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SPX: BOJ MISS = BULL RUN END +2% + 2016 SAFE HAVEN TREND RESUMESEnd of the bull run Global Equity Indexes: 1. SPX/ Global Equity indexes in the past 2/3wks saw a post-brexit central bank easing induced rally, as many CB released dovish statements following the vote which spurred investor confidence in fresh easing. - IMO much of the bull run was based on BOJ easing hopes, given the size of the economy (4th largest) stimulus from the BOJ had risk sentiment increasing affects - though now in light of no new easing from the BOJ and many CBs shrugging off/ UK internalising the brexit impacts I believe this bull run is over. 2. Technically speaking we may see another week or two of sideways or +1% as the market awaits easing policy information from the BOE (6th largest economy), but past this and regardless of what the BOE does i think the upside bias will cease. BOE is only likely to inject 50bn over probably 6m+ which is a drop in the ocean relatively as the BOJ does 100bn+ in one month, so by mid august latest I expect risk-markets to turn sour and a 10% correction is likely. Confirmation the risk-rally is over: - During this bull run we have seen risk markets/ SPX make gains rather frigidly, one day up one day down has been the trend - rather than the usual breakout green green green rallies of the past - this to me indicated that the topside was cautious and reinforced my view that it was central bank driven (not equity market performance driven). Thus, Confirmation of the trend turning to risk-off will be consecutive days of risk markets falling (SPX/ global indexes) OR consecutive safe haven markets rising (Gold, UST, Yen) and the emergence of a strong negative correlation between the two assets will be a solid second indicator that the 2016 risk-off trend is back. Trading Strategy - a number of ways to play this one: 1. Short FTSE100 @6700 or 7000 (wait for BOE) - this is my favourite trade but has a few conditions. We have built some resistance at the 6700-800 level so here isn't a bad place to sell however i think we will get a better selling vantage point next week, assuming the BOE cut the bank rate 25bps. - The BOE easing should move FTSE100 up 3-4% in a few days into the 7000 ATH key level as easing boosts business conditions and a lower GBP increases FTSE company international competitiveness. The 7000 level is where I am aiming for FTSE shorts with sell-limit orders as 1) its all time high levels; 2) I like to fade central bank action since it is artifical; 3) the broader risk-run is over so FTSE will suffer with the rest of the market 2. Short US Indexes @Market - SPX is perhaps the best short ATM given it trades right at its newly set all time high levels and on the backdrop of the BOJ miss we should see some downside soon. 3. Long Yen @mrkt - in the immediate term my favourite trade I like long Yen (for 200-400pips) against USD and GBP, given the BOJ backdrop is most related to JPY markets. We have already we seen the risk-off transmission taking place in here as Nikkei sold off 2% after the result and JPY grew 3% but i still think in the immediate term e.g. 1wk we can see more JPY topside and Nikkei weakness - me prefering to trade the FX strength over the equity as the equity often follows as a function of FX strength. 4. Long Bonds or Gold @mrkt - for the medium/ longer term I like buying govt debt, particularly UK gilts (BOE QE increases demand) or Gold - Gold we saw move higher on Friday in reaction to the BOJ so it will be interesting to see if we can get risk-off confirmation run from this next week (look for 3/4 green days). Risks to the view: 1. US Earnings have outperformed imo on average this Q, so the risk-run may be sustained for longer than the 2wk window that I expect. Nonetheless, i think even this is capped at 4wks e.g. we should be in full bear mode by the start of September - look out for the confirmation, a run of 3/4+ days of consecutive safe haven gains is often all the markets have to signal to show
TVC:SPXShort
by QuantumLogicTrading
6
EURCHF: SNB JORDAN - EYE & BUY 1.05/8, 80% SEPT CUT, STRONG CHFSNB President T. Jordan comment highlights: - If Needed, Can Cut Rates Further - 50bps to 1.25% possible until negative rates turn less effective - €˜Big Concern€™ Over Significantly Overvalued CHF in 2016 risk-off dominated year - CHF 3m Libor prices 80% chance of a 25bps cut (-0.75 to -1.00%) within 3 months (was only 40% before brexit) - Low bond yields not ideal for foreign-reserve management - Swiss central bank president currently doesn’t see need to act/ adjust policy, despite risks - Survey shows CHF needs to rise to 1.05 before rate cut President T. Jordan G20 Quotes: 1. “We are monitoring the situation very carefully: what are the consequences for inflation and growth in Switzerland, what are our policy options,” 2. Regards to ECB/ BOE future policy - “The franc remains significantly overvalued, it’s a big concern for us.” 3. “The low level of interest rates is of course not ideal for foreign-currency reserve management, but monetary policy is expansionary everywhere,” Jordan said. “That’s an environment we can’t change and we have to adjust our investment policy accordingly.” 4. “There clearly are risks,” but “whether they materialize or not is not in the hand of Switzerland,” he said. “It depends on the decisions Europe will take and how strongly they will affect the global economy and financial markets” and “we hope, of course, that sensible decisions will be taken.” Trading strategy: 1. Looking at the 1.08 level it looks like there is some clear SNB defence of this level, which is consistent with the SNB's comments that they have intervened at this level in the past (e.g. brexit). - So an easy strategy is to buy any <1.08 dips, with a 1.088-1.09tp as it looks as if there is some consistent buying from the 1.08 level to the 1.09 level so take advantage of this trend , lower the better, as it certainly looks as if the SNB is engaging in intervention at this level and will continue to do so - even if not officially as in the past with the 1.20 level. 2. Bloomberg Poll see's a definite SNB 25bps cut if the EURCHF drifts to the 1.05 level - so beyond buying 1.08 dips with perhaps 1lot, i advise strongly buying 1.05 and less dips with say 2-4lots based on heavy FX intervention directly or rate based if we were to such low levels. TP can be placed at the 1.08-9 level still - In terms of cutting capacity, also polled by BBG showed that the SNB has room for another 50bps of cuts before its negative policy may turn counterproductive - so this strategy is sound for now.
Long
by QuantumLogicTrading
GBPJPY: BOJ MISS; BOE HIT? MORE SELLING ON THE HORIZONBOJ Miss: 1. BOJ deliver one of the biggest misses in history (vs expectations/ pressure) - only increasing ETF purchases and dollar funding by apprx $60bn annual in total vs 10-20bps of Depo and LSP cuts + 5-20trn in QE increase + ETF increase. *See attached post for in-depth detail on the BOJ situation and price action history/ Yen strength/ Safe havens* BOJ Miss Compounded with a BOE Hit: 1. BOE are expected to ease by 25bps and possibly add 50bn to their QE programme on Thursday - a BOJ miss combined with a BOJ hit should cause compounded losses for GBPJPY as there are two drivers - Yen should continue this week to get stronger (as BOJ easing expectations surpass and Yen strength increases) whilst GBP gets weaker as the BOE on Thursday likely takes action, reducing the value of Sterling - with both providing the optimal environment for downside. - Historically, when BOJ has delivered new policy/ missed GBPJPY has sold off aggressively between 2-8days and 700-1200pips. Now whilst I dont expect the same level of aggression in the near-term as the relative value is much lower now (135 vs 175) so moves lower should be smaller - I do expect that 400pips lower on the day is not the end of the selling rally for GBPJPY. - Initially at the start of the week i expect GBPJPY to move lower at least another day (satisfying historical moves), perhaps into the 133.5 level which would be 550pips, lower than the smallest sell-off but fair given the relative value changes - not that i would be surprised to see more. - Later into the week is when I expect the bulk of GBPJPY losses to come (e.g. Thurs/ Fri) - the reason for this is as 1) any Yen downside risk from the MOF releasing upside in the details of their stimulus package would have surpassed e.g. increased stimulus from 28trn-40trn (unlikely) or increased govt spending section - both of which devaluing yen moving gbpjpy potentially higher. Though I think the risks are more skewed to MOF delivering a package that strengthens JPY as it undershoots expectations as several MOF members have mentioned the package being over several years - the more years the less punch the package has (given some expected it (5% of gdp) to be spent in 1yr), equally the less direct govt spending portion of the package will also lessen the depreciative impact on yen (rumoured to be 13trn, if less then Yen could get considerably stronger). As mentioned I see the MOF release to be asymmetrically skewed to expectation downside for these reasons. 2) BOE GBP selling pressure would happen when they cut the rate and adjust their QE programme - this is a highly likely scenario as BOE MPC Minutes in July said "Most members expect to loosen policy in August" and recently the BOE's biggest hawk M. Weale switched stance in light of UK Business PMI/ Optimism prints at 10yr lows saying the BOE needs to act fast/ delaying policy further doesn't make sense. Trading strategy: Sell GBPJPY @mrkt 133.5TP1 130.5TP2 128.5TP3 - risk averse traders could wait for the 50-60% MOF/ general Vol bounce into 136-38 level before shorting - I would reshort here anyway.
