Will We See the Euro Trading Below Par?CME: Micro EUR/USD Futures ( CME_MINI:M6E1! ) #Microfutures
Since the US election last November, the Euro currency has lost ground against the US dollar, with the EUR/USD exchange rate sliding from 1.08 to as low as 1.02.
A combination of new policies from the Trump administration aims to strengthen the dollar. Recent efforts to end the geopolitical crisis will not support the euro. On the contrary, they could push the European common currency below the critical 1-dollar level.
Quick Review of the EUR/USD Price Trend
The euro has swung widely against central bank policies and geopolitical events:
• 2020: The Fed implemented massive stimulus measures in response to the pandemic. Lowering interest rates and increasing money supply reduced the value of the USD
• 2021: The faster vaccine rollout and quicker reopening of the US economy boosted economic growth and investor sentiment towards the USD
• 2022: (1) The Fed raised interest rates to combat inflation, making the USD more attractive to investors compared to the Euro. (2) Europe faced an energy crisis due to its dependence on Russian gas. This crisis led to economic uncertainty and weakened the euro. (3) Ongoing geopolitical tensions created economic instability in Europe, further weakening the euro against the USD
• Q4 2022 and 2023: European Central Bank abandoned its long-held zero-rate policy in September 2022. It raised rates eight times to 4.00%. These actions narrowed the interest rate differentials between the US and Europe, and helped the euro rebound
• 2024: The EUR/USD moved mainly sideways in the range of 1.06 and 1.12. Fed easing and rebounds of US inflation contributed to the mild volatility.
• Q4 2024 to Current. Dollar ascended quickly after the election win of Donald Trump. Investors expect strong dollar with the support of the new America First policies
Ukraine Peace Talks and Possible Outcomes
On February 12th, Presidents Trump and Putin agreed to immediately start negotiations to end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. On February 18th, US and Russian officials held peace talks in Saudi Arabia. The two sides agreed to create a high-level team to lead the Ukraine peace talks. Neither Ukraine nor the EU participated in the meeting.
How the peace talks would progress remain highly uncertain. Using Game Theory, we could break them down into two mutually exclusive and collectively inclusive outcomes:
• Peace: US, Russia, Ukraine and the EU sign a peace agreement to end the conflict and ensure long-lasting peace. Whether it will be a fair treaty is a hotly debated topic.
• No-Peace: Peace talks break down. The 3-year-long conflict continues. This could last for years but eventually will lead to a win/loss outcome or a draw.
From an investing perspective, “No-Peace” is equivalent to “Risk On”. It may imply higher gold prices, higher energy costs and lower equity value. Meanwhile, “Peace” means “Risk Off”. We may see declining gold, lower oil and gas, and rising stock prices.
However, it would be difficult to pick the price direction if we can’t predict the outcome.
Peace or No Peace – A Steep Cost for Europe
For better or worse, the recent events are a wakeup call to European countries.
The US had defense spending totaling $967 billion in 2024, which is 3.49% of its GDP. For a comparison, the total defense spending for EU member states reached $358 billion in 2024. This represents around 1.9% of the EU's GDP
• The US accounted for 73% of the defense spending in the 32 countries in NATO
• Since 2022, the US contributed to 2/3 of all the financial aids sending to Ukraine
The US administration intends to cut its financial support. Europe will have to increase defense spending dramatically. In a worst case, a complete breakdown in Cross-Atlantic relations could see the US exiting NATO and all US troops withdrawing from Europe.
How much is the spending gap? In 2024, Russia had defense budget of $462 billion, or 6.7% of its GDP. Ukraine had defense budget of $40 billion, or 22% of its GDP.
• EU plus Ukraine spent $64 billion less than Russia in defense budget.
In my opinion, in a Peace scenario and with reduced US involvement, the EU defense budget must surpass that of Russia to ensure Ukraine to stay on top. I find this to be 2.5% of GDP. This means a 32% increase or $471 billion in total defense spending.
For No-Peace, the EU will be fighting an active war. NATO will need to maintain a standing army of 1 million troops and rebuild an entire defense industry. In this scenario, I feel that the defense budget needs to double 5% of GDP. budget to raise a large army and rebuild an entire defense industry. This means a 163% increase or $942 billion in total defense spending.
If the above numbers sound outrageous, Israel, a country constantly fighting for its survival, will serve as a good refence point. In 2024, Israel's defense spending amounted to 117.5 billion Israeli shekels (around $32.5 billion USD), which is 6.7% of its GDP.
The EU has an estimated GDP growth at 0.9% in 2024 and a forecast growth of 1.5% in 2025. The defense budget increase will cause mandatory cuts in non-defense spending. The combined effect will be negative, pushing GDP growth into a negative territory.
In my opinion, re-arming Europe is critical to its survival. However, defense buildup comes at a steep cost. The expectations of lower GDP growth will push the value of Euro currency lower, likely below the 1-dollar critical level.
