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Futures Trading

Posted on February 25, 2026February 25, 2026 by Cannon Operations

Automated Futures Trading

The landscape of modern finance has been fundamentally reshaped by the rise of automated futures trading. No longer the exclusive domain of institutional giants and high-frequency hedge funds, systematic execution has become the gold standard for traders seeking precision, speed, and emotional discipline. As we navigate the complexities of 2026, the integration of artificial intelligence and low-latency infrastructure has turned futures trading into a high-tech discipline where the right partnership with a brokerage can make the difference between a failing strategy and a flourishing portfolio.

Learn More HERE

The Technological Frontier of Automated Futures Trading

The current era of automated futures trading is defined by a shift from static, rule-based systems to dynamic, self-evolving algorithms. Historically, a trading bot might have been programmed with a simple instruction: “If the 50-day moving average crosses the 200-day moving average, buy one E-mini S&P 500 contract.” Today, the technology has transcended these linear boundaries.

Machine Learning and Predictive Analytics

Modern systems now leverage supervised and unsupervised machine learning models. These algorithms do not just follow a set of instructions; they analyze terabytes of historical and real-time data from the CME (Chicago Mercantile Exchange) to identify non-linear patterns. For instance, an algorithm might detect that a specific volatility signature in the 10-Year Treasury Note futures often precedes a price breakout in equity indices. By training on decades of tick data, these systems can adjust their entry and exit parameters in real-time to account for shifting market regimes.

Infrastructure and Low-Latency Execution

In the world of futures trading, speed is measured in microseconds. The technological advancement of co-location—placing a trading server in the same data center as the exchange’s matching engine—has become essential. For example, by co-locating near the CME Globex servers in Aurora, Illinois, traders can minimize “slippage,” which is the difference between the expected price of a trade and the price at which the trade is actually executed. This infrastructure ensures that when an automated signal is triggered, the order reaches the exchange before the market has a chance to move against the position.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Automated Futures Trading

One of the most significant advancements in automated futures trading is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML).

How AI Is Reshaping Futures Trading

Modern systems can:

Analyze historical and real-time tick data
Detect non-linear relationships between markets
Adapt to volatility regime changes
Optimize parameters dynamically

Unlike traditional rule-based systems, machine learning models can retrain themselves as new data becomes available. In futures trading, this adaptability can be critical during economic shifts, interest rate changes, or geopolitical events.

For example, a volatility-adaptive strategy in automated futures trading might automatically reduce position size during unexpected CME-reported margin changes or increased market volatility. This type of dynamic risk management was difficult to implement in older systems.

Broker Support for AI-Driven Systems

A broker plays a vital role in enabling AI-powered automated futures trading. This includes:

Providing high-quality historical CME data for model training
Offering API access for algorithm deployment
Ensuring low-latency routing for real-time execution
Supporting platform integrations such as CQG-based infrastructure

Cannon Trading Company assists traders in connecting algorithmic systems to professional-grade platforms, helping ensure that automated futures trading systems operate efficiently within exchange specifications.

Low-Latency Infrastructure and Co-Location

Speed remains one of the defining elements of automated futures trading. In highly liquid futures trading contracts—such as E-mini S&P 500 futures—microseconds can matter.

Technological Advancements in Execution Speed

Modern advancements include:

Fiber-optic connectivity
Microwave transmission lines
Exchange co-location services
Hardware acceleration

Co-location allows automated futures trading systems to operate physically close to exchange servers, reducing latency and improving fill consistency.

For traders running arbitrage, spread trading, or order book imbalance strategies, these improvements significantly impact performance in futures trading environments.

How Brokers Help With Infrastructure

A knowledgeable broker can:

Facilitate access to co-location services
Assist with routing configuration
Provide guidance on order types supported by CME
Ensure compliance with exchange rules

Cannon Trading Company works with traders using high-speed execution strategies, ensuring that their automated futures trading systems align with exchange connectivity standards and margin requirements.

Advanced Order Types and Smart Routing

The CME continues to enhance electronic functionality, and modern automated futures trading systems now use advanced order types such as:

Iceberg orders
Stop-limit orders
Trailing stops
Market-if-touched (MIT) orders
Algorithmic execution orders

These tools allow traders to minimize slippage and reduce market impact.

Smart Order Routing

Smart routing technology in automated futures trading enables systems to:

Detect liquidity pockets
Avoid thin order book zones
Optimize entry and exit timing

In high-volume futures trading contracts, intelligent routing can dramatically improve execution quality.

