and research, demonstrating over 90% accuracy. This statistical foundation suggests that price movements are likely to exceed initial estimates.*
MES!/ES1! Day Trade Plan for 01/22/25MES!/ES1! Day Trade 🎯 for 01/22/25
📈 6143 (NEXT LEVELS: TBD)
📉 6049 (NEXT LEVELS: TBD)
1/2 way mark 📈 6120 & 📉 6073
Like and share for more daily ES/NQ levels 🤓📈📉🎯💰
*These levels are derived from comprehensive backtesting and research, demonstrating over 90% accuracy. This statistical foundation suggests that price movements are likely to exceed initial estimates.*
Gold prices gain momentum from Trump's tariffsGold prices hit a more than 11-week high in afternoon trading on January 22, not far from last year's record, driven by safe-haven demand amid uncertainty over US President Donald Trump's trade policies and a weak US dollar.
Spot gold rose 0.3% to $2,751.89 an ounce at 12:02 (Vietnam time), after hitting its highest since November 1 earlier in the session, and nearing a record $2,790.15 an ounce set in October 2024. US gold futures also rose 0.3% to $2,768.40 an ounce.
There is still some uncertainty regarding the timing of Trump’s tariff plans with major US trading partners, which has created uncertainty about the direction of the US dollar, which is the main short-term catalyst for gold prices, said Kelvin Wong, senior market analyst for Asia Pacific at OANDA.
Gold’s appeal as an inflation hedge could be dented if Mr Trump’s policies, which are seen as inflationary, lead the US Federal Reserve to maintain high interest rates for a prolonged period. Higher interest rates reduce the appeal of gold, which does not pay interest.
Daily Analysis- XAUUSD (Thursday, 23rd January 2025)Bias: Bullish
USD News:
-Retail Sales m/m
-Unemployment Claims
Analysis:
-Price closed with bullish continuation
-Looking for price to retest 4hr structure low
-Potential BUY if there's confirmation on lower timeframe
-Pivot point: 2740
Disclaimer:
This analysis is from a personal point of view, always conduct on your own research before making any trading decisions as the analysis do not guarantee complete accuracy.
$ELV Earnings Preview: Oversold Potential + Key Metrics AheadEarnings Estimates: Analysts forecast an EPS of $3.82 for the upcoming quarter, indicating a 32% year-over-year decline. Revenue is projected at $44.67 billion, a 5.2% increase from the same period last year.
Oversold Potential: With an oversold score of 59%, NYSE:ELV appears attractive for accumulation.
PEG Ratio: The PEG ratio stands at -0.77, suggesting undervaluation despite negative growth.
Valuation Metrics: A forward P/E of 11.03, lower than the trailing P/E of 14.14, indicates potential undervaluation.
Revenue Growth: Positive quarterly revenue growth estimates point to resilient performance.
In the previous quarter, Elevance reported an EPS of $8.37, missing the consensus estimate of $9.66, but achieved a 5.3% year-over-year revenue increase to $44.72 billion.
Guidance: In the previous quarter, Elevance Health revised its full-year 2024 adjusted EPS guidance downward to approximately $33, down from the prior estimate of $37.20, due to challenges in its Medicaid business.
Despite these hurdles, Elevance's diversified portfolio and strategic initiatives position it for potential growth.
Nvidia at $220 in 2025 ?Key Drivers for NVIDIA's Growth:
Surging AI Demand: NVIDIA's GPUs are integral to training sophisticated AI models. The company's latest Blackwell GPUs are sold out for the next 12 months due to unprecedented demand from major tech companies, underscoring NVIDIA's pivotal role in AI advancements.
Data Center Expansion: NVIDIA's data center revenue has experienced remarkable growth, with a 409% increase driven by the escalating need for AI chips. This trend highlights the company's dominance in the data center GPU market.
