Dollar Index Eyes 105.47 as Economic and Geopolitical Risks Mount

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dollar index

Movers & Shakers by John Thorpe, Senior Broker

Dollar Index Eyes 105.47

Movers and Shakers : QUIET Econ data and fed speak tomorrow

Market volatility is here to stay for the foreseeable future

Choose your opportunities wisely.

Updated: February 18, 2025 2:01 pm

Russia – Ukraine War Update

–Ukraine’s military said Russia launched a barrage of 147 attack drones against Ukraine overnight. Out of this, the Ukrainian Air Force reported shooting down 83, while 59 did not reach their targets. Several storage facilities and private residences were reported damaged.

–The Caspian Pipeline Consortium said that Ukrainian drones hit one of its major oil pipelines in southern Russia’s Kropotkinskaya pumping station in the Krasnodar region, affecting supply from neighbouring Kazakhstan.

–Ukraine’s Security Service claimed responsibility for the attack on the oil pipeline and said that Moscow’s Ilsky oil refinery in Krasnodar was also hit, with at least 20 explosions heard in the area.

–Russia’s Defence Ministry said its forces captured the settlement of Fyholivka in eastern Ukraine’s Kharkiv region. A second announcement later said that the village of Sverdlikovo in Russia’s Kursk region was taken back from Ukraine’s forces.

–US Secretary of State Marco Rubio travelled to Saudi Arabia in advance of planned peace talks between United States and Russian officials over the war in Ukraine.

–Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Russia would be represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and foreign policy director Yuri Ushakov at the meetings with the US in Riyadh.

–Peskov also said that Russian officials would talk with US counterparts about restoring ties, negotiating a peaceful settlement to the war in Ukraine and preparing a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump.

 

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–The Kremlin said any plans to deploy European peacekeeping troops after Kyiv and Moscow strike a peace deal would make the matter complex.

–French President Emmanuel Macron hosted an emergency meeting with leaders from key European Union nations at the Elysee Palace in Paris to discuss the EU’s reaction to Washington’s peace talks with Moscow.

–Hungary’s Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto told a media briefing that the Paris meeting, to discuss the US’s policy shift towards Moscow in its war on Ukraine, would be an attempt to prevent peace. -unlike them, we support Donald Trump’s ambitions; unlike them, we support the US-Russian negotiations; unlike them, we want peace in Ukraine,- Szijjarto said.

–Russia’s Lavrov asked why Europe should be invited to join talks on a peace settlement in Ukraine if European politicians want the war to carry on. He also said Russia would not even consider territorial concessions to Ukraine in future peace talks.

–The spokesperson for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Sergii Nykyforov, said that the Ukrainian leader would travel to Saudi Arabia on a long-planned visit the day after the meeting between Russia and US officials wraps up.

–The Ukrainian leader also said he would not recognise any outcome of the Washington-Moscow talks in Saudi Arabia that did not involve Kyiv.

–Zelenskyy met with the United Arab Emirates’s Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan during a visit to the UAE, where Sheikh Mohammed reportedly committed to supporting efforts for a peaceful resolution to the war and continuing initiatives to ease the humanitarian impact.

–Zelenskyy is now in Turkiye to meet with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to discuss prisoner exchanges between Ukraine and Russia.

-The Dollar Index Eyes 105.47.

 

 

 

Tomorrow:

  • FOMC Minutes
  • Housing Starts
  • NO Crude Oil Numbers ( pushed to Thursday)
March US Dollar Index

The March dollar index negated its original downside PriceCounts off the January high early this month. Now, the chart has activated fresh counts off the larrger leg where the first count projects a run to the 105.47 area. It would take a trade below the November reactionary low to formally negarte the remaining unmet upside objectives.

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Daily Levels for February 19th, 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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Gold Futures

Gold futures have long been a cornerstone of the commodities market, providing traders with opportunities to hedge against inflation, speculate on price movements, and diversify their portfolios. As we move into 2025, the landscape of gold futures trading continues to evolve due to economic trends, geopolitical events, and shifts in monetary policy. Whether you are an experienced futures trader or a newcomer looking to explore futures contract trading, understanding the key elements of the market is crucial.

