XAUUSD TRADE RUNNING 260 PIPSDear Ziilllaatraders,
It is with a sense of urgency that we address the current state of the gold market, signaling a marked shift into a bearish territory. The convergence of inflation concerns and impending rate hikes has cast a shadow over the once-gleaming prospects of gold, prompting us to discern this transformation.
Inflation Fears' Impact on Gold:
The recent surge in inflation apprehensions has proven to be a formidable adversary for gold's traditional safe-haven appeal. Historically, gold has served as a hedge against eroding purchasing power caused by inflation. However, the current scenario has witnessed a departure from this historical norm. As inflationary pressures intensify, investors are presented with a broader array of options to preserve and grow their wealth. This has diminished gold's allure, leading to a tangible decline in demand and subsequently exerting downward pressure on prices.
Rate Hike Anticipation and its Ramifications:
Adding to the complexity, the anticipation of central banks implementing rate hikes further compounds gold's plight. Rate hikes are a manifestation of efforts to rein in inflation and tighten monetary policy. In this environment, interest-bearing assets gain attractiveness due to their potential for yielding returns, diverting capital flows away from non-interest-bearing assets like gold. The prospect of higher yields in alternative investments acts as a gravitational force, drawing investors away from gold and contributing to the market's bearish undertones.
Collective Impact on Gold's Bear Market:
When examined together, the dual influences of mounting inflation concerns and the impending rate hikes converge to sculpt a bearish narrative for the gold market. The allure of gold as a store of value and wealth preservation tool has waned amidst the burgeoning options available to investors in the face of inflation. The prospect of higher yields from alternative investments, driven by impending rate hikes, exacerbates gold's descent into the bearish realm.
It is incumbent upon us to acknowledge this transformative juncture with clarity. The prevailing market dynamics underscore the need for a reassessment of gold's role within portfolios and investment strategies. As inflation and interest rate landscapes continue to evolve, our decisions should be informed by a comprehensive understanding of the prevailing economic forces at play.
In conclusion, the confluence of inflation fears and rate hike expectations has orchestrated an unmistakable shift in the gold market's trajectory. The bear market that has emerged serves as an imperative reminder that the interplay between economic factors and market sentiment is pivotal in shaping investment landscapes.
Greetings,
Ziilllaatrades
Inflation
USD/JPY - yen gains ground as core inflation slowsThe Japanese yen has extended its gains on Friday. In the North American session, USD/JPY is trading at 145.29, down 0.38%.
The month of August has been kind to the US dollar, which has posted strong gains against all of the major currencies. USD/JPY has risen 2.34% in that period and on Thursday, the yen fell as low as 146.56, a nine-month low against the US dollar.
The yen has been the worst performer among the majors over the past month, and the currency's sharp depreciation has raised speculation that Tokyo could respond by intervening in the currency markets. Japan's Ministry of Finance (MOF) shocked the markets in September 2022 when it intervened and bought billions of dollars with yen, which propped up the Japanese currency. At that time, the yen was also trading around the 146 level, and that has many investors on edge that the MOF may be planning another intervention.
Japan's inflation has been hovering above 3% for a prolonged period, higher than the Bank of Japan's target of 2%. The BoJ has insisted that it will not loosen its ultra-accommodative monetary policy until it sees evidence that inflation is sustainable, such as higher wage growth. The markets are not taking the BoJ at its word, as the BoJ keeps its cards very close to the chest in order to surprise the market when it shifts policy. Clearly, transparency is not high on the BoJ's list, in contrast to the Federal Reserve and other major central banks.
Since inflation data could well lead to a shift in policy, every inflation report out of Japan attracts significant attention. The July CPI report, released today, was no exception. Core CPI, which excludes fresh food, eased to 3.1% y/y, matching the consensus estimate and down from 3.3% in June. The indicator is closely watched by the BoJ and the decline supports expectations that the BoJ will maintain its current policy. This, despite the fact that Core CPI has now exceeded the BoJ's 2% inflation target for 16 consecutive months.
The BoJ is not expected to make any major shifts to policy in the near-term, but that doesn't necessarily mean that the central bank will stay completely on the sidelines. At the July meeting, the BoJ surprised the markets with a tweak to its policy which provided more flexibility to the 10-year bond yield cap. Governor Ueda insisted that this was not a move towards normalization, but investors have learned the hard way that the BoJ is not hesitant to make policy moves that have blindsided the markets.
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USD/JPY Technical
USD/JPY is testing support at 145.71. Below, there is support at 144.07
There is resistance at 1.4640 and 147.31
Nasdaq is ready to drop or surprise us!Next CPI number will be important for SKILLING:NASDAQ , which has been rising like there will be no tomorrow. If we see a hot CPI number, we may see a strong drop towards 14500 area. If core cpi number shows a sign that the sticky part of the inflation is also cooling down, we may see some initial the first steps of the move towards ATH. Let's see if the market will respect the up trend or finally break it down.
