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Category: S&P 500

S&P 500 Index Futures

Posted on by Ilan

What are S&P 500 Index Futures?

S&P 500 Index Futures are standardized contracts traded on futures exchanges that allow traders to speculate on the future value of the S&P 500 Index, a widely followed benchmark representing 500 of the largest publicly traded companies in the United States. These futures are among the most liquid and widely traded financial derivatives globally, making them a crucial tool for both hedgers and speculators in the financial markets.

S&P 500 Index Futures

The S&P 500 Index Futures, commonly referred to as SPX Index Futures, provide investors with a way to gain exposure to the overall U.S. equity market without needing to buy individual stocks. This contract derives its value from the S&P 500 Index, which tracks the performance of these large-cap companies. As such, SP500 Index Futures are not just popular among institutional investors but also among individual traders looking to capitalize on movements in the broader stock market.

Key Features of S&P 500 Index Futures Contracts

1. Contract Specifications
  • Underlying Asset: The underlying asset of an S&P 500 Index Future is the S&P 500 Index itself. The value of the contract is tied to the performance of this index.
  • Contract Size: The standard contract size for S&P 500 Index Futures is $250 multiplied by the value of the S&P 500 Index. For example, if the S&P 500 Index is trading at 4,000, the value of one futures contract would be $1,000,000 ($250 x 4,000).
  • E-mini Contracts: Due to the large size of the standard S&P 500 futures contract, E-mini S&P 500 futures were introduced. These contracts are one-fifth the size of the standard contract, with a value of $50 multiplied by the index. E-minis have become more popular due to their affordability and accessibility.
  • Tick Size: The minimum price movement, or tick size, for the standard S&P 500 futures contract is 0.25 index points, which equals $12.50 per contract. For E-mini contracts, the tick size is also 0.25 index points, but it equals $12.50 due to the smaller contract size.
  • Expiration: S&P 500 Index Futures have a quarterly expiration cycle, typically expiring in March, June, September, and December. The contracts are settled in cash, meaning there is no delivery of the underlying asset, just a cash payment based on the contract’s final settlement price.
2. S&P 500 Futures Trading – Trading Hours

S&P 500 Index Futures are traded on the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) and are available for trading nearly 24 hours a day during the trading week. This extended trading period allows market participants to react to global events that occur outside of regular U.S. market hours, providing continuous opportunities for trading.

3. Leverage

One of the most significant advantages of trading S&P 500 Index Futures is the ability to use leverage. Leverage allows traders to control a large position with a relatively small amount of capital. However, while leverage can magnify profits, it can also amplify losses, making it a double-edged sword that requires careful risk management.

4. Margin Requirements

To trade S&P 500 Index Futures, traders must post a margin, which is a percentage of the contract’s total value. The initial margin is the amount required to open a position, while the maintenance margin is the minimum balance that must be maintained in the account to keep the position open. If the account balance falls below the maintenance margin, the trader must deposit additional funds to bring the balance back up to the required level.

5. Hedging and Speculation

S&P 500 Index Futures are used for both hedging and speculative purposes. Hedgers, such as institutional investors or portfolio managers, use these futures to protect against potential losses in their equity portfolios. For instance, if a portfolio manager anticipates a decline in the stock market, they can sell S&P 500 futures to offset potential losses in their holdings.

Speculators, on the other hand, use S&P 500 futures to profit from anticipated market movements. By taking a long or short position, speculators can capitalize on price changes in the S&P 500 Index without having to invest in the underlying stocks.

6. Settlement

S&P 500 Index Futures are cash-settled, meaning that at expiration, the contracts are settled based on the difference between the contract price and the final settlement price of the S&P 500 Index. Traders who hold positions until expiration will either receive or pay the difference in cash, depending on whether they were long or short on the contract.

Trading Strategies Using S&P 500 Index Futures

1. Directional Trading

Directional trading involves taking a position based on the expectation of a future price movement in the S&P 500 Index. If a trader believes the market will rise, they can buy (go long) S&P 500 Index Futures. Conversely, if they anticipate a decline, they can sell (go short) the futures contract. This strategy is straightforward but requires a strong understanding of market trends and economic indicators that can influence the index.

2. Hedging

Hedging with S&P 500 Index Futures is a common strategy for reducing the risk of adverse price movements in an equity portfolio. For example, a portfolio manager who holds a diversified portfolio of U.S. stocks can sell S&P 500 futures contracts to protect against a potential decline in the market. If the market does fall, the losses in the portfolio may be offset by gains in the futures position.

3. Spread Trading

Spread trading involves taking simultaneous long and short positions in related futures contracts to profit from the price difference between them. In the context of S&P 500 Index Futures, traders might engage in calendar spreads, where they buy and sell contracts with different expiration dates, aiming to profit from changes in the price difference as the contracts approach expiration.

