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Support & Resistance Levels
This Blog provides futures market outlook for different commodities and futures trading markets, mostly stock index futures, as well as support and resistance levels for Crude Oil futures, Gold futures, Euro currency and others. At times the daily trading blog will include educational information about different aspects of commodity and futures trading.
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Every Major Type of Futures Trading Explained: From Day Trading to Algorithmic Strategies
Futures Trading
Futures markets are dynamic arenas where traders speculate, hedge, and invest across commodities, indices, currencies, and more. The approaches to futures trading are as diverse as the markets themselves — ranging from fast-paced day trading to long-term position trading, and from discretionary methods to cutting-edge algorithmic systems.
In this article, we’ll explore every major type of futures trading in detail — what defines each, how they work, and which styles suit different trader profiles. Whether you’re just starting trading in futures or already deep into advanced automation, understanding these approaches can help refine your strategy and results.
1. Day Trading Futures
Definition:
Day trading in futures is all about capitalizing on intraday price movements. Traders buy and sell contracts within the same session, closing all positions before the market ends.
Core Features:
- Positions are opened and closed within minutes or hours.
- Traders rely heavily on real-time technical analysis and order flow.
- High-frequency decision-making and execution speed are critical.
Common Methods:
- Scalping: Executing numerous small trades to profit from tiny price moves.
- Momentum trading: Entering trades during strong directional pushes.
- Breakout trading: Acting when prices breach key levels of support or resistance.
Advantages:
- No overnight risk from global market gaps.
- Highly liquid markets like E-mini S&P 500, crude oil, and gold offer tight spreads.
Risks:
- Requires precision and emotional discipline.
- Frequent trades can lead to higher commissions and fatigue.
Ideal for: Traders who thrive in fast-paced environments and use advanced platforms for futures trading execution.
2. Swing Trading Futures
Definition:
Swing traders hold futures positions for several days or weeks, seeking to capture short- to mid-term trends rather than intraday volatility.
Core Features:
- Combines technical and fundamental analysis.
- Positions last long enough to benefit from established market swings.
- Traders use stop-loss and profit targets wider than those of day traders.
Techniques:
- Trend-following with moving averages.
- Retracement or reversal entries using Fibonacci levels.
- Chart patterns like triangles or head-and-shoulders setups.
Advantages:
- Fewer trades and less screen time.
- Potential to capture larger percentage moves in price.
Risks:
- Overnight gaps can affect performance.
- Requires patience and strong risk management.
Ideal for: Professionals who cannot monitor markets constantly but still want meaningful participation in trading in futures.
3. Position Trading Futures
Definition:
Position trading involves holding futures contracts for weeks, months, or even longer — targeting large, fundamental price trends.
Core Features:
- Focus on macroeconomic factors, such as interest rates, supply-demand cycles, and global sentiment.
- Traders often “roll over” expiring contracts to maintain exposure.
Techniques:
- Fundamental trend analysis using global data.
- COT (Commitment of Traders) reports for institutional sentiment.
- Seasonal trading in commodities (e.g., grains, natural gas).
Advantages:
- Big reward potential from major market cycles.
- Less emotional decision-making due to long-term perspective.
Risks:
- High margin requirements.
- Prolonged exposure to market and policy shifts.
Ideal for: Investors and institutions involved in strategic futures trading over macroeconomic cycles.
4. Algorithmic (Algo) Futures Trading
Definition:
Algorithmic trading, or “algo trading,” uses computer programs to automatically execute trades based on coded strategies.
Core Features:
- Removes emotional bias and executes trades at machine speed.
- Can scan multiple markets simultaneously.
- Commonly used by funds and proprietary firms.
Popular Models:
- Trend-following algos: Ride sustained market momentum.
- Mean reversion systems: Bet on prices reverting to their average.
- Arbitrage algorithms: Exploit price discrepancies across exchanges.
Advantages:
- High accuracy and backtesting capability.
- Round-the-clock monitoring of global markets.
Risks:
- Model errors or faulty data can trigger rapid losses.
- Requires technical expertise and system maintenance.