Disclaimer – WhaleGambit. Please be reminded – you alone are responsible for your trading – both gains and losses. There is a very high degree of risk involved in trading. The technical analysis , like all indicators, strategies, columns, articles and other features accessible on/though this site is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as investment advice by you. Your use of the technical analysis , as would also your use of all mentioned indicators, strategies, columns, articles and all other features, is entirely at your own risk and it is your sole responsibility to evaluate the accuracy, completeness and usefulness (including suitability) of the information. You should assess the risk of any trade with your financial adviser and make your own independent decision(s) regarding any tradable products which may be the subject matter of the technical analysis or any of the said indicators, strategies, columns, articles and all other features.
📈MY TAKE ON THE FED, INFLATION AND CREDIT📊
TLDR: I think the price increase we are seeing is not inflation, the economy is going from bad to worse and the FED's actions don't make any sense.
At the peak of the great inflation of the 70s in USA while both long and short term interest rates were going up together with inflation, so was the aggregate credit.
In fact loans to businesses were growing faster than inflation.
Whereas now, while the short term rates are going up the aggregate credit is going down. Businesses aren’t borrowing and the banks aren’t lending.
And as it was established by Milton Friedman, inflation is exclusively a MONETARY phenomenon.
Therefore price increase followed by unchanged or decreased aggregate credit in not inflation. Which is exactly what we are seeing right now.
It might be attributed to the ongoing effects of the Covid era supply shock which created long lasting bottlenecks, the war in Ukraine or some other fundamental systemic economic problem but it’s not conventional inflation which means that raising interest rates will do nothing but further damage the already weak economy (which is reflected in the unprecedented drop in demand for credit)
So, the further rate hikes that were hinted yesterday by the FED don’t make any sense and we should be expecting a fast race to the zero with more QE when the economic sh*t hits the political fan.
But, let’s wait and see.
As Deflation Hits the Economy The Price of TIPs Should FallEarlier in 2022 I got some Bullish Exposure to Deflation by positioning Bearishly against TIPs (Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities) as can be seen here:
Fast-forward to today and we can now see the CPI declining and the TIPs declining even faster, This ETF Tracks the price of these TIPs and we can see that it is breaking through support even though the CPI has only retraced half way. If the CPI continues on this path and the Bond Market continues to price in Long Term Deflation, we should then see the pricing of this TIPs based ETF come down crashing in a big way. If that does happen, I would target at least the 1.618 Fibonacci Extension.
TSLA Approaches Major Resistance and May Stall into July 21Primary Chart: TSLA on Weekly Time Frame with a Downtrend Line from the All-Time High and Fibonacci and Measured-Move Levels
Preliminary Comments
TSLA is poised to stall soon, perhaps into July 21. By definition, a stall does not necessitate a crash or major trend reversal (at the primary degree of trend). A major reversal downward (crash) is always possible especially once shorts have been decimated—major downward reversals seem to always wait for clearing out of hedging and shorts, right?
Although a major trend reversal could occur here given major resistance levels just overhead on higher time frames, no one has a crystal ball. Finding the time and price components of such a major reversal can be exceedingly difficult (note the conclusion section of this article about probabilities).
And no one who were to have a crystal ball that worked properly would share it. And a securities regulator would be sniffing around for insider trading for sure with too many trades lining up too perfectly especially before major news catalysts. Humor aside, trying to be too clever by calling the exact top is a misplaced endeavor. But it can be prudent to analyze the charts and consider the idea of vulnerability for a trend’s continuation in the short-to-intermediate term, i.e., whether the move might encounter major resistance that could at a minimum cause a mean reversion or retracement of the recent rally .
Trend Analysis
The charts don’t lie. TSLA’s intermediate-term trend since January 6, 2023 remains upward. Similarly, short-term (2-6 weeks) and intraday trends remain upward. But the primary trend is still arguably sideways when considered over a 2-3 year period, while the secular trend since 2010 arguably still remains firmly upward.
1. Secular trend (since 2010): uptrend
2. Primary trend (since 2020/2021): sideways trend (range)
3. Intermediate / secondary trend (since early 2023): uptrend
4. short-term trend: uptrend near crucial resistance
5. intraday trends: uptrend near crucial resistance
Supplementary Chart A: Primary Trend
Supplementary Chart B: Secular Trend
The intermediate term trend has run fast and furious for 1H 2023 (since the Jan. 6, 2023 low). That alone is not enough to expect a reversal. Shorting something merely because it seems to have risen too far is a well-known trading mistake comparable to catching a falling knife in a downtrend. Shorting powerful uptrends is not an easy way to make a living.
But several charts suggest vulnerability for TSLA’s rally at this level. This comes right as earning will be reported this week along with a major monthly options expiration on July 21. Earnings reports like TSLA's upcoming one present a binary risk event that could stretch prices significantly in either direction, or it could a whipsaw price in both directions before settling on a final directional move (see the section below titled “Trend vs. Fundamentals.”)