5. Arbitrage

Arbitrage opportunities in S&P 500 Index Futures arise when the futures price deviates significantly from the fair value of the underlying index. Traders can exploit these discrepancies by buying or selling the index and taking the opposite position in the futures market, locking in a risk-free profit. However, true arbitrage opportunities are rare and typically short-lived, requiring swift action and large capital.

The Role of Futures Brokers in Trading S&P 500 Index Futures

Futures brokers play a critical role in facilitating the trading of S&P 500 Index Futures. They provide access to the futures markets, offer trading platforms, execute orders, and often provide valuable research and market analysis to help traders make informed decisions.

Choosing a Futures Broker

Selecting the right futures broker is crucial for success in trading S&P 500 Index Futures. A good futures broker will offer competitive pricing, a robust trading platform, and excellent customer service. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a futures broker:

  • Experience and Reputation: Look for a broker with a long-standing reputation in the industry. Experienced brokers are more likely to provide reliable services and understand the intricacies of futures trading.
  • Trading Platform: The broker’s trading platform should be user-friendly, with advanced charting tools, real-time data, and quick order execution. A good platform can make a significant difference in a trader’s ability to react swiftly to market changes.
  • Commission and Fees: Compare the commission rates and fees charged by different brokers. While cost should not be the only factor, finding a broker with competitive pricing can help maximize profits.
  • Customer Support: Excellent customer support is essential, especially for new traders who may need assistance navigating the futures markets. A broker that offers 24/7 support can be invaluable in addressing issues as they arise.
  • Educational Resources: Many brokers offer educational resources, including webinars, articles, and one-on-one coaching. These resources can be particularly beneficial for traders who are new to futures trading.

Cannon Trading: A Trusted Partner for S&P 500 Index Futures Trading

Cannon Trading is one such futures broker known for its deep industry experience and commitment to helping traders succeed. With over three decades of experience in the futures industry, Cannon Trading has established itself as a reliable partner for both novice and experienced traders.

  • Seasoned Brokers: Cannon Trading boasts a team of seasoned brokers who are well-versed in the complexities of futures trading. These professionals can provide personalized guidance, helping traders understand the nuances of S&P 500 Index Futures and develop effective trading strategies.
  • Advanced Trading Platforms: Cannon Trading offers access to advanced trading platforms that cater to the needs of different types of traders. Whether you prefer a desktop application, web-based trading, or mobile access, Cannon Trading has the tools to support your trading style.
  • Comprehensive Market Research: Staying informed about market developments is crucial in futures trading. Cannon Trading provides clients with access to comprehensive market research, including daily reports, technical analysis, and expert insights, helping traders stay ahead of market trends.
  • Risk Management Tools: Managing risk is a fundamental aspect of successful futures trading. Cannon Trading offers various risk management tools, including stop-loss orders and automated trading strategies, to help traders protect their investments.
  • Educational Support: For traders looking to deepen their knowledge of futures markets, Cannon Trading offers a wealth of educational resources. From webinars and articles to one-on-one coaching sessions, traders can access the information they need to improve their trading skills.

Understanding the Risks of Trading S&P 500 Index Futures

While trading S&P 500 Index Futures offers significant profit potential, it also comes with inherent risks. It is essential for traders to understand these risks and develop strategies to manage them effectively.

1. Market Risk

Market risk refers to the potential for losses due to adverse price movements in the S&P 500 Index. Because futures contracts are leveraged, even small price changes can result in substantial gains or losses. Traders must be prepared for the possibility of significant volatility and should consider using stop-loss orders to limit potential losses.

2. Leverage Risk

Leverage magnifies both profits and losses in futures trading. While it allows traders to control large positions with a small amount of capital, it also increases the potential for substantial losses if the market moves against the trader. Understanding the implications of leverage and using it judiciously is critical for long-term success.

3. Liquidity Risk

Liquidity risk arises when there is insufficient market activity to execute trades at the desired price. While S&P 500 Index Futures are generally highly liquid, there may be times when market liquidity is lower, particularly during off-hours or periods of extreme market stress. Traders should be aware of this risk and avoid placing large orders during illiquid periods.

4. Counterparty Risk

In futures trading, counterparty risk is mitigated by the futures exchange, which acts as the counterparty to all trades. However, traders should still be aware of the financial stability of their futures broker, as a broker’s insolvency could result in the loss of funds.

S&P 500 Index Futures are a powerful tool for traders and investors looking to gain exposure to the U.S. stock market. These futures contracts offer numerous advantages, including leverage, liquidity, and the ability to hedge against market risk. However, they also come with significant risks that require careful management.

Futures brokers like Cannon Trading play a vital role in helping traders navigate the complexities of the futures markets. With their extensive experience, advanced trading platforms, and commitment to client education, brokers like Cannon Trading can provide the support and resources needed to succeed in trading S&P 500 Index Futures.

Whether you are a seasoned trader or new to the world of futures, understanding the intricacies of S&P 500 Index Futures and working with a trusted broker can help you achieve your financial goals. With the right knowledge, tools, and support, the opportunities in S&P 500 Index Futures trading are vast, offering the potential for significant returns in the dynamic world of financial markets.