Commitment of Traders shows diminishing bullish sentiment
The CFTC Commitments of Traders report shows that on February 11th, total Open Interest (OI) for CME Euro FX Futures is 622,873 contracts. “Asset Manager” (i.e., hedge funds) own 338,182 in Long, 177,937 in Short and 35,597 in Spreading.
• While they maintain a long-short ratio of 1.9:1, hedge funds have reduced long positions by 1,014 while increasing short positions by 2,249.
• This indicates that “Smart Money” is becoming less bullish on the Euro.
Trade Setup with Micro Euro/USD Futures
If a trader shares a similar view, he could express his opinion by shorting the CME Micro Euro/USD Futures ($M6E).
M6E contracts have a notional value of 12,500 euro. With February 19th settlement price of 1.0435, each March contract (M6EH5) has a notional value of $13,044. Buying or selling one contract requires an initial margin of $260.
Hypothetically, a trader shorts March M6E contract and the euro drops to $0.99. A short futures position would gain $668.75 (= (1.0435 – 0.99) x $12500). Using the initial margin as a cost base, a theoretical return would be +257% (= 668.75 / 260).
The risk of shorting euro futures is rising euro. Investors could lose part of or all their initial margin. A trader could set a stop loss while establishing his short position. In the above example, the trader could set a stop-loss at 1.06 when entering the short order at 1.0435. If euro rebounds, the maximum loss would be $206.25 ( = (1.06 – 1.0435) *12500).
To learn more about all the Micro futures and options contracts traded on CME Group platform, you can check out the following site:
www.cmegroup.com
The Leap trading competition, #TheFuturesLeap, sponsored by CME Group, is currently running at TradingView. I encourage you to join The Leap to sharpen your trading skills and put your trading strategies at test, competing with your peers in this paper trading challenge sponsored by CME Group.
www.tradingview.com
Happy Trading.
Disclaimers
*Trade ideas cited above are for illustration only, as an integral part of a case study to demonstrate the fundamental concepts in risk management under the market scenarios being discussed. They shall not be construed as investment recommendations or advice. Nor are they used to promote any specific products, or services.
CME Real-time Market Data help identify trading set-ups and express my market views. 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
Ukraine
Gold reacts to unserious peace talksThe United States and Russia recently held peace talks in Saudi Arabia without Ukraine’s participation. Russian officials did not mention offering any concessions and U.S. officials did not claim to have scored any in Tuesday's meeting.
Adding to the unseriousness of the talks, Donald Trump called Zelensky a “dictator,” and suggested that Ukraine is responsible for the war, echoing obvious Russian talking points.
Gold rose above $2,930 per ounce on Wednesday, just shy of last week’s record high of $2,940.
Technical indicators remain in extreme overbought territory, although extreme geopolitical uncertainty may call for extreme readings for longer. In the near term, the pullback appears corrective, with XAU/USD still holding above all key moving averages on the 4-hour chart.
Trump-Putin Ukraine Deal: Impacts on Forex
Hello, I am Professional Trader Andrea Russo and today I want to talk to you about an important news that is shaking up the global markets: Donald Trump has apparently reached an agreement with Vladimir Putin to end the war in Ukraine, with an agreement that includes Ukraine's exit from NATO. The historic meeting between the two leaders will take place in Saudi Arabia and this move is expected to have a profound impact on the global geopolitical and financial landscape, especially on the Forex market.
Geopolitical and Economic Impact:
The announcement of a possible agreement between Trump and Putin could mark a significant turning point in the war in Ukraine. If Ukraine were to actually leave NATO, it would open a new phase of stability for the region, but at the same time it could create uncertainty on the geopolitical borders. This decision will directly affect the currency markets, in particular the currencies of the countries involved, the main European currencies and the US dollar.
In the current context, the war in Ukraine is one of the main causes of economic instability worldwide. Any end to hostilities could lead to a reduction in economic sanctions and a revival of trade flows between Russia, Europe and the United States. These changes will be closely monitored by traders, as any geopolitical fluctuations could affect the dynamics of currencies globally.
Implications for Forex:
A possible agreement between Trump and Putin could have a direct impact on Forex, especially on the following currencies:
Russian Ruble (RUB): A peace agreement would lead to a possible revaluation of the ruble. International sanctions against Russia could be gradually removed, boosting the Russian economy and supporting demand for the ruble in global markets.
Euro (EUR): Ukraine's exit from NATO could lead to greater stability for European countries involved in the conflict, but it could also reduce the risk associated with energy and military security. In the short term, the Euro could appreciate against riskier currencies, but the situation could vary depending on the political reactions in Europe.
US Dollar (USD): The dollar could react positively if the Trump-Putin deal is seen as a stabilization of international relations, but it will also depend on how the Federal Reserve responds to evolving economic conditions. A slowdown in the conflict could reduce the uncertainty that has pushed markets towards the dollar as a safe haven.
British Pound (GBP): The pound could benefit from a possible de-escalation of the crisis, but again, domestic political factors in the UK, such as its post-Brexit negotiations, will continue to influence the currency.