Supplementary Chart C shows that TSLA’s price is nearing a crucial Fibonacci level on a linear chart. This is the 61.8% Fibonacci retracement ($299.05) of its entire decline from its all-time high into the early January 2023 low. Coincidentally, this level shows confluence with other important resistance levels shown on the chart such as the down trendline from the all-time high. (Some prefer Fibonacci levels adjusted for a logarithmic chart, which is not shown. The next relevant upside Fibonacci level on a log chart, however, is the .786 of the entire decline at $306, which is not far from the .618 level at 295.05.
Supplementary Chart C
If the .618 Fibonacci retracement is overcome and held (not just a false breakout), this suggests prices may run higher to at least $314.67 or the next higher Fibonacci level at $347. But these are upside levels conditioned solely on the .618 retracement being overcome and held.
Next, consider the down trendline from TSLA's all-time high. This is being approached at around $300, right were significant call OI exists. Trendlines can be somewhat rigid measures of trend, but they can provide some value especially when other support / resistance levels coincide with the trendline. The down trendline from TSLA's all-time high runs right into the measured-move zone, shown by the blue circle on Supplementary Chart D.1.
Supplementary Chart D.1
Some traders prefer to look only at logarithmic charts, though here it doesn't add much to the technical picture since the trendline is quite close to where it lies on the linear chart.
Supplementary Chart D.2
Finally, some bearish divergences in momentum and price/volume indicators suggest that price has become quite stretched right at a time when TSLA has reached some major resistance levels. Supplementary Chart E shows the Elder Force Index (EFI), a useful indicator that displays a combination of volume and price, weighing the extent of each price change along with the extent of volume. It tends to pick up divergences in the "force" or commitment behind a move with more sensitivity than RSI or other common momentum indicators, but with increased sensitivity often comes more noise (more false signals) which can be helped to some extent through indicator adjustment. Nevertheless, here is what that indicator shows for TSLA on the daily timeframe:
Supplementary Chart E
As TSLA has made higher highs, it has done so with less force and commitment for each high, creating a divergence between higher price highs and lower EFI highs. TSLA may make a new YTD high this week, and if so, it will be important to see where the EFI high prints for that new high. Given how low EFI is currently, it would take a lot of volume and price change to move the high to exceed the prior EFIs (erasing the divergence). In SquishTrade's view, EFI is unlikely to erase both the June EFI high and the January EFI high even if TSLA runs to $300-$320 post earnings.
Supplementary Chart F shows RSI and ROC, two common momentum indicators which most readers understand well. ROC shows a series of three highs that each make a successively lower high while price made higher highs at the same time: January 2023, June 2023, and July 2023. RSI only shows a series of two highs where price made a higher high and RSI made a lower high.
Supplementary Chart F
Downside Targets
TSLA's price seems poised to pullback / retrace at a minimum. But referring to downside targets may seem a bit premature as price hasn't confirmed even a short-term reversal or the start of a retracement / consolidation within the intermediate trend yet. The technical conditions for a retracement are present, so if confirmation lower does occur in the next week or so, price can fall to trend support, however one decides to measure that within one's trading system.
Based on persistently and deeply inverted yield curves, many astute market players may be looking for more than just a retracement or consolidation within the intermediate uptrend. They want more than mean reversion, and that is understandable. Should TSLA followers expect that now? Today, July 15, 2023, confidence cannot exist about an impending trend reversal on higher time frames. Why? A major reversal where price retests / breaks January 2023 lows will likely coincide with recessionary economic data (e.g., rising UE rates), drastically changing EPS estimates based on disappointing earnings reports, and/or unexpectedly high interest rates across the curve because of sticky inflation won't budge further downward (the recent CPI print came in at 3% for headline but 4.8% for core for June 2023). Note: Fundamentals are discussed in greater depth in the next section below. But economic data has continued to come in better than expected. Recent real GDP print for Q1 2023 was recently raised to 2% and labor markets remain persistently tight as the Fed even has noted in its recent pressers. Inflation has cooled for June but this may result from basing effects.
Most importantly, trend structure on the weekly and daily time frames (intermediate and short-term) has not been broken. Until the intermediate trend structure is decisively broken, forecasting a major top / trend reversal is rash and unfounded from a technical viewpoint. This intermediate-term trend structure is the up trendline from January 2023 lows or some other more dynamic or flexible measures of trend.
So with the idea that price can run a bit higher before any retracement—since we haven't yet seen a confirmation lower yet—these downside targets remain conditioned on a short-term trend reversal. For now, the targets also must be considered corrective retracements / mean-reversion targets within the context of the current trend until the evidence proves otherwise.
Conservative Target: $245-$250
Moderate Target: $232-$238
Aggressive Target: $199-$218
Trends vs. Fundamentals
A purely technical analyst or technically oriented trend trader tends to consider only the trend and technical evidence supporting that objective. At critical junctures after retracements / corrective moves, this means favoring trend continuation rather than a reversal until the evidence says otherwise. And pure trend following means seeing the odds as favoring mean reversion when a trend gets too extended or stretched rather than reversal.