For more information, click here.

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 E-Futures.com 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

Weekly Newsletter: FOMC next Week, Bonds Outlook & Trading Levels for April 29th

Posted on by Ilan
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C47

Cannon Futures Weekly Letter Issue # 1191

In this issue:
  • Important Notices – FOMC & NFP Next Week
  • Futures 101 – Understanding Volume
  • Hot Market of the Week – June Bonds
  • Broker’s Trading System of the Week – ES intraday System
  • Trading Levels for Next Week
  • Trading Reports for Next Week

 

Important Notices – Next Week Highlights:

    • FOMC Rate Announcement Wed.
    • Heavy Earnings, AMZN and AMD Tues, AAPL Thur. all after the close
    • Heavy Data, Chicago PMI, Consumer Confidence, Construction Spending, ISM Manufacturing PMI, Jobless Claims.
    • NON FARM Payrolls to cap off the week on Fri. , preopening

 

 

Futures 101 : Understanding VOLUME

Volume is reported for all futures contracts. It is calculated by counting the number of contracts that have been bought and sold over a given time. You can track volume using different time intervals like daily or intraday.
When a futures contract is traded, whether bought or sold, it counts towards volume for that contract.
For example, a trader closes a short position in the E-mini S&P 500 (ES) futures contract by buying one contract in the ES, so volume will increase by 1.
Traders often use and interpret the rise or decline of volume in a futures contract to help make trading decisions.
Volume can give important information to traders such as:
  • Indicate the price levels at which traders are more or less interested in trading a futures contract
  • During the roll, indicate to traders when to switch to trading the front month futures contract as volume decreases in the expiring contract
  • Identify the times of day when a futures contract is most liquid
Price Levels
When volume changes as price of a futures contract moves towards certain levels, this can indicate to a trader that a change in direction may occur. Some traders may use this information to indicate whether to buy or sell at those key levels.
­Contract Roll
During the futures rollover, traders pay attention to the contract that is taking the higher levels of volume. Traders use this information to determine when to start trading the next month contract. As volume decreases in the expiring contract, trading will shift to the next available month contract.
For example, say the June ES (E-mini S&P 500) futures contract is about to expire and September will become the new front month. On the Thursday of rollover week, watch how the June contract starts to lose volume and the September contract begins to pick up volume. When the September contract has more volume than the June contract, it is time to switch to the September contract.
Active Periods
Traders typically prefer higher volume times to trade, as it means that more traders are actively interested in buying and selling. When volume is high, the bid-ask spread is typically smaller, orders are filled faster and less gaps may exist between ticks.
For example, markets can have lower volume between the hours of 12:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. ET, before major economic releases; conversely, market often see higher volume around the open and close of the trading day.
Traders also can look at average daily volume over a longer time period, such as a few weeks or months, to see if the markets currently are in a lower or higher volume than is typical.
Summary
What volume can’t show however, is whether traders are buying or selling, or opening or closing a position.
For example, if the ES contract is trading at 2375 and suddenly pushes down to 2360 while volume increases, the volume that comes into the market could be from traders opening new long positions at key levels of support. That could indicate a bullish sentiment. Volume also can be generated by liquidation of exiting long positions or opening of new short positions, a possible bearish indication.
A spike in volume at 2360 doesn’t necessarily mean that buyers are coming into the market and that the price will bounce.
Volume data is readily available for each futures contract and for the market as a whole. Although traders may use volume in different ways to interpret how to trade, volume can be an important factor to help inform your trading decisions.

 

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  • Hot Market of the Week – June Bonds
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.
June 30 Year T-Bonds
The June 30 Year T-Bond break found temporary stability at its second downside PriceCount objective recently. Now, the chart has resumed its slide into new lows which, if sustained, would project a run to the third count in the 109^20 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.

  • Broker’s 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.
PRODUCT
SYSTEM TYPE
Intraday
COST
USD 110 / monthly
Recommended Cannon Trading Starting Capital
$10,000
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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.
Would you like to receive daily support & resistance levels?
Yes
S
No
S

 

Daily Levels for April 29th 2024

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Trading Reports for Next Week

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First Notice (FN), Last trading (LT) Days for the Week:
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Improve Your Trading Skills

Get access to proprietary indicators and trading methods, consult with an experienced broker at 1-800-454-9572.

Explore trading methods. Register Here

* This is not a solicitation of any order to buy or sell, but a current market view provided by Cannon Trading Inc. Any statement of facts here in contained are derived from sources believed to be reliable, but are not guaranteed as to accuracy, nor they purport to be complete. No responsibility is assumed with respect to any such statement or with respect to any expression of opinion herein contained. Readers are urged to exercise their own judgement in trading.