What to expect in the coming days:
News of the Trump-Putin meeting in Saudi Arabia will be watched closely by the markets. If the details of the deal are confirmed, we can expect an immediate reaction in the currency markets. Forex is likely to see increased volatility in the currency pairs tied to the nations involved, with shifts in capital flows that could reflect a new perception of risk or stability.
Conclusions:
In summary, the Trump-Putin deal could be a turning point in the war in Ukraine and have a significant impact on financial markets, especially Forex. Investors will need to carefully monitor geopolitical developments and prepare for possible currency fluctuations. With the end of hostilities, stability could return to favor some currencies, but the situation remains delicate and constantly evolving.
Trump-Putin call sparks euro rallyThe euro surged to session highs after former U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 90-minute call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which they agreed to visit each other and initiate negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. Trump stated that peace talks would begin “immediately.”
Technically, the euro rebounded from downtrend support, keeping attention on a potential breakout at the January range of 1.02–1.05. Bears potentially remain vulnerable as long as the pair holds above the 1.02 level.
Shortly after his conversation with Putin, Trump spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Zelensky later confirmed the discussion, describing it as “meaningful” and mentioning plans for a new agreement on security, economic cooperation, and resource partnerships.
Russian nuclear warning lifts gold Gold extended gains for a second session, climbing to $2,630 as tensions between Russia and Ukraine reignited demand for safe-haven assets.
Russia unveiled an updated nuclear doctrine Tuesday, paving the way for potential use of atomic weapons, just as Ukraine deployed U.S.-manufactured missiles on Russian soil for the first time since the war began.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov called on the U.S. and its allies to take note of Moscow’s revised nuclear policies.
On the technical front, gold’s recovery may have further room to run, with the 4-hour chart signaling potential upside. However, the Average Directional Index (ADX) suggests trend momentum remains muted. Key resistance levels include $2,639 and the 200-day simple moving average at $2,654.
UAGASP / UKRAINIAN GAS PRICEUAGASP/USD Analysis with Geopolitical and Economic Context:
The chart reflects the average price of gasoline in Ukraine denominated in USD. The key dates highlighted on the chart are critical for understanding potential future shifts in gasoline prices based on global and local factors.
Historical Context:
• Long-Term Average Price: Historically, the average price of gasoline globally has been between $1 and $1.3 per liter. This benchmark serves as a reference point when analyzing the current and projected prices in Ukraine.
• Current Trends: The chart shows a significant rise in gasoline prices in recent years, correlating with global economic shifts, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical tensions, particularly involving energy-rich regions.
Key Dates and Potential Influences:
1. December 2026 (12/01/26) - Potential Price Surge:
• Scenario: By the end of 2026, several factors could drive a significant increase in gasoline prices. These include geopolitical tensions in major oil-producing regions (such as the Middle East or Russia), global economic recovery post-pandemic leading to higher demand, and potential supply constraints.
• Impact on Prices: The price of gasoline could surpass historical averages, driven by both increased global oil prices and local factors like currency depreciation, higher transportation costs, and increased excise taxes.
2. October 2029 (10/01/29) - Stabilization or Decline:
• Scenario: By late 2029, technological advancements, a potential increase in global oil supply, or shifts towards alternative energy sources could stabilize or even reduce gasoline prices. Additionally, Ukraine’s economic situation might improve, strengthening the Hryvnia against the USD and mitigating price increases.
• Impact on Prices: Prices might stabilize, returning closer to the historical average of $1-$1.3 per liter, assuming reduced demand for gasoline due to a potential increase in electric vehicle (EV) adoption and alternative energy sources.
Global and Local Factors Influencing Gasoline Prices:
• Global Oil Prices: The price of gasoline is heavily influenced by global oil prices, which can fluctuate due to geopolitical events, OPEC decisions, and shifts in global demand.
• Currency Exchange Rate: The strength of the Hryvnia against the USD plays a crucial role in determining local gasoline prices. A weaker Hryvnia would increase the cost of imported oil, leading to higher gasoline prices.
• Transportation and Distribution Costs: Rising transportation costs, driven by higher fuel prices or logistical challenges, could further increase the price of gasoline in Ukraine.
• Government Policies: Changes in excise taxes, subsidies for alternative energy, or regulations aimed at reducing carbon emissions could impact gasoline prices. Higher taxes on fossil fuels could drive prices up, encouraging a shift towards more sustainable energy sources.
Consider the Shift to Electric Vehicles (EVs):
With the potential for sustained high gasoline prices and increasing environmental concerns, it might be time to consider the benefits of switching to electric vehicles. Tesla, a leading EV manufacturer, represents a significant shift in the automotive industry towards cleaner, more sustainable transportation options.
• Cost Savings: Over the long term, EVs could provide significant savings on fuel costs, particularly if gasoline prices remain high.
• Environmental Impact: Reducing reliance on gasoline can contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
• Technological Advancements: Tesla and other EV manufacturers continue to innovate, improving battery technology, increasing vehicle range, and reducing the overall cost of ownership.