Ambiguity as to trend on varying time frames often confounds the discussion of trends. This is why it's important to remain precise and focused on time frames. For example, a long term secular trend in a given index can be upward while a primary trend can be downward or sideways (retracing / consolidating within the secular uptrend) while an intermediate trend can be upward (retracing or consolidating the primary downtrend)—and intraday traders levered up on calls and riding the short-term rip may be so hyperfocused on a rip in the short term that they dismiss a long-term analyst’s accurate characterization of corrective rally within a primary downtrend. This is just a hypothetical example of how vagueness around terminology and time frames doesn’t can obfuscate the proper technical approach to a given security.
As discussed, TSLA’s trend right now is upward on the intermediate trend and minor (short-term) trends. But the primary trend is still arguably sideways when considered from 2-3 years ago. And the secular trend since 2010 arguably still remains upward.
But may a trend trader peek outside the trend? That is a complicated question without a definite answer. For those wanting to explore whether it’s prudent to look at non-technical evidence outside the scope of the trend (e.g., considering the fundamentals and the broader macro), the following post offers some cost-benefit analysis and suggestions:
For those who wish to avoid being influenced by fundamental information, please skip this paragraph and read on to the next one. Andrew Dickson, the founder of Albert Bridge Capital and CIO of Alpha Europe Funds recently noted the following incongruities (downtrends) in EPS-estimate trends vs. price trends:
1. In late 2022, TSLA’s sell-side analysts expected $6.34 EPS in 2023 (about 9 months ago estimates).
2. After TSLA reported delivery numbers in early July, Dickson noted that “despite today's apparent 4% rev beat (implied from delivery-numbers) for Q2, 2023 EPS expectations have plummeted to $3.50. So earnings expectations for TSLA are now down -55% in 9 months and yet the stock is up +15%.”
3. He concluded that "the 2023 P/E multiple has expanded from 38x to 79x, or by 107%."
Dickson’s comments show that price is often not driven by fundamentals. Exactly what was priced in when the stock plummeted to $100 in January? And what is different now has nearly doubled off the lows? Or maybe the question is whether the data that gets priced in has different (and ever changing) weightings depending on the type of data. For example, maybe the data that affects price is most heavily weighted toward liquidity, capital flows, sentiment, seasonality, rather than fundamentals. But David Lundgren, a combined technical and fundamental analyst for whom SquishTrade has utmost respect, highly regards technical analysis, and especially favors technicals in the short / intermediate term, but says that fundamentals always matter in the long run. Here is a quotation from Lundgren from notes I've taken on his commentary in interviews and articles: "In the long-term, actual fundamentals will simply overwhelm any short-term technicals, emotions, sentiments driving a security or market price action."
Concluding Comments
Traders think in terms of probabilities, not certainties. Further, traders' time frames, risk management, and position sizes vary dramatically, which is why it seems imprudent to blindly follow another person’s signal service (whether paid or free). One very knowledgeable TV follower of mine has shorted TSLA with a position size that gives him a sizable margin of error. In other words, he can wait and allow significant fluctuations in price before getting shaken out of the position. My inference from our conversations is that his short thesis is based on deeply and persistently inverted yield curves, volatility being at major lows, deteriorating fundamentals at TSLA and other broader macro problems.
But macro and fundamentals can take a great deal of time to unfold, i.e., they do not play out immediately, and if they did, the big short should have been weeks or months ago. This year everyone thought a recession would be here by now, including experts with long-term experience managing or advising multi-billion dollar funds. This does not mean my fellow trader must be wrong. His thesis might yet succeed with time and patience, or it may yet experience more pressure or even be stopped out. This is why position size, risk management, and time frames matter. Before entering a trade or investment, one must consider time frame, position size, risk tolerance, risk management, technical or fundamental evidence, and an invalidation or stop level (which defines risk and relates integrally to position size). Shorter-term traders with leveraged, derivative, or supersized short positions would have already gotten crushed trying to short TSLA or other mega cap leaders the last few weeks or months.
GBP/USD pushes higher as inflation drops to 6.8%The British pound has posted considerable gains on Wednesday. In the North session, GBP/USD is trading at 1.2754, up 0.39%.
The UK released the July inflation report today and the readings were a mixed bag. Headline CPI dropped to 6.8% y/y, a sharp drop from the 7.9% gain in June and matching the consensus estimate. The decline was certainly welcome news but the driver of the downswing was a sharp drop in fuel prices. Core CPI, which excludes energy and food, remained unchanged in July at 6.9% and above the estimate of 6.8%. The core rate rose 0.3% m/m in July, up slightly from the July reading of 0.2%, which was also the estimate.
There was some good news in the inflation report as headline CPI declined by 0.4% m/m in July, compared to +0.1% in June and very close to the consensus estimate of -0.5%. Still, the fact that core CPI remains elevated and sticky provides support for the hawks at the Bank of England who believe that rates must rise further in order to curb inflation.
The inflation report comes on the heels of a soft UK employment report on Tuesday. The data revealed that the tight labour market is finally cooling, which would ordinarily be positive news for the Bank of England. The one glaring exception to the soft numbers was wage growth, which jumped to a record 7.8%, up from 7.5% and above the consensus estimate of 7.3%. The increase in wage growth is indicative of a wage-price spiral which will hamper the BoE's efforts to curb inflation.
