2-Year US Treasury Yield: The Market's Immediate Sentiment GaugeThe 2-year Yield currently trades at 3.805%, unfolding within a well-defined three-year falling wedge pattern. This formation follows an extraordinary surge from 0.105% in January 2021 to 5.283% in October 2023—reflecting rapid Fed rate hikes and inflation expectations. The 4.00% level, which aligns with the Fibonacci 23.6% retracement, has been tested multiple times, indicating it as the immediate battlefield for bulls and bears.
Warning Signs: If yields fail to stay above 4.00%, a decline toward 3.54% and 3.25% becomes probable, with further downside risk to 2.80%, 2.62%, 2.34%, and potentially 2.16%. A drop this deep would imply markets are aggressively pricing in future rate cuts or recession fears.
Breakout Scenario: A decisive break above 4.00% would violate the falling wedge ceiling, targeting 4.17% and 4.46% and possibly retesting the 5.00% highs. This would indicate renewed fears of sticky inflation or delayed Fed easing.
Fundamental Reflection: The 2-Year is the cleanest read on front-end Fed policy sentiment. Its sensitivity to Fed language, inflation trends, and geopolitical disruption (e.g., tariffs) means its technical posture is deeply rooted in macroeconomic fragility.
US02Y trade ideas
US02YAs of April 2025, China holds approximately $759 billion to $761 billion in U.S. Treasury securities, making it the second-largest foreign holder of U.S. debt after Japan. This is a significant reduction from its peak holdings of $1.316 trillion in November 2013.
Potential Effects if China Sells Its U.S. Treasury Holdings
If China decides to sell off its U.S. Treasury holdings, the potential effects could be substantial:
Spike in U.S. Interest Rates: A mass sell-off would flood the market with U.S. Treasuries, depressing their prices and causing yields (interest rates) to rise sharply. Higher borrowing costs for the U.S. government could exacerbate fiscal challenges.
Weakened U.S. Dollar: Selling large amounts of Treasuries would likely weaken the dollar as demand for dollar-denominated assets declines. This could lead to inflationary pressures within the U.S..
Global Financial Shock: The sudden liquidation of such a large asset pool could destabilize global financial markets, given the interconnectedness of economies and reliance on U.S. Treasuries as a safe-haven asset.
Economic Impact on China: Dumping Treasuries would also hurt China by reducing the value of its remaining holdings and potentially destabilizing its own economy due to reduced export competitiveness and financial ripple effects.
Likelihood of a Sell-Off
Despite these risks, such a move is considered unlikely for several reasons:
Mutual Economic Dependency: The U.S.-China economic relationship is deeply intertwined, with China relying on U.S. debt as a safe investment for its foreign exchange reserves and the U.S. benefiting from China's purchase of Treasuries to fund its deficit.
Self-Inflicted Damage: A sell-off would harm China’s own financial stability and trade relations, making it a risky strategy even during heightened tensions.
In conclusion, while the threat of China weaponizing its Treasury holdings exists, it remains a double-edged sword that would inflict significant damage on both economies and global markets
US02YThe differential between the US02Y (2-year U.S. Treasury yield) and EUR02Y (2-year Eurozone government bond yield) significantly influences the trade directional bias for the USD and EUR this month. Here's how:
Impact of Yield Differential on Currency Trade
Interest Rate Differentials: A widening yield spread between US02Y and EUR02Y, where U.S. yields rise more than Eurozone yields, typically supports the U.S. dollar (USD) against the euro (EUR). This is because higher yields in the U.S. attract more capital, increasing demand for the USD and causing it to appreciate relative to the EUR. Conversely, if Eurozone yields rise faster, the euro may strengthen against the dollar.
Monetary Policy Expectations: The yield differential also reflects expectations about future monetary policy actions by the Federal Reserve (Fed) and the European Central Bank (ECB). If the yield spread widens in favor of the U.S., it may indicate expectations of more aggressive rate hikes by the Fed compared to the ECB, supporting the USD. If the spread narrows or reverses, it could signal a more dovish Fed stance or a more hawkish ECB stance, potentially weakening the USD.