Conclusion and Reader’s Consideration:
As gasoline prices in Ukraine and globally continue to fluctuate, driven by a complex mix of geopolitical, economic, and environmental factors, it raises an important question for consumers:
“Is it time to transition to electric vehicles?”
Exploring options like Tesla and analyzing the broader EV market could be a forward-thinking strategy in an era of rising fuel costs and increasing environmental awareness. The shift towards EVs not only offers potential cost savings but also supports global sustainability goals.
What are your thoughts? Is now the right time to consider going electric?
UAWAG/USD / Salaries in UkraineUAWAG/USD Analysis with Geopolitical Context:
The chart reflects the average wage in Ukraine denominated in USD, showing significant fluctuations over time. Key dates are marked on the chart, which align with potential changes in geopolitical scenarios and their impact on Ukraine's economy.
Key Dates and Potential Influences:
July 2027 (07/01/27) - Post-Conflict Economic Rebuilding:
Scenario: By mid-2027, if the previously discussed freeze or resolution in the conflict with Russia is maintained, Ukraine could enter a phase of economic rebuilding. International aid, investments in infrastructure, and efforts to stabilize the economy may start showing tangible results.
Impact on Salaries: With the economy stabilizing, there may be gradual improvement in wages, especially in USD terms. However, this growth may still be modest due to the lingering effects of the war and the ongoing need to rebuild various sectors.
June 2029 (06/01/29) - Economic Strengthening and Wage Growth:
Scenario: Assuming continued stability and successful economic policies, Ukraine could see more robust economic growth by 2029. This period might mark the beginning of a significant improvement in living standards, with the possibility of higher foreign investments and stronger currency reserves.
Impact on Salaries: Average wages in USD could see a notable increase during this period, driven by economic growth, a stronger Hryvnia, and improved employment opportunities. This would be a positive period for the Ukrainian workforce.
June 2033 (06/01/33) - Potential Economic Challenges or Recession:
Scenario: Around 2033, external factors such as global economic conditions, shifts in trade dynamics, or even internal political changes could introduce economic challenges for Ukraine. This might include a recession or a slowdown in economic growth.
Impact on Salaries: In such a scenario, wage growth could stall or even decline. Inflationary pressures, reduced foreign investments, or economic mismanagement might erode the gains made in the previous years, leading to lower average wages in USD terms.
January 2038 (01/10/38) - Long-Term Economic Outlook:
Scenario: By 2038, the economic landscape could stabilize after the challenges of the early 2030s. This period might see Ukraine either recover from or adapt to the economic shifts of the previous decade. The outcome will largely depend on global economic conditions and Ukraine's integration into international markets.
Impact on Salaries: Wages in USD might start to improve again, reflecting a more stable and potentially growing economy. However, the pace of this recovery would likely be slow, contingent on the broader global economy and Ukraine's ability to maintain political and economic stability.
Conclusion:
The UAWAG/USD chart highlights the potential for significant wage fluctuations in Ukraine over the next decade. Key events, such as the resolution of the conflict with Russia, economic rebuilding, and possible future economic challenges, will all play crucial roles in determining the average wage levels in USD.
While there is potential for wage growth, particularly in the late 2020s, there are also risks associated with global economic conditions and internal political stability that could hinder this growth. As a result, Ukrainian workers and policymakers should be prepared for both opportunities and challenges as the country navigates this complex economic landscape.
Ultimately, these projections underscore the importance of strategic economic planning and the need for Ukraine to build resilience against external shocks while fostering sustainable economic growth.
USDUAH Analysis USDUAH Analysis with Geopolitical Context:
This chart represents the USD to UAH (Ukrainian Hryvnia) exchange rate, showing a significant trend of USD strengthening against the UAH. The chart provides a clear visual on future potential movements, marked by key dates that align with potential geopolitical events.
Key Dates and Events:
September 2025 (09/01/25) - Conflict "Freeze" and Temporary Peace:
Scenario: As we discussed, the conflict between Ukraine and Russia could enter a phase of "freezing" around this time. This period might not bring complete peace but rather a significant reduction in active military engagements.
Impact on Currency: The temporary halt in hostilities could stabilize the UAH slightly, preventing further devaluation. However, the economic scars of the war might keep the exchange rate volatile.
May 2029 (05/10/29) - Resumption of Conflict or New Escalations:
Scenario: After a few years of relative calm, a renewed phase of conflict or escalation between Ukraine and Russia could begin. This may be driven by unresolved territorial disputes or political changes in either country or their allies.
Impact on Currency: This would likely lead to another sharp depreciation of the UAH, as markets react to the increased uncertainty and economic strain of renewed military action.
May 2032 (05/03/32) - Potential Full-Scale Conflict:
Scenario: The situation could deteriorate into a more severe conflict or widespread regional instability. This period might mark the beginning of a more protracted and intense phase of war.