Markets Post FOMC + Levels for March 21st 2024

Posted on by Ilan
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C6

 

 

Life After FOMC …..

by Mark O’Brien, Senior Broker

General: 

 

The Federal Reserve took center stage today.  With inflation proving stickier than expected, the central bank has found itself balancing between a hawkish and dovish view.  The policy-setting FOMC held interest rates steady at the 5.25%-5.50% range for the fifth straight meeting.  The bigger indicator traders were eager to see was the Fed governors’ so-called dot plot that updated their rate and economic projections – for the first time since December.  Turns out, it didn’t deviate from the three rate cuts they previously penciled in by the end of 2024.

 

Indexes: 

 

As of this typing, the June E-mini S&P 500 is trading at new all-time highs around 5280.  As well, the June E-mini Dow Jones is trading at its own all-time highs, barely 100 points away from 40,000!

 

Metals: 

 

April gold is on the verge of eking out its own all-time high close above last Monday’s closing price of $2,188.60 per ounce.  It’s currently trading ±$2,191.00 per ounce

 

General pt. II: 

 

Over the weekend, Japan ended its negative interest rate policy, marking a historic shift away from an aggressive monetary easing program that was implemented years ago to fight chronic deflation.  As part of the decision, the Bank of Japan (BOJ) raised interest rates for the first time in 17 years, lifting its short-term rate to “around zero to 0.1%” from minus 0.1%.

 

Plan your trade and trade your plan

 

 

 

 

 

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Daily Levels for March 21st, 2024

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Economic Reports
provided by: ForexFactory.com
All times are Eastern Time ( New York)
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Improve Your Trading Skills

Get access to proprietary indicators and trading methods, consult with an experienced broker at 1-800-454-9572.

Explore trading methods. Register Here

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* This is not a solicitation of any order to buy or sell, but a current market view provided by Cannon Trading Inc. Any statement of facts here in contained are derived from sources believed to be reliable, but are not guaranteed as to accuracy, nor they purport to be complete. No responsibility is assumed with respect to any such statement or with respect to any expression of opinion herein contained. Readers are urged to exercise their own judgement in trading.

Rollover, CPI & Futures Trading Levels for 03.12.24

Posted on by Ilan
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C3 1

 

CPI Tomorrow – Trade June ES/NQ/YM and MICROS

by John Thorpe, Senior Broker

 

For all of you index traders, you may have noticed the shrinking Open Interest and Volume in the March contracts. It’s that time when volume shifts to the next quarterly expiration contract. June! the symbol is M.

March volume will be drying up quickly, don’t get stuck Friday morning with a March contract at the crack of dawn when the carousel stops. Start trading the June contract today!

According to Bloomberg, the S&P 500 has averaged an 0.8% move on CPI days over the past six months

Today, stocks are sideways, the dollar and gold are both up marginally as investors nervously await tomorrows 7:30 a.m. CDT Consumer Price Index release.

Last Month, on Feb 13th stocks slid sharply following the release and Treasury yields surged higher when a surprise CPI number, an Increase of 0.3% in January, crossed the newswires. Housing costs accounted for much of the price rise.

Overall prices are expected to rise 0.4% percent after increasing 0.3% percent in January. Annual rates, which in January were 3.1% percent overall and 3.9% percent for the core, are expected at 3.1% and 3.7% percent respectively. Per econoday.

 

 

Plan your trade and trade your plan

 

Watch video below on how to rollover from March to June contracts if you are a stock index trader on our E-Futures Platform!

 

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Daily Levels for March 12th, 2024

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Economic Reports
provided by: ForexFactory.com
All times are Eastern Time ( New York)
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Improve Your Trading Skills

Get access to proprietary indicators and trading methods, consult with an experienced broker at 1-800-454-9572.

Explore trading methods. Register Here

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* This is not a solicitation of any order to buy or sell, but a current market view provided by Cannon Trading Inc. Any statement of facts here in contained are derived from sources believed to be reliable, but are not guaranteed as to accuracy, nor they purport to be complete. No responsibility is assumed with respect to any such statement or with respect to any expression of opinion herein contained. Readers are urged to exercise their own judgement in trading.

Analysis of gold as we hit all time highs!

Posted on by Ilan
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C20

 

Gold’s Performance Against U.S., Asian Equities the Past Century

By Erik Norland of CMEGroup.com

Is gold a more profitable investment than equities over the long term? Our finding is that the value of gold has mostly held its own against the U.S. equity market since the S&P 500 time series began over 94 years ago (Figure 1). A well-defined picture of their performance through peaks and troughs is evident when the S&P 500 dollar value is repriced in gold, which is done by dividing the S&P 500 by the U.S. dollar price of one troy ounce of bullion (Figure 2).

Figure 1: Overall, gold has nearly held its own versus equities over the past 100 years.

 

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The S&P 500/gold ratio has been subject to extremely strong trends and occasional periods of consolidation which correspond with different economic and geopolitical situations, some of which benefitted equities relative to gold and vice versa. Generally, equities have done better than gold during periods of geopolitical stability, disinflation and steady economic growth, while gold tends to outperform during periods of instability. Switching from one circumstance to another can set off powerful trends in the S&P 500/gold ratio that can last for years, even decades. The same goes for Asian equity markets when compared to gold, although the price history isn’t as long and the patterns differ both in equity market performance and trends in the currency market.