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading
11
BOJ EXPECTATIONS: EXCEED/ HIT - LONG USDJPY; MISS - SHORT GBPJPYBOJ Miss - Sell GBPJPY @Market price; 129tp1 - up to 800pips. 1. A BOJ miss can be considered as delivering the median expectations e.g. 10bps cut to the depo (-0.2%), 10bps cut to the LSP (-0.1%), Yen10trn increase in monthly JGB purchases & 50% Increase in Annual ETF purchases e.g. 3.3trn-5trn. Fiscal Stimulus Yen10-15trn. - The package above or less should be sold as the market expects this to maintain UJ at 105-6 level. - The short GBPJPY is a great trade anyway as you benefit from the BOE easing carry which should in turn move us to 125 (BOJ miss and BOE hit) - which the BOE 1m forward OIS rates market currently prices 25bps at 100% and the average expectations are 25bps and £50bn of QE (even more certain now as the BOE M. Weale - the most hawkish MPC Member moved to the easing side as Business optimism and PMI dropped to their 10yr lows) - thus GBPJPY can expect further downside even past the BOJ as the BOE is all but guaranteed to ease "most members expect to ease at the august meeting" - July BOE Minutes Quote. - Currently a BOJ miss is the most likely outcome - as many of you have seen in FX Yen has been brought aggressively as expectations have fallen, much a mirroring from the change in rates market where - For the 25th the 3m JPY Libor prices only a 6.65bps cut at to the key rate at 100% and on the same date the 3m euroyen August future prices only a 5.5bps cut at 100%. Though the further dated September 3m euroyen future prices a 9bps cut a 100% - likely a function of the market betting on more action being done in the september meeting (which makes sense). BOJ HIt: Buy USDJPY @Market price; 107-111tp - up to 700pips 1. A BOJ Hit can be considered as double or more the median expectations (in my opinion) - 20bps+ to the depo, 20bps+ to the LSP, Yen20trn+ to the JGB Purchases and 100-200% extra annual ETF purcases from Yen3.3trn to 6.6/9.9trn. Yen20-30trn Fiscal stimulus. - The package above or more IMO will allow $yen to trade to 111, and for a sustained amount of time. - The long USDJPY is the best proxy to play the "over-delivery" imo as USD is the most stable base, and has the most pips to gain on yen weakness - given FOMC hawkishness/ Hiking expectations give USDJPY topside even more impetus. - As above, the markets currently DON'T expect this result, as $Yen trades at the 104 level and rates markets price only 5-6bps of lowering. HOWEVER, if BOJ/ JPY Govt are to deliver a big easing package - one that smashes expectations (such as the one above) it will be now. The reason I think this is the case is below:
by QuantumLogicTrading
11
USDJPY/ SPX: NET RISK APPETITE - THE REVERSAL OR INTERDAY TREND?- As many of you know ive been tracking/ am keen on this whole macro "net risk sentiment" theme to gauge what direction markets are heading in for the day/ week/ several weeks. - We started today as planned, with both safe havens and risk asset relatively flat, before risk-on sentiment dominated early trading with yen breaking out the 107 level and equity indexes holding their gains/ in the green. - However, at apprx 10am GMT BBC Radio 4 reiterated the 3wk old sentiments from BOJ govenor Kuroda, which downplayed the chance of helicopter money/ took a hawkish tone - which in turn then shifted markets into a mildly strong risk-off rally, with yen falling 150pips straight down and equities failing to hold in the green. Where do we go from here: 1. The easiest thought, with Yen up 1% and gold up 1% is to think "the risk rally/ recovery is materially over, we should start positioning for the material risk-off downtrend that has dominated 2016 and get net short safe havens again" however by steeping away from the fundamental intraday signs for a moment/ looking at the technicals from a macro perspective, there is a promising underlying trend that has developed this past 2wks (since the risk rally began) which MAY mean this is NOT the case. 2. Firstly look at the daily of USDJPY below (my favourite Safe haven indicator of risk sentiment given FX being the fastest asset to process information) and SPX above (my favourite risk-on indicator of risk sentiment due to its nobility) - what do you notice? - For the past 9 trading days (since the risk-recovery started) SPX has traded one day higher, then one day lower EVERYDAY and today seems to be no exception - we are on the lower day. 9-days is particularly enough to be certain but it is definitely something worth thinking about when considering if this is the doom and gloom end of the risk rally or merely an interday correction that the market has been happy with since the rally started. - Correlation at 97% confirms this view - and high correlations are usually markers of a trend (e.g. one up one down) and harder to break so i definitely think this could be an interday trend lower for risk (before resuming higher again tomorrow) - rather than a risk-off reversal. BOJ Kuroda's reiterated comments: 1. Kurodas reiterated comments today from 3wks ago was certainly the driver for the aggressive sell-off however, we have since moved 50-70pips higher than them levels so there is definitely something more macro at play as to why risk is struggling today e.g. the one day trend that has held. Going forward: 1. It will be interesting to see if that pattern continues to hold true e.g. tomorrow is a risk-on day. Though the odds are against it with friday historically being the WORST day for stocks due to end of week book clearing - so before making any moves on Friday it may be even best to wait until Monday to decide if the risk-off sentiment is here to stay before switching your trading sentiment (as i said last weekend) - unless we were to see some aggressive selling off tomorrow e.g. UJ to <104 - this to me would confirm that the risk rally was over and I would turn a net seller of USDJPY and cut my risk holdings - It seems weird that the ECB dovishness was enough to send EUR$ lower (never happens) but not enough to give risk a prop up - so it could well be that the macro trend of 1 up/ 1 down on the daily takes precedent no matter what + the BBC R4 Spat with kurodas comments earlier was just an emphasiser of the already established marco pattern? - Time will tell.
TVC:SPX
by QuantumLogicTrading
2
USDJPY V GOLD: BEST VALUE - RISK-ON SELL JPY; RISK-OFF BUY GOLD Why Gold is lagging Safe have losses & Yen is outperforming 1. When looking at Gold vs Yen or XAUJPY it becomes apparent why Gold is lagging the broad safe haven losses that we have seen during this risk-recovery rally - investors are buying gold over Yen - so gold appears to be their preferred safe have asset to hold in a risk-on rally - likely a function of perceived future weakness of Yen? BOJ/ JPY Govt stimulus? - This may be the case for three reasons; 1) Investors speculate JPY is due further downside gains compared to gold (Gold is the stronger Risk-off asset) and they speculate that BOJ may deliver a big devaluing package and/ or 2) They believe JPY is more overvalued than Gold so they sell their JPY holdings over their Yen. 3) Gold is more illiduid compared to Yen e.g. investors have been able to sell their Yen faster/ easier than their Gold as Gold is a physical asset and FX markets are the most liquid markets in the world - whereas Yen is pure currency which is convertible at any level. Implications: 1. This infers that investors expect Gold to continue to outperform in risk-off rallies going forward - which makes sense given Gold is already up 30% this year vs Yen's only 20% up - so they see further upside for Gold. This could be the case as the market discounts the probability that the BOJ/ JPY govt delivers a large easing package which devalues the JPY. - Therefore Gold shorts should be careful during this risk-on rally as when the tides change back to the trend of risk-off, Gold is more likely to rally aggressively in comparison to Yen. Trading strategy: 1. Buying Gold on the risk-on reversal (to risk-off) - we should allocate the liquidity to Gold over Yen to take advantage of this investor sentiment. 2. The market is clearly discounting quit aggressive JPY weakness when relatively compared to other safe havens - likely due to BOJ/ JPY Govt stimulus worries. - Knowing this, we should potentially position for JPY shorts - since the market clearly is positioning for some serious JPY weakness relatively - a big BOJ package? 3. Whilst safe havens have outperformed risk by 14% (20% safe havens 6% risk-on assets - pre-brexit) - Gold has also outperformed Yen by 7%. - Therefore in risk-off rallies we SHOULD expect Yen to underperform Gold e.g. GOLD should be brought over Yen. - In risk-on rallies (now) we should expect Yen shorts to outperform Gold as Yen is considered the poorer asset - USDJPY longs are better/ safe than Gold shorts (hence supporting my long $yen view). *Check the attached posts that also support the long $Yen view in this market*