This guide will cover:

  • 10 expert tips for trading gold futures in 2025
  • The latest trends affecting futures gold prices
  • Essential reports and indicators for assessing a gold futures contract
  • Historical price movements of gold futures and other precious metals
  • Why Cannon Trading Company is a top choice for traders of all experience levels

10 Tips for Trading Gold Futures in 2025

  1. Understand Market Fundamentals

    To succeed in trading futures, it is essential to grasp the fundamental factors that drive gold futures prices. These include:

    • Inflation rates
    • Federal Reserve policies
    • Geopolitical tensions
    • Supply and demand dynamics
      By staying informed on these factors, traders can make more informed decisions about futures contract trading.
  2. Follow the U.S. Dollar Index (DXY)

    Gold often moves inversely to the U.S. dollar. A strong dollar typically puts downward pressure on gold futures prices, while a weaker dollar can push prices higher. Monitoring the DXY can provide critical insights for futures gold traders.

  3. Watch the Federal Reserve’s Monetary Policy

    The Federal Reserve’s decisions on interest rates have a direct impact on gold futures trading. Lower interest rates make gold more attractive as a non-yielding asset, driving up demand. Traders should follow Fed announcements and adjust their futures trading strategies accordingly.

  4. Keep an Eye on Inflation Reports

    Inflation is one of the strongest catalysts for gold futures price movements. Traders should monitor reports such as:

    • Consumer Price Index (CPI)
    • Producer Price Index (PPI)
    • Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE)
  5. Study Seasonal Trends

    Gold has historically followed seasonal patterns. For example, demand tends to rise in the fall and winter due to increased jewelry purchases and economic uncertainty. Recognizing these patterns can improve trading futures strategies.

  6. Use Technical Analysis for Entry and Exit Points

    Successful futures traders rely on technical indicators to determine when to enter or exit a gold futures contract. Key indicators include:

    • Relative Strength Index (RSI)
    • Moving Averages (50-day and 200-day)
    • Bollinger Bands
    • Fibonacci Retracements
  7. Manage Risk with Stop-Loss Orders

    Risk management is critical in futures trading. Traders should use stop-loss orders to protect their positions from excessive losses in volatile markets.

  8. Be Aware of Margin Requirements

    Trading a gold futures contract requires margin, which can fluctuate based on market volatility. Understanding margin requirements from a futures trading broker like Cannon Trading Company ensures proper capital allocation.

  9. Follow Central Bank Gold Purchases

    Many central banks buy and hold gold as a reserve asset. Increases in central bank gold purchases can signal higher gold futures prices.

  10. Choose the Right Futures Trading Broker

    A reliable futures trading broker is essential for success in futures contract trading. Cannon Trading Company stands out due to its top-performing trading platforms, excellent regulatory standing, and 5 out of 5-star ratings on TrustPilot.

Trends to Watch in Gold Futures Trading for 2025

  1. Inflation and Economic Slowdown

    Persistent inflation and potential recessions will likely drive investors toward futures gold as a safe-haven asset. Traders should be prepared for increased volatility.

  2. Digital Gold and Blockchain Innovations

    The rise of tokenized gold and blockchain-based trading platforms is making gold more accessible to retail traders. These innovations may impact gold futures contract liquidity and pricing dynamics.

  3. Geopolitical Risks

    Ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly involving global superpowers, could lead to increased demand for gold futures as investors seek stability.

  4. ESG and Sustainable Mining Practices

    With growing interest in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) investing, ethical mining practices could influence gold futures pricing and availability.

  5. The Rise of Algorithmic Trading in Futures Markets

    More futures traders are using algorithmic strategies to capitalize on market inefficiencies, making futures contract trading increasingly data-driven.

Key Reports for Evaluating a Gold Futures Contract Trade

  1. U.S. Non-Farm Payrolls (NFP) Report

    A strong jobs report can strengthen the dollar, which may drive gold futures prices lower. Conversely, weak employment data can push prices higher.

  2. Federal Reserve Meeting Minutes

    Understanding the Fed’s stance on monetary policy is crucial for trading futures effectively.

  3. CPI and PPI Inflation Reports

    These reports offer insight into inflation trends that impact gold futures trading.

  4. World Gold Council Reports

    Quarterly reports from the World Gold Council provide valuable insights into demand, supply, and investment trends for futures gold.

  5. Commitment of Traders (COT) Report

    This report shows how hedge funds and commercial traders are positioned in gold futures, helping traders gauge market sentiment.

