FOMC Day Ahead: Key Things Futures Traders Should Watch

Tomorrow’s spotlight is on the 2:00 PM ET FOMC rate decision and 2:30 PM ET Fed press conference. Markets currently expect the Fed to leave rates unchanged, with futures pricing implying roughly a 93% probability of no rate change.

For traders in ES/MES, NQ/MNQ, CL/MCL, GC/MGC, and Treasury futures, expect heightened volatility throughout the afternoon.

Markets Heading Into the Announcement

• S&P 500 and Nasdaq futures remain in strong longer-term uptrends.
• Gold continues to hold a bullish longer-term trend.
• Crude Oil traders will also be watching the 10:30 AM ET inventory report.
• Treasury futures could see sharp moves depending on the Fed’s tone regarding future rate cuts.

FOMC Trading Tips

1. ✅ Trade smaller size than normal.
2. ✅ Focus only on high-probability setups.
3. ✅ Expect wider swings, increased volatility, and possible false breakouts.
4. ✅ Watch major support and resistance levels from daily and weekly charts.
5. ✅ Use protective stops and profit targets whenever possible.
6. ✅ Avoid chasing the first move after the announcement.
7. ✅ Pay attention to the market’s reaction, not just the headline.
8. ✅ Remember that sometimes the best trade is no trade at all.

Important Reminder

Markets often become choppy and directionless before the announcement as participants wait for news. The biggest opportunities frequently come after the market has had time to digest the statement and press conference comments.

Bottom Line: Tomorrow is likely to be a risk-management day first and a trading day second. Stay patient, stay disciplined, and protect capital while navigating what could be one of the week’s most volatile sessions.

December Natural Gas

December Natural Gas is extending its slide into new lows where the chart is approaching its third downside PriceCount objective to the 2.88 area. It would be normal for the chart to get a near term reaction from this level in the form of a consolidation or corrective trade, at least. The low percentage fourth count to .54 is not shown because it is not viewed as a realistic target price.

The PriceCount study is a tool that can help to project the distance of a move in price. The counts are not intended to be an ‘exact’ science but rather offer a target area for the four objectives which are based off the first leg of a move with each subsequent count having a smaller percentage of being achieved.

It is normal for the chart to react by correcting or consolidating at an objective and then either resuming its move or reversing trend. Best utilized in conjunction with other technical tools, PriceCounts offer one more way to analyze charts and help to manage your positions and risk.

Learn more at https://www.qtinfo.com/analysis/qt-chart-of-the-day/

Trading in futures, options, securities, derivatives or OTC products entails significant risks which must be understood prior to trading and may not be appropriate for all investors. Past performance of actual trades or strategies is not necessarily indicative of future results.

Cannon Edge — Your Daily Futures Snapshot for Oct. 28th

Cannon Edge is our new daily feature designed to give traders a fast, actionable overview of key futures markets. Each post delivers:

·    Current price and daily % change

·    30‑day and 52‑week highs/lows

·    PROPRIETARY Short‑term and long‑term trend signals

·    Coverage across equity indices, metals, energies, currencies, and ags

Whether you’re scanning for breakout setups, trend reversals, or just staying informed — Cannon Edge puts the data in your hands before the open.

Built for speed. Backed by insight. Powered by CQG.

Daily Levels for October 28th, 2026

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All times are Central Time ( Chicago)

Trading Futures, Options on Futures, and retail off-exchange foreign currency transactions involves substantial risk of loss and is not suitable for all investors. You should carefully consider whether 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.

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