Since the equity market’s peak on September 3, 1929, the S&P 500/gold ratio has been through six distinct eras:

  • 1929-1942: The Great Depression and the Rise of the Axis Powers: Between 1929 and 1933 S&P 500 fell by 86% in U.S. dollar terms. In 1933, the incoming Roosevelt Administration’s first action was to devalue the dollar versus gold from $23 to $35 per ounce, a 52% gain for anyone who was still able to hold on to gold. Between 1933 and 1942, equities stagnated as the U.S. struggled to recover from the Depression and as the Axis Powers of Germany, Italy and Japan reached their peak of expansion in 1942.
  • 1942-1968: Allied Victory, Bretton Woods and Superpower Parity: as the Allies turned the tide in the war, equity markets began to rally. Stocks continued upward with only brief pauses around the time of the Korean War and the Cuban missile crisis. Under the post-war Bretton Woods system of fixed exchange rates, the dollar remained fixed at $35 per ounce and foreign currencies were pegged to the dollar. The S&P 500 soared 1,165% versus the dollar and gold.
  • 1968-1980: Overheating and Stagflation: The combination of the Great Society program and Vietnam War overheated the U.S. economy, leading to successive waves of inflation. Amid rising prices, the U.S. dollar peg to gold was no longer tenable. In 1971, the Nixon Administration pulled the plug on Bretton Woods, setting off a rally in gold prices that took the yellow metal from $35 to $800 per ounce by the end of the decade. Equity prices traded sideways in a wide range during this period of uncertainty which also featured the U.S. withdrawal from Vietnam, the 1973 Arab Embargo, the Iranian Revolution and the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. Relative to gold, the S&P 500 fell by 95%.
  • 1980-2000: Disinflation and Pax Americana: Over the course of two decades the S&P 500 rose by 4,137% versus gold as stock prices soared and precious metals retreated amid tight money, falling inflation and improved economic growth.
  • 2000-2011: The Tech Wreck, War on Terror and the Global Financial Crisis: during this period, the S&P 500 lost 89% in gold terms.
  • 2011-2021: Pax Americana Part 2: From 2011-2019 equities soared amid a slow, low-inflation recovery in the U.S. that sent the price of gold substantially lower. While equities fell in the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic, fiscal stimulus and $4.9 trillion of Federal Reserve quantitative easing (QE) purchases initially benefitted equities more than gold. Overall, the S&P 500 outperformed gold by 337% during this time.

What’s next? The S&P fell 28% versus gold from late 2021 through 2022, and despite its 2023 rebound led by mega-cap companies dubbed the Magnificent Seven, it remains 5% lower versus gold as of late February 2024 despite being about 6% above its 2021 highs when expressed in dollar terms. A few points are clear:

  • The S&P has lost its upside momentum versus gold.
  • The world may have entered a lasting period of geopolitical instability with Russia and other powers challenging the U.S.-led order.
  • It’s not clear if the U.S. and its peers will return to lastingly low levels of inflation or not.
  • Central banks have conducted the biggest tightening cycle in over 40 years, which may increase the risk of a global economic downturn and subsequent monetary easing.

These points have the potential to turn the tide against U.S. equities, which are highly valued (see our related article here), in favor of hard assets like gold. But what about much less expensive equity markets like those in China, Japan and Korea? South Korea’s KOSPI Index, Japan’s Nikkei 225 and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index have their own strong trends versus gold.

READ THE REST

 

Plan your trade and trade your plan

 

 

 

 

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Daily Levels for March 6th, 2024

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Economic Reports
provided by: ForexFactory.com
All times are Eastern Time ( New York)
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Improve Your Trading Skills

Get access to proprietary indicators and trading methods, consult with an experienced broker at 1-800-454-9572.

Explore trading methods. Register Here

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* This is not a solicitation of any order to buy or sell, but a current market view provided by Cannon Trading Inc. Any statement of facts here in contained are derived from sources believed to be reliable, but are not guaranteed as to accuracy, nor they purport to be complete. No responsibility is assumed with respect to any such statement or with respect to any expression of opinion herein contained. Readers are urged to exercise their own judgement in trading.

Weekly Newsletter: Hedging Guide, Copper Outlook, CME Fees, 1099s and more….