Ideal for: Quantitative traders, developers, and firms embracing automation in trading futures.
5. Systematic Futures Trading
Definition:
Systematic trading relies on a set of predetermined rules and quantitative models to generate trade signals. It’s the foundation for most professional futures trading systems.
Core Features:
- Fully rule-based decision-making process.
- Can be executed manually or automatically.
Examples of Systems:
- Moving average crossovers.
- Volatility breakout strategies.
- Trend channel trading.
Advantages:
- Removes emotion from trading.
- Backtestable and easy to scale across instruments.
Risks:
- Performance can deteriorate when markets shift regimes.
- Requires periodic optimization and review.
Ideal for: Traders seeking long-term consistency and structure in trading in futures.
6. Discretionary Futures Trading
Definition:
Discretionary traders use experience, intuition, and interpretation rather than fixed systems to make trading decisions.
Core Features:
- Combines technical setups, market news, and sentiment analysis.
- Entry and exit decisions are made manually.
Advantages:
- Highly flexible; allows adaptation to unique market conditions.
- Intuitive recognition of patterns beyond algorithmic logic.
Risks:
- Emotional decisions may lead to inconsistency.
- Hard to backtest or delegate.
Ideal for: Experienced individuals who have mastered their emotional discipline and chart interpretation.
7. Spread Trading Futures
Definition:
Spread trading involves taking offsetting long and short positions in related futures contracts to profit from price differentials rather than outright price direction.
Common Types:
- Calendar spreads: Buying one month’s contract and selling another.
- Inter-market spreads: Trading two correlated commodities (e.g., long corn, short wheat).
- Inter-exchange spreads: Arbitrage between exchanges.
Advantages:
- Lower volatility than directional trades.
- Smaller margin requirements.
Risks:
- Narrow profit potential.
- Spread relationships can widen unexpectedly.
Ideal for: Intermediate traders who prefer lower-risk strategies in futures trading.
8. High-Frequency Futures Trading (HFT)
Definition:
HFT uses ultra-fast algorithms and low-latency connections to capture small price inefficiencies in milliseconds.
Core Features:
- Focused on microstructure of markets.
- Executes thousands of trades per day.
Advantages:
- Tiny profits magnified by massive volume.
- Minimal human involvement.
Risks:
- High infrastructure costs.
- Dependent on technological edge and regulation.
Ideal for: Institutional participants and prop firms equipped with advanced connectivity.
9. Hedging Futures Trading
Definition:
Hedging uses futures contracts to protect against unfavorable price movements in physical assets or investment portfolios.
Examples:
- A farmer sells corn futures to lock in harvest prices.
- A fund buys S&P 500 futures to hedge equity exposure.
Advantages:
- Reduces risk and stabilizes returns.
- Allows better financial planning.
Risks:
- Limits upside potential.
- Requires accurate hedge ratio calculation.
Ideal for: Commercial entities and portfolio managers mitigating exposure through trading futures.
10. Quantitative Futures Trading
Definition:
Quantitative trading combines mathematics, statistics, and machine learning to design predictive trading models.
Core Features:
- Data-driven; uses historical and real-time data for optimization.
- Often overlaps with algorithmic and systematic strategies.
Advantages:
- Objective, scalable, and research-based.
- Enables diversification across markets.
Risks:
- Models can fail in extreme volatility or low liquidity.
- Requires continuous validation.
Ideal for: Data scientists and institutional desks focused on predictive futures trading models.
11. News-Based Futures Trading
Definition:
News-based traders act on price volatility triggered by economic releases, earnings, or geopolitical events.
Core Features:
- Short-term trading around announcements (like CPI, FOMC, or inventory data).
- Relies on fast execution and market awareness.
Advantages:
- High potential during volatility bursts.
- Can be automated for event-based responses.
Risks:
- Slippage and widening spreads can occur.
- Requires speed and timing precision.
Ideal for: Traders with access to fast data feeds and economic calendars.
12. Arbitrage Futures Trading
Definition:
Arbitrage exploits pricing inefficiencies between related instruments or markets to generate low-risk profits.