The US released a robust retail sales report on Tuesday, giving a boost to the US dollar as speculation rises that the Fed may not be done with the current rate-tightening cycle. Headline retail sales rose 0.7% m/m in July, but core retail sales stole the show with a massive 1% gain up from an upwardly revised 0.4% in June. Consumer spending is picking up, which could complicate the Fed's plan to ease up on rates and guide the economy to a soft landing.
GBP/USD is testing resistance at 1.2726. The next resistance line is 1.2787
1.2634 and 1.2573 are providing support
GBP/USD shrugs off mixed employment reportThe British pound has edged higher on Tuesday. In the European session, GBP/USD is trading at 1.2697, up 0.08%.
Investors were treated to a mixed UK employment report today. The labour market, which has been surprisingly resilient in the face of the Bank of England's tightening, is showing unmistakable signs of cooling.
Employment fell by 66,000 in the three months to June, a huge reversal from the 102,000 gain in the previous period. The consensus estimate stood at 75,000. Notably, this was the first decline in job growth since August 2022. The unemployment rate rose from 4.0% to 4.2%, above the estimate of 4.0%, and unemployment claims rose to 29,000, up from 16,200 and above the estimate of -7,300.
The one exception to the soft jobs report, but a critical one, was wage growth. Average earnings excluding bonuses rose 7.8% y/y in the three months to June, up from 7.5% and above the estimate of 7.3%. This was the highest level since records began in 2001. Average earnings including bonuses jumped 8.2%, compared to an upwardly revised 7.2% previously and above the estimate of 7.3%.
The jump in wage growth will be unwelcome news for the Bank of England, as it indicates that the dreaded wage-price spiral continues to feed inflation. Higher wages are a key driver of inflation, and the BoE has warned that if wage growth doesn't ease, it will be forced to raise rates even higher. This could mean that the weak UK economy will tip into a recession, but the BoE considers that the lesser evil compared to high inflation.
The BoE meets on September 21st and I do not envy Governor Bailey, who may have to cause more financial pain and raise rates. The UK releases the July inflation report on Wednesday, with CPI expected to fall to 6.7%, down from 7.9%. That would be a significant decline but it would still leave inflation more than triple the BoE's target of 2%. The BoE and investors will be glued to the inflation report and I expect the British pound to have a busier day.
GBP/USD is testing resistance at 1.2726. The next resistance line is 1.2787
1.2634 and 1.2573 are providing support
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
S&P 500 Daily Chart Analysis For Week of August 11, 2023Technical Analysis and Outlook:
The Spooz index continued this week to drop to fulfill its destination of Mean Sup 4403 and the possibility of Mean Sup 4330. However, another jump toward the newly created Mean Res 4520 level is also possible in this unconventional market.
$CNIRYY - Deflationary CPI- While ECONOMICS:USIRYY numbers remain inflationary,
having the latest increase to 3.2% on August 10th,
on the other side of the World from the second Global Superpower,
ECONOMICS:CNIRYY came Deflationary at negative 0.3% on 9'th of August,
just a day prior to numbers of ECONOMICS:USIRYY .
Note that The Head of Federal Reserve,
our pal Jerome Powell,
stated that Feds do not see Inflation ECONOMICS:USIRYY coming down to their norm target of 2% CPI
by 2025.
Jerome still believes on a 'Soft Landing'..
How about another Joke, Powell !?
The Ultimate Inflation Hedge Awaits! BTC or Gold?Today, we will dive into the age-old debate: Is it gold or bitcoin that reigns supreme? Get ready for a wild ride!
We all know that inflation can be a real buzzkill, eroding the value of our hard-earned money faster than you can say "portfolio meltdown." So, seeking refuge in assets that can weather this storm is natural. But which one should you choose? Gold, the classic go-to, or Bitcoin, the shiny new contender?
Let's start with gold. Ah, the timeless allure of this precious metal! For centuries, it has been the epitome of wealth and stability. Its physical nature and scarcity have made it a trusted store of value, a bedrock of financial security. But here's the plot twist: gold's performance in recent years has been a bit lackluster. It's like the steady, reliable friend who's always there for you but somehow never quite dazzles.
Enter Bitcoin, the enigmatic superstar of the digital world. This cryptocurrency has taken the financial realm by storm, capturing the imaginations of tech-savvy investors everywhere. With its decentralized nature and limited supply, bitcoin has become a symbol of rebellion against the traditional financial system. It's like that edgy, unpredictable friend who always keeps you on your toes.
But here's the kicker: bitcoin's volatility can make even the most daring traders break out in a cold sweat. Yes, it has had its moments of glory, soaring to unimaginable heights. Yet, it has also experienced gut-wrenching plunges that can leave you questioning your life choices. So, is it the ultimate hedge against inflation or just a wild rollercoaster ride?
Now, brace yourselves for the unexpected twist in the tale! We present an alternative that might blow your socks off: USDJPY, the forex pair quietly dominating the inflation hedge game. Buckle up, folks, because this one's a game-changer!