FX_IDC:XAUJPYLong
by QuantumLogicTrading
5
SHORT EURUSD: ECB POLICY DECISION & DRAGHI SPEECH HIGHLIGHTSIMO Draghi was dovish on the margin as expected - once again reiterating the ECB commitment to targets with " If Warranted, Will Act By Using All Available Instruments". Further, he was very pessimistic on many fronts, especially the ECBs key target inflation saying "Inflation Rates Likely to Remain Very Low In Next Few Months" and " Risks to Growth Outlook Remain Tilted to Downside". All in all this reaffirms my bearish EUR view and supports my medium term short EURUSD traded posted last weekend. Going forward, if low inflation persists the ECB has made it quite clear that it will take action "using all policy tools available", such a statement is very dovish/ bearish. In the broader view, Draghis dovishness should support risk markets today and help then shrug off the losses they made on the back of the Kuroda misinformation that repeated quotes from 3wks ago - which the market took as new hawkishness from the BOJ Governor. My favourite nearterm trade now is seeing USDJPY trading back to 107 by 5pm GMT thus holding my bullish view of the risk recovery taking us to 107, then 109 then 111/112 before reversing over the next few weeks. And I expect stock indexes to outperform safe havens on the day (where both trade flat now after safe havens initially pulling away post kurodas reiterated comments/ error from BBCR4). ECB Chair Mario Draghi Speech Highlights: -Draghi: Policy Measures Since June 2014 Have Significantly Improved Borrowing Conditions -Draghi: Financing Conditions Remain Highly Supportive -Draghi: Will Be in Better Position to Reassess in Coming Months -Draghi: If Warranted, Will Act By Using All Available Instruments -Draghi: Data Point to Ongoing Growth in Q2, Though Perhaps Lower Pace Than Q1 -Draghi: Fiscal Stance in Euro Area Expected to Be Mildly Expansionary in 2016 -Draghi: Headwinds to Recovery Include Brexit Referendum Outcome -Draghi: Risks to Growth Outlook Remain Tilted to Downside -Draghi: Inflation Rates Likely to Remain Very Low In Next Few Months -Draghi: Inflation Rates Should Increase Further in 2017, 2018 -Draghi: Essential That Bank Lending Channel Continues to Function Well -Draghi: Growth Supported by Domestic Demand -Draghi: Implementation of Structural Reforms Needs to be Stepped Up -Draghi: Council Concluded that We Didn't Have Information to Take Decisions -Draghi: Brexit Didn't Seem to Have Major Impact on Inflation Outlook -Draghi: Need More Time to Assess State of Market-Based Inflation Expectations -Draghi: If Warranted, Council Will Act By Using All Instruments in Mandate 2016. -Draghi: Should Take Brexit Impact Estimates With Caution -Draghi: Markets, Banking Sector Have Reacted in Fairly Resilient Fashion to Brexit -Draghi: We View Our QE Program, TLTRO Program As Quite Successful -Draghi: Past Evidence Shows Our Ability to Adapt Programs -Draghi: Have Not Discussed Tapering -Draghi: Very Important that Message of Stability Come out of G20, Given Uncertainties -Draghi: Very Difficult to Foresee Significant Impact of Turkey Unrest on Eurozone in Immediate Future -Draghi: Very Difficult to Understand How Geopolitical Uncertainties Affect Eurozone -Draghi: We See Inflation Moving Forward According to Baseline Scenario -Draghi: No Attention Given to Discuss Specific Instruments -Draghi: Bank Equity Prices of Some Significance for Policy Makers -Draghi: Problem Now Is Weak Bank Profitability Not Solvency -Draghi: Events in Turkey Could Undermine Confidence -Draghi: On Solvency Side, Our Banks Are Better Than Before -Draghi: Problem Now Is Weak Bank Profitability Not Solvency -Draghi: Monetary Policy Measures Undertaken When Many Headwinds In Place -Draghi: There's An Interest in Solving Problem Quickly, But Problem By Nature Slow to Resolve ECB Monetary Policy Decision - Unchanged as expected: - ECB MAIN REFI RATE UNCHANGED AT 0% - DEPOSIT FACILITY RATE AT -0.40% - MARGINAL LENDING RATE UNCHANGED AT 0.25% - ECB ASSET PURCHASE T
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading
4
SHORT GBPUSD: CENTRAL BANK EXPECTATIONS - BOE/ ECB/ BOJ & FOMCReuters Analyst Expectations: FOMC 1. IMPROVING DATA POINT TO SEPTEMBER RATE HIKE - - The Fed is very unlikely to spring any surprises at the upcoming FOMC meeting, which concludes next Wednesday 27th July, but a September rate hike is a distinct possibility. The statement next week should acknowledge the apparent pick-up in second-quarter GDP growth, particularly the recent strength of consumption, and also the rebound in employment growth in June. The Fed won't commit itself to a September rate hike at the July meeting, however, hints will be eyed closely. - Currently the 30 day federal funds rate option implied probability is consistant with the increasing chances of a September/ Novemeber hike view as the probability continues to increase to new post brexit highs e.g. 25bps FOMC hike probability for Sept/ Nov/ Dec increased to 24.6%, 25.7%, 41.6% from 18.8%, 20.2% and 39.5% yesterday. With Dec now pricing 2 hikes at 9.1% up from 7.1% - as risk markets continue to set new highs increasing confidence. BOE 1. BOE SEEN CUTTING BANK RATE 25 BPS TO 0.25% IN AUGUST - BoE Seen Restarting QE In August, Top Up With GBP80Bln adding to GBP375bn - Median 60% Chance Of UK Recession In The Coming Year - UK Economy Seen Growing 1.4% In 2016, 0.6% In 2017 (Prev Seen 1.9%, 2.1%) - Short Sterling constant 3m Libor Option Implied cut probabilities remained flat on the day at 30% chance of a 25bps cut - however risk markets rally buoy hawkish expectations though this is fundamentally expected to impact the BOE decision since markets are rallying as a function of the BOE cutting (its a loop that the BOE will be aware of). ECB/ BOJ 1. ECB not seen to cut rates but some analysts think there may be an extension to the maturity of ECB's APP e.g. further into 2017, though the purchase amounts is not expected to change at EUR80bln a month - nonetheless a 3m extension is an extra EUR240bn and a 6m is EUR480bn, so such an announcement on Thursday would certainly continue to fuel the rally in risk markets. 2. BOJ - there is less consensus on the BOJ meeting on the 28th, though the forecasts seem to sit between a 10-20bps cut to the key rate + an extension to the ETF purchases (Maturity and monthly purchase amounts) + an extension to the JGB purchases (maturity and monthly purchase amounts) - a BOJ surprise to the upside would undoubtably enable risk markets to continue to rally, though if it goes the other way (Kuroda underdelivers) this could be the impetus to stop the risk rally in its tracks. Trading Strategy: 1. Short GBPUSD on Pullbacks to 1.33/4 (if we see any now - unlikely but possible if retail sales outperform and the market prices the strong CPI/Employment at the same time) - 1.305TP1 1.285TP2 1.25xxTP3. - I posted this trade a few days ago when the short price was favourable - at these levels i DO NOT advise shorting. 1.33 is the minimum entry - I just posted this as a short confirmation/ central bank watch post. 2. The above supports the short GBPUSD play as 1) Easing from ECB/ BOJ puts pressure on the BOE to ease (as the GBP appreciates against the JPY/ EUR in this situation which is deflationairy) thus BOJ/ ECB easing increases the already consensus view that the BOE will ease - a BOE easing of 25bps cut and 80bn extension to the QE would certainly move us through 1.25. Infact I believe the 25bps cut alone is enough to do that. If BOE delivers £80bn in QE then that will move GBP even lower to perhaps 1.20/23. - Further, on the FOMC stance, a more hawkish FED strengthens the long dollar leg of the short GBPUSD which compounds the momentum that GBPUSD can move lower as we move towards two drivers vs just the one with the BOE easing. We now have BOE easing potential combined with ever increasing FOMC hike expectations fuelling USD demand which in turn/ combined will send GBP$ lower faster.
