Corn, Soybean, Copper, Crude Oil; Your 4 Important Need-To-Knows for Trading Futures on July 31st, 2025

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Corn

Bullet Points, Highlights, Announcements

By Mark O’ Brien, Senior Broker

corn

General:

The Federal Reserve held rates steady for a fifth straight meeting today but faced rare dissents from two officials seeking an immediate cut. Officials maintained their benchmark policy rate in a range between 4.25% and 4.5%. Dissent came from two Fed governors and marks the first meeting since 2020 in which more than one Fed official voted differently than chair Powell, and the first since 1993 in which more than one board governor dissented.

Grains: Soybean, Corn

Chicago Board of Trade soybean futures fell for the fourth consecutive session today, dragged down by favorable weather across the U.S. Midwest and sluggish export demand, analysts said. Weighing on prices were forecasts for cooler temperatures and periodic rainfall in the U.S. Midwest, bolstering expectations for big U.S. soy and corn harvests. Prior to tomorrow’s First Notice Day for the contract, August futures touched $9.77 3/4 per bushel, its lowest price of the year. Sept. corn futures matched yesterday’s intraday low of $3.87 3/4 per bushel, nearly a 2-year low.

Energy: Crude Oil

Crude futures rose for the third day, buoyed by concerns U.S. sanctions could reduce flows of Russian crude, optimism over trade deals such as those with the EU and Japan.

Focus ahead will be on the weekend meeting where OPEC+ will determine September output levels. The September West Texas futures contract on the NYMEX traded above $70/barrel for the first time since June 23, a ±$5.00/barrel in three trading sessions, equal to a $5,000 per contract move.

Metals: Copper

Last week, copper futures hit a new record high with the front month September contract trading to $5.9585/lb. Today, U.S. President Donald Trump signed a proclamation ordering 50% tariffs on certain copper imports, citing national security. However, the levies applied only to semi-finished products, such as copper pipes and wires and so-called derivate products such as pipe fittings and cables. It excluded refined materials such as copper ores and concentrates. Reacting to the anticipated limited impact on the base metal, September copper futures plunged over $1.20/lb. to below $4.60/lb. – a ±19% drubbing and a ±$30,000 per contract move for the contract, the largest single-day decline since 1989.

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December Corn

December Corn is testing support against the contract low and key reversal. If violated, new sustained lows would project a potential slide to the third PriceCount objective to the $3.88 area.

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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 www.qtchartoftheday.com

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.

Daily Levels for July 31st, 2025

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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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December Bean Oil, Levels, Reports; Your 3 Crucial Need-To-Knows for Trading Futures on July 29th, 2025

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 Plan your trade, trade your plan and have a great trading week!
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December Bean Oil

The Sept – Dec bean oil spread satisfied its first upside PriceCount objective, consistent with a test of the April highs. It would be normal to get a near team reaction from this level in the form of a consolidation or corrective trade. From here, IF the chart can sustain further gains, the second count would project a possible run to the .60 area.

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Daily Levels for July 29th, 2025

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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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Risk Management, Trading Psychology, Levels, Reports; Your 4 Expert Need-To-Knows for Trading Futures on July 25th, 2025

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Trading Futures – Risk Management & Trading Psychology

By John Thorpe, Senior Broker

Risk management and trading psychology are two critical aspects of success in the futures and commodities markets. Effective risk management strategies and a solid understanding of trading psychology are essential for traders to navigate the complexities of these markets and achieve long-term profitability. In this comprehensive discussion, we will delve into risk management techniques such as stop-loss orders, position sizing, diversification, and hedging strategies. Additionally, we will explore the psychological aspects of trading, including managing emotions, discipline, patience, and mental resilience.
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risk

Risk Management Strategies

Stop-Loss Orders

Stop-loss orders are one of the most widely used risk management tools in futures trading. A stop-loss order is an order placed with a broker to buy or sell a futures contract once the price reaches a specified level, known as the stop price. The purpose of a stop-loss order is to limit potential losses by automatically closing out a position if the market moves against the trader beyond a certain point.