Examples:
- Cash-and-carry arbitrage: Buying spot and selling futures when futures trade above fair value.
- Statistical arbitrage: Pair trading correlated instruments.
Advantages:
- Low directional exposure.
- Reliable when opportunities exist.
Risks:
- Execution delay can erase profit margin.
- Rare opportunities in highly efficient markets.
Ideal for: Institutional or quantitative traders with robust execution infrastructure.
13. Social and Copy Futures Trading
Definition:
A modern trend in trading in futures, social or copy trading allows users to replicate trades of experienced professionals through integrated brokerage platforms.
Core Features:
- Leverages collective insights.
- Provides learning opportunities for beginners.
Advantages:
- Easier entry point for new traders.
- Real-time exposure to proven strategies.
Risks:
- Over-reliance on others’ decisions.
- Results depend entirely on chosen signal providers.
Ideal for: New traders looking to learn futures trading while participating in live markets.
Choosing the Right Futures Trading Style
Each method of trading futures comes with distinct benefits and challenges. The key is matching your capital, risk tolerance, and lifestyle to the right approach.
|
Trading Style |
Holding Period | Main Tools | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day Trading | Minutes–Hours | Charts, order flow | Active traders |
| Swing Trading | Days–Weeks | Technical + Fundamental | Balanced traders |
| Position Trading | Weeks–Months | Macroeconomics | Long-term investors |
| Algorithmic / Systematic | Milliseconds–Days | Data models | Quant traders |
| Discretionary | Variable | Experience + Intuition | Veteran traders |
| Spread / Hedging | Weeks–Months | Correlation analysis | Risk managers |
| Arbitrage / Quantitative | Seconds–Days | Statistical models |
Institutions |
The best strategy often blends multiple approaches — for example, combining systematic entry rules with discretionary exits, or using algo-driven signals to refine swing trades. The diversity of trading in futures strategies is what makes the market both challenging and rewarding.
The Power of Strategy in Futures Trading
Success in futures trading doesn’t come from predicting every market move but from developing a structured plan and following it with consistency. The type of strategy you choose defines your routine, tools, and mindset.
Whether you prefer the adrenaline of day trading, the structure of systematic models, or the depth of position trading, remember that risk management and discipline are the true foundations of profitable trading in futures.
Start Trading Futures with Cannon Trading Company
For over 35 years, Cannon Trading Company has been a trusted name in the U.S. futures industry — offering access to powerful platforms, transparent pricing, and personalized support. Whether you’re exploring algorithmic trading, discretionary trading in futures, or professional futures trading for hedging and speculation, Cannon Trading’s experienced brokers and platform variety help you trade smarter and safer.
Explore the next level of trading futures with tailored brokerage solutions, competitive margins, and dedicated customer service — all under one roof.
Open a Futures Trading Account with Cannon Trading Company and experience the difference that expertise and technology make.
Ready to start trading futures? Call us at 1(800)454-9572 (US) or (310)859-9572 (International), or email info@cannontrading.com to speak with one of our experienced, Series-3 licensed futures brokers and begin your futures trading journey with Cannon Trading Company today.
Disclaimer: Trading Futures, Options on Futures, and retail off-exchange foreign currency transactions involve substantial risk of loss and are not suitable for all investors. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Carefully consider if trading is suitable for you in light of your circumstances, knowledge, and financial resources. You may lose all or more of your initial investment. Opinions, market data, and recommendations are subject to change at any time.
Important: Trading commodity futures and options involves a substantial risk of loss. The recommendations contained in this article are opinions only and do not guarantee any profits. This article is for educational purposes. Past performances are not necessarily indicative of future results.
This article has been generated with the help of AI Technology and modified for accuracy and compliance.