Impact on Currency: A full-scale conflict would severely weaken the UAH, potentially pushing it to historical lows. The Ukrainian economy would face enormous pressure, leading to further devaluation.
April 2037 (04/10/37) - Stabilization and Possible Recovery:
Scenario: By this time, the conflict might have resolved, or at least the region could have entered a period of prolonged stability. This could be due to international interventions, peace treaties, or significant changes in political leadership.
Impact on Currency: The UAH might begin a slow recovery if stability is restored and economic rebuilding starts. However, this recovery would be gradual and dependent on the extent of damage done to the Ukrainian economy.
Conclusion:
UAH will likely experience significant volatility over the next decade, heavily influenced by the geopolitical situation in Eastern Europe. Each of the marked dates corresponds to potential shifts in the conflict with Russia, with major implications for the UAH. Investors and policymakers should closely monitor these dates and prepare for various scenarios, ranging from temporary stability to severe economic downturns.
These forecasts underscore the importance of strategic planning in uncertain times. The potential "freeze" in conflict might offer temporary relief, but the possibility of renewed or intensified conflict in later years looms large, making the future of the UAH highly uncertain.
UAH/USD🔍 UAH/USD Analysis: Critical Downtrend Expected 📉
The UAH/USD chart indicates a significant downtrend following the key date of August 12, 2024 (marked by the white dashed line). This downtrend is projected to continue towards the $0.0200 level, as shown by the red arrow.
This sharp decline highlights the need for caution in trading this pair, with the possibility of a prolonged bearish market extending into the coming years. Traders and investors should be prepared for potential volatility and consider this a critical moment for risk management.
#ForexTrading #UAHUSD #MarketAnalysis #CurrencyTrading #Forex
4 Political Tensions Fueling Gold Prices As gold aims to test record high again, let's look at some of the political issues possibly driving the price action.
Iran Tensions Escalate:
The Pentagon has dispatched a guided missile submarine and a carrier strike group, to the Middle East. This move follows Iran's vow of retaliation against Israel after a senior Hamas leader was killed in Tehran last month. With nearly two weeks passing without a retaliation, the atmosphere remains tense.
US Political Landscape:
A recent New York Times/Siena poll places Vice President Kamala Harris, who is on a swing state tour, ahead of former President Donald Trump by four points in key battleground states, including Michigan, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania. However, with nearly three months left until the election, the race remains fluid. Trump is set to appear in an interview with Elon Musk on the X platform, looking for a shift in momentum.
US Economic Concerns:
Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan warned that U.S. consumers might become “dispirited” if the Federal Reserve delays interest rate cuts. He emphasized that once consumer sentiment turns negative, recovery becomes challenging. However, Moynihan acknowledged that Bank of America no longer anticipates a recession.
Ukraine’s Military Advance:
Ukraine’s top military commander reported control over 1,000 square kilometers of Russia’s neighboring Kursk region, with Russia evacuating over 76,000 residents from western Kursk. Russia is now evacuating residents from a second border region as Ukraine's surprise week-long offensive within Russian territory intensifies.
Yield CurveThe 2/10 treasury yield spread is quickly flattening and an inversion could happen soon.
All of the previous yield curve inversions are associated with memorable market sell-offs and recessions.
I believe the ripple effect of the ongoing financial and economic sanctions against Russia will end up being the catalyst for the next meltdown.
The market conditions have been favorable to a disaster by many measurements for some time now.
Again, there are many unknown cross-currents beginning to work their way into the global economy. On top of that, the FED is raising interest rates in less than two weeks.
Wheat and Fertilizer Futures: A Cash Cow for War Mongers In this layout I have Black Sea Wheat and Corn, Australian and Ukrainian Wheat, and 4 main Fertilizer (UREA) Futures.
Conflict and Wars are good ways for Financial Institutions like Black Rock and State Street Corp oration to make a lot of money. What better way than to destroy the wheat fields/silos themselves and profit at the same time?
These markets are built in blood and they are sitting on Advanced Fibonacci Blueprints showing who is really in control.
Volatility may be seen as many Russia pulled out of the Black Sea Grain Deal. Wheat supplies will undergo straining for the foreseeable future.
DXY - The US Petrdollar And The "Prigozhin Coup" In RussiaI write this as I listen to Tchaikovsky's Violin Concerto in D Major on the excellent Shen Yun Zuopin platform. It seemed quite fitting for watching the world burn.
When you hear propaganda on English social media on a Saturday night that a group of mercenaries are raiding Moscow to overthrow Putin, you absolutely must take what you are hearing and seeing with an entire box of Maldon.
Before we begin, I will provide you with the DXY Monthly, which shows the topography more clearly than the daily bars I use for the moving graph:
Remember it wasn't even 10 days ago that the US Military was running an exercise in the streets in the United States and the QAnon cultists/CIA campaign were trying to tell people it was because Donald Trump was about to overthrow Joe Biden.