For a theoretical example, if a trader buys a crude oil futures contract at $60 per barrel, they may set a stop-loss order at $55 per barrel. If the price of crude oil drops to $55, the stop-loss order will trigger, and the trader’s position will be automatically liquidated, limiting their loss to $5 per barrel.

Position Sizing

Position sizing refers to the process of determining the appropriate size of a futures position based on factors such as risk tolerance, account size, and market conditions. Proper position sizing is crucial for managing risk and avoiding overexposure to the market.

Traders often use a percentage-based approach to position sizing, where they risk a certain percentage of their account equity on each trade. For example, a trader may decide to risk 2% of their account equity on any single trade. If they have a $50,000 trading account, they would risk $1,000 on a trade, adjusting the position size based on the distance between the entry price and the stop-loss level.

Diversification

Diversification involves spreading risk across different asset classes, markets, or instruments to reduce overall portfolio risk. In futures trading, diversification can be achieved by trading multiple contracts across various sectors, such as energy, agriculture, metals, and financials.

By diversifying their trading portfolio, traders can potentially offset losses in one market with gains in another, reducing the impact of adverse price movements on their overall profitability. However, it’s essential to note that diversification does not eliminate risk entirely but rather helps manage and spread it.

Hedging Strategies

Hedging is a risk management technique used to protect against adverse price movements in the market. Futures traders often use hedging strategies to offset the risk of their primary positions or to hedge against external factors such as currency fluctuations or geopolitical events.

Common hedging strategies in futures trading include:

  • Short Hedging: Selling futures contracts to offset the risk of a long position in the underlying asset. For example, a farmer may sell corn futures to hedge against price declines in the physical corn they produce.
  • Long Hedging: Buying futures contracts to offset the risk of a short position in the underlying asset. For instance, an airline company may buy crude oil futures to hedge against rising fuel prices.

Trading Psychology

Managing Emotions

Emotions play a significant role in trading decisions, often leading to impulsive actions and irrational behavior. Effective traders learn to manage their emotions, including fear, greed, and euphoria, to make objective and rational trading decisions.

Managing emotions involves:

  • Developing a trading plan with predefined entry and exit criteria.
  • Sticking to the plan and avoiding emotional reactions to market fluctuations.
  • Practicing mindfulness and emotional awareness to identify and control emotional triggers.

Discipline

Discipline is crucial for success in futures trading. It involves following a consistent trading strategy, adhering to risk management rules, and maintaining a structured approach to trading.

Key aspects of discipline include:

  • Following trading rules and strategies without deviation.
  • Avoiding impulsive trades or revenge trading after losses.
  • Accepting losses as part of trading and learning from mistakes.

Patience

Patience is a virtue in futures trading, especially when waiting for favorable trading opportunities and allowing trades to develop according to the plan. Impatience can lead to premature entries or exits, increasing the risk of losses.

Practicing patience involves:

  • Waiting for confirmation signals and setups before entering trades.
  • Avoiding overtrading and chasing the market.
  • Allowing trades sufficient time to reach their targets or stop-loss levels.

Mental Resilience

Mental resilience is the ability to bounce back from losses, setbacks, and challenges in trading. It involves maintaining a positive mindset, learning from failures, and staying focused on long-term goals.

Building mental resilience includes:

  • Developing a growth mindset and embracing failures as learning opportunities.
  • Staying adaptable and flexible in response to changing market conditions.
  • Seeking support from mentors, peers, or trading communities during challenging times.

Risk management strategies and trading psychology are integral components of successful futures trading. Traders must implement effective risk management techniques such as stop-loss orders, position sizing, diversification, and hedging to protect their capital and manage market risk. Additionally, understanding and mastering trading psychology, including managing emotions, discipline, patience, and mental resilience, are crucial for making rational decisions and maintaining consistent profitability in the dynamic and competitive futures and commodities markets. By combining robust risk management practices with a disciplined and resilient trading mindset, traders can enhance their trading performance and achieve their financial goals.

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October Hogs

October hogs recently satisfied the second downside PriceCount objective and corrected higher. A further recovery above the July reactionary high would formally negate the remaining unmet downside counts.