The USDJPY forex pair, a combination of the US dollar and the Japanese yen, has been a powerhouse performer when it comes to hedging against inflation. It combines the stability of a primary currency with the potential for substantial gains. The Japanese yen, renowned for its safe-haven status, and the US dollar, the world's reserve currency, create a formidable duo that can weather the storm of inflation like no other.
So, dear traders, it's time to take action! Don't just sit on the sidelines, wondering which asset will reign supreme. Invest in USDJPY and seize the opportunity to maximize your returns while hedging against inflation. It's time to step out of the gold and bitcoin bubble and embrace the surprising potential of this forex pair.
Join the USDJPY revolution today and let your trading prowess shine like never before! Take a leap of faith, and you might discover the ultimate inflation hedge you've been searching for.
Invest in USDJPY now and unlock the untapped potential of the ultimate inflation hedge!
$CSSE pop expected 👁🗨️*This is not financial advice, so trade at your own risks*
*My team digs deep and finds stocks that are expected to perform well based off multiple confluences*
*Experienced traders understand the uphill battle in timing the market, so instead my team focuses mainly on risk management*
This afternoon my team purchased shares of Chicken Soup for the Soul NASDAQ:CSSE at $1.12 per share.
NASDAQ:CSSE announced in April that their annual shareholder meeting would take place either on 6/27/23 or around that date. There hasn't been an official announcement since April regarding this meeting but either way no new information is expected to be delivered at the annual shareholder meeting regarding revenue sales (which is what most investors want to see). My team however is still expecting a pop due to the current technical analysis of the chart. Good luck.
Our Entry: $1.12
Take Profit: $1.47
Stop Loss: $1.03
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GBP/USD dips lower as US inflation risesThe British pound showed some strength earlier on Thursday but reversed directions and lost ground after the US inflation report. In the North American session, GBP/USD is trading at 1.2725, up 0.05%.
The US inflation report was somewhat of a mix, but most important was that both headline and core inflation were within expectations. This meant that the reaction of the US dollar was muted following the inflation release.
Headline CPI climbed to 3.2% y/y in July, above the June reading of 3.0% but shy of the consensus estimate of 3.0%. This marked the first time in 13 months that headline CPI accelerated, but the upswing isn't all that significant, as it was due to base effects. Core CPI ticked lower to 4.7% y/y in July, down from 4.8% in June. The Fed will be encouraged by the fact that on a monthly basis, both headline and core CPI posted a very modest gain of 0.2%, matching the estimate and unchanged from June.
Inflation has fallen sharply in recent months, but the Fed will find it more difficult to bring core inflation down to the 2% target. The sharp drop in energy prices has sent headline CPI lower, but the core rate excludes food and energy prices. Inflation is being driven by services and wages, which explains why core CPI is so much higher than headline CPI.
The inflation report has cemented the Fed holding rates in September, barring a huge surprise. The odds of a pause have risen to 90%, up from 86% prior to the inflation report, according to the CME FedWatch tool. The Fed may well be done with the current rate-tightening cycle, but don't expect to hear that from anyone at the Fed, which does not want the markets to become too complacent about inflation.
The UK will post preliminary GDP on Friday. The consensus estimate stands at 0.1% q/q for the second quarter. If GDP misses the estimate and falls into negative territory, investors could get nervous and send the pound lower. Conversely, if GDP beats the estimate, the pound could gain ground. The Bank of England will be watching carefully, as it digests key economic data ahead of the next meeting on September 21st.
GBP/USD is testing resistance at 1.2747. The next resistance line is 1.2874
1.2622 and 1.2495 are providing support
BluetonaFX - USDJPY Traders Anticipating US Inflation DataHi Traders!
Ahead of the US CPI data in a couple of hours, USDJPY is trading with momentum, and we could finally see the 145.073 resistance level broken if the inflation outlook looks positive for the US.
Looking at the 1W chart, the market looks bullish; we are above the 20 EMA; last week's high was broken; and even with the weaker than expected US jobs report announced last week, the US dollar is still showing strength.
If the inflation data is stronger than expected, there is a strong possibility that the market breaks the 145.073 resistance level. Above this level is the psychological 150 level, which is the next long-term target that the market will look to test if the bullish momentum continues. Above 150 is our Apex level at 151.946, which is our record high. Depending on the outlook in the US, we may see this level at some point this year.
Though USDJPY looks bullish, the market is currently in a range zone, and the resistance at 145.073 must break to confirm the bullish view. On the other side, below is the 137.915 level, which has been our strong support level over the past few months. If the inflation outlook looks weak and the bullish US dollar's bullish outlook becomes bearish, this level will be the likely long-term target level for USDJPY.
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BluetonaFX
U.S. Economy Less Interest Rate SensitiveDespite the fastest rise in interest rates since 1981, and an inverted yield curve where short-term rates are much higher than long-term bond yields, the United States has not (at least yet) experienced the recession forecast by the vast majority of market pundits and economists. Why not?