Follow us on all socials: @cannontrading
Option Greeks, December Corn, Levels, REPORTS!!!! Your 4 Important, Can’t Miss Need-To-Knows for Trading Futures on November 14th, 2025
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End of the Longest Shutdown? PLUS: Metals, Energies, Natural Gas; Nov. 26 Soybeans, Levels; Your 6 Important Can’t-Miss Updates for Futures Trading on November 13th, 2025
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Veterans Day, Bloomberg Commodity Index, OPTIONS WEBINAR TOMORROW, Levels; Your 4 Important Can’t-Miss Updates for Trading Futures on November 12th, 2025
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Options on Futures, NEW Options WEBINAR WEDNESDAY, 2026 Bean to Corn Ratio, Levels; Your 4 Important Need-To-Knows for Trading Futures on November 11th, 2025
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Thanksgiving 2025 Futures Trading Hours! Your Important Calendar for Futures Trading during the Holiday!
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Types of Futures Brokers Explained | Best Trading Futures Brokers 2025
Futures Brokers
The futures market is an arena defined by precision, timing, and trust. Whether trading commodities, stock indices, or digital assets, traders rely heavily on futures brokers to execute trades, manage risk, and connect them to the complex web of exchanges and clearinghouses that keep the global markets moving. Yet, not all brokers are the same. From recommending brokers and those catering to high-net-worth clients to simple order-taker brokers and API-driven specialists, the landscape of futures brokers is diverse and rapidly evolving.
In this detailed guide, we explore the types of futures brokers, how they differ in service and specialization, and how traders can choose the right futures broker based on their goals, capital, and trading style. We’ll also highlight which trading futures brokers stand out for superior customer service—especially those praised on platforms like Trustpilot.
1. Understanding Futures Brokers and Their Role in Modern Markets
A futures broker is an intermediary who facilitates the buying and selling of futures contracts between traders and exchanges. They ensure that orders are transmitted correctly, margin requirements are met, and compliance standards are maintained. But beyond that, today’s futures brokers have become partners in strategy, offering technological infrastructure, risk analysis, and educational resources.
There are several key categories of trading futures brokers, each with a unique purpose and target clientele. Some provide recommendations and advice, others serve sophisticated investors with large portfolios, while certain brokers focus purely on execution. The rise of digital trading has also introduced a new breed—API-connected brokers designed for automation and algorithmic efficiency.
2. Recommending Brokers: Guiding Traders Through Market Complexity
Among the oldest and most respected categories of futures brokers are the recommending brokers. These professionals offer personalized guidance and insights based on a client’s objectives, experience level, and market conditions. While they do not manage funds like a portfolio manager, their role is consultative and advisory.
A recommending futures broker often provides:
- Market analysis and trade ideas: They interpret charts, supply/demand data, and market sentiment to suggest opportunities.
- Risk management advice: Guidance on proper position sizing and hedging strategies.
- Education and mentoring: Helping clients understand market mechanics, contract specifications, and leverage dynamics.
Recommending brokers are particularly valuable for novice traders or those transitioning from equities or forex into futures. They often work through full-service brokerages where human interaction remains an integral part of the trading experience.
Top trading futures brokers that emphasize recommendations often offer hybrid service models—combining personal support with access to robust online trading platforms. These firms maintain dedicated account managers and offer premium research subscriptions, enabling traders to make informed decisions with confidence.
3. Brokers Geared Toward High-Net-Worth Individuals
In the upper echelon of the trading world, futures brokers catering to high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) occupy a distinct niche. Their clients demand privacy, customization, and institutional-grade execution quality. These futures brokers are not focused merely on trade facilitation but on holistic capital management, where futures serve as tools for diversification, hedging, or speculative opportunity.
Key characteristics of high-net-worth futures brokers include:
- Bespoke service: Personalized trading strategies and one-on-one consultation with senior analysts or brokerage principals.
- Advanced margin solutions: Tailored leverage and financing terms designed to suit larger portfolios.
- Access to multiple exchanges and asset classes: From U.S. indices and Treasuries to energy, metals, and agricultural markets.
- Dedicated relationship management: A single point of contact who understands the client’s risk profile and trading habits.
These futures brokers often integrate with family offices or wealth management firms, allowing for sophisticated cross-asset risk management. Many HNWI-focused trading futures brokers also provide discretionary trading options, where professionals execute trades within agreed parameters.