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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 www.qtchartoftheday.com

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.

Daily Levels for July 25th, 2025

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Want to feature our updated trading levels on your website? Simply paste a small code, and they’ll update automatically every day! 

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Economic Reports

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All times are Eastern Time ( New York)

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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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E-Mini, September Yen, Natural Gas, Levels, Reports; Your 5 Important Need-To-Knows for Trading Futures on July 24th, 2025

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Bullet Points, Highlights, Announcements

By Mark O’ Brien, Senior Broker

e-mini

Stock Indexes:

E-Mini

Stock index futures climbed today on the heels of news the U.S. struck a trade deal with Japan. The September E-mini Dow Jones contract rose more than 450 points, a ±$2,250-per contract move (>1%) and nearing its first record close of 2025. The E-mini S&P 500 moved up ±45 points, also a ±$2,250-point move and the E-mini Nasdaq rose ±60 points, both once again pacing for record closes.

Futures are readying for a big test in Google-parent Alphabet and Tesla’s earnings due after the bell, the first of the “Magnificent Seven” to report.

Energy:

Natural Gas

With elevated supply overshadowing demand, August natural gas futures floundered through midday today trading lower for a third consecutive session this week to an intraday low of $3.061, nearing an 8-month low of $2.974 posted intraday on Nov.4, 2024. The contract has made a ±$20,000 move down after trading briefly above $5.000 in early March.

Metals:

Gold

While gold futures are up around 30% so far this year (credit the global trade war, geopolitical risks and central bank buying as key drivers for the precious metals’ rally, that same trade deal saw Dec. Gold register a ±$45 per ounce loss today and once again trading back near $3,400 per ounce.

Copper futures hit a new record today as the U.S. market continues to brace itself for a 50% tariff next month. The most active September contracts on the CME soared as much to $5.930 per lb., a new all-time intraday high.

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September Japanese Yen

September Yen satisfied its second downside PriceCount recently and is correcting higher. IF the chart can resume its slide with new sustained lows, the third count would project a possible run to the 6528 area.

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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 www.qtchartoftheday.com

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.

Daily Levels for July 24th, 2025

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Want to feature our updated trading levels on your website? Simply paste a small code, and they’ll update automatically every day! Click here for quick and easy instructions.

Economic Reports

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All times are Eastern Time ( New York)

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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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Trade and Risk Management, September OJ, Levels, Reports; Your 4 Inspiring Need-To-Knows for Trading Futures on July 23rd, 2025

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Risk Management

By Ilan Levy-Mayer, VP

risk management

Trade and Risk Management

Course Overview 14 minutes

“If you have an approach that makes money, then money management can make the difference between success and failure…I try to be conservative in my risk management. I want to make sure I’ll be around to play tomorrow. Risk control is essential.” – Monroe Trout, Trout Trading

START the FREE Course

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September OJ

September Orange Juice is breaking out of a multi month range trade and is activating upside PriceCounts in the process. The first possible price objective is in the 400 area.

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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 www.qtchartoftheday.com

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.

Daily Levels for July 23rd, 2025

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Want to feature our updated trading levels on your website? Simply paste a small code, and they’ll update automatically every day! Click here for quick and easy instructions.

Economic Reports

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All times are Eastern Time ( New York)

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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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Summer Trading, E-Mini S&P 500, December Meal V. Corn Spread, Levels, Reports; Your 5 Important Need-To-Knows for Trading Futures on July 22nd, 2025

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Summer Trading

By Ilan Levy-Mayer, VP

summer

Summer Trading at the Halfway Point

Today’s E-mini S&P 500 (ES) futures volume clocked in at just 874,000 contracts—a level we haven’t seen in months. Summer trading often brings thinner liquidity and choppier price action, so adapting your strategy is key.

To capture steadier intraday moves, diversify into other high-liquidity markets like gold futures, crude oil, and 30-year Treasury bond futures, where volume and volatility tend to hold up better in the off-season.

Also, swapping out time-based bars for range bars or volume bars will filter out noise and highlight true buying and selling pressure, giving you cleaner signals for entries, stops, and exits.