Historical Performance of Gold Futures and Precious Metals

Historically, gold futures have demonstrated resilience during economic uncertainty. The 2008 financial crisis saw gold futures prices surge due to panic-driven buying. More recently, gold hit all-time highs in 2020 amid pandemic fears. Silver, platinum, and palladium futures also tend to follow similar trends but with higher volatility.

Key Takeaways from Historical Data:

  • Gold performs well during recessions and inflationary periods.
  • Precious metals futures trading can be highly volatile.
  • Diversifying across multiple commodities can reduce risk in futures contract trading.

Why Cannon Trading Company Is the Ideal Futures Trading Broker

Choosing the right futures trading broker is essential for long-term success. Cannon Trading Company offers a superior experience for futures traders with:

  1. A Wide Selection of Top-Performing Trading Platforms

    From NinjaTrader to Tradestation, Cannon provides access to cutting-edge tools for trading futures efficiently.

  2. Decades of Experience in the Futures Markets

    With a legacy of expertise, Cannon Trading Company helps traders navigate futures contract trading with confidence.

  3. Outstanding Regulatory Reputation

    Cannon Trading is known for its compliance with the National Futures Association (NFA) and the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), ensuring traders work with a reputable firm.

  4. Highly Rated Customer Service

    With 5 out of 5-star ratings on TrustPilot, traders consistently praise Cannon’s responsiveness and expert support.

  5. Customizable Trading Strategies for All Levels

    Whether you are a beginner or an advanced futures trader, Cannon Trading Company provides tailored resources to enhance your futures gold trading strategies.

Gold futures trading in 2025 presents a wealth of opportunities and risks. By understanding market fundamentals, tracking economic indicators, and choosing the right futures trading broker, traders can maximize their potential in futures contract trading

With a strong historical track record, evolving market trends, and the support of a top-tier futures trading broker like Cannon Trading Company, traders can confidently navigate the complexities of the futures gold market.

For more information, click here.

Ready to start trading futures? Call us at 1(800)454-9572 – Int’l (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

President’s Day, Natural Gas, & Market Moves: Key Trading Levels & Insights

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Cannon Futures Weekly Letter

In Today’s Issue #1230

  • President’s Day Modified trading Schedule
  • The Week Ahead – FOMC minutes, Housing Starts
  • Futures 102 – Options Strategies
  • Hot Market of the Week – March Natural Gas
  • Broker’s Trading System of the Week – ES intraday System
  • Trading Levels for Next Week
  • Trading Reports for Next Week

natural gas

President’s Day Modified Trading Schedule:

Natural Gas Hot Market of the Week + Monday, February 17th is Presidents Day here in the US.

Many markets will close at noon central and some markets are closed.

Click Here for Full Schedule

PRES DAY 2025 2

Important Notices: The Week Ahead

By John Thorpe, Senior Broker

 

Earnings Next Week:

  • Mon. President’s day
  • Tue. quiet
  • Wed. quiet
  • Thu. WMT
  • Fri. quiet

 

 

FED SPEECHES:

  • Mon Quiet
  • Tues. Quiet
  • Wed. FOMC Minutes pm CST
  • Thu. Goolsbee 8:35 am CST
  • Fri. Quiet

 

Economic Data week:

  • Mon. Presidents Day
  • Tue. Empire state Manu. Index, NAHB Housing index
  • Wed. Bldg. Permits, Housing starts, FOMC Minutes
  • Thur. Initial Jobless Claims, Philly Fed, CB Leading Index
  • Fri. SP PMI, Existing Home sales, Mich. Consumer sentiment

Futures 102: Options Strategies

Course Overview

Option Strategies are an integral part of a trader’s routine. Learn about common option strategies utilized by traders that express their view of market direction and expected volatility. Some option strategies are designed to mitigate risk while others are designed to profit by accepting risk.

Start Now

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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

March Natural Gas

March Natural Gas is attempting to resume its rally as it challenges the January high. At this point, new sustained highs would project a potential run to the low percentage fourth upside PriceCount objective to the 4.06 area.

PriceCounts – Not about where we’ve been , but where we might be going next!

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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

With algorithmic trading systems becoming more prevalent in portfolio diversification, the following system has been selected as the broker’s choice for this month.

ES NZL

PRODUCT

Mini SP500

 

SYSTEM TYPE

Day Trading

 

Recommended Cannon Trading Starting Capital

$36,000

 

COST

USD 199 / monthly

 

Get Started

 

Learn More

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The performance shown above is hypothetical in that the chart represents 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 back adjusted data. Please read full disclaimer HERE.