For affluent clients, the difference between average and exceptional service often lies in execution speed, personal communication, and trust. Firms that succeed in this segment are those that combine institutional-grade infrastructure with boutique-style attention.
4. Brokers That Are Order Takers: The Execution Specialists
At the opposite end of the service spectrum are the order-taking futures brokers—a category that appeals to experienced traders who prefer full control over their strategies. These brokers execute trades exactly as instructed, without offering advice or intervention. Their value proposition centers on speed, transparency, and low cost.
What Defines an Order-Taker Futures Broker?
- No advisory role: They execute customer instructions without interpretation or comment.
- Low commission structures: Since they do not provide recommendations, their fee models are lean.
- Access to advanced trading platforms: Often offering direct market access (DMA) and real-time order management tools.
- Focus on autonomy: Ideal for self-directed traders who understand market volatility, leverage, and risk exposure.
In many cases, order-taker futures brokers operate through online platforms, allowing traders to enter, modify, and close positions instantly. They may also offer multiple data feeds, customizable charting, and connectivity to automated trading systems.
Why They Matter
While some traders value guidance, others prefer precision and control. For algorithmic or day traders, an order-taker futures broker eliminates the friction of advisory bureaucracy and ensures immediate market execution. The efficiency and low-cost model of these brokers make them indispensable to the modern digital trading ecosystem.
5. API-Connected Futures Brokers: The Technology Powerhouses
The rise of automation, machine learning, and quantitative trading has revolutionized the brokerage industry. API-connected futures brokers are now central to the infrastructure of professional and institutional trading environments.
What Is an API in Futures Trading?
An API (Application Programming Interface) allows software systems to communicate seamlessly. In futures trading, APIs enable traders to connect their strategies, trading bots, or analytical systems directly to a broker’s order routing network.
Features of API-Focused Futures Brokers
- Automated Execution – Traders can program their systems to place, modify, and close orders automatically based on pre-set logic.
- Data Access – APIs provide real-time market data, historical price feeds, and tick-level information for backtesting strategies.
- Custom Integration – Professional traders can link brokers’ APIs with Python, C#, or Java-based trading systems.
- Low Latency – Leading API-driven futures brokers host servers close to major exchanges (CME, ICE, Eurex) to minimize delay.
- Algo and Quant Compatibility – Designed to support high-frequency, algorithmic, and systematic trading frameworks.
Who Uses API Futures Brokers?
API brokers appeal to a wide audience:
- Institutional traders seeking efficient execution for high-volume strategies.
- Independent algorithmic traders running custom scripts and models.
- Prop trading firms using statistical arbitrage or machine-learning-based approaches.
These brokers also cater to developers and fintech innovators creating new trading tools, dashboards, and strategy optimizers. They are often recognized as technology-first trading futures brokers, prioritizing connectivity, uptime reliability, and execution accuracy over traditional advisory features.
6. Evaluating Customer Service: Trustpilot’s Top-Rated Futures Brokers
Even in the era of automation, customer service remains a defining factor. The futures market operates 24/7 across time zones, and traders require instant support for margin calls, platform errors, or account adjustments. Trustpilot, one of the leading review platforms, offers valuable insights into which futures brokers excel in client satisfaction.
The Importance of Service in Futures Brokerage
Unlike equities or crypto markets, futures involve significant leverage and complex margining rules. A broker with responsive customer service can prevent costly errors or delays. The best customer service futures brokers provide:
- 24-hour live support with multilingual agents.
- Direct access to licensed brokers via phone or chat.
- Rapid ticket response times.
- Proactive notifications about margin requirements and exchange updates.
Top-Rated Futures Brokers According to Trustpilot
While rankings evolve, as of 2025, several trading futures brokers consistently earn high praise:
- Cannon Trading Company – Celebrated for its personal touch and professional support team. Reviewers often note its combination of deep industry experience and efficient online platforms.
- Interactive Brokers (IBKR) – Recognized for advanced technology and global market access, though some reviews note its steep learning curve.
- NinjaTrader Brokerage – Frequently mentioned for its responsive service, platform reliability, and community-driven support.