Posted on by Ilan
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C7

Cannon Futures Weekly Letter Issue # 1180

In this issue:
  • Important Notices – 1099 Forms, CME Fees, FN & LT Days
  • Trading Resource of the Week – Futures Hedging Self Study Guide
  • Hot Market of the Week – March Copper
  • Broker’s Trading System of the Week – ES Day Trading System
  • Trading Levels for Next Week
  • Trading Reports for Next Week

 

Important Notices –

    • 1099 forms will be generated for all futures trading accounts held by US clients that placed any trades during the 2023 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.
    • CME Fees Increase Update:
    In a Special Executive Report released by the CME Group, it was announced that effective February 1, 2024, a number of transaction fees will see amended (increased) exchange / transaction fees.
    Effective February 1, the CME Group is raising the exchange fees for a number of futures contracts.
    For the CME E-mini equity products: E-mini S&P 500 (ES), E-mini Nasdaq (NQ), E-mini Dow Jones (YM) and E-mini Russelll 2000 (RTY), fees are going up by 5 cents, from $1.33 to $1.38
    For the NYMEX energy products: Crude oil (CL), Heating oil (HO), RBOB Unleaded gas (RBOB) and Natural gas (NG) fees are going up by 10 cents, from $1.50 to $1.60
    For the COMEX metals products: Gold (GC), Silver (SI), Copper (HG) and Platinum (PL) fees are going up by 5 cents, from $1.55 to $1.60
    For the COMEX E-mini metals products: miNY gold (QO), miNY silver (QI), miNY copper (QC) fees are going up by 25 cents, from $0.75 to $1.00
    • 566 earnings reports next week
    • WASDE Report
    • Below are the contracts which are entering First Notice or Last Trading Day for the upcoming month. Be advised, for contracts that are deliverable, it is requested that all LONG positions be exited two days prior to First Notice and ALL positions be exited the day prior to Last Trading Day.

 

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Trading Resource of the Week : Futures Hedging Self Study Guide!

Self-Study Guide to Hedging with Grain and Oilseed Futures and Options. Regardless if you are a farmer, rancher or simply looking to trade grains and livestock futures, this guide will help you understand the ins and outs of trading and hedging using futures and options.

 

 

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  • Hot Market of the Week – March Copper
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.
March Copper
March copper completed its first upside PriceCount objective and has settled into a range bound trade. IF the chart can resume its rally with new sustained highs, it would project a possible run to the second count in the 4.03 area, consistent with a challenge of the August high.
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.

  • Broker’s 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.
PRODUCT
SYSTEM TYPE
Intraday
COST
USD 85 / monthly
Recommended Cannon Trading Starting Capital
$15,000
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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.
Would you like to receive daily support & resistance levels?
Yes
S
No
S

 

Daily Levels for February 5th 2024

#ES, #NQ, #YM, #RTY, #XBT, #GC, #SI, #CL, #ZB, #6E, #ZC, #ZW, #ZS, #ZM, #NG
#ES, #NQ, #YM, #RTY, #XBT, #GC, #SI, #CL, #ZB, #6E, #ZC, #ZW, #ZS, #ZM, #NG

Trading Reports for Next Week

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Trading Reports for Next Week

First Notice (FN), Last trading (LT) Days for the Week:
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Improve Your Trading Skills

Get access to proprietary indicators and trading methods, consult with an experienced broker at 1-800-454-9572.

Explore trading methods. Register Here

* This is not a solicitation of any order to buy or sell, but a current market view provided by Cannon Trading Inc. Any statement of facts here in contained are derived from sources believed to be reliable, but are not guaranteed as to accuracy, nor they purport to be complete. No responsibility is assumed with respect to any such statement or with respect to any expression of opinion herein contained. Readers are urged to exercise their own judgement in trading.

Quadruple Witching + Futures Trading Levels for Dec 15th

Posted on by Ilan
Get Real Time updates and more on our private FB group!

Join our Private Facebook group

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Stock Index December contracts (i.e., E-mini and Micro S&P, Nasdaq, Dow Jones and Russell 2000.) expire Friday, December 15th (8:30 A.M., Central Time). At that point, trading in these contracts halts. Stock index futures are CASH SETTLED contracts. If you hold any December futures contracts through 8:30 A.M., Central Time on Friday, Dec. 15th, they will be offset with the cash settlement price, as set by the exchange.

FRONT MONTH IS NOW MARCH , the symbol is H24, example for mini SP is ESH24

 Monday, December 18th is Last Trading Day for December currency futures. It is of the utmost importance for currency traders to exit all December futures contracts by Friday, December 15th and to start trading the March futures. Currency futures are DELIVERABLE contracts.

The month code for March is ‘H.’  Please consider carefully how you place orders when changing over.

 

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US$ Daily Chart below:

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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 when it comes to Futures Trading.

Futures Trading Levels

 

12-15-2023

 

#ES, #NQ, #YM, #RTY, #XBT, #GC, #SI, #CL, #ZB, #6E, #ZC, #ZW, #ZS, #ZM, #NG
#ES, #NQ, #YM, #RTY, #XBT, #GC, #SI, #CL, #ZB, #6E, #ZC, #ZW, #ZS, #ZM, #NG

Improve Your Trading Skills

Get access to proprietary indicators and trading methods, consult with an experienced broker
 1-800-454-9572 Explore trading methods. Register Here


Economic Reports,

Source: 

Forexfactory.com

 

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This is not a solicitation of any order to buy or sell, but a current market view provided by Cannon Trading Inc. Any statement of facts here in contained are derived from sources believed to be reliable, but are not guaranteed as to accuracy, nor they purport to be complete. No responsibility is assumed with respect to any such statement or with respect to any expression of opinion herein contained. Readers are urged to exercise their own judgement in trading.