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Trading Levels for Next Week

Daily Levels for February 17/18, 2025

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Trading Reports for Next Week

First Notice (FN), Last trading (LT) Days for the Week:

www.mrci.com

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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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Stock Futures suffer Eye-Opening Tumble as CPI Exceeds Expectations

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Trading in Front of Reports – Like Today’s CPI – Stock Futures – a Word to the Wise

by Mark O’Brien, Senior Broker

This morning the Bureau of Labor Statistics released its scheduled Consumer Price Index and to the market’s surprise, it jumped more than anticipated, showing a higher-than-expected 0.5 percent increase from December. It was the fastest monthly increase since August 2023.

Stock Futures

The reaction by the major stock futures contracts was immediate and pronounced. Within a single minute of the report’s release, the E-mini Dow Jones stock futures contract dropped over 400 points, the E-mini S&P 500 stock futures contract dropped 60 points, a $3,000 move and within that same minute the E-mini Nasdaq stock futures contract dropped 311 points, a $6220 move.

CPI

CPI is one of several regularly scheduled reports that can have an impact on the futures markets. There are many such reports on things like crude oil stocks, crop conditions, interest rate decisions and several that look at aspects of the economy.

 

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They all can impact related futures markets’ movement, even if for a span of time as short as a minute.

So, it’s important for traders to take care when trading into an approaching report, as well as afterwards if volatility continues. Even if you’re incorporating STOP orders to offset a position going into a report’s release, fast markets can “jump” over your STOP price and leave your trade exposed to further risk.

1 minute chart from this morning for illustration purposes below!

 

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Daily Levels for February 13th, 2025

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Economic Reports

provided by: ForexFactory.com

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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Coffee, Cattle, and Crops: Market Swings Amid Powell & CPI Anticipation

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Coffee

Movers & Shakers by John Thorpe, Senior Broker

Movers and Shakers: Tomorrow (CPI) before the open, CSCO After the close

 

Fed Powell’s testimony in the Senate had the market moving today.

Gold started to sell off well before the testimony began, down $25.00 then as Powell spoke @ 10 EST, the market rallied from that point in somewhat of a slough to unchanged, but struggled to breakout and looks to close a shade off yesterday, down 8 bucks. Holding rates for quite some time longer didn’t add fuel to the current rally. Powell testifies tomorrow in the House, same time.

 

The S&P 500 rallied from Powell’s opening remarks 20 points, then fell back at the 2-hour mark to where it began:6070.00 only to rally NEARLY 30 POINTS FROM THERE AFTER THE CONCLUSION. However, they look to close unchanged at the time of this writing. 6088.00.  This was a very tradeable day.

 

After scanning several markets Energies, Bonds, Dollar index. They all finished the day right about where they were prior to Powell’s opening remarks except for the US Dollar, which closed lower as Gold retained some of its luster.

 

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Corn

WASDE was released this morning as well, whose results weighed on domestic Ag row crop prices, Beans down 6 cents, Corn down 7.5-6.25 for old crop, new crop Dec down a penny (will grains in the future be quoted in pennies with the dissolution of the one cent coin?) Wheat down between 2.5 to 7 cents across the board and protein spectrum. Cotton bucked the trend and had a strong rally after the numbers, up .74 basis the May contract.

 

Coffee

As for the softs, Coffee lost some caffeine today, down from its all-time highs, 15 + cents per pound @ 413.45. This drop comes after a strong rally in recent sessions, fueled by supply concerns and robust demand. However, profit-taking and shifting sentiment in the broader commodities market may have contributed to today’s pullback. Traders will be watching for any signs of renewed momentum or further correction in the days ahead, particularly with currency fluctuations and weather patterns in key coffee-growing regions influencing price action. That’s Coffee!

 

Market volatility is here to stay for the foreseeable future.

Choose your opportunities wisely.

 

Tomorrow: CPI (Consumer Price Index) before the open, Fed Powell Testimony in the House of Representatives 9 am CST, Fed Bostic 11:00 am CST. Earnings: Cisco After the close, CME Group, before the open

March Feeder Cattle

The January 21st QT Chart of the Day alerted readers that the March feeder cattle chart was approaching its third upside PriceCount objective. After reaching this target area, the chart corrected lower and activated downside PriceCounts in the process. At this point, if you can extend its break with new sustained lows, the second count would project a slide to the 261.59 area.