- AMP Futures – Applauded for low commissions and customer-centric service, particularly for new traders.
- Tradovate – Rated highly for modern platform design and responsive chat-based assistance.
Trustpilot’s reviews reveal a clear pattern: traders value brokers who combine technology with humanity. Even in automated trading, the assurance of accessible support builds long-term trust.
7. How to Choose the Right Futures Broker for Your Needs
Selecting among the many futures brokers available requires careful assessment of personal priorities. Every trader’s goals, experience, and technical needs are unique.
Key Criteria to Consider
- Trading Style
- Active traders may prefer low-cost, API-driven brokers.
- New traders benefit from recommending brokers who offer guidance.
- Account Size
- HNWIs should look for customized leverage and relationship-based service.
- Smaller accounts benefit from brokers with low minimums and competitive margins.
- Platform and Technology
- Evaluate speed, reliability, and available integrations.
- Customer Support
- Test response times and availability during volatile trading sessions.
- Regulatory Standing
- Ensure the broker is registered with entities like the NFA or CFTC in the United States.
By aligning these factors, traders can find the futures broker that matches both their financial capacity and psychological comfort.
8. The Future of Futures Brokers: Where Innovation Meets Integrity
The brokerage industry is evolving rapidly. As AI trading, cloud infrastructure, and blockchain settlement mature, futures brokers are adapting to remain relevant and efficient. The most successful firms blend tradition with technology—offering algorithmic compatibility without sacrificing the human connection that underpins trust.
Key Trends Shaping the Next Generation of Brokers
- Artificial Intelligence Integration: AI-driven analytics for trade recommendations and risk alerts.
- Blockchain Settlement: Enhanced transparency and reduced counterparty risk.
- Cross-Asset Integration: Seamless trading across futures, options, and digital derivatives.
- Personalized Dashboards: Customizable interfaces that adapt to a trader’s habits and goals.
In this landscape, the futures broker is not just a facilitator—it’s a partner in performance. Brokers that combine high-speed infrastructure, data-driven insights, and responsive service will continue to lead the market.
9. Why the Right Futures Broker Makes All the Difference
Every successful trader understands that execution quality, margin management, and platform reliability can make or break profitability. Choosing among the wide array of trading futures brokers is not about finding the cheapest—it’s about finding the most consistent and trustworthy partner.
- Recommending brokers bring expertise and mentorship.
- HNW brokers deliver exclusivity and tailored solutions.
- Order takers prioritize speed and autonomy.
- API-connected brokers fuel the next generation of algorithmic trading.
Whether you’re a retail trader learning the ropes or a high-frequency professional optimizing milliseconds, the right futures broker will align with your style, risk appetite, and long-term objectives.
As Trustpilot’s reviews confirm, the most highly regarded futures brokers are those that blend innovation with integrity—bridging human insight and technological power in equal measure.
In the complex world of futures trading, understanding the different types of futures brokers is essential. From personalized advisory firms and elite wealth-focused operations to execution-only and API-integrated specialists, each category fulfills a vital role in global market participation. The best trading futures brokers are those who not only offer cutting-edge technology but also maintain a steadfast commitment to their clients’ success through responsive service and ethical conduct.
Ultimately, the choice of a futures broker is both strategic and personal. It’s about finding that equilibrium between cost, competence, and care—a balance that empowers traders to navigate the futures markets confidently and profitably.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What does a futures broker do?
A futures broker acts as an intermediary between traders and futures exchanges, executing buy and sell orders for futures contracts. They also manage account margins, provide access to trading platforms, and ensure compliance with exchange regulations. Depending on the type of broker, services can range from simple order execution to full-service recommendations and analysis.
2. What are the main types of futures brokers?
There are several types of futures brokers, including:
- Recommending brokers who offer market advice and strategy guidance.
- High-net-worth (HNW) brokers catering to affluent clients with tailored services.
- Order-taking brokers who execute trades exactly as instructed without offering advice.
- API-connected brokers who provide advanced technology for automated and algorithmic trading.
Each type serves different trader needs, from beginners to professionals.