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading
3
EOW SUMMARY: RISK THE OVERALL WINNER - US30 & SPX @ 2% NEW HIGHSEnd of Week Summary: 1. On the week we saw risk outperform safe havens for the first time since the brexit vote and the SPX and DJ30 set new all time highs by 2% and 1.2% respectively - somewhat encouraging given this was the longest period post-crisis that equity indexes have had since new highs, with a total time of apprx 1 year. 2. Given the articles attached, this week was also the first week where risk-on/ risk-off positive correlations broke down and went back to some degree of normalcy, with Gold, Yen and bonds ending the week down some 5 - although the TRY Military Coup did cause some risk anxiety late on friday and caused safe havens to par some of their losses by 1% to close down apprx 4%. 3. Drivers of the risk-on rally i must say did come as a surprise, given the relatively subdued economic climate post brexit, with little planned risk-on drivers in sight. However, it was JPY's surprise talk from PM Abe/ BOJ Kuroda easing/ stimulus speculations at the start of the week (speculations around y10-20trn) that gave risk markets some legs - despite the reliability of the claims being denied by much of the JPY Govt though there certainly is no smoke without fire. 4. The other winner of the week was USD , much of which was safe haven demand on Friday (TRY Coup) but $ strength had built through the week on the back of hawkish FOMC speak sentiment (see attached) and risk markets rallying, causing rates to also rally (UST 10y averaging +4-5%) where all have contributed to increased market confidence which has translated into higher projected rate hike probabilities for their Sept/ Nov/ Dec meetings - currently at 12.9%/14.4%/38%, which is pretty much a 100% increase in expectations on the week. - Once risk got going, given the severe depression, it was unsurprising that it did manage to run away higher - as safe havens needed a correction higher, if only in the short term. Next week Projections: 1. Given last week, and most of friday, the obvious expectation would be to expect risk to continue on the offer and making new highs - however, late on friday afternoon we saw risk-on/risk-off balance tip in favour of safe havens as the TRY Coup uncertainty increased risk-off demand. - Friday traditionally is a weak day for risk anyway as 1) end of week sellers/ weekend flat risk books cause a natural selling of risk, and a natural buying of safe havens as portfolios look to hedge weekend event risk over the two days that the markets are closed (especially as the session ended i the middle of the TRY coup). - That in mind, i was surprised to see risk even trading better than safe havens on mid afternoon Friday at all (until TRY) - with Yen falling to 106.3 and goldd down 0.9%, i was confident that we would enter Monday with a risk-on tone.
TVC:DXYShort
by QuantumLogicTrading
2
SHORT GBPUSD @1.34 - BOE MINUTES HIGHLIGHTS - EXPECT AUGUST CUTAs expected BOE stood pat on their rate decision reiterating much of which was said last week by Gov M. Carney, the need for more analysis to be done is/ was key - " "Detailed Analysis" of All Policy Options Required" and "Extent Of Additional Stimulus Will Depend on August Forecasts". IMO the notes were very bearish and almost but 100% chance of some sort of action in August - "Most MPC Members Expect To Loosen Policy In August". Given Brexit, and the Inflation conditions in the UK anyway a cut of the Bank Rate, if only for 12ms, makes sense to ensure a smooth transition - especially as the UK welcomes a new PM & the article 50/ Brexit negotiations are yet to get underway, this will undoubtably put some pressure on the UK economy, where much of which could be smoothed by a 25bps rate cut. The minutes did point out interestingly that ""In the Short Run" Weaker GBP Will Boost Inflation" which makes sense, however they coupled this statement with "BOE Agents Report Some Businesses Delaying Investment", so the net impact of the Brexit event on inflation is yet to be seen. Overall IMO the decision to hold Policy still in July was as expected however, given the median analyst had forecasted a 25bps cut, this "hawkish" response imo has opened up a beter oppourtunity to sell GBP, as in the medium-term/ post the Aug decsion GBP$ is likely to trade below the 1.28 lows, with many analysts forecasting GBP$ somewhere between 1.20-1.25. Trading Strategy: 1. Short 1@1.34/335, sell 2@1.38/9 TP1 1.305; TP2 1.285 TP3 1.25XX. - I personally will not be operating SL on this trade as i believe BOE will cut in August 90%, and/or GBP$ will fall at somepoint on pure speculation, and/or as FOMC rate expectations continue to increase going into the later stages of the year. 2. Shorting any GBP rallies vs USD is also a good strategy from now on into the Aug rate cut, especially above 1.34. *In the unlikely event GBP$ trades higher on the back of this e.g. to 1.38/9 then i still advise shorting, however, given how stable cable was trading into the event (and after the event) i dont expect much short headwinds now - you could tell the market didnt actually believe in the rate cut/ money wasnt behind the rate cut as GBP$ rose to its post brexit highs at 1.33... is that how a cross should react when money is actually backing a cut? BOE Rate Cut/ Minutes Highlights: Bank of England Leaves Bank Rate Unchanged At 0.5% Bank Of England Leaves Bank Rate Unchanged At 0.5% BOE Jul Minutes: MPC Voted 8-1 to Maintain Bank Rate at 0.5% BOE Jul Minutes: 8 Voted to Keep Rate Unchanged BOE Jul Minutes: 1 Members Voted to Increase Rate BOE Vlieghe Voted to Lower Bank Rate to 0.25% BOE: Most MPC Members Expect To Loosen Policy In August BOE: MPC Members Had "Initial Exchange" on "Various Possible Packages" BOE: Extent Of Additional Stimulus Will Depend on August Forecasts BOE: "Detailed Analysis" of All Policy Options Required BOE: "In the Short Run" Weaker GBP Will Boost Inflation BOE: Longer-Term Outlook Depends on Inflation Expectations BOE: Economic Activity Likely to Weaken in Wake of Brexit Vote BOE Agents Report Some Businesses Delaying Investment, Hiring Decisions
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading
3
BUY USDJPY @104 & SELL GBPUSD @1.33: RISK-ON, POLITICS, BOJ, BOEThe Federal Reserve's regulatory point man said work to address the lessons of the 2008 financial crisis won't be complete without better regulation of short-term funding both inside and outside the banking system. St Louis Fed President Jim Bullard may be the Fed's new super dove, but he's no pessimist, he says. Bullard is the lone Fed official forecasting just one additional rate increase, and expects modest growth over the next two and a half years. But he reiterated Tuesday he's not expecting the economy to head south. Trading Strategy 1. Given this I remain bullish on the $ in the medium term, despite this spike in risk-on which IMO is unlikely to last more than 2wks. In the immediate term I like long $yen as the best play ATM vs other expressions - with a target of 109, entry at 104 as 1) the markets have finally signalled they are ready for a recovery bull run, post the brexit risk-off/ safe haven rally - largley on the back of CB stimulus. I believe USDJPY has been the most sold risk-on asset, thus it is now ripe for buying; 2) JPY fiscal stimulus is likely to come; 3) BOJ is likely to deliver 10-20bps of cuts to its interest rate 4) we have broken the 104 "brexit seller resistance level" which has held since the vote - this break imo means we can now move to 109+ as the recovery leg before resuming lower; 5) the Fed Funds Rate curve continues to steepen across the curve but particularly aggressively in the front end (yesterday 10ys adding 5%) and as a result implied probabilities of hikes continue to rally across the 2016/17 tenors (Dec hike now 33.7% vs 29.2%Mon); 5) check the attached posts for long $jpy support 2. Secondly, short GBP$ is a trade i am closely eyeing.. I am a 70% seller at 1.32 (90% at 1.35) - short GBP rallies is the preferred trade as the BOE is likely to deliver easing in Aug that will drive us down to the 1.25 terminal rate that I have predicted - thus i am hoping we get some "poor information money" flows into GBP up to 1.34/5 going into Friday as 1) UK Political Uncertainty is eased - as Theresa May is the New PM starting Wednesday; 2) GBP buying on Thursday if the BOE doesn't cut rates, whilst I (and the market) believes an august cut is the likelihood instead, given the aggressive GBP selling these past weeks it is prudent to assume quite a large amount of money may/was be betting on a July Cut thus if this "disappoints" some of the market we could see cable trade higher to 1.34+; 3) Long GBP is the risk-on trade, so if risk holds up/ carries on rallying we could see GBP$ take us to 1.34+ - CB and Fiscal stimulus + the fact risk has been depressed for so long, i believe risk has the momentum to rally until the end of the week at least (next risk-rally then looks to 28th July for BOJ stimulus?) 3. The long $Yen and short GBP$ also acts as a dynamic hedge as the long UJ is the risk-on coverage, with the short cable the risk-off half - combining both semi-hedges your exposure, something i like to do when trading. FED Tarullo Speech Highlights - "the conditions for destructive runs that threaten financial stability could exist even where no institutions that might be perceived as too-big-to-fail are immediately involved" FED Bullard Speech Highlights - Bullard: An unemployment rate around 4.7%, gross domestic product growth of 2% and the Fed' preferred inflation gauge, the personal consumption expenditures index, at 2%. - "If there are no major shocks to the economy, this situation could be sustained over a forecasting horizon of two and a half years" - "we have no reason to forecast a recession given the current state of the US economy"