 

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Daily Levels for February 12th, 2025

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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.

Call Now

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Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

Listen to our podcast: Subscribe on AppleSpotify, Amazon

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Hidden Market Trends: Copper Joins Coffee and Gold in Notable Moves

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Coffee Anyone? Gold? Copper?

COFFEE

 

While most day traders focus on markets like mini SP, MICRO NQ, bonds and few others, some of the other markets have made some noticeable moves. Coffee, Gold and now Copper.

 

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March copper is activating upside PriceCount objectives off the January lows. The first count projects a possible run to the 4.80 area which is consistent with a challenge of the fall high.

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Daily Levels for February 11th, 2025

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822b33c5 2339 45ed bc84 e9c8f8c7358e

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.

Call Now

Join our Private Facebook group

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

Listen to our podcast: Subscribe on AppleSpotify, Amazon

or wherever you listen to podcasts!

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Market Movers This Week: Options on Futures, Grains, Hedging, Powell Testimony, CPI & PPI, WASDE, and Earnings Reports

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Cannon Futures Weekly Letter

In Today’s Issue #1229

  • 1099’s Are Available
  • The Week Ahead –
  • Futures 102 – Hedging With grains, Options on Futures
  • Hot Market of the Week – April Hogs
  • Broker’s Trading System of the Week – ES intraday System
  • Trading Levels for Next Week
  • Trading Reports for Next Week

1099’s:

1099 forms will be generated for all futures trading accounts held by US clients that placed any trades during the 2024 calendar year. Traders should expect to receive their 1099 forms via mail, email or through their portal in early February.

 

·    1099 forms will be provided directly from the FCM to the client.

·    To login and retrieve your 1099 for your Cannon account via StoneX click here

·    To login and retrieve your 1099 for your Cannon account via Ironbeam click here

·    To login and retrieve your 1099 for your Cannon account via Dorman click here

For any other FCM’s please contact your broker directly.

Important Notices: The Week Ahead

By John Thorpe, Senior Broker

 

Humphrey Hawkins Testimony week, Fed Chair Powell gives testimony to the Senate Banking Committee beginning @ 9:00 am CST Tuesday the 11th, Wednesday he walks over to the House Financial Committee and answers questions for the congressional body. CPI,PPI! WASDE week! + 5Fed Speakers, 1000’s of midcaps reporting past earnings and future guidance.

Economic releases are relatively light this week with one exception: Consumer Price Index (CPI) pre-market Friday. The Fed Speakers will be at the podium for the foreseeable future as we don’t have another Fed rate decision until late March.

 

Earnings Next Week:

  • Mon. McDonalds
  • Tue. Coca-Cola, Softbank
  • Wed. Cisco
  • Thu.  Applied materials
  • Fri. Quiet

 

 

FED SPEECHES:

  • Mon Quiet
  • Tues. Hammock 7:50 CST, Chair Powell Testimony 9amCST, Bowman and Williams 2:30pmCST
  • Wed. Chair Powell Testimony 9am CST, Bostic 11:00 am CST, Waller 4:05PM,
  • Thu. Quiet
  • Fri. Quiet

Economic Data week:

  • Mon. Consumer inflation expectations
  • Tue. WASDE Ag Numbers 9amCST, NIFB Optimism index
  • Wed. CPI
  • Thur. Initial Jobless Claims, PPI
  • Fri. Retail Sales, Capacity Utilization, Business Inventories

Futures 102: Hedging Grains with Options on Futures

Course Overview

Gain an understanding of how buyers and sellers of grains and oilseeds utilize futures and options to hedge their position to manage price risk.  This course will enhance the hedger’s understanding of the different strategies available as well as how the basis affects prices.

Start Now

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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 and options on futures needs.

Free Trial Available

December 25 Corn

April Hogs satisfied a second upside PriceCount  objective before turning sideways with a range bound trade. At this point, IF the chart can resume its rally with new sustained highs, the third count would project a potential run to the 100.96 area.

PriceCounts – Not about where we’ve been, but where we might be going next!

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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

With algorithmic trading systems becoming more prevalent in portfolio diversification, the following system has been selected as the broker’s choice for this month.