FOMC Rate Decision Tomorrow +Futures Trading Levels 12.13.2023

Posted on by Ilan
Get Real Time updates and more on our private FB group!

Join our Private Facebook group

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

 

March is front month for stock indices.

Symbol for March is H, so example ESH24

 

FOMC Rate decision tomorrow.

The following are my PERSONAL OPINION on trading during FOMC days:

  • Reduce trading size

 

  • Be extra picky = no trade is better than a bad trade

 

  • Choose entry points wisely. Look at longer time frame support and resistance for entry. Take the approach of entering at points where you normally would have placed protective stops. Example, trader x looking to go long the mini SP at 4425.00 with a stop at 4419.00, instead “stretch the price bands” due to volatility and place an entry order to buy at 4419.75 and place a stop a few points below in this hypothetical example ( consider current volatility along with support and resistance levels).

 

  • Expect the higher volatility during and right after the announcement

 

  • Expect to see some “vacuum” ( low volume, big zigzags) right before the number.
  • Consider using automated stops and limits attached to your entry order as the market can move very fast at times.
  • Know what the market was expecting, learn what came out and observe market reaction for clues
  • The rate announcement comes out exactly at 1 PM central. As of this morning there is a 98% chance of no change in rates.
  • Traders will pay EXTRA attention to the language and the Q&A which starts at 1:30 PM Central

 

  • Be patient and be disciplined

 

  • If in doubt, stay out!!

Mini SP ( March contract) one possible outlook is below using the daily chart and QT Market Center platform.

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Plan your trade and trade your plan.

 

 

 

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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 when it comes to Futures Trading.

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Futures Trading Levels

 

12-13-2023

#ES, #NQ, #YM, #RTY, #XBT, #GC, #SI, #CL, #ZB, #6E, #ZC, #ZW, #ZS, #ZM, #NG

#ES, #NQ, #YM, #RTY, #XBT, #GC, #SI, #CL, #ZB, #6E, #ZC, #ZW, #ZS, #ZM, #NG

 

Improve Your Trading Skills

Get access to proprietary indicators and trading methods, consult with an experienced broker
 1-800-454-9572 Explore trading methods. Register Here


Economic Reports,

Source: 

Forexfactory.com

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This is not a solicitation of any order to buy or sell, but a current market view provided by Cannon Trading Inc. Any statement of facts here in contained are derived from sources believed to be reliable, but are not guaranteed as to accuracy, nor they purport to be complete. No responsibility is assumed with respect to any such statement or with respect to any expression of opinion herein contained. Readers are urged to exercise their own judgement in trading.

Weekly Newsletter: Rollover Notice for Stock Index Futures + Futures Trading Levels for Dec. 11th

Posted on by Ilan

Cannon Futures Weekly Newsletter Issue # 1174

 

Join our private Facebook group for additional insight into trading and the futures markets!

In this issue:

  •  Important Notices – Stock Index Rollover!
  • Trading Resource of the Week – Trading Psychology Edge
  • Hot Market of the Week – March Corn Wheat Spread
  • Broker’s Trading System of the Week – Gold Swing Trading System
  • Trading Levels for Next Week
  • Trading Reports for Next Week

  • Important Notices

      • December Rate Decision Wednesday – FOMC
      • Earnings: all after the close
      • Monday ORCL Oracle
      • Wednesday ADBE Adobe
      • Thursday COST Costco
      • Roll to March for the Indices – see below!
Rollover is here for stock indices. i.e., the E-mini and Micro S&P, Nasdaq, Dow Jones and Russell 2000.
  Volume in the December contracts will begin to drop off until their expiration Friday, December 15th (8:30 A.M., Central Time). At that point, trading in these contracts halts. Stock index futures are CASH SETTLED contracts. If you hold any December futures contracts through 8:30 A.M., Central Time on Friday, Dec. 15th, they will be offset with the cash settlement price, as set by the exchange.
FRONT MONTH IS NOW MARCH , the symbol is H24, example for mini SP is ESH24
 Monday, December 18th is Last Trading Day for December currency futures. It is of the utmost importance for currency traders to exit all December futures contracts by Friday, December 15th and to start trading the March futures. Currency futures are DELIVERABLE contracts.
The month code for March is ‘H.’  Please consider carefully how you place orders when changing over.
  • Watch the video below on how to rollover your market depth and charts!