Long
by QuantumLogicTrading
SELL EURUSD/ LONG USD, DXY: HAWKISH FED GEORGE SPEECH HIGHLIGHTSIMO FOMC George was largely bullish/ Hawkish $ on the margin; surprisingly coming out and stating for one of the first times that "Fed rates are too low" and "Not Raising Rates in June Was Due to Timing Issues" - these two statements imo hint that a hike coUuld be on the cards earlier than perhaps was expected (Dec), in-light of his opinion of them being too low and that the missed June hike was merely due "timing issues".. could these timing issue be corrected in July? Unlikely given the Brexit result (likely if the vote was bremain), but nonetheless this was more than encouraging. On the wider economy George remained upbeat, highlighting last weeks NFP report as "welcomed news", and in the medium term reaffirming that "pace of job market growth has been notable" and "economy nearing full employment. The only downers were his comments regarding business investment which he said was "weak" but after went on to assure that "outside of energy, business investment levels were better". Further, he cited that brexit issues were "longer run" uncertainties that the FOMC will watch. Federal Funds Rate Implied Hike/ Cut Probability curve updates: On the back of the strong 100k+ beat NFP print last week, going into this week we have seen an aggressive steepening in the Fed Funds implied prob curve across the tenors; Fridays steepening trend has continued into this week, where now a September/ Nov Hike trades at 12%/11.8% vs 5.9%/5.9% on Friday and 0%/0% on Thursday, with a Dec hike trading at 29.6% vs 22.5% Friday. - This aggressive steepening, especially in the front end (where probabilities have doubled), is likely a function of FOMC member Georges Hawkish comments today, the NFP print and the aggressive recovery in risk across the board in the past few days which have all collectively improved confidence, which in turn has eased sell-side pressure on UST rates - today 10y UST rates have managed to trade 4.4% higher on the day (tnx), with 30y yields also up +0.95% - this is the first real break of downside pressure we have seen in rates for the past month. Trading strategy: 1. The above combined has helped my broad long $ view with my favourite expressions short term being in NZD$ and AUD$ downside (See attached posts). In the medium term, EUR$ and $JPY dollar upside are my favourite trades for the risk-on element that will readjust the USD higher in the backend of this year (see attached posts); And the Monetary policy divergence + brexit uncertainty that should bring EUR$ to a lower equilibrium in the future also. Alternatively, this view can be aggregated as pictured into a long DXY play, where imo, it trades 3-4% below equilibrium - index should be near 100. FOMC Member George Speech Highlights : -Fed's George: June Jobs Data Was 'Welcome News' -Fed's George: U.S. Economy Has Proved 'Resilient' -Fed's George: Expects to See 'Fairly Steady Pace of Growth' -Fed's George: Consumers Strong, But Business Investment Weak -Fed's George: Outside of Energy, Business Investment Levels Better -Fed's George: Pace Of Job Market Growth Has Been Noteworthy -Fed's George: Economy Close to Full Employment -Fed's George: Labor Market Recovery Not Evenly Shared by Workers -Fed's George: Labor Pressured by Loss of Middle Skilled Jobs -Fed's George: Fed Policy Limited in Role For Long Term Labor Trends -Fed's George: Fed Rates Are 'Too Low' -Fed's George: Fed Should Raise Rates Gradually -Fed's George: Not Raising Rates in June Was Due to 'Timing Issues' -Fed's George: Brexit Issues Are Longer Run Items to Watch
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading
3
RISK ON/ OFF PARADOX CORRECTION - SHORT SPX/ FTSE & USDJPY P2 Post Brexit SPX vs USDJPY 1. One had expected risk to sell off post brexit as global uncertainty increases, given the amount of volatility in the FX markets in the lead up, this was the rational expectation (whilst VIX traded subdued). However, instead, SPX recovered 6% whilst Yen also rallied 7% higher in the days following the vote. 2. This risk-on risk-off positive correlation rally is almost unseen in markets (especially not at the 75% correlation level) as JPY and SPX positively correlate for the first time in 4 years (as below). 3. As discussed previously this is either 1) because markets are unusually evenly split on sentiment, going against herd behaviour with the marco outlook trading as a non-consensus between participants; 2) CBs have given risk an artificial boost based on supportive statements/ measures. Trade the paradox 1. Short FTSE100 @6600-6800 resistance with a 5700TP (January lows) - once artificial BOE easing rally is finished, likely near 66-800 FTSE will plummet in the medium term as 1) This underlying risk-off bias which has gone un-priced as yet (safe havens up 21% in 2016) prices - not to mention reaching near ATHs, with 10y resistance.; 2) brexit (still not priced in equities)/ Political uncertainty drags on economy and stocks - especially financials, which has a knock-on effect of corp credit tightening; 3) this structural CNH deval prices and hits UK export stocks as it did in Jan 2. Short SPX @2100 with a 1985TP - SPX at these levels looks an attractive short 1) as discussed CNH depreciation which is a macro issue for all stock Exporters to China (biggest market/ growth market) hasnt priced any revenue downside yet like they did in January (-8-13% previously). 2) underlying risk-off bias is still yet to reprice risk lower (2016 safe havens up 21% av. Gold 28%) + only 2% away from ATH - favourable short lvls; 3) Earnings sell-off likely around the corner as investors derisk/ hedge against "shocks"; 4) Brexit induced CB easing/ dovish rally likely to fade soon as it isnt structural growth and FOMC rates are recovering in the back-end (Dec Hike looms). SPX has a more conservative target vs FTSE as less brexit downside & its a structurally stronger index with growth stocks 3. Id also suggest dynamically hedging these positions with 1) Long high growth and low China revenue individual stocks e.g. Goog, FB and/ or 2) shorting GBP index or a GBP cross , lower GBP hedges any potential BOE easing rallies that the FTSE short may negative experience, and also short GBP is a solid trade to have regardless of any FTSE risk you have on the table. *See part 1 for more information "RISK-ON RISK-OFF POSITIVE CORRELATION? SPX VS GOLD, JPY & UST P1"
TVC:SPXShort
by QuantumLogicTrading
SHORT EURUSD: DOVISH ECB MONETARY POLICY MINUTES - FRESH EASING?IMO the ECB minutes were the most dovish/ clearly directed statements out of the ECB for several months. Before this, and in the past several speakers comments, sentiment has been towards the hawkish/ stale side, citing "ECB has done enough" as the main rhetoric. The June Minutes however show a renewed positioning of the ECB, where they clearly imply they are willing to take further action if needed be with quotes such as "ECB Ready to Act, Using All Its Policy Tools if Needed", and unlike BOJ Kuroda, the ECB clearly seem to have taken ownership of their poor economic ownership finally by saying " Underlying Inflation Has Yet To Show Clear Signs of Upward Trend" and "To Monitor Inflation Outlook Closely" - given that inflation is their headline goal, such comments, when combined with the above readiness to "act", makes the idea of further easing a much higher probability, especially of late where key members almost have refused to mention further action. IMO, this shift in rhetoric to the dovish/ directive side is in an aim to try and put some negative pressure on the EUR since it has managed to par losses vs the USD, whilst bleeding 12% appreciation vs the GBP. The ECB are likely trying to talk down the currency with such rhetoric, especially in light of brexit, where their currency has failed to revalue/ adjust for the negative economic impact that is coming. I see a very bearish outlook for the EUR over the coming weeks/ months given this new dovish ECB stance, much like the GBP, when a central bank wants the currency lower, that is usually the path it follows. Potential dampeners however are the fact that Draghi has before failed to deliver market expectations (Dec 2015 most notable), so unlike the GBP, the acertive nature of these dovish monutes likely have a diminished impact relatively to say the GBP. Nonetheless, i expect the ECB to continue with the rhetoric and given the appreciation/ stability with their biggest trading partners (USD/ GBP) i expect the ECB to take further action in the near term as as it stands, the EUR exchange rate mechanism will/ is failing to transmit the inflationairy pressure they need (infact the opposite) and further easing is the only way to solve this. Thus, I am short EUR from here, especially against the USD where i think it could be up to 500pips overvalued as it is, given its inability to price previous ECB stimulus (March) and Fed Hike in Dec - this short view is especially the case on the back of likely more easing + brexit uncertainties trade seemingly underpriced (vs EJ) and the new EU export inefficiency to the UK one of its biggest markets (given 12% appreciation) - Clear 4-8wk targets are the 1.082 handle in the near term, with 1.052 lows from dec last year the next aim on the back of any fresh easing/ brexit uncertainties still need to be priced. ECB Monetary Policy Minutes -ECB Minutes: ECB Ready to Act, Using All Its Policy Tools if Needed -ECB Minutes: Brexit Vote Seen As 'Important Source of Uncertainty' for Euro Area Outlook -ECB Minutes: To Monitor Inflation Outlook Closely -ECB Minutes: Brexit Could Cause Significant Negative Economic Spillovers to Euro Area -ECB Minutes: Brexit Impact Could Be Transmitted to Euro Area Through Trade, Financial Markets -ECB Minutes: Underlying Inflation Has Yet To Show Clear Signs of Upward Trend -ECB Minutes: Investors Expect Future Challenges for ECB in Sourcing Enough Bonds Under QE Program -ECB Minutes: It Shouldn't Matter Much Which Precise Assets Are Purchased Under QE -ECB Minutes: What Matters is Overall Purchase Volume, Associated Money Creation -ECB Minutes: Composition of Bond Purchases Still Matters to Investors -ECB Minutes: Health of Euro Area Banks is Key for Effective Transmission of ECB Policy