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PRODUCT

Mini SP500

 

SYSTEM TYPE

Day Trading

 

Recommended Cannon Trading Starting Capital

$36,000

 

COST

USD 199 / monthly

 

Get Started

 

Learn More

 

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Trading Levels for Next Week

Daily Levels for February 10, 2025

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Trading Reports for Next Week

First Notice (FN), Last trading (LT) Days for the Week:

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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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Market Watch: Record Highs in Gold & Coffee, Oil Retreats Amid Trade Concerns

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New all-time highs in Gold!

Futures Markets Highlights by Mark O’Brien, Senior Broker

General:

The big one!  It’s that time of the month again: we’re a couple of days from when the Labor Dept. releases its monthly Non-farm payrolls report.  It’s widely considered to be one of the most important and influential measures of the U.S. economy and the report is released at 7:30 A.M., Central Time on the first Friday of the month.

Softs

New all-time highs in coffee!  The relentless coffee price rally continued today as the March futures contract on the ICE exchange hit a new intra-day record above $4.00 per pound on extremely tight supplies and fears over the outlook for the coming crop.  High: $401.10, settle: $397.75

The ICE coffee futures contract is considered the benchmark to price deals around the world and has moved up more than 15% this year.

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Energy:

Crude oil futures were in retreat on broader demand concerns, tit-for-tat import taxes between the U.S. and China and the prospect of an extended trade war with China, Mexico, Canada and more broadly. Prices already were on the defensive after the EIA revealed U.S. commercial crude oil inventories soared by 8.7 million barrels from the previous week.

Closing at $71.03 per barrel today, the March contract is down over $7.00 per barrel ±10% in two weeks

Not “plugged in” to crude oil? There are three different futures contracts to trade West Texas Intermediate crude oil Traded on the CME Group’s NYMEX, the WTI crude futures contract is the largest energy futures contract in the world by volume.

 

Metals:

New all-time highs in gold! April gold futures – the most-active futures contract – hit a new all-time high – breaching $2,900 per ounce intraday as the dollar pushed lower. The ongoing sentiment among traders: concerns over the new U.S. administration’s tariff measures. Investors are increasingly turning to gold as a store of value amid fears of potential economic slowdowns, inflationary pressures, and trade disruptions. April gold settled up 2.7% at $2,893.00 per ounce, marking a 2.7% gain for the day and reinforcing gold’s strong upward momentum in the face of ongoing market volatility.

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Daily Levels for February 6th, 2025

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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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Market Turbulence and Global Tensions: Key Developments in Politics, Economy, and War

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Movers & Shakers by John Thorpe, Senior Broker

Market turbulence and volatility is here to stay for the foreseeable future as global tensions rise.

Choose your opportunities wisely.

Updated: February 4, 2025 11:19 am

WSJ on Tuesday now reporting President Trump and China’s leader Xi will not speak to each other later today

Updated: February 4, 2025 11:24 am

Bloomberg reported on Tuesday that around 20,000 US federal employees accepted buyout offers. The Washington Post today is reporting layoffs of federal employees is likely if too few of them choose to accept buyouts or quit.

 

Updated: February 4, 2025 2:17 pm

Pres. Trump said he would have talks with his Iranian counterpart, but also said Iran is too close to having and cannot have nuclear weapons

 

Updated: February 4, 2025 2:23 pm

Pres Trump he would like to Palestinians taken in by Egypt and Jordan, adding they have no alternative but to leave. He is not in favor of Israeli’s settling in Gaza

Russia – Ukraine War Update

–Reuters reports Ukraine’s military said on Tuesday its air force had struck a Russian military command post in Russia’s Kursk region the previous day causing sustained significant damage and casualties. Reuters could not independently verify the statement.

–Ukraine’s military has reported numerous strikes on Russian military and energy facilities in recent weeks. Ukrainian forces have been battling Russian troops in the Kursk region since Ukraine mounted a cross border operation there last year.

–A pro-Russian Ukrainian paramilitary leader, Armen Sarkisyan, was killed along with one other person, and three more people were wounded in a bomb blast inside a residential building in northwest Moscow, Russian state news agency TASS reports.

–Russia’s Investigative Committee said it opened a criminal inquiry after the explosion on charges of murder by means injurious to the public, attempted murder of two or more people and arms trafficking.

–Ukrainian forces are believed to be behind a series of assassinations in Russia. In mid-December, Russian General Igor Kirillov died in a remote-controlled blast in Moscow.

–The United Nations echoed Ukraine’s growing concerns that Russia killed 79 captured Ukrainian soldiers in 24 separate incidents since September.