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December Meal vs. Corn Spread – in cents/lb

The Dec Meal vs. Corn protein spread satisfied its second downside PriceCount objective to the 6.48 and is correcting higher. At this point, IF the chart can resume its break with new sustained lows, the third count would project a possible drop to the 5.05 area. While this spread is historically narrow already, a 5 cent spread is not unprecedented; we have traded at sub 3 cents in the past.

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Daily Levels for July 22nd, 2025

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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 www.qtchartoftheday.com

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.

Want to feature our updated trading levels on your website? Simply paste a small code, and they’ll update automatically every day! 

Click here for quick and easy instructions.

Economic Reports

provided by: ForexFactory.com

All times are Eastern Time ( New York)

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Find us on Trustpilot

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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.

Join our Private Facebook group

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

Listen to our podcast: Subscribe on AppleSpotify, Amazon

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Market Updates, Fed Speakers, Trillions in Earnings, Levels, Reports; Your 5 Important Need-To-Knows for Trading Futures the Week of July 21st, 2025

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Cannon Futures Weekly Letter

In Today’s Issue #1250

  • The Week Ahead – Trillion $ Earnings, Fed Speakers & More!

  • Futures 101 – Basics in Futures Trading

  • Hot Market of the Week – October Sugar

  • Broker’s Trading System of the Week – Gold Swing Trading System

  • Trading Levels for Next Week

  • Trading Reports for Next Week

Important Notices: The Week Ahead

By John Thorpe, Senior Broker

market

The Week Ahead,

The First Trillion-dollar market cap companies to report Q2 earnings, Google and Tesla.

The final Fed Speakers before the 8-day blackout will be Chair Powell and on Tuesday

Subdued Volatility, from the geopolitical front for the moment as tensions between Iran/Israel have relaxed in the near term. Of note, an Iranian proxy, Hamas spokesman willing to release all hostages to end the war. So far, the oil market has only moderately been affected by the Russia/Ukraine conflict.

Tariff impacts are creating volatility in commodity markets (industrial metals, Orange Juice, Coffee, Grains) look for news about China, Canada and Mexico Tariffs in the next 13 days to impact equity, bond and commodity prices.

Remember that current market drivers for Equities are hard data on Jobs, Inflation, Trump tweets and Geopolitics, clearly the Israel/Iran conflict jumps to the top of the list here. Watch for the gold market to maintain its rangebound stance.

Continued volatility to come as next week all markets will be reacting to whatever comes out of Big Earnings, Fed Speak and U.S. Govt leadership relating to conflicts cessation and trade deals.

Earnings Next Week:

  • Mon. Quiet
  • Tue. Coca-Cola, Phillip Morris, Lockheed Martin
  • Wed. Google, Tesla, IBM, CME group
  • Thu. Blackstone, Intel
  • Fri.   Quiet

FED SPEECHES: (all times CDT)

  • Mon.   Quiet
  • Tues.  7:30 am CT Fed Chair Powell, Noon CT, Vice Fed Chair for Supervision Bowman
  • Wed.  8 Day Blackout period begins for the July 30th Rate decision
  • Thu.   Quiet
  • Fri.     Quiet

Economic Data week:

  • Mon.  CB Leading Index
  • Tue.    Redbook, Richmond Fed
  • Wed. Existing Home Sales, EIA Crude Stocks, Beige book
  • Thur.  Chgo. Fed Activity Index, Bldg. Permits, Jobless claims, PMI, New Home Sales, EIA NAT       GAS Storage, K. City Fed Activity index
  • Fri.  Durable Goods
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First Steps in Trading Futures Market Basics

  1. Patience for a real clear situation.
  2. Trends and sound fundamentals are almost perfect market tone.
  3. Calculate risk reward: at least a 1 to 3 ratio.
  4. Place stops beyond some technical barrier, a hard-to-reach spot.

Read Report Now  

Hot Market of the Week

Hot market of the week is provided by QT Market Center, A Swiss army knife charting package that’s not just for Hedgers, Cooperatives and Farmers alike but also for Spread traders, Swing traders and shorter time frame application for intraday traders with a unique proprietary indicator that can be applied to your specific trading needs.