Strategic Collaborations: NVIDIA's involvement in Project Stargate, a significant U.S. AI infrastructure initiative led by SoftBank and OpenAI, is expected to drive future revenue and alleviate concerns about peak compute demand, contributing to NVIDIA's long-term growth.
Analyst Confidence: The consensus among Wall Street analysts is a "Strong Buy" rating for NVIDIA, with an average 12-month price target of $176.86, indicating a 20.3% upside from the current price.
Bullish Price Target:
Considering these factors, a bullish price target for NVIDIA over the next 12 months could easily be $220. This projection aligns with the high forecast among analysts and reflects confidence in NVIDIA's sustained growth trajectory.
Conclusion:
NVIDIA's strategic positioning in the AI sector, robust data center growth, and strong market sentiment make it a promising investment for those seeking exposure to the burgeoning AI industry.
Please note that this is just my view and is not financial advice.
BONK/USDT: BIG MOVE Incoming (stay tuned)BONK/USDT: 24-Hour Market Sentiment and Trade Analysis
I spend time researching and finding the best entries and setups, so make sure to boost and follow for more.
Market Overview (Current Price $0.00003269):
- BONK/USDT is trading above the entry price of $0.00002295, awaiting entry as it retraces from recent highs.
- The token is riding on speculative interest, fuelled by increased activity in meme and low-cap altcoins.
Technical Overview:
- Support Levels: $0.00002295 (Entry), $0.00001135 (Stop-Loss)
- Resistance Levels: $0.00006132 (TP1), $0.00013343 (TP2)
- Indicators: MACD shows decreasing bullish momentum as the price consolidates, while RSI is in a neutral zone, leaving room for further moves.
Fundamental Catalysts:
- Community Sentiment: BONK is gaining traction as a meme coin, with a vibrant social media presence driving speculative interest.
- Liquidity: Trading volumes remain elevated, providing opportunities for significant price movement once the entry is triggered.
- Market Context: Broader crypto market sentiment remains positive, favouring meme tokens and low-cap projects like BONK.
Scenario Planning:
- Bullish Scenario: If BONK reclaims momentum, it could trigger entry at $0.00002295 and move toward TP1 ($0.00006132) and TP2 ($0.00013343) over time.
- **Risk Scenario:** A breakdown below key support levels or broader market corrections could lead to a stop-out at $0.00001135.
Trade Setup:
- Entry Price: $0.00002295 (Awaiting Entry)
- Stop-Loss: $0.00001135
- Take-Profit Targets:
- TP1: $0.00006132
- TP2: $0.00013343
When the Market’s Call, We Stand Tall. Bull or Bear, We’ll Brave It All!
**Disclaimer:**
This analysis is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Traders should conduct their own due diligence before making investment decisions.
XRP/USD Nothing too crazy too look forThe price made new highs but is now just ranging and showing almost no signs of life on higher TF's... we can look at it pretty basic for now because there isnt much going on since it exploded....higher and lower zones from a H4 and middle smaller zone from a H1 TF. Dont forget to watch closely and enter only after fakeouts and right confirmations, look for where the price is making a shift in trend and look at it from a logical perspective based on news and crypto logic overall.
Will Trump continue to increase Solana?Hi all, let's look at the 1W SOL to USDT chart, as you know there is a lot of confusion about Solana, because Trump announced that he is considering it for the US reserve. However, here we can see how the price is moving in a specific uptrend channel, in its upper limit which so far has not been able to be positively broken.
Let's start by defining the targets for the near future that the price must face:
T1 = 265 USD
T2 = 291 USD
T3 = 324 USD
Now let's move on to the stop-loss in case the market continues to fall:
SL1 = 247 USD
SL2 = 236 USD
SL3 = 220 USD
SL4 = 200 USD
Looking at the STOCH indicator, we can see that we have bounced off the middle of the range, which has given rise to the current increases, and there is still room for the price to go higher, but considering that any event related to Trump can have a major impact on the market, one should be extremely careful.