–A former United Kingdom MP, Jack Lopresti, has joined the Ukrainian International Legion to help fight against Russia, media reports said. Lopresti reportedly travelled to Kyiv in November to help a charity.

 

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–Russia’s Ministry of Defense said Moscow’s air defense units intercepted and destroyed 70 drones in a Ukrainian offensive overnight. The ministry said Kyiv had also targeted energy facilities, including an oil refinery in Volgograd which had caught fire.

–Ukraine’s military claimed responsibility for strikes on Russian energy facilities, claiming that it hit a Russian oil refinery in Volgograd and a gas processing plant in Astrakhan. Both establishments supplied fuel to the Russian Army, according to the military.

–State Emergency Service workers of Ukraine work at the site of a rocket strike on a residential building in Poltava

Ukrainian rescuers working at the site of a rocket strike on a residential building in Poltava, where at least seven people died and 17 others, including four children, were injured, on February 1, 2025 [Handout/State Emergency Service of Ukraine via EPA-EFE]

–Kyiv’s Air Force said it destroyed 38 of 71 Russian drones launched at Ukraine in an overnight attack. Some 25 drones disappeared from radars without reaching their targets, the Air Force said.

–According to the Reuters news agency, Moscow also said that it was too early for Russia to consider the four-way peace talks model proposed by Zelenskyy, which would include the US, Ukraine, Russia and the EU. Zelenskyy previously said it would be very dangerous if Washington and Moscow held ceasefire talks without involving Kyiv.

–Russia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, criticized the Finnish government over the publication of an information package for its citizens who are planning or considering volunteering on Ukraine’s side in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

–US President Donald Trump told reporters in the Oval Office that he is seeking a secure supply of rare earth metals from Ukraine in exchange for US aid.

–Moldova’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement denouncing the invasion of its airspace by a drone and said it was discussing with allies how to boost airspace defense. The statement detailed that the drone entered from Ukraine’s airspace, but did not identify the origin or likely operator of the drone.

Tomorrow: Disney before the open, Qualcomm Earnings after the close! ADP, Balance of Trade, Barkin Speech 8am CST, ISM Svcs., Fed Jefferson Speech 6:30 pm CST

 

Daily Levels for February 5th, 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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Russell 2000 Futures

The Russell 2000 Futures contract is a cornerstone of the futures trading world, providing traders with a robust tool to speculate on or hedge against movements in small-cap equity markets. Since its inception, the Russell 2000 Futures, often abbreviated as RUT 2000 Futures, has undergone significant evolution, becoming a vital component of modern futures trading. This piece explores its origins, development, and role in the market, while highlighting why trading futures with Cannon Trading Company is an exceptional choice for traders at all experience levels.

The Birth of the Russell 2000 Futures Contract

The Russell 2000 Index, launched in 1984 by the Frank Russell Company, tracks the performance of the smallest 2,000 stocks within the Russell 3000 Index, representing U.S. small-cap companies. The introduction of the Russell 2000 Futures Contract followed shortly after, in response to increasing demand for products enabling investors to trade on the performance of small-cap stocks in a standardized, liquid manner.

The Key Figures Behind the Inception

Several financial pioneers were instrumental in bringing the Russell 2000 Futures to life. William F. Sharpe, a Nobel laureate and consultant to the Frank Russell Company, helped refine the methodology for index construction. His contributions ensured that the Russell indices offered an accurate reflection of market segments.

The Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME), a leading futures exchange, played a central role in facilitating the trading of these contracts. Key figures at CME, such as Leo Melamed, known as the “father of financial futures,” were advocates for innovation in derivatives markets. Under Melamed’s leadership, the CME expanded its offerings, including equity index futures like the RUT 2000 Futures.

Early Trading Anecdotes and Challenges

When trading began, many small-cap companies featured in the Russell 2000 were relatively unknown. Traders found the RUT 2000 Futures offered an efficient way to manage exposure to this high-risk, high-reward market segment. Anecdotes from early trading sessions illustrate the volatility of small-cap stocks and the corresponding opportunities in the futures market. For instance, a trader who identified a trend in burgeoning tech startups in the early 1990s could leverage RUT 2000 Futures to magnify returns or hedge against broader market risks.

One notable early trade occurred during the dot-com boom. A hedge fund manager, anticipating a bubble in small-cap tech stocks, used Russell 2000 Futures contracts to short the index. When the bubble burst, this strategic use of futures resulted in substantial profits for the fund, solidifying the contract’s reputation as a powerful tool for both speculation and risk management.