Free Trial Available

October Sugar

October Sugar came close enough to completing third wave PriceCount objective of 15.12 and reversed higher. Now the chart has activated upside PriceCounts as seen below with 17.19 being first objective.

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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 www.qtchartoftheday.com

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.

Brokers Trading System of the Week

Intr. Swing71_Full v.2.3 _ Gold GC

Markets Traded:   Gold Futures GC

System Type: Swing Trading

Risk per Trade: varies

Trading Rules: Partially Disclosed

Suggested Capital: $45,000

Developer Fee per contract: $160 Monthly Subscription

 

Get Started

Learn More

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Disclaimer

The risk of trading can be substantial, and each investor and/or trader must consider whether this is a suitable investment. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results.

IMPORTANT RISK DISCLOSURE

Futures trading is complex and carries the risk of substantial losses. It is not suitable for all investors. The ability to withstand losses and to adhere to a particular trading program in spite of trading losses are material points which can adversely affect investor returns.

The returns for trading systems listed throughout this website are hypothetical in that they represent returns in a model account. The model account rises or falls by the average single contract profit and loss achieved by clients trading actual money pursuant to the listed system’s trading signals on the appropriate dates (client fills), or if no actual client profit or loss available – by the hypothetical single contract profit and loss of trades generated by the system’s trading signals on that day in real time (real-time) less slippage, or if no real time profit or loss available – by the hypothetical single contract profit and loss of trades generated by running the system logic backwards on backadjusted data (backadjusted).

Please read carefully the CFTC required disclaimer regarding hypothetical results below. HYPOTHETICAL PERFORMANCE RESULTS HAVE MANY INHERENT LIMITATIONS, SOME OF WHICH ARE DESCRIBED BELOW. NO REPRESENTATION IS BEING MADE THAT ANY ACCOUNT WILL OR IS LIKELY TO ACHIEVE PROFITS OR LOSSES SIMILAR TO THOSE SHOWN; IN FACT, THERE ARE FREQUENTLY SHARP DIFFERENCES BETWEEN HYPOTHETICAL PERFORMANCE RESULTS AND THE ACTUAL RESULTS SUBSEQUENTLY ACHIEVED BY ANY PARTICULAR TRADING PROGRAM. ONE OF THE LIMITATIONS OF HYPOTHETICAL PERFORMANCE RESULTS IS THAT THEY ARE GENERALLY PREPARED WITH THE BENEFIT OF HINDSIGHT.

IN ADDITION, HYPOTHETICAL TRADING DOES NOT INVOLVE FINANCIAL RISK, AND NO HYPOTHETICAL TRADING RECORD CAN COMPLETELY ACCOUNT FOR THE IMPACT OF FINANCIAL RISK OF ACTUAL TRADING. FOR EXAMPLE, THE ABILITY TO WITHSTAND LOSSES OR TO ADHERE TO A PARTICULAR TRADING PROGRAM IN SPITE OF TRADING LOSSES ARE MATERIAL POINTS WHICH CAN ALSO ADVERSELY AFFECT ACTUAL TRADING RESULTS.

THERE ARE NUMEROUS OTHER FACTORS RELATED TO THE MARKETS IN GENERAL OR TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF ANY SPECIFIC TRADING PROGRAM WHICH CANNOT BE FULLY ACCOUNTED FOR IN THE PREPARATION OF HYPOTHETICAL PERFORMANCE RESULTS AND ALL WHICH CAN ADVERSELY AFFECT ACTUAL TRADING RESULTS.

Please read full disclaimer HERE.

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Trading Levels for Next Week

Daily Levels for July 21st, 2025

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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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Volume Bars, October Sugar, Levels, Reports; Your Important Need-To-Knows for Trading Futures on July 18th, 2025

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Volume Bars

By Ilan Levy-Mayer, VP

Why Volume Bar Charts May Outperform Time Charts for Day Trading

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Watch the video below where I share how to change the chart on CannonX premium, free platform from minute bars to volume bars.