3. What is the difference between a full-service futures broker and a discount broker?
A full-service futures broker provides comprehensive support—research, recommendations, and personal guidance—while a discount broker focuses on low-cost trade execution and access to online platforms. The right choice depends on your trading experience and whether you prefer independent or guided trading.
4. How do API-connected futures brokers work?
API-connected futures brokers allow traders to integrate automated systems or custom software directly with the broker’s trading network. Through APIs, traders can run algorithms, execute trades automatically, access live market data, and manage risk programmatically. This setup is ideal for quantitative and algorithmic traders who rely on speed, precision, and scalability.
5. Which futures brokers have the best customer service?
According to Trustpilot and other review platforms, some of the best futures brokers for customer service include:
- Cannon Trading Company – praised for its personalized support and professional staff.
- NinjaTrader Brokerage – valued for quick responses and platform reliability.
- AMP Futures – known for helping new traders with efficient communication and technical guidance.
- Interactive Brokers (IBKR) – offering global market access with robust support infrastructure.
These firms stand out for combining technology with responsive, human-centered assistance.
Ready to start trading futures? Call us at 1(800)454-9572 (US) or (310)859-9572 (International), or email info@cannontrading.com to speak with one of our experienced, Series-3 licensed futures brokers and begin your futures trading journey with Cannon Trading Company today.
Disclaimer: Trading Futures, Options on Futures, and retail off-exchange foreign currency transactions involve substantial risk of loss and are not suitable for all investors. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Carefully consider if trading is suitable for you in light of your circumstances, knowledge, and financial resources. You may lose all or more of your initial investment. Opinions, market data, and recommendations are subject to change at any time.
Important: Trading commodity futures and options involves a substantial risk of loss. The recommendations contained in this article are opinions only and do not guarantee any profits. This article is for educational purposes. Past performances are not necessarily indicative of future results.
This article has been generated with the help of AI Technology and modified for accuracy and compliance.
Follow us on all socials: @cannontrading
Government Shutdown drags on as the longest in US History, missing reports, December Heating Oil, Levels; Your 4 Important Need-To-Knows for Trading Futures the week of November 10th, 2025
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Important Notices: The Week Ahead
By John Thorpe, Senior Broker
At-a-Glance Levels
| Instrument | S2 | S1 | Pivot | R1 | R2 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Gold (GC)— Dec (GCZ5) |
3955.23 | 3983.07 | 4009.43 | 4037.27 | 4063.63 | ||
Silver (SI)— Dec (SIZ5) |
47.31 | 47.78 | 48.26 | 48.73 | 49.21 | ||
Crude Oil (CL)— Dec (CLZ5) |
58.72 | 59.27 | 59.86 | 60.41 | 61.00 | ||
Dec. Bonds (ZB)— Dec (ZBZ5) |
116 16/32 | 116 25/32 | 117 4/32 | 117 13/32 | 117 24/32 |
WASDE Monday CXL’D due to Government Shutdown
Without this report, farmers must depend on local elevator bids, private forecasts, and regional university data instead of the usual official numbers. That shift increases market volatility and complicates forward sales, hedging, and crop planning. Traders and risk managers now have to make decisions with incomplete information, which can amplify price swings across commodities like corn, soybeans, and wheat.
Veterans Day Tuesday the 11th
Originally Armistice day following WWI, Veterans Day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have served in the military. It is a day for Americans to express gratitude and respect for the bravery and dedication of veterans across the nation. Because of the ongoing government shutdown, numerous key US economic data releases are unavailable and will not be reported during the week of November 10, 2025. Agencies like the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), and the Census Bureau have suspended their operations. Even if the shutdown ends this weekend.
Potentially Delayed Reports (from shutdown-affected agencies):
- Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Core CPI (November 13): Released by BLS (Department of Labor). This measures inflation and is often delayed during shutdowns.
- Producer Price Index (PPI) and Core PPI (November 14): Also from BLS. Tracks wholesale inflation; commonly postponed.
- Retail Sales (November 15): From the Census Bureau (Department of Commerce). Covers consumer spending data.