Risk Sentiment and Economic Outlook: Rising yields in either region can signal improving economic conditions and confidence, attracting investment and supporting the respective currency. However, if yields rise due to inflation concerns or economic uncertainty, the impact on currency strength can be more complex.
Trade Directional Bias This Month
USD Bias: If the US02Y yield remains higher than the EUR02Y yield, Long positions in the USD, expecting it to strengthen against the EUR due to higher returns and potentially more aggressive Fed rate hikes.
EUR Bias: Conversely, if the EUR02Y yield rises faster than the US02Y yield, long positions in the EUR, anticipating euro strength due to higher returns and possibly more hawkish ECB policy.
Key Factors to Watch
Monetary Policy Announcements: Any statements from the Fed or ECB about future rate decisions can significantly impact yield differentials and currency movements.
Economic Indicators: Data on inflation, GDP growth, and employment can influence yield spreads and currency trade.
Market Sentiment: Shifts in investor risk appetite and confidence in economic growth can also affect currency direction.
In summary, the yield differential between US02Y and EUR02Y is a crucial indicator for determining trade directional bias in the USD/EUR pair. A wider spread favoring the U.S. generally supports the USD, while a narrowing or reversal supports the EUR.
US2Y - BUY (SELL BOND) strategy 3 hourly chart - regression The 2Y US yield has move lower and broken important yield level of 3.9650 area. The GAP lower 3.8500 currently, is providing an extremely oversold reading and other time frames are oversold as well but not as severe.
Strategy SELL BONDS @ 3.78-3.8350 yield and take profit with a 15 basis points toughly benefit. It does also support some US$ strength in coming sessions, is my personal view.
US02Y hidden bearish divergence and RSI rejection from level 40
US02Y could be repeating a pattern from August 2024. Hidden bearish divergence (continuation of lower highs) and rejection of RSI from level 40. Following the rejection, the yields went lower.
US02Y going lower is bullish for risk assets.
In addition, US02Y could be on the verge of a fifth Elliott wave to the downside. The second wave overshot a little the textbook 0.618 fib level. The fourth wave retraced a little less than the textbook 0.386 fib level. Given the RSI analysis above, the fifth wave could be starting now leading US02Y lower. This would be bullish for risk assets such as stocks and crypto.
Rate Cuts Are NOT BullishRate cuts in the US have never been bullish for equity markets in macro cycles. The idea that rates coming down from 5% to 4% suddenly making people more creditworthy is a farce because rates never move in anything other than large timeframe tides. These tides reflect growth/inflation expectations, not borrowing costs.
Were Jerome Powell to suddenly become very dovish at the next FOMC meeting it would be a clear signal that the SHTF protocol is in full effect. Powell is more likely to talk away the negative GDP prints as demand shocks due to tariffs/trade deficit imbalances while waiting for more data to make a decision. Labor market has been declining as well but he doesn't want to make a panic decision and also probably feels no personal loyalty to help President Trump out.
Historical average for US inflation is about 3.2% with the 2% target meaning deflation is a possible problem incoming. Current US inflation rate is about 3% which is well inline with the historical average. Powell will never say it but so far his mission has been accomplished. He may cut rates at the back end of the year if necessary but as of this post he has no reason to.
The Most Effective way to fight Tariffs, is to Sell BondsIn an era when protectionist tariffs have become a go-to tool for DUNCE Political leaders such as President Voldemort, it is time for investors, institutions and nation states to take a stand—and not through traditional protest, but by wielding the formidable power of financial markets. Tariffs, by raising costs and distorting trade, can sap economic growth. Yet, as history and recent trade wars have shown, the real battleground is not just at the border but in the bond markets. The BIG FRAUD of created by American's "Buy, Borrow, Die" mental illness is already at a point where it could burst any moment and the best needle to poke this bubble is the 2 Year Bonds. If these bonds default, a recession will likely happen and it is unlikely a republican majority will be elected in the house and senate during the mid-term cycle.