The United States has three significant abilities that exceed its direct military power and are why it's able to empire around the world:
1. Masters of propaganda and manipulation
2. A stranglehold on the world economy via the Petrodollar and its oil/LNG production
3. Intelligence, subversion, corruption, and cyber warfare operations
No matter what you hear, the war in Ukraine directly involves NATO because NATO member countries are all over the area West of Russia and Belarus, and Washington is the leader of NATO.
Wagner PMC and Prigozhin himself are rather savvy propagandists and tacticians. They previously used the narrative that there was much discontent between themselves, the superheroes of the Bakhmut campaign, and the Russian military's old guard, to bait Ukraine into attacking.
The end result was a lot of dead UAF and a captured city for the Russian Federation.
Moreover, many things right now serve as a distraction to keep the world's eyes and ears away from what's going on inside of mainland China and the coming fall of the Chinese Communist Party.
Perhaps Xi Jinping will be this decade's Mikhail Gorbachev and will one night dump the CCP, much to the consternation and dismay of a totally clueless majority mankind.
This matter, and the persecution against the 100 million practitioners of Falun Gong by the former Jiang Zemin regime, which Xi has directly contested since he took power a decade ago (this is what the "Anti-corruption campaign" is really annihilating), is what you really need to focus on, rather than "World War III" propaganda.
So, you shouldn't go too hard on Sunday and Monday selling equity futures and getting long on gold because you've been told on Twitter that World War III is coming.
What you want to do is take a calm and rational look at what can happen. And what can happen entirely revolves around the US Dollar.
Right now, the USD looks as if it will pump, rather than dump.
Like it or not, it looks like it's going to pump, rather than dump.
But the confirmation for the trade comes down to whether or not DXY can breach $105.883.
If it can breach $105.883 either in the remaining six trading days of June or in the early portion of July, then we have two scenarios, in my opinion:
Whether the target is only the $108-$109 Point of Concern
Whether the target is $115-$118-$120 above the '22 high.
Frankly speaking, if you look at yearly bars for the DXY:
Then literally $135 is en route before 2030.
But if $109 is all we have today then $98 is incoming.
Generally speaking, it's really worth remembering that USD up = risk off on equities.
What's important in life isn't making money in the markets, but it's your family, your friends, your heart, your soul, and your future.
Trading should just be a vector for your personal and spiritual development.
Gamblers are going to lose more than their shirts, you hear?
See the additional calls below for more broad spectrum macro analysis of the situation.
Raytheon - A Potential Earnings Pump To WatchEveryone wants to get rich quick. Because getting rich quick means you:
a) Get rich
b) Quick
Then you can wear big ugly sunglasses, a crappy t-shirt, flipflops, sit on the beach, eat a lot of meat, drink a lot of alcohol, and be promiscuous with women.
This is the modern human's dream, right?
And so everyone loves to speculate on potential earnings pumps and dumps.
There really is more to aim for in life.
Raytheon is one of the U.S. Military Industrial Complex cornerstones and is more or less a weapons mill for the NATO proxy war in Ukraine, which is of note because of the recent escalations of the conflict and how it can affect the U.S. Petrodollar, and thus bonds, oil, gold, equities, everything.
DXY - The US Petrdollar And The "Prigozhin Coup" In Russia
Geopolitically, the conflict between China and the International Rules Based Order is heating up. The current edict is to "de-risk but not decouple" from China (notice they never say "from the Chinese Communist Party"?).
In mid-June CEO Hayes was quoted by the propaganda machines as stating that decoupling from China was pretty much impossible because of all the parts and components that are manufactured in the mainland.
What this means, if you ask me, is that going forward, certain companies are going to have a very hard time meeting their target EPS and revenue estimates.
Raytheon may very well be one of them, as foreshadowed by a salvo of sanctions the Xi Jinping administration placed on them and Lockheed Martin.
The situation in China is very volatile right now. The IRBO wants control of China when the CCP falls. Xi Jinping and the other nationalists want to make sure that outside forces do not steal the motherland.
And so one day soon, we may find that Xi has thrown away the CCP in the middle of the U.S. night, and the markets will have themselves a series of consecutive red days like we've all never seen before.
Xi can weaponize the crimes against humanity that the Party and the Jiang Zemin faction have committed in the persecution of Falun Gong that started on July 20, 1999, and use the truth to protect both himself and China.
Organ harvesting and genocide of a group of 100 million spiritual cultivators with upright faith is certainly enough of a weapon to handle all the threats the motherland can be facing.
So why do you care about this if you're trading Raytheon?
Because a basic principle of markets is they go up when big money is selling and go down when big money is buying.
Raytheon and other military companies ironically never really pumped following the QE recovery from the COVID pandemic dump.
It wasn't until the Ukraine War began that Raytheon finally ran the highs.
And then it retraced.
That kind of retrace is actually really bullish and what bulls should want to see if they want their $145 billion~ company to become a $1.4 trillion company.
But the problem with the theory is more manifest on the weekly charts:
31 weeks of ranging and no breakout is not bullish.