Volume bar charts build each bar only when a set volume threshold is reached, rather than at fixed time intervals. That means every bar represents the same amount of market activity, delivering a consistent information payload. In contrast, time bars can leave you staring at flat midday bars with almost no trades or scrambling to interpret massive open‐and‐close bars where price jumps unpredictably.

Volume bars dynamically concentrate detail where it matters most—during the busiest, most liquid stretches—so you see true market rhythm instead of arbitrary snapshots.

  • Improved signal-to-noise ratio: Bars only form during active trading, filtering out the noise of thin, low-volume periods.
  • Consistent bar “weight”: Each bar tells you the same story in terms of traded contracts, making patterns and breakouts more reliable.
  • Enhanced entry/exit precision: You can pinpoint where real buying or selling pressure built up, rather than guessing from smoothed-over time bars.
  • Better trend recognition: High-volume clusters reveal where institutional players are stepping in, helping you align with momentum.

Volume bars give day traders a clearer, data-driven view of market flow. By equalizing the information in each bar, they help you avoid false moves in low-liquidity windows and zoom in on the moments that actually moved the needle. When every bar equals the same workhorse of volume, your entries, stops, and targets rest on firmer ground—and your edge sharpens.

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October Sugar

October Sugar came close enough to completing third wave PriceCount objective of 15.12 and reversed higher. Now the chart has activated upside PriceCounts as seen below with 17.19 being first objective.

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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 www.qtchartoftheday.com

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.

Daily Levels for July 18th, 2025

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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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Book Map Trading

Book Map trading has revolutionized how traders visualize market data and execute trades in real time. As the financial markets continue evolving, advanced tools like Book Map—also stylized as Bookmap—have become indispensable. Designed for high-performance futures trading, Book Map is more than just a charting tool. It presents an intricate, live display of order flow, heat maps, liquidity zones, and market depth, enabling professional and novice traders alike to make better-informed decisions.

This detailed article explores how the Book Map futures trading platform serves both traders and brokers. We’ll delve into how brokers can guide responsible trade execution, the platform’s unique features, and why Cannon Trading Company stands out as a premier brokerage partner—recognized as one of the best futures brokers with numerous five-star TrustPilot reviews.

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Part I: How Book Map Trading Empowers Traders

Real-Time Order Flow Visualization

One of the standout features of Book Map trading is its ultra-real-time data visualization. Unlike traditional candlestick charts or DOM (Depth of Market) ladders, Book Map gives traders an interactive heat map that represents historical and live liquidity. This allows traders to view the evolution of limit orders over time, helping them anticipate potential reversals or breakouts.

This deep insight into the order book is critical for futures trading, where split-second decisions can define success or failure. With Book Map, traders can read the “pulse” of the market, watching as large buy or sell walls emerge and dissolve, offering a strategic edge in fast-paced trading environments.

Increased Confidence in Execution

Book Map’s visual clarity gives traders enhanced confidence when executing trades. By seeing where major liquidity pools exist and how they behave around key price levels, traders gain insight that traditional tools cannot provide. This edge is particularly crucial for short-term futures contract trading and scalping strategies, where microstructure analysis is essential.

Book Map trading enables users to “see the unseen” by exposing hidden liquidity and spoofing behavior. These insights are invaluable for avoiding false breakouts and making high-probability entries and exits.

A Platform Built for All Skill Levels

Whether you’re new to trading futures or a seasoned algorithmic trader, Book Map accommodates various experience levels. Beginners appreciate the intuitive interface and tutorials, while experienced traders benefit from add-ons like imbalance indicators, volume dots, and the ability to overlay custom algorithms.

The platform’s extensive customization also allows for plug-ins and third-party integrations, making it ideal for developing, testing, and deploying advanced trading strategies. It has become a vital component in the trading toolkit for anyone serious about mastering futures contract trading.

Part II: How Book Map Serves Brokers and Their Clients

Enhanced Client Support Tools

Brokers play a crucial role in helping their clients trade responsibly on Book Map. Through broker-admin dashboards, they can monitor activity, set custom limits, and review trading patterns. This oversight ensures that clients adhere to sound risk management principles, particularly in volatile futures markets.