The relatively few contrarians that did not forecast a recession, including myself, had many reasons for a more optimistic view. However, the most critical reason appears to have been an appreciation of how the U.S. economy has changed over decades and become much less sensitive to interest rates.
In the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s, the U.S. economy was driven by housing and manufacturing. The only choice to finance a home was the 30-year fixed rate mortgage, provided by a savings and loan institution, that deliberately borrowed short-term from savers and lent long-term, taking considerable interest rate and yield curve risk. Further, there was no such thing as financial futures or interest rate swaps to allow for the efficient hedging of interest rate risk.
Fast forward to the modern economy of the 2020s. The U.S. is an economy driven by the service sector, and services are considerably less sensitive to interest rate swings than housing and automobiles. Home mortgages come in every size and flavor, from floating rates to fixed rates. Mortgages are originated by specialists and then packaged and sold to pensions, endowments and investors willing to take the risk. There are no savings and loan institutions. Financial futures, swaps and options are available for efficient hedging and management of interest rate risk.
In short, the U.S. economy does not dance to interest rates like it once did. Make no mistake, though; interest rate shifts have a profound impact on asset values, from equities to bonds, to housing. It is just that the impact on the real economy is much more subdued than it once was, and a rise in rates does not automatically mean a recession is around the corner.
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
By Bluford Putnam, Managing Director & Chief Economist, CME Group
*Various CME Group affiliates are regulated entities with corresponding obligations and rights pursuant to financial services regulations in a number of jurisdictions. Further details of CME Group's regulatory status and full disclaimer of liability in accordance with applicable law are available here: www.cmegroup.com
**All examples in this report are hypothetical interpretations of situations and are used for explanation purposes only. The views in this report reflect solely those of the author and not necessarily those of CME Group or its affiliated institutions. This report and the information herein should not be considered investment advice or the results of actual market experience.
EUR, GBP Rebound Against Dollar as Inflation Trends DivergeEuropean currencies have been rebounding strongly versus the U.S. dollar since hitting bottom in late September 2022 during the Gilt crisis when yields on U.K. government bonds surged. The rally in European currencies accelerated in July 2023 following the release of the U.S. inflation statistics (Figure 1).
Figure 1: EUR and GBP have rebounded strongly in recent weeks and months
Recent U.S. and European inflation data are highly divergent. U.K. core inflation has climbed to above 7%. Eurozone core inflation has risen towards 5.4% while the U.S. core consumer price index (CPI) has been falling towards 4.8%, down from a peak of 6.6% last year.
What’s even more remarkable is that the divergence between U.S. and European inflation rates is much stronger when one measures it in a consistent fashion. The U.K. and European Union (EU) use a “harmonized” measure that is consistent across Europe. The harmonized measure includes rents of actual rental properties but, unlike the standard U.S. numbers, does not assume that homeowners rent properties from themselves. Excluding the so-called owners’ equivalent rent (OER) from the U.S. numbers makes a huge difference. At the moment, the assumption that homeowners rent properties from themselves has exaggerated U.S. core inflation to the tune of 2.5%.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics produces what they term an “experimental” harmonized measure of core-CPI that gauges inflation the same way as in Europe and therefore excludes the OER component. This shows core inflation in the U.S. to be 2.3%, far below European levels and trending lower rather than higher (Figure 2).
Figure 2: Measured consistently, U.S. core inflation is half to one-third European levels
This suggests that the U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed), which appears to be preparing a 25-basis-point (bps) rate hike on July 26, could soon have its policy rate at more than 3% above the level of harmonized core inflation (Figure 3). Meanwhile, the Bank of England (BoE), which just raised rates to 5%, still has rates more than 2% below its rate of harmonized core inflation (Figure 4). The European Central Bank (ECB) has its main refinancing rate at 4%, 1.4% below the level of the eurozone’s harmonized core inflation (Figure 5).
Figure 3: Fed Funds now exceed harmonized U.S. Core CPI by 3%, the most since 2007
Figure 4: The BoE’s policy rate is still 2% below inflation
Figure 5: The ECB has its policy rate 1.4% below Eurozone core inflation
The differences in the level of real rates (policy rates minus harmonized core inflation) suggests that the Fed may have overtightened policy and may need to reduce rates sooner than expected by market participants. By contrast, those same measures suggest that the European central banks may still be behind their inflation curve and may need to tighten policy even more substantially. Indeed, forward curves have moved significantly in the direction of this thinking in recent weeks and now price just 25 bps more in rate hikes for the Fed compared to 75 bps for the eurozone and 125-150 bps in the U.K.
Elsewhere, the U.S. yield curve is much more sharply inverted than yield curves in the eurozone or the U.K. This may also lead currency traders to look past the Fed’s last expected rate hike and towards possible rate cuts if monetary overtightening produces a downturn in the U.S. sooner than it does in Europe.