And yet, after taking lows, it continues to recover. The most notable price swing is the $105 to $92 leg that just occurred.
I feel that Raytheon has some fundamental hidden bearish divergences to it and this is why it has traded this way all along, with the ultimate purpose of selling a lot high, and then selling it all above the all time high.
This hidden divergence, I think, is that U.S.-based companies may find themselves cut off from the Chinese supply chain in the very near future.
Only to tip all the bulls on their backs like stranded turtles and then dump and dump and dump and dump and not come back.
So I believe that with the setup at hand, the catalyst is actually the July earnings.
But if you look back at previous earnings, Raytheon doesn't have major pumps. It can go a bit and then it will run after.
Implied volatility on options for the July 28 expiry are only 20%, slightly higher than the 17% average.
But before we get there, I expect we're going to see prices return to the $92-93 range and give the best buying opportunity.
The catalyst for this, I believe, will simply be market-wide correction, which I outline in the following two posts:
Nasdaq - The Great Bear Trap
And
SPX/ES - An Analysis Of The 'JPM Collar'
In summary, there will be a shakeout in equities that will probably not be long lived, even if it's violent.
And after that, things will make their final run up, many of which will set new highs or new 52W highs, etc.
What's left for the remainder of 2023 and the start of 2024 doesn't look like it's going to be very pleasant, to speak frankly.
So make sure if you see Raytheon at a new high, you don't go getting ahead of yourself, longing the top.
$DXY 7/12 update 👁🗨️*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 chart analysis is for reference purposes only !!
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Wheat (World) - Short Bias; Cheap Ukrainian wheat everywhere!Sure, it is winter in the northern hemisphere so why even bother with the grains at all? ...
... Because cheap Ukrainian wheat had absolutely flooded European markets, so much so that very soon they will have to start dumping some of it into the ocean! (Right now, they are trying to air out these mountains of grain, so it wouldn't mold, but that will go only so far.)
Normally, this time of the year, 55-60 ships per week get loaded with Ukrainian wheat, headed for Africa and Asia.
As of last week, these numbers are down to 19 ships .
Russia closed the Bosporus to Ukrainian wheat (and oil seed) shipments.
As an alternative solution, Ukraine is shipping most of its harvest to the EU - mostly Poland & Germany - to load it on ships in those ports. - But guess what ...
... shipping it all to Europe AND THEN load it onto ships makes the whole proposition economically non-viable. (Well below producer cost.)
So now, the endless trainloads of grains, continuously pouring into the EU, gets dumped all over EU markets (at 40%-60% discounts!) because long empty local silos are all filled to capacity. There is now zero (0) storage capacity left anywhere in Europe! (... and the endless trainloads just keep on coming.)
... making this trade - not a monster - rather a no-brainer. (Like free beer)
Grain Strain: How Geopolitical Unrest Threatens Wheat Prices AmiOpinion:
The recent escalation in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, following the assassination attempt on the Russian president, has raised concerns about the potential impact on global wheat prices. This situation becomes even more significant if Russia decides to withdraw from its agreements with Ukraine. As major players in the global wheat market, Russia and Ukraine together account for about 29% of the world's wheat exports, with Russia being the largest exporter, contributing around 18.5% in 2020. Any disruptions in their wheat production or export capabilities can have substantial implications for international prices, particularly considering the inelastic demand for wheat.
Wheat, as a staple food for many populations, has an inelastic demand, meaning that changes in its price have a relatively small impact on the quantity demanded. Given this inelastic nature, disruptions in the wheat supply due to geopolitical issues may result in significant price fluctuations, as consumers' demand remains relatively constant despite price increases.
In the event of Russia's withdrawal from its agreements with Ukraine, several consequences could directly or indirectly affect global wheat prices:
Intensified conflict and regional instability may disrupt wheat production and transportation. According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the conflict has already led to a 15-20% reduction in agricultural production in affected areas. Further escalation could exacerbate these issues, limiting wheat production and export capabilities for both countries. The resulting supply shortages could disproportionately affect wheat prices, given the inelastic demand.
Geopolitical uncertainties created by the conflict could lead to trade restrictions and sanctions. In the past, Western countries have imposed sanctions against Russia in response to its actions in Ukraine. For example, in 2014, the United States and the European Union imposed economic sanctions on Russia, which impacted various sectors, including agriculture. If the situation deteriorates, additional sanctions could limit Russia's ability to export wheat to certain markets, creating supply chain disruptions and increasing the volatility of wheat prices on the global market, even with the inelastic demand.
Potential impacts on wheat prices could prompt other major wheat producers to adjust their production levels in response to shifting global demand. For instance, countries like the United States, Canada, and Australia may increase domestic production or seek alternative sources to secure their wheat supplies. As of 2021, these countries collectively contributed around 30% of the world's wheat exports. Changes in their production strategies could further affect global wheat prices, especially considering the inelastic nature of wheat demand.