Therefore, the most aggressive and effective countermeasure is to sell off short-dated (2‑year) bonds in favor of longer‑dated (5‑ and 10‑year) bonds, and to liquidate any and all U.S. bonds held by companies in politically “red” states. This would mean the debt they hold is being sold for pennies on the dollar, like Twitters loan already is...
Tariffs and Trade Wars: Lessons from Recent History
The recent imposition of tariffs by the Trump administration on imports from Mexico, Canada, and China has sparked a new wave of economic disruption. These tariffs—intended to protect domestic industries—have instead triggered retaliatory measures and rattled global markets. As reported by Reuters, the trade war initiated by these tariffs has not only led to rising costs for consumers but also to significant volatility in financial markets. Such aggressive trade policies reveal an underlying fiscal vulnerability that can be exploited through strategic bond trading.
REUTERS.COM
Historically, trade wars have often served as the catalyst for broader financial instability. When tariffs escalate, investors flock to safe-haven assets, yet the resulting market dynamics also open up opportunities for those who know where to look. Now is the moment to pivot—and the bond market is the perfect arena for this counteroffensive.
Historical Defaults: A Wake-Up Call
Contrary to the oft-repeated claim that “the U.S. has always paid its bills on time,” history tells a different story. There have been several notable instances—ranging from the demand note default during the Civil War to the overt default on gold bonds in 1933 and technical defaults such as the 1979 payment delays—that remind us of the inherent risks in our national fiscal practices. These episodes highlight that U.S. bonds, despite their reputation for safety, are not immune to default under fiscal duress.
THEHILL.COM
This historical perspective should not only unsettle complacent investors but also embolden them to leverage the bond market as a tool of economic resistance. By strategically repositioning bond portfolios, investors can exacerbate fiscal pressures on policymakers who rely on the illusion of unfailing debt service.
The Yield Curve: An Opportunity for Tactical Rebalancing
The current structure of the U.S. Treasury yield curve presents an unprecedented opportunity. Short‑term bonds—especially the ubiquitous 2‑year Treasuries—are trading at levels that no longer justify their risk, given the market’s expectation of a steepening curve as longer‑term yields are poised to rise. By aggressively selling off 2‑year bonds and using the proceeds to acquire 5‑ and 10‑year bonds, investors can capture the benefits of a steepening yield curve. This strategy not only enhances returns but also sends a powerful signal: the market is rejecting the financial underpinnings that allow tariffs to be financed cheaply.
This repositioning weakens the liquidity available for financing government policies that sustain tariffs, thereby indirectly undermining the protectionist agenda. As bond market dynamics come into sharper focus amid rising inflation fears and fiscal deficits, this tactical shift represents a proactive measure to tilt the scales back in favor of free trade.
REUTERS.COM
Targeting “Red State” Bonds: A Political and Financial Imperative
It is no secret that companies based in states with predominantly conservative (or “red”) leadership have often been the political bedfellows of tariff advocates. These companies not only benefit from protectionist rhetoric but also tend to issue bonds under fiscal conditions that make them particularly vulnerable when market sentiment shifts. Moreover, they also tend to be overvalued anyway so the likelihood of panic selling is more likely. The time has come to liquidate any and all U.S. bonds issued by red state companies. By divesting from these securities, investors can both shield themselves from potential losses and apply market discipline on a sector that has, for too long, been insulated from the harsh realities of global trade dynamics.
This aggressive divestiture sends a dual message: a rejection of protectionist policies and a call for a more balanced, market-oriented approach to national fiscal management. It is a bold stance that forces a rethinking of the relationship between politics and finance—a reminder that no company should be immune to the corrective forces of the market.
Conclusion
Tariffs are not just trade policy—they are fiscal weapons that rely on the ability to finance cheap debt. History has shown that even the most stalwart bond markets are susceptible to default under pressure, and recent trade wars have only amplified these vulnerabilities. The solution is clear and decisive: sell off 2‑year bonds and reinvest in 5‑ and 10‑year bonds, while liquidating U.S. bonds held by red state companies. This aggressive financial maneuver not only promises better returns in a steepening yield curve environment but also serves as an effective counterattack against protectionist tariffs.