Many brokers integrate Book Map’s backend analytics to offer proactive support, helping clients avoid overleveraging and impulsive behavior. Features like trade history analysis, session summaries, and daily P&L reviews help brokers maintain transparent and supportive relationships with their clients.

Education and Onboarding Assistance

Brokers often serve as the first point of contact for traders entering the world of Book Map trading. The best futures brokers invest heavily in education—offering webinars, platform walkthroughs, and personalized training sessions.

This educational support helps traders understand how to interpret Book Map’s unique visuals, such as volume dots, heat maps, and iceberg orders. A well-trained trader is a more confident and responsible trader, making it a win-win for both brokers and clients.

Encouraging Risk Management

Responsible trading is built on robust risk management, and brokers can use Book Map to reinforce this. For example, brokers may set predefined trading limits based on client experience and capital or guide traders on how to use Book Map’s volume-based stop-loss and take-profit indicators.

Furthermore, tools like cumulative volume delta and order imbalance detectors assist traders in making rational, data-backed decisions instead of emotional trades. Brokers who actively promote these features help reduce client risk and protect their own reputations as responsible partners in the futures trading ecosystem.

Part III: Unique Features That Set Book Map Apart

Heat Map Visualization of Liquidity

The heat map is arguably Book Map’s crown jewel. It color-codes price levels based on the intensity of limit orders, allowing traders to see where market participants are placing their bets. This level of transparency is unparalleled among futures trading platforms.

This feature turns the invisible into visible—traders can see where support or resistance is likely to form before the price even reacts. No other platform provides this granular level of insight into market microstructure, especially in the context of trading futures.

Volume Dots and Order Book Imbalance

Book Map visualizes each trade with color-coded volume dots that reflect aggressiveness and size. This real-time insight into order flow helps traders detect momentum shifts, buyer/seller exhaustion, and potential reversals.

In addition, Book Map calculates order book imbalance—showing whether buyers or sellers dominate a particular price level. These cues are essential for making precise entries and exits during futures contract trading.

High-Speed Data Processing and API Integration

Book Map supports ultra-low latency data feeds from top data providers, ensuring lightning-fast updates. For algorithmic and high-frequency traders, this speed is non-negotiable.

Book Map also features an open API, enabling tech-savvy traders to create custom indicators, trading bots, or plug-ins. This flexibility makes Book Map not just a trading platform, but an innovation hub for the futures trading community.

Replay Mode for Trade Review

Unlike many platforms that simply log trades, Book Map lets users replay entire market sessions tick by tick. This is invaluable for both self-review and broker-client coaching sessions. By walking through trades in replay mode, traders can better understand what went right—or wrong—and refine their strategies accordingly.

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Part IV: Why Cannon Trading Company is a Great Futures Broker for Book Map Users

Book Map Trading

Book Map Trading

A Legacy of Excellence in Futures Trading

Cannon Trading Company is no newcomer to the scene. With over 35 years of experience in the futures industry, the firm has cultivated a stellar reputation as a top-tier brokerage. This longevity translates to deep industry knowledge, client trust, and a rich understanding of market dynamics—making Cannon a beacon for traders seeking reliability and innovation.

Top Ratings on TrustPilot

Book Map Trading

Cannon Trading’s track record is reflected in its numerous 5 out of 5-star ratings on TrustPilot, a platform known for honest and rigorous customer feedback. As one of the best futures brokers TrustPilot has consistently praised, Cannon stands out not just for performance, but for transparency and customer service.

These reviews highlight the firm’s dedication to client satisfaction, timely support, platform education, and above all, trustworthiness. In an industry where credibility is everything, Cannon Trading’s TrustPilot reputation is a badge of honor.

Regulatory Integrity and Compliance

Cannon Trading Company maintains a spotless record with both federal regulators and independent futures industry organizations. The firm complies with all CFTC (Commodity Futures Trading Commission) and NFA (National Futures Association) regulations, ensuring that its clients operate within a safe and legal framework.