- Import and Export Prices (November 15): Jointly from BLS and Census Bureau. Would likely be affected.
- Business Inventories (potentially November 15): From Census Bureau. Often delayed.
Reports Likely Unaffected:
- Federal Reserve Beige Book (if scheduled that week): Issued by the Fed, which operates independently and isn’t impacted by shutdowns.
- Jobless Claims (November 14): From the Department of Labor, but sometimes partially released if essential staff are exempted.
- Any private-sector reports (e.g., from ADP or ISM) or market data not tied to federal agencies.
As for earnings reports? Next week we will see the numbers over 1200 stocks.
What Market has been range bound and now breaking out? The longer the range trade the harder and faster the breakout becomes. Watch the U.S. Dollar as a breakout to the upside has been looming and ready to rock.
Expect continued volatility next week as the markets have not been able to receive Gov’t data due to the ongoing, politician-imposed shutdown. Don’t be fooled, this is about politics NOT Policy.
We’ll see you next week! Please enjoy a safe and memorable weekend.
Earnings Next Week:
- Mon. Quiet
- Tue. Quiet
- Wed. Cisco
- Thu. Baba, Disney, AMAT, Brookfield
- Fri. Quiet
FED SPEECHES: (all times CDT)
- Mon. Quiet
- Tues. Quiet
- Wed. Williams 8:20 am, Paulson 9:00am, Bostic 11:15am
- Thu. Hammack 11:20am
- Fri. Schmid 9:05am, Logan 1:30pm, Bostic 2:20pm
Economic Data week:
- EIA is continuing normal operations and will report Crude oil and Nat Gas numbers. However, due to Veterans Day, Crude will be moved to afternoon Thursday @ 3:30pm CST and Nat gas to Friday Morning @ 9:30am CST.
Trading Challenge! – Simulated Environment, REAL CASH Prizes!
Get ready to put your trading skills to the test! Cannon Trading is proud to be part of the upcoming CME Group Trading Challenge, running November 9–14, 2025, where participants can compete in a risk‑free, simulated futures environment. Each trader starts with a $25,000 virtual account and the chance to trade across a wide range of CME Group products—including equities, energy, metals, FX, interest rates, agriculture, and even cryptocurrency contracts. Along the way, you’ll gain insights from industry veteran Bob Iaccino, access exclusive educational content, and compete for cash prizes of up to $2,500. Enrollment is free, but spots are limited—register today and see how your strategies stack up against fellow traders.
Join the Challenge for Free!
Trading Challenge! – Simulated Environment, REAL CASH Prizes!
Get ready to put your trading skills to the test! Cannon Trading is proud to be part of the upcoming CME Group Trading Challenge, running November 9–14, 2025, where participants can compete in a risk‑free, simulated futures environment.
Each trader starts with a $25,000 virtual account and the chance to trade across a wide range of CME Group products—including equities, energy, metals, FX, interest rates, agriculture, and even cryptocurrency contracts.
Along the way, you’ll gain insights from industry veteran Bob Iaccino, access exclusive educational content, and compete for cash prizes of up to $2,500. Enrollment is free, but spots are limited—register today and see how your strategies stack up against fellow traders.
Join the Challenge for Free!
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Time Average Bands vs. Bollinger Bands, December Natural Gas, NEW WEBINAR NEXT WEEK, Levels, Reports; Your 5 Vital Need-To-Knows For Trading Futures on November 7th, 2025
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At-a-Glance Levels
| Instrument | S2 | S1 | Pivot | R1 | R2 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Gold (GC)— Dec (GCZ5) |
3941.53 | 3965.37 | 3997.03 | 4020.87 | 4052.53 | ||
Silver (SI)— Dec (SIZ5) |
46.76 | 47.31 | 47.96 | 48.52 | 49.17 | ||
Crude Oil (CL)— Dec (CLZ5) |
57.95 | 58.76 | 59.63 | 60.44 | 61.31 | ||
Dec. Bonds (ZB)— Dec (ZBZ5) |
115 31/32 | 116 20/32 | 117 1/32 | 117 22/32 | 118 3/32 |
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