By rebalancing portfolios in this manner, investors take an active role in challenging policies that restrict free trade and hinder economic growth. In the world of modern finance, sometimes the best way to fight back is to let your portfolio do the talking.
Disclaimer: This article reflects a strongly opinionated perspective and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial advice. Investors should conduct their own research and consult with a professional advisor before making any investment decisions.
THE MACRO: GOLD / $ / COMMODITIES / ASIA EMWelcome to THE MACRO, where we take a big-picture view of the financial markets, analyzing long-term investment trends, macroeconomic shifts, and strategic positioning for major plays. In today’s episode, we’re diving into gold, bonds, the U.S. dollar, commodities, and global indices to understand where the smart money is flowing for 2025 and beyond.
Key Macro Themes in Focus
1. Gold & Gold Miners – Inflation Hedge & Safe Haven?
• Gold futures continue their long-term uptrend, holding strong above key support levels.
• Gold miners (GDX ETF) are lagging behind physical gold prices, presenting a potential value gap—is this an opportunity for long-term investors?
• With real yields fluctuating, gold remains a hedge against monetary policy uncertainty.
2. U.S. Government Bonds & Interest Rate Outlook
• The U.S. 2-Year Yield is stabilizing after an aggressive tightening cycle.
• Global bond yields (EU, CAD, MXN) suggest divergence in monetary policy—could rate cuts in 2025 boost bond markets and risk assets?
• Watching yield curve movements to gauge potential economic slowdown or soft landing.
3. U.S. Dollar Strength & Its Macro Impact
• The DXY (U.S. Dollar Index) is showing relative strength, bouncing off support levels.
• A strong USD puts pressure on emerging markets and commodities—if the dollar weakens, expect risk-on assets to rally.
• What are central banks doing? Watching foreign exchange reserves and monetary policy adjustments.
4. Commodities – Inflation, Supply, & Demand Shifts
• Corn & Wheat futures are showing signs of a bottoming structure, supported by demand-side recovery and potential supply constraints.
• Agricultural commodities are historically undervalued compared to inflation-adjusted levels—this could be an inflation hedge for long-term investors.
5. Global Equities – China & Hong Kong Markets
• Hang Seng Index is forming a potential reversal pattern, suggesting renewed investor interest.
• Global capital flows into Asian equities might indicate a shifting macro landscape as China attempts stimulus-driven growth.
Macro Investment Takeaways
1. Gold remains a key inflation & risk hedge, but miners are lagging—potential opportunity?
2. Bond markets are stabilizing—watch yield curves for signals of recession or soft landing.
3. The U.S. Dollar’s strength is a key macro driver—will it break higher or roll over?
4. Commodities (corn, wheat) are showing long-term bottoms, could be undervalued.
5. Asian equity markets (Hang Seng) are at critical turning points—global capital shifts in play.
Final Thoughts: Positioning for the Long Term
• Are we in a late-stage cycle where defensive assets shine (gold, bonds)?
• Or are risk-on plays like commodities & emerging markets primed for a comeback?
• Watching global policy decisions for clues on positioning in 2025 and beyond.
This has been THE MACRO, where we track long-term investment plays and macroeconomic trends. Stay tuned for more insights as we follow the big picture moves shaping global markets!
#TheMacro #LongTermInvesting #MacroTrends
The most interesting chart in the financial marketsAs we all know, soft landings are incredibly hard to achieve... And all it takes through the journey, is one small stone that will start an avalanche. Based on a series of early indicators, it is a well possible scenario for the inflation, to finally show up again in March - which might lead data-dependent FED to quickly adjust its stance on monetary policy. The basic scenario for a correction, I operate with, lays between 10% and 20%. However, based on a whole market analysis, there's an unspoken possibility for an event that would shake the markets, and have wide-spread and long-term consequences.
2Y/10Y Treasury Yield curve is flashing a warning for markets The Yield curve is writing a familiar script.