This compliance framework offers peace of mind to traders and reassures them that they are partnering with a brokerage that values ethics, transparency, and responsibility.

A Broker for All Skill Levels

Whether you’re just starting with Book Map or you’re a seasoned futures trader, Cannon Trading Company offers tailored services that meet you where you are. The firm provides multiple account types, dedicated account managers, and access to a wide selection of futures trading platforms—making it easy to find a perfect fit.

Their educational offerings include platform training, futures market analysis, daily trade ideas, and access to webinars hosted by industry veterans. Such extensive support ensures that every client, regardless of skill level, can thrive in the dynamic world of futures contract trading.

Book Map and Cannon: A Powerful Combination

When you combine Book Map’s cutting-edge technology with Cannon Trading’s brokerage expertise, you get a powerful trading solution. Cannon offers seamless integration with the Book Map trading platform, including data feed compatibility, platform configuration support, and custom onboarding assistance.

This synergy between platform and broker enhances execution quality, risk management, and ultimately, profitability. It’s why so many traders consider Cannon Trading not just a broker, but a long-term trading partner.

Book Map trading represents the cutting edge of data-driven futures trading. Its ability to visualize order flow, track liquidity in real time, and empower traders with actionable insights sets it apart from conventional platforms. But the platform’s potential is only fully realized when paired with the right brokerage.

Cannon Trading Company, recognized as one of the best futures brokers with top TrustPilot ratings, a strong regulatory record, and unmatched experience, is uniquely positioned to help traders maximize the benefits of Book Map. From onboarding and education to trade execution and support, Cannon delivers value at every stage of the trading journey.

In an era of increasingly complex financial markets, tools like Book Map and firms like Cannon Trading ensure that traders don’t just survive—they thrive.

Try a FREE Demo!

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.

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Crypto, Metals, September Crude Oil; Your 3 Important Need-To-Knows for Trading Futures on July 17th, 2025

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Crypto, Metals

Trump Vs. Powell Moving the Markets

By Mark O’Brien, Senior Broker

General:

crypto

As the saying goes, “You can’t fight fundamentals.” It’s the idea that even if technical analysis suggests one thing, fundamentals will override the direction of an asset’s movement. There are numerous fundamentals traders keep an eye on, like economic indicators, weather, supply and demand dynamics, the seemingly endless news and information.

One fundamental indicator taking a front seat lately is almost any time U.S. president Trump steps up to a microphone and answers questions from members of the press, particularly on the subjects of the economy, tariffs, trade agreements with other countries and the like. Possibly more than any president in recent memory, the current one has put forth statements that markets have reacted to with outsized price moves. This is not likely to change anytime soon, so day traders be on the look-out for presidential press conferences and be prepared.

Metals:

Case in point from above: August gold futures thrust up ±$50 per ounce to a $3,385.80/oz. high intraday reacting to the latest case of President Trump raising the prospect of removing Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell from office. Today the president suggested he could attempt to remove Powell “for cause,” arguing the central bank spent too much money on renovations of two historic office buildings.

Back story: The Fed board approved the construction project in 2017, and the latest renovations began three years ago. The project has faced cost overruns in part because of unforeseen construction conditions including more asbestos than anticipated, toxic contamination in the soil and a higher-than-expected water table.

Economists and financial analysts have warned that a central bank that is more responsive to short-term political demands than long-term economic stability could over time lead to significant capital flight and periods of greater economic or financial instability.

Crypto:

A series of debates starting Monday in the U.S. House of Representatives, deemed “crypto week,” caused Bitcoin futures to surge to a new all-time intraday high Monday, to $123,610, capping a nearly 15% surge over the past month.

The debates are looking at crypto-friendly legislation making its way through Congress that could ease regulatory complexity long viewed as an impediment for the industry.

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September Crude Oil

September crude oil completed its second upside PriceCount objective last month and corrected lower. At this point, IF the chart can resume its rally with new sustained highs, the third count would project a potential run to the 84.43 area.

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Daily Levels for July 17th, 2025

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Economic Reports

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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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