How to roll over Chart and DOM on E-Futures

 

 

 

  • Trading Resource of the Week 

Get An Edge With the Trading Psychology Course
Many experienced traders say that the stiffest challenge you’ll face in becoming a futures trader is conquering your own psyche. Why? Because losing is part of trading, and people hate to lose.
In this “Trading Psychology” Course you will learn:
  • How to examine your patterns and behaviors and recognize when they are holding you back
  • Maintaining self-confidence as a trader even in the face of inexperience
  • The mathematical expectation model and how it can decrease your losses
  • Determining the trading plan that is right for your trading personality
  • Understanding and using Motivation – Risk – Reward to its full advantage
  • Creating effective trading technique strategies
  • Qualities of Successful Traders

  • Hot Market of the Week – March Corn Wheat Spread

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.
The March Wheat – Corn spread accelerated to its third upside PriceCount objective to the $1.52 area and is consolidating its trade. At this point, IF the chart can resume its rally with new sustained highs, we are left with the low percentage fourth count to aim for around $2.27 which would be consistent with a challenge of the summer high.
PriceCounts – Not about where we’ve been , but where we might be going next!
March Wheat - Corn Spread Chart
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.
3b644da2 2bee 4d39 8d98 5208a20bec39

  • Broker’s 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.
PRODUCT
SYSTEM TYPE
Intraday
Recommended Cannon Trading Starting Capital
$25,000.00
COST
USD 75 / monthly
1b47bf3d a47c 453e 8ea6 0ad48c776363
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.
Sign Up for a Free Personalized Consultation with a Broker from Cannon Trading Company
Questions about the markets? trading? platforms? technology? trading systems? Get answers with a complimentary, confidential consultation with a Cannon Trading Company series 3 broker.
Would you like to receive daily support & resistance levels?
Yes
S
No
S

 

  • Trading Levels for Next Week

Daily Levels for December 11th, 2023
#ES, #NQ, #YM, #RTY, #XBT, #GC, #SI, #CL, #ZB, #6E, #ZC, #ZW, #ZS, #ZM, #NG
#ES, #NQ, #YM, #RTY, #XBT, #GC, #SI, #CL, #ZB, #6E, #ZC, #ZW, #ZS, #ZM, #NG
Trading Reports for Next Week
#ES, #NQ, #YM, #RTY, #XBT, #GC, #SI, #CL, #ZB, #6E, #ZC, #ZW, #ZS, #ZM, #NG
#ES, #NQ, #YM, #RTY, #XBT, #GC, #SI, #CL, #ZB, #6E, #ZC, #ZW, #ZS, #ZM, #NG

 

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  • click above for a LIVE demo, streaming prices
First Notice (FN), Last trading (LT) Days for the Week: www.mrci.com 
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This is not a solicitation of any order to buy or sell, but a current market view provided by Cannon Trading Inc. Any statement of facts herein contained are derived from sources believed to be reliable but are not guaranteed as to accuracy, nor they purport to be complete. No responsibility is assumed with respect to any such statement or with respect to any expression of opinion herein contained. Readers are urged to exercise their own judgment in trading.

 

Good Trading!
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.

NFP Tomorrow! + Futures Trading Levels for 12.08.2023

Posted on by Ilan
Get Real Time updates and more on our private FB group!

Join our Private Facebook group

Subscribe to our YouTube Channel

 

NFP non Farm Payrolls tomorrow!

This is a market moving event right at 7:30 Am central that in the past generated some large and volatile moves.

I personally like to be flat 2 minutes before and resume trading a few minutes after the report is out.

If you have notes from previous NFP, now is the time to review…if you don’t have notes, time to start a trading journal and keep notes in it!

10 Minutes chart of the ES, mini SP500 from last NFP, Nov. 3rd below for your review.

Plan your trade and trade your plan.

 

#ES Mini S&P 10 min chart

 

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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 when it comes to Futures Trading.

3b644da2 2bee 4d39 8d98 5208a20bec39

Futures Trading Levels

12-08-2023

#ES, #NQ, #YM, #RTY, #XBT, #GC, #SI, #CL, #ZB, #6E, #ZC, #ZW, #ZS, #ZM, #NG
#ES, #NQ, #YM, #RTY, #XBT, #GC, #SI, #CL, #ZB, #6E, #ZC, #ZW, #ZS, #ZM, #NG

Improve Your Trading Skills

Get access to proprietary indicators and trading methods, consult with an experienced broker
 1-800-454-9572 Explore trading methods. Register Here


Economic Reports,

Source: 

Forexfactory.com

 

1cec03a9 4546 4a09 82b0 0f26a9e005e9

 

This is not a solicitation of any order to buy or sell, but a current market view provided by Cannon Trading Inc. Any statement of facts here in contained are derived from sources believed to be reliable, but are not guaranteed as to accuracy, nor they purport to be complete. No responsibility is assumed with respect to any such statement or with respect to any expression of opinion herein contained. Readers are urged to exercise their own judgement in trading.

RISK DISCLOSURE: Past results are not necessarily indicative of future results. The risk of loss in futures trading can be substantial, carefully consider the inherent risks of such an investment in light of your financial condition.