Prior to the Great Crash of 1929 the yield curve was inverted for 700 days.
Janet Yellen held the yield curve inverted for the longest period in history, 789 days from Jul 5, 2022 to Sep 6, 2024.
Is it "different this time?" Not long to find out. 🙃
US02YR vs US10YR vs FED RATE + Recession overlay This chart provides a comprehensive visual analysis of the relationship between the 2-Year Treasury Yield (US02YR), 10-Year Treasury Yield (US10YR), and the Federal Funds Rate (FED RATE), with shaded regions indicating periods of U.S. recessions. The data captures the interplay between short-term and long-term interest rates, monetary policy, and economic cycles, offering insights into potential macroeconomic trends
Treasuries to Bitcoin reverse coorelationWhile Bitcoin and crypto are new to the game as opposed to classic assets like bonds, we can see in 2020 there was a specific and rather chilling hedge against the market.
We know if the inversion of the short and long tail yields invert from short > long rates back to short < long, a timer is activated in the shifting of treasuries from short to long in a stabilization to normality, however observing the US02Y/US10Y back testing will show us that a recession is months away after the values return to short rates being less than long rates.
Why is that? Why does the inversion track recession so accurately? Well it's based on intention of investors, many who are insiders. Preparing for a swap in rates can mean that long term stability is returning so worth the interest risk over the time delta, while short term rates reduce in value due to uncertainty raising in the short term.
Follow the money, and not the mouths. We have seen many times mouths speak one way and money flows the other... Topping off this crypto inclusion only shows a new player in this dance of rates. the complete disconnect and reverse correlation at the moment indicated on the chart
on Bitcoin shows that when we have a significant drop in rate adjustments (ie: feeling comfortable about future treasuries vs feeling nervous about near term treasuries) signals crypto as a hedge against the commonly seen recessive nature of un-inversion.
Long Term - US 2y with SPYThis 2 year plan is explained below.
Chart = US 2 year on the top // SPY on the bottom
To understand my charting and thought process, if you wish to, it’s best to start with the macro idea here. I’m tracking the US2 year yield. The peaks in ’89, ’00, ’06, ’18 and ’23 have created overturned cycles leading into recessions. Sure, the 2023 peak has not yet resulted in a confirmed - back dated - recession but the data is thick enough to predict one in my opinion.
I think an equally important point here is to understand that putting a chart together with as much information as you can on an encompassing idea over a longer period of time is beneficial. It is to me anyway. I’ve chosen to focus on the largest market in trading…the bond market.
So that being said, it’s probably best to just explain the lines and y’all can make your own conclusions.
Ingredients:
Vertical Lines
Red = SPY market tops. And note the following % loss
Green = SPY market bottoms that note the following % gains
(it’s hard to read yes…anyone can build the chart and see the #’s if they want)
Black = when a recession was officially declared. It’s always too late…FYI😊
Purple thick = when a 50bps reduction was mandated during FOMC. What I think is interesting here is that a -50bps cut happened 4 times during the ’07-’08 GFC, 9 times through the DotCom era and even 3x in the early 90’s. We’ll see a few more -50 in 2024-25 for sure and when interest rates are at 3.75-4.0 I’ll be mostly out of equities I think. If 2y doesn’t dead cat bounce from here I’m looking at as early as Q1 2025 to exit.
The rest is self-explanatory. Bond yields are getting ever increasingly more volatile // 370% swing low to high post Dot-com to 5000% post covid to 2023?!. WTF…lol. We can see it clearly in the RSI. S&P is getting more volatile since 2018 too. Nice for trading but not ideal for recent long term investors.
Horizontal Lines
Blue = the bottom channel-ish on the 2y yield. It’s my own idea, so take it with a grain of salt please. I’ll be borrowing money at 1.5% or so in mid 2026 and going long AF.
Of course as the charts evolve the thesis may get massaged but as an overall macro trend I don’t see a flaw in it yet.
I think that’s it. Stay well traders and all the best.
MR