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
By Erik Norland, Executive Director and Senior Economist, CME Group
*Various CME Group affiliates are regulated entities with corresponding obligations and rights pursuant to financial services regulations in a number of jurisdictions. Further details of CME Group's regulatory status and full disclaimer of liability in accordance with applicable law are available here: www.cmegroup.com
**All examples in this report are hypothetical interpretations of situations and are used for explanation purposes only. The views in this report reflect solely those of the author and not necessarily those of CME Group or its affiliated institutions. This report and the information herein should not be considered investment advice or the results of actual market experience.
USD Index road map with US CPI to come.Today's focus: USD Index
Pattern – Ascending Triangle
Support – 95.68
Resistance – 96.32
Today, we look at the USD index as price continues to trade rangebound after fighting back from a two-day decline. Could today’s CPI data break the deadlock and give the market some direction?
Traders will be watching to see what today’s data could do for rate rise expectations. Could a move above expectations lift price above resistance and get the current trend back on track? Or could a miss to the downside confirm an LH and break the trend, setting off fresh selling? If we see the data come in flat, this could maintain the current price range that we are seeing at the moment.
Keep an eye on today’s data when it’s released at 8:30 am EST, as it could produce some volatility if the figure comes out outside of market expectations.
Have a great day and good trading.
EURUSD before CPIToday we await US inflation data.
The news will be published at 15:30 Bulgarian time!
Large swings and stop hunting are possible.
Therefore, it is advisable to open new trades after the news.
The more likely direction for us remains the rise, and a break of the previous high will confirm it.
NZD/USD slides on China's soft trade numbersThe New Zealand dollar has declined by 1% on Tuesday. In the North American session, NZD/USD is trading at 0.6044, down 1.01%. Earlier, NZD/USD touched a low of 0.6034, its lowest level since June 8th.
China's post-Covid recovery has not gone according to plan, as weak global demand and soft domestic demand have weighed on economic activity. This message was reiterated on Tuesday as China posted disappointing trade data in July. Exports fell by 14.5%, worse than the 12.4% decline in June and the consensus estimate of -12.5%. It was a similar story for imports, which declined by 12.4%, down from -6.8% and below the estimate of -5%.
The weak trade numbers from the number two economy in the world are dismal news for the global economy, particularly for New Zealand and other Pacific Rim countries that are heavily dependent on trade with China. New Zealand is China's number one trading partner and the soft trade report out of China has sent the New Zealand dollar tumbling on Tuesday.
The markets are braced for more bad news on Wednesday, with the release of Chinese CPI. As China's economy weakens, we're seeing signs of deflation. The consensus estimate for July stands at -0.1%, after a -0.2% in June. On an annualized basis, the estimate for July stands at -0.4%, after a reading of zero in June. Deflation is a signal that China's economy is in trouble, which does not bode well for New Zealand.
The Federal Reserve continues to send a hawkish message to the markets, which has helped boost the US dollar. Fed member Bowman said on Friday that the Fed might have to deliver "additional rate increases" in order to bring inflation back down to 2%. This would put her at odds with the money markets, which have priced in a pause in September and are looking ahead to rate cuts early next year.
On Monday, FOMC member Williams said that he expects that the Fed will need to keep a restrictive stance "for some time", dependent on the data. Still, the money markets have priced in a pause at the September meeting, which would mark only the second pause since the Fed began raising rates in March 2022.
NZD/USD is putting pressure on support at 6031. Below, there is support at 0.5964
0.6129 and 0.6196 are the next resistance lines
Will US Inflation Data Spark EUR/USD Recovery? Will US Inflation Data Spark EUR/USD Recovery?
In Monday's early trading session, the euro showed a slight weakening against the U.S. dollar, influenced by a prevailing sense of pessimism following disappointing industrial production figures in Germany. As the largest economy in the eurozone, Germany's struggles in the manufacturing sector have been evident throughout the year due to decreased orders, sluggish output, and soaring prices.
The EUR/USD pair attempted to recover above the 1.1000 mark, but it seems that sellers are gaining some control in the short term. Traders are now closely eyeing the next potential catalyst for movement in the currency pair, which is the U.S. inflation data set to be released on Thursday at 8:30 am (NY time).
Market expectations point towards a July core inflation rate of 4.7% on an annual basis for the U.S. A significant downside surprise in core inflation, say at 4.5% or lower, might prompt a dovish reassessment of the dollar's value and could open the door for a solid euro recovery.
At present, the EUR/USD is caught between two very tight technical levels after its recent rebound: resistance at 1.1010 and support at 1.1000. If the pair gains further strength, the focus could shift to the 1.1040 level. Conversely, if weakness takes hold, a pullback towards 1.0990 and a retest of 1.09655 may be in the cards.
S&P 500 Daily Chart Analysis For Week of August 4, 2023Technical Analysis and Outlook:
The Spooz index experienced a significant drop as a result of the Inner Index Rally 4590 reaching completion last and this week's trading session, respectively. This caused our Mean Sup 4534 and 4507 to be eliminated. It seems likely that the index will continue to decline, potentially reaching our next Mean Sup 4403 and even Mean Sup 4330. However, it's important to note that there could be a Reignited Rally Resumption at the solid and strategic Mean Sup 4403 level, as this week's trading has been heavily oversold.