Evolution and Modern-Day Use

Over the decades, the Russell 2000 Futures have evolved in terms of accessibility, technology, and utility. Originally traded in open-outcry pits, the advent of electronic trading platforms revolutionized futures trading. CME’s Globex platform, introduced in 1992, allowed traders worldwide to access RUT 2000 Futures, increasing liquidity and efficiency.

Contract Specifications

The modern Russell 2000 Futures contract has standardized terms that make it attractive to a broad range of traders. Key specifications include:

  • Contract Size: $50 times the Russell 2000 Index value.
  • Tick Size: 0.10 index points, equivalent to $5 per tick.
  • Settlement: Cash-settled to the final index value.

These attributes make it suitable for individual traders and institutional investors alike. Additionally, the introduction of E-mini and Micro E-mini RUT Futures has lowered barriers to entry, enabling smaller traders to participate without excessive capital requirements.

Hypothetical Trading Scenario

Consider a trader bullish on small-cap stocks due to favorable economic conditions. With the Russell 2000 Index trading at 1,800 points, the trader buys two RUT 2000 Futures contracts at this level. Each contract’s notional value is $90,000 ($50 × 1,800), requiring a margin deposit of roughly $6,000 per contract.

The index rises to 1,850, yielding a gain of 50 points. For two contracts, the profit is $5,000 ($50 × 50 points × 2 contracts). This example demonstrates how RUT 2000 Futures enable traders to amplify returns with minimal upfront capital, though the risks of leveraged losses must also be acknowledged.

The Role of Futures Brokers

The evolution of futures trading platforms and brokerage services has been crucial in shaping the market. Futures brokers serve as the backbone of trading, offering access to platforms, market data, and educational resources.

Cannon Trading Company: A Premier Futures Broker

Cannon Trading Company has established itself as a top-tier futures broker, earning 5-star ratings on TrustPilot and accolades for its decades of experience. Here’s why Cannon Trading is a standout choice for trading futures contracts:

  • Diverse Platform Selection: Cannon Trading provides access to industry-leading platforms such as NinjaTrader, TradeStation, and CQG. Each platform is tailored to different trading styles, ensuring both novice and seasoned traders have the tools they need.
  • Educational Resources: Cannon Trading offers extensive resources for futures traders, including market analysis, webinars, and trading guides. This focus on education empowers clients to make informed decisions.
  • Regulatory Excellence: With a stellar reputation among regulatory bodies like the NFA and CFTC, Cannon Trading emphasizes transparency and compliance, giving traders peace of mind.
  • Personalized Service: Unlike generic online brokers, Cannon Trading provides personalized service, pairing clients with experienced brokers who understand their unique needs.

Real-Life Case Studies

Case Study 1: Hedging Risk with RUT 2000 Futures

In 2020, a small-cap mutual fund manager faced uncertainty amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Concerned about potential market downturns, they used RUT 2000 Futures to hedge their portfolio. By selling futures contracts, the manager mitigated losses as the index fell, demonstrating the contracts’ value for risk management.

Case Study 2: Leveraged Gains

An individual futures trader, recognizing strong earnings growth in small-cap companies in 2021, decided to go long on E-mini RUT Futures. With precise entry and exit strategies, the trader achieved a 25% return on initial margin, highlighting the profit potential of leveraged futures trading.

The Future of Russell 2000 Futures Trading

As technology advances, the Russell 2000 Futures market will continue to grow. Innovations like AI-driven trading algorithms and blockchain-based clearing systems promise to enhance efficiency and transparency. Moreover, the increasing globalization of markets means more traders from diverse backgrounds will access RUT 2000 Futures, further boosting liquidity.

The Russell 2000 Futures contract has evolved from a niche product into a vital instrument for traders worldwide. With its origins rooted in the vision of financial pioneers, the RUT 2000 Futures now serve as a powerful tool for hedging and speculation in the small-cap equity market. For traders seeking an exceptional futures broker, Cannon Trading Company stands out for its unparalleled platform selection, regulatory excellence, and client-focused approach. Whether you are a novice futures trader or an experienced market participant, Cannon Trading provides the resources and support necessary to succeed in the dynamic world of futures trading.

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Ready to start trading futures? Call us at 1(800)454-9572 – Int’l (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.