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading
1
SHORT NZDUSD: +2 STANDARD DEVIATION PIVOT POINT ON DAILY & H1Also as additional technicals to support the short NZD$ view: 1. On the daily, weekly and H1 NU currently Trades (and at 0.73) close/ at to its +2 standard deviation lines, these are highly resistive. - Assuming NU trades mean reverting +2SD means there is a 95% chance of a price reversal/ 95% of all prices should be below the +2SD channel lines (e.g. NU highly likely lower from here). -- And as you can see by the Circle Yellow highlights NU has held this +/- 2SD discipline in the past so is highly likely to maintain these levels in the future. 2. Also NU trades significantly above its 60, 120, and 250 Moving Averages on 1h, 4h, 1D, 1wk - this also signals strong overbought prices, where selling has a higher probability of success. *Be sure to check the attached post "SELL NZDUSD @0.73 - TP 700PIPS: BREXIT, RBNZ, FED & USDJPY HEDGE" for NZDUSD short fundamentals*
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading
7
SELL NZDUSD @0.73 - TP 700PIPS: BREXIT, RBNZ, FED & USDJPY HEDGEShort NZDUSD is in my top 2 FX Trades for several reasons: 1. NZD is considered the riskiest G10 currency cross, so NZD trades weaker in risk-off markets, or when equities/ SPX trade lower (you can see the high correlation with SPX at the bottom of the graph). - With Brexit occurring last week, global risk has increased, this is especially the case for NZD due to commonwealth connections. Therefore NZD is likely to come under pressure in the future as risk-off sentiment continues to dominate, as the US Election nears, Global growth worries continue (Japan, Europe, China) and Brexit/ uncertainty about further EuroArea exits continues to intensify - we can see Gold and US Treasuries continue to gain supporting the risk-off view and thus supporting selling NZD. Also, risk-off encourages $ buying as a safe haven deposit on the Brexit backdrop. - Further, going into earnings season next week, historically risk currencies (NZD) perform poorly as investors seek safer assets to hedge against earning surprises, thus this helps NZD selling and USD buying. Plus, most investors will want to hold some $ cash in order to fulfil their earnings based equity trading, so this also helps the short Kiwi$ trade by increasing $ demand relative to NZD. 2. The RBNZ Meeting on the 10th August is likely to be dovish and I 80% expect a rate cut of 25-50bps from 2.25% to 2.00%-1.75% , as;1) Brexit risks are weighed in on and potentially priced into a rate decision, in follow up to the supportive/ dovish statements from RBNZ members immediately after the Brexit decision and 2) NZD Macro Environment has performed poorly since the March Rate cut from 2.5% to 2.25% e.g. The last prints still consistently dragging: Retail Sales at 1.0% vs 1.1%qoq & 0.8% vs 1% Q1qoq; CPI 0.4% yoy, 0.2% qoq; Unemployment Rate at 5.7% vs 5.5%. 3) the RBNZ has a historical pattern of cutting their rate every third meeting, and this August meeting is the third meeting. Plus it will have been 5 months since their last cut in March - this also historically is a large time for a another rate cut as previously to that the RBNZ cut in December, Dec-Mar which was only 3 months, and before that in october (oct-dec) which was 2 months so the odds are good if NZD data continues to be bad given the time since the last cut of 5 months is relatively large. And the gap since their last meeting at June 10th is 2 months which is the biggest gap they have. - Risks to the RBNZ Rate cut view are that;1) Brexit risks are de-priced due to UK Political skulduggery pushing the likelihood of the brexit into 2017 (if at all) 2) Their Inflation, Employment and GDP data manage to recover and show structural signs that the rate at 2.25% is sufficient for continued economic recovery e.g. NZD May Employment Change print surprised to the upside at 1.2% vs 0.8%, and their June GDP outperformed for Q1 at 0.7% vs 0.5% qoq & 2.8% vs 2.6% yoy. So if the CPI and employment data due to be released before the RBNZ August 10th meeting shows a continued/ structural/ aggressive recovery this will reduce the likelihood of a rate cut. Nonetheless, my money is that this isn't the case (with data continuing to trade subdued) and I therefore expect them to provide reassurance to markets with a strong dovish tone, and a 25bps cut - citing Brexit and non-outstanding economic indicators as the impetus for the changed policy. *It should be noted, in order for me NOT to consider a 25bps cut likely in August we would have to see an outstanding CPI and employment print e.g. CPI 1.0%-0.8% (0.4% last), and unemployment 5.3/4% (5.7% last), given it has been 5 months since the last cut - the RBNZ would be expecting to see such figures to consider the current rate of 2.25% as working/ sufficient.
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading
13
SHORT AUDUSD TP 800PIPS: BREXIT, RBA, FED & USDJPY HEDGEShort AUDUSD is in my top 3 FX Trades for several reasons: 1. AUD is considered a riskier G10 currency cross, so AUD trades weaker in risk-off markets, or when equities/ SPX trade lower (you can see the high correlation with SPX at the bottom of the graph). - With Brexit concurring last week, global risk has increased, this is especially the case for AUD due to commonwealth connections. Therefore AUD is likely to come under pressure in the future as risk-off sentiment continues to dominate, as the US Election nears, Global growth worries continue (Japan, Europe, China) and Brexit/ uncertainty about further Euro Area exits continues to intensify - we can see Gold and US Treasuries continue to gain supporting the risk-off view and thus supporting selling AUD. Also, risk-off encourages $ buying as a safe haven deposit on the Brexit backdrop. - Further, going into earnings season next week, historically risk currencies (AUD) perform poorly as investors seek safer assets to hedge against earning surprises, thus this helps AUD selling and USD buying. Plus, most investors will want to hold some $ cash in order to fulfil their earnings based equity trading, so this also helps the short AU trade by increasing $ demand relative to AUD. 2. The RBA Meeting on Tuesday the 5th is likely to be dovish, as 1) Brexit risks are weighed in on again, after supportive/ dovish statements from RBA members following the Brexit decision and 2) AUD Macro Environment has performed poorly since the last meeting and the May Rate cut e.g. Retail sales 0.2% vs 0.3%, Unemployment flat at 5.7%. - However, I dont expect an RBA rate cut, as they cut last just 2 months ago in May by 25bps to 1.75% and their GDP print was firm at 3.1% v 2.8% yoy and 1.1% v 0.8% with Unemployment also stable (yet to see inflation), so I expect them to provide reassurance to markets with a strong dovish tone, with possible hints to a August rate cut - citing Brexit and looking forward to their end of July Inflation print as a gauge for further rate cuts. Nonetheless the dovish rhetoric should be strong enough to put pressure on AUD and tip the scales south supporting the AU short. 3. From a USD demand point of view, last week we saw USD lose 160pips against the AUD as Brexit Uncertainty negatively hit the Feds Rate hike cycle expectancy, flattening the curve in the front end which ruled out any hikes until Dec or 2017, fewer hikes = less USD strength. - However, since the beginning of the week where brexit risks ruled out hikes in the near term, the end of the week managed to turn rate hike expectations around as Brexit likelihood decreased/ shifted into 2017. This helped the Fed fund futures curve recover/ steepen somewhat in the front end, with the implied probability of a hike increasing from 0% to 5.9% for both September and November, whilst the probability of a hike in December also steepened significantly from 13.3% to 22.3% with the probability of a 50bps hike being priced for the first time at 1.1%. This trend of Fed Hike recovery is likely to continue as long as Brexit risks remain subdued, so we can expect USD to begin to price stronger in the coming days/ weeks. 4. Technically, AUDUSD trades 100pips away from a key handle at 0.76xx which is a double top and may provide the ideal short area. Further, higher than that at 0.78xx is the 12 month high which is also potentially a great level to get short from as a double top 5. Volatility - 1wk, 2wk and 1m (-1.52, -1.57, -1.60) AUDUSD Risk Reversals all trade with a downside bias indicating put/ downside demand is higher than upside, so the option market net expects AUDUSD to come down over the above tenors. - Out through the 5th, 6th, and 7th (post RBA) we see large notional OTM put options and open interest at 0.7365, 0.7440 & 0.7445 which supports the view that the RBA will be dovish and that AUDUSD is likely to hairpin around the 0.76xx double top level.