The heightened uncertainty due to the assassination attempt on the Russian president and the subsequent escalation of tensions between Russia and Ukraine could lead to increased speculation in the commodities market. In 2021, the Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT) wheat futures saw significant price fluctuations in response to changing geopolitical situations. Traders may continue to react to the heightened uncertainty by buying or selling wheat futures contracts, which can influence short-term price movements and contribute to market volatility, despite the inelastic demand.
In conclusion, the latest developments in the Russia-Ukraine conflict have the potential to significantly impact global wheat prices, particularly if Russia withdraws from its agreements with Ukraine. Consequences of such a decision could include disruptions to wheat production and transportation, trade restrictions and sanctions, adjustments in global wheat production, and increased market speculation. The inelastic nature of wheat demand could exacerbate these impacts, leading to considerable price fluctuations. To mitigate the potential effects of these developments on wheat prices, it is essential for governments, producers, and traders to closely monitor the situation and develop contingency plans to ensure the stability of wheat supplies and markets.
Notes on how I personally use my charts/NFA:
Each level L1-L3 and TP1-TP3 has a deployment percentage. The idea is to flag these levels so I can buy 11% at L1 , 28% at L2 and if L3 deploy 61% of assigned dry powder. The same in reverse goes for TP. TP1: 61%, TP2:28% and TP3:11%. If chart pivots between TP's, in-between or in Between Sell levels these percentages are still respected. I like to use the trading range to accumulate by using this tactic.
Just my personal way of using this. This is not intended or made to constitute any financial advice.
This is not intended or made to constitute any financial advice.
FED Macro Situation Consideration:
All TP's are drawn within the context of a return to FED neutral policy. I do not expect these levels to be reached before tightening is over.
NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE
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$PLTR is looking good! Fundamentally & technically w/tailwindsTaking a look at PLTR in this video! Been a long time since I made a video.
Let me know if you have any suggestions!
Natural Gas and the Dangers of Swing Trading Leveraged ETFsThinking that the war in Ukraine would cause the price of natural gas to surge higher over the winter, many traders got stuck on the wrong side of a trade. Natural gas futures have plunged more than 90% over the winter.
In this video, I explain that regression analysis was warning that a significant price decline was imminent in late 2022, and I explain that it is now suggesting that a bounce in natural gas prices may soon occur. This video also explains the pitfalls that many novice traders experience when trying to swing trading leveraged ETFs that employ derivatives and which undergo volatility drag over time.
Here is the link to the risk-reward / win-ratio spreadsheet that is referenced in the video.
docs.google.com
Shared with permission from @HeWhoMustNotBeNamed
Note for stats nerds: The log-linear regression channel indicator does not give negative numbers for the Pearson correlation coefficient (r). The indicator gives the absolute value of the Pearson correlation coefficient |r|. So if the correlation is strongly negative or strongly positive, it will appear near 1 in both cases.
Important Disclaimer
Nothing in this post should be considered financial advice. Trading and investing always involve risks and one should carefully review all such risks before making a trade or investment decision. Do not buy or sell any security based on anything in this post. Please consult with a financial advisor before making any financial decisions. This post is for educational purposes only.
AUD/USD - Aussie on the move, RBA expected to pause ratesThe Australian dollar has edged higher at the start of the week. In the European session, AUD/USD is trading at 0.6715, up 0.45%. The RBA meets on Tuesday (Australia time) and is expected to pause rates. The US releases ISM Manufacturing PMI, which is expected to record another decline.
The RBA has aggressively tightened interest rates in the current cycle, raising rates 10 straight times. The fight against inflation continues but there has been some improvement. February CPI fell sharply to 6.8%, vs. 7.4% prior and 7.1% anticipated. Inflation is more than triple the RBA target, but the sharp rise in rates has dampened economic activity and further hikes could jeopardize a soft landing. The RBA is widely expected to stay on the sidelines, with the market pricing in a pause at 86%.
Governor Lowe has said that in addition to inflation, employment and consumer spending data would play a key factor in the RBA's decision. The labour market remains tight, but retail sales hit the breaks in February and slowed to just 0.2%, down from 1.8% in January and just above the consensus estimate of 0.1%. The weak retail sales data supports the RBA taking a breather.
The banking crisis, which roiled global financial markets, raised fears of a financial meltdown. Although the contagion appears to have been contained, central banks are having to think twice about raising rates in an uncertain economic landscape, and if the RBA does pause, it could use the banking crisis as further ammunition in defending its decision.
We're seeing a decline in manufacturing across the globe as demand remains weak. The Russian invasion of Ukraine and China's Covid-zero policy interrupted supply chains and dampened demand, and manufacturing is yet to recover even though China has made an about-face and relaxed its Covid regulations.
The US is no exception to this disturbing global trend. ISM Manufacturing PMI has been in decline for four straight months, with readings below the 50 threshold, which separates expansion from contraction. The estimate stands at 47.5, a bit lower than the 47.7 reading in January.
AUD/USD is putting pressure on resistance at 0.6737. Above, there is resistance at 0.6790
There is support at 0.6678 and 0.6582