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading
4
RISK-OFF YEAR: BREXIT & US PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION: BUY GOLD @12592016, the year of the Risk-Off Asset Historically Gold has performed +10-20% in the 6 months into US Presidential Election years AND also by longing Gold on this pull-back it opens up the opportunity to benefit from the potential tail risk that the UK votes to "Brexit" in which Gold will likely trade through $1400. Gold is one of my favourite plays for 2016 for these reasons so I suggest a strategy of: Buy GOLD - 1@1259 2@1237 3@1210 Long term TP $1395 SL $1195 Short term TP $1310 SL $1195 - Near-term on a UK Vote to stay we will likely see Gold risk-on sell off towards the $1200 handle - this is a great opp to get a good average price by buying Gold on its way down as I expect Gold to trade close to $1400 by years end and into the Election. - A UK Vote Leave will put Gold close to the $1400 level within a week. - The time-risk are asymmetrically skewed to the upside for Gold IMO as 1) in the near term, Brexit and Global economic unbalance uncertainty buoys the precious metal; Further, the recent failure of risk markets (SP/DJ) to set new highs despite posting recovery, likely signifies the end of the equity bull run, and thus the start of the Gold bull Run. - and 2) The US FOMC Rate Hike Cycle, US Presidential election and wider Global Economic concerns of Deflation and low-growth which is a systemic issue and is also likely to be the case for the foreseeable future (with the 2nd and 3rd largest Central Banks - ECB and BOJ under pressure - among much of the developed world) all contribute to drive the increase in risk-off/ safe haven demand for Gold over the Long-Medium term. - Gold is selling-off due to the increased risk appetite in the market currently as the near-term Brexit risk is soothed by "Stay" biased polls - HOWEVER, with Gold Volatility trading 50% lower than it was a week ago (reflecting the settled risk this week) with current ATM at 15%, and with 1M Risk-Reversals trading with a positive call skew of 3% we can expect an upward bias over the coming weeks/ months. - As lower Implied Vols are projected across the 12m options curve and the 12m Futures curve is also trading contango which both imply the Gold market sentiment is for the price to rise. - Finally, as the FOMC Rate hike cycle intensifies over the medium-term, bond prices will come under pressure, thus driving further demand for Gold as the higher quality and higher return asset is sought.
FX:XAUUSDLong
by QuantumLogicTrading
6
BREXIT AND GEO-POLITICAL AFTERMATH: BUY USDJPY - HOW TO TRADENow that the Brexit risk has been realised the mentioned pairs above will share some correlation this week as the market changes between risk-on and risk-off as MANY on the events continually drive the sentiment shifts. My Plan & Expectations USDJPY 1. My conviction for UJ is long 8/10. -UJ traded to lows of 98.9 in the midst of the brexit hype, as the market hunted for risk off. Further, as with GBP it seems entities over the weekend have increased their JPY exposure to account for the increased percieved risk within the market causing UJ to open lower at 101.6 - However, over the weekend the BOJ had a meeting with other Japanese officials to discuss their plan (an easing plan likely) to combat 1. their inflation problem and now 2. the JPY's safe haven demand strength - both of which are cured by 8/10 aggressive easing policies by the BOJ - Thus I expect the BOJ to hold and emergency meeting this week announcing these changes to have immediate affect as UJ at 100 severely puts the brakes on their inflation growth target. - Further, as previously mentioned the BOE, SNB, FOMC and ECB (among others) have all said since the brexit vote that they are prepared to provide liquidity to markets and their rhetoric has been very dovish. - Thus the BOJ's new easing package which is likely to be aggressive e.g. 20bps rate cute and a large increase QE, will help depreciate the currency through increasing supply and reducing jpy demand. Further, the supportive/ dovish stance of the worlds central banks (particularly BOE and FOMC) will help ease risk aversion which in turn SHOULD reduce JPY demand therefore helping UJ trade better to the upside. So my trading plan for UJ is to buy at levels <102 - 101/2 is ideal (we are unlikely see 99 or 100 again as the risk-off impetuses have died). UJ should hold this range between 101.2 and 103 until CB meetings are in place - I will be holding UJ in the long term through to 110-115 at least. I have 8/10 long conviction for UJ Volatility update: Current UJ ATM 50 delta vols trade at 37.5%, which is surprisingly 3-4x higher than it was last week (the risk and volatility may not be over). 1wk UJ ATM 50 delta vols trade at 20%, significantly lower than current at 37.5% - I think this is a function of the central bank meetings expected this week which are inflating current volatility, with 1wk far vols lower as the events will have elapsed already. 1m UJ ATM 50 delta vols trade up on the week at 15.5% though the time curve is flattening meaning UJ vol is falling over time - lower vols = better conditions for UJ buying. Current UJ Option demand is skewed significantly to the downside, with Puts 40% vs calls 36% thus puts are in demand by about 10% more than calls - this supports nearterm risk-off views (RR -4). USDJPY as a measure of market risk. I still suggest using UJ as a measure of GBPUSD market risk - the volatility seemingly isnt over, and with near term uncertainty high, it is prudent to track UJ and use breaks of its 101.2-103.2 range as signals of net risk on or risk-off commitment .e.g. UJ higher risk on (jpy selling), UJ lower risk off (jp buying). The risk off move for GU imo is lower in this environment, and the risk-on move is higher. Thus, IMO UJ and GU are sync'd, and the two should be used as a tool.
by QuantumLogicTrading
1
22ND, 23RD, 24TH TRADING STRATEGY: GBPUSD - BREXIT/ REFERENDUMIn the previous post we have used the Price Action data from the Scottish UK Referendum for GBPUSD for the 3-days on and around the vote so the 17th, 18th (vote day) and 19th (result day) of September 2014 as a gauge to forecast whats in store for Price action on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday this week (the parallel days for both of the referendums). Reliability of the estimates made in the previous post: 1. Given the excessive absolute implied volatility (larger than 2007 levels) which is likely to be anywhere between 40-60% on the day(s) as we currently trade near 30%; and the excessive relative implied vol levels compared to the SUR, which only realised 9% at the time, which is 5-8x less than the market expects for the Brexit vote, the daily range estimate of 340-480pips for each of the 3 days on average is warranted - especially as we have already realised an ATR of 371 last week on the 17th, thus making a 480 pip range not particularly unlikely. - Historical Vol for UER has also traded 80%+ higher already in the last 3 days compared to SUR. - these implied and realised volatility differentials in mind, I also think the range of 1.35-1.57 is also prudent, though i think the risks are skewed to the downside of the model rather than the upside. Trading Summary: - For 22nd, 23rd, 24th we predict an ATR of 340pips, currently trading at 1.47 which is a 4x resistance level on the Daily, i think this range will be skewed to the downside, so I advise shorting GBPUSD >1.47 with SL at 1.484, TP anywhere from 1.46 to 1.40 for 2 reasons: 1) range trading in mind, a scalping 50-100pip strategy may also be useful given the high expected volatility and range, shorting all pullbacks to 1.47 may enable several 50-100pip TP trades. 2) Given the high expected range (340-480pips) and 500pip Standard deviation, the long-term play e.g. 1.40tp is also one I am trading as GU is likely to reach these levels in this environment of unparalleled volatility. -Currently I am splitting my margin between scalp trades and long-term GU positions (good for portfolio diversification) at this point in time, e.g. I have a few GBP shorts with close TP and a few with longer TP targets, this reduces my macro portfolio risk:reward as you reduce the risk of the shorter trades, but increase the reward of the longer trades. - ATM I am 8.5/10 short GBP vs USD and CHF (JPY is too volatile - 25% more so than GU and GCHF) Risks to the Trading strategy: - If GU breaks and holds above 1.485, my short play conviction falls massively to 2/10 (from 8.5/10) as for me it signals a potential trend reversal for GU to price higher since 1.47 has held for 6 months - I will cut all shorts past 1.485 and I am not interested in shorting GU if it holds past 1.48. - Further, there are risks that due to massive expected volatility/ uncertainty, game theory fears everyone out of the market e.g. everyone is too scared to trade, thus the spot market trades paradoxically against the volatility and realises flat price action since there is no volume. - This forecast and strategy is based purely on range bound trading (as guessing the direction IMO is too difficult giving the volatility/ uncertainty in the market and also as I believe the market should realise large ranges - thus validating the strat), however if the range/ price action assumptions do not hold true to some degree e.g. we trade flat or just rocket north, then the Short only strategy is obviously flawed. *See the 22nd, 23rd, 24th Forecast PA post attached to this one which shows the forecast used*
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading
14
22ND, 23RD, 24TH FORECAST: GBPUSD - BREXIT PRICE ACTION ANALYSISUK EU Referendum (Brexit) vs Scottish UK Referendum Price Action Forecast: - We will use the difference in ATR and volatility between the 3-day run up into UK EU Referendum (UER) and the Scottish UK Referendum (SUR) in order to forecast what we expect price action to show on the 22nd, 23rd and 24th. 2014 SUR 3-DAY EVENT (17,18.19) 1. 1-Period ATR for the 17th 18th and 19th was 110pips, 163pips and 241pips - average of 171pips 2. 3-Day range was: 280pips - 1.6240 to 1.6520 3. On the day 12noon Implied ATM vol 17th-19th was: 8.8% 79th, 8.01% 52nd, 6.97% 22nd 4. On the day 10-period Historical Vol was: 10.4%, 10.4%, 11.1% 2014 SUR 3-DAY LEAD UP (14,15,16) 1. 1-Period ATR for the 12th 15th and 16th was 73pips, 53pips and 149pips - average of 91pips 2. 3-Day range was: 150pips - 1.6150 to 1.6300 3. On the day 12noon Implied ATM vol 12, 15, 16th was: 8.82% 76th, 9.34% 87th and 8.45% 65th 4. On the day (12,15,16) 10-period Historical Vol was: 10.9%, 10.8%, 10.4% vs 2016 UER 3-DAY LEAD UP (17, 20, 21) 1. 1-Period ATR for the 17th, 20th and 21st was 195pips, 371pips 155pips - Average of 255pips 2. 3-day Range was: 580pips - 1.4195 to 1.4775 3. On the day 12noon Implied ATM vol was: 23.2% 100th, 24.3% 100th and 20.16% 99th 4. On the day 10-period Historical Vol was: 14.1%, 19.4%, 19.2%; *2016 UER 3-DAY EVENT (22, 23, 24) FORECAST* 1. 1-Period ATR for the 22nd, 23rd and 24th FORECAST: `293pips, 1141pips, 250pips; (171pips/91pips)*255pips = average 480pips (average adj 340pips), SD of 500pips 2. 3-day Range FORECAST: +/-1100pips - 1.4600 to 1.3500-1.5700 3. On the day Implied/ Realised ATM vol FORECAST: Event Volatility has been implying anywhere from 30%-60% over the brexit 3 day period, with ATM currently trading at 26% already. Evaluation: 1. The price action forecast around the event suggests that we could see a 1100pip range over the next 3 days (22, 23, 24) - given that we dont know the direction of the range, we can assume a distribution of 1100pip +/- at the current trading price thus forecasting GBPUSD to trade anywhere between 1.35-1.46-1.57. - Further, the model expects an average daily range of 480pips, with the vote day skewing the average significantly (1141pips), therefore i think a 340pip (average adjusted) daily range is more likely. 2. Combining the estimated distribution range of 1.35-1.46-1.57 with the standard deviation of the foretasted daily ranges = 500pips, the model ends up showing significant statistical relevance by backward validating itself e.g. +/- 2SD of the mean at 1.4600 is 1.5600 and 1.3600 (+/- 2*500pip). Before knowing this the model had already forecasted a 1.35-1.57 range thus this is somewhat reassuring as the model held true when back tested using +/- 2SD. 2SD is significant as it accounts for 95% of outcomes. - The model also estimates that the tail risk of a BREXIT would cause GBPUSD to fall -3SD which is down to <1.31 (1.46 minus 1500pips) - this is also somewhat close to what I would have expected the day after the vote. *See the 22nd, 23rd, 24th Trading strategy post where I link this information to execution*
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading
BREXIT GBP: USE USDJPY AS A RISK-BAROMETER & WAIT FOR LONDON 8AMIndicators to check BEFORE GBP Shorting for confirmation I also suggest using two other key pieces of information BEFORE shorting GBP. 1. Use USDJPY as a measure of market risk appetite and stability - As you can see below UJ has traded with a tight 38pip range vs GBP$ at 180pips. Therefore we can use UJ as a measure of stability and risk appetite: 1) because of its stability - UJ isn't acting as susceptible to the volatility "noise" - with 4.5x less range; and 2) because as we know UJ is the "safe haven" FX pair which is sold massively when markets are trading risk-off. or risk averse. - How to use UJ for GBP direction: Assuming UJ is the stable measure of risk (which has been true for the past week) it is fair to ALSO assume: 1) A rise in UJ means increased JPY selling which means there is a stronger risk-on attitude in the market as investors shed "safe yen" - buying GBP in the uncertain BREXIT environment IMO is considered the "risk-on" move - SO we can confirm GBP rallies with a rise in UJ 2) Conversely a fall in UJ means JPY buying, which means investors are seeking risk-off/ safer currency plays - selling GBP in the BREXIT uncertainty environment IMO is considered the "risk-off/ low risk" move - SO we can confirm new GBP shorts with a fall in UJ *If you believe that the risk-on/ risk-off moves are the other way round e.g. GBP upside is the low risk play - then you can STILL use UJ as the indicator, just the other way around than above. IMO and logically, GBP lower in this uncertain UK environment is the LOW RISK trade - especially given we traded at 1.46 8wks ago (not much downside is priced at these levels thus GBP moves lower are lower risk) 2. Wait for London open between 8am-10am GMT (4-6 hours from now) - In these past weeks, the London open has been a key catalyst for GBP direction ESPECIALLY on the Sunday-Monday Asia which over as all of the weekend information is priced in for the biggest FX clients in LDN. - Therefore it is prudent NOT to take a position until the big money volatility/ fluctuations/ noise is out of the way otherwise SL's may be susceptible to being hit AND MORE IMPORTANTLY, we may misjudge the market direction/ sentiment (given LDN is the largest FX Flow session). - Several times the market direction and momentum has changed or been confirmed aggressively during the London open 8am-10am GMT so I think this indicator is a vital determinant
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading
3
UK EU REFERENDUM/ BREXIT: BUY EQUITY RISK AND GOLD DISCOUNTEDThe UK EU Referendum has presented significant discounted buying opportunities, with many blue chip names anywhere from 5-15% down in the last 2wks. The uncertainty regarding the UK position in the European Union has pushed investors to see Gold, Treasuries and JPY, whilst fleeing risk equities. - IMO the next week or two will form a trend of oscillating risk-on/ risk-off asset price swings as the markets reflect the volatile investor sentiment - this opens up significant arbitrage opportunities within the equity markets and Gold - by owning both on pullbacks you then TP as the investor sentiment switches into the favour of each - as it is bound to do. - Essentially this strategy is a volatility play (ATM volatility for Gold almost double since last month), you naturally own both "sides" of the market (risk-on and risk off), thus taking profit when the sentiment swings in the way of each of the assets. 1. My personal Favourite GOOG and FB are currently trading at an average of apprx 10% down - I advise buying GOOG and FB at these levels, in a pyramid (increase lots if further downside occurs). - Long GOOG and FB can be used as an event scalp as I expect their values to climb 2-5% back within the week, or you can hold longer for the full 10%. GOOG and FB discounted 5-10% are high alpha and low beta trades since IMO fundamentally they operate monopoly's over the Online Marketing Market and have significant Top and bottom line figures. - Alternatively you could pick up Nasdaq 100 Index at a 5% discount, and own the market which in the long run will pay off - although I do not advise this trade so much (3/10) as I believe equities are due a correction - especially coming into earnings. 2. Long Gold on any 2-5% pullback, which i think we will see by Tuesday is a good trade: 1) as Gold will rally on Wednesday/ Thursday as global Macro risk is hedged for the vote day. 2) In the longer run, Risk assets (spx) are due a correction, thus Gold is due to outperform and have a bull run. 3) By holding Gold on pullbacks you can benefit from the tail risk of the UK actually REALISING BREXIT where IMO Gold would rally 10% as the Global Macro environment flees to safety. 3. By playing both the long Gold and Equity on pull backs you benefit from: 1) the natural hedge of owning long risk and Risk-off assets, thus your portfolio is diversified to perform in the short run for any outcome but also in the long run. 2) you own both assets at a discount so probability is on your portfolios side.
FX:NAS100Long
by QuantumLogicTrading