Broker Assistance in Order Optimization

A broker helps traders:

Understand which advanced order types are supported
Configure automated order logic
Monitor rejected or partial fills
Troubleshoot execution anomalies

Cannon Trading Company provides personalized support, helping traders align automated futures trading systems with proper order handling and execution standards.

Cloud Computing and Data Analytics

Cloud technology has become a cornerstone of automated futures trading development.

Benefits of Cloud Infrastructure

Modern automated futures trading systems leverage cloud environments for:

Massive historical data storage
Distributed backtesting
Strategy optimization across multiple instruments
Remote system monitoring

Cloud-based futures trading allows traders to deploy systems without maintaining physical servers.

Broker Role in Data Access

Reliable futures trading depends on accurate and timely data. Brokers facilitate:

CME market data subscriptions
Historical tick data access
Real-time streaming feeds
Risk reporting dashboards

Cannon Trading Company ensures clients have access to institutional-grade data solutions necessary for building and maintaining automated futures trading systems.

Risk Management Automation

Automation is not just about entry and exit signals. Risk control is one of the most important advancements in automated futures trading.

Modern Risk Controls Include:

Real-time margin monitoring
Auto-liquidation safeguards
Volatility-based position sizing
Portfolio-level exposure limits

Futures trading carries leverage risk, and automated risk controls help reduce catastrophic losses.

Broker Support in Risk Monitoring

A broker provides:

Margin updates from CME
Intraday risk alerts
Account performance analytics
Regulatory compliance oversight

Cannon Trading Company’s risk management infrastructure helps traders integrate automated futures trading systems while maintaining disciplined oversight.

Integration With Professional Trading Platforms

Automated futures trading now integrates seamlessly with professional-grade platforms such as CQG-based systems, which offer:

Advanced charting
API access
Strategy automation modules
Custom scripting environments

These platforms allow traders to design, test, and deploy automated futures trading strategies directly within professional ecosystems.

Cannon Trading Company supports traders using such platforms and offers technical guidance on platform configuration and execution.

How Your Broker Navigates Technological Advancements

A premier brokerage does not simply provide a gateway to the markets; it acts as a technological liaison. Navigating the advancements in automated futures trading requires more than just a fast internet connection; it requires a broker that provides the “plumbing” for sophisticated strategies.

API Integration and Custom Environments

Advanced brokers offer robust Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) that allow traders to connect their custom-coded scripts—written in Python, C++, or Java—directly to the market. This is where E-futures platforms shine. By providing a stable API environment, a broker ensures that your automated futures trading logic can communicate seamlessly with the exchange’s order book. This prevents the “hanging order” syndrome, where a strategy sends a command that the broker’s server fails to process due to outdated software architecture.

Enhanced Risk Management Protocols

As automation increases, the risk of “runaway algorithms” also grows. Leading brokers have integrated server-side risk controls that act as a fail-safe. If an automated system begins to malfunction—perhaps by sending too many orders in a single second or exceeding a pre-set loss limit—the broker’s infrastructure can automatically “kill” the strategy and flatten all open positions. This level of institutional-grade protection is a cornerstone of professional futures trading.

Access to Specialized Products like E-mini and Micro Contracts

Brokers help traders scale their automation by providing access to various contract sizes. The introduction of E-mini and Micro E-mini contracts by the CME has revolutionized the space. Your broker helps you navigate these by allowing your automated systems to “ladder” into positions. An algorithm might be programmed to start a position with Micro contracts and only scale into the full-sized E-mini contracts once the trade has moved into a specific profit threshold.

Why Cannon Trading Company has been a Top Choice for Decades

futures trading

For nearly 40 years, Cannon Trading Company has remained at the forefront of the industry. Since its founding in 1988, the firm has transitioned through the era of pit trading into the digital revolution of automated futures trading without losing its core identity.

Stability and Longevity in a Volatile Industry

While many “flash-in-the-pan” brokerages have disappeared during market crashes, Cannon Trading Company has provided a stable harbor for traders since 1988. This longevity is a testament to their conservative management and commitment to regulatory compliance. They are a long-standing member of the National Futures Association (NFA) and registered with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).

The Hybrid Service Model

What sets Cannon Trading Company apart is its unique blend of cutting-edge technology and human expertise. In an age where most brokers have replaced their support staff with chatbots, Cannon provides a licensed broker to answer the phone. For those engaged in automated futures trading, this is invaluable. If a technical glitch occurs or a global news event creates unprecedented volatility, having a “real person” at the trade desk who understands the nuances of the CME markets can be the difference between a minor hiccup and a catastrophic loss.

Unmatched Platform Diversity

Cannon Trading Company does not force traders into a “one size fits all” box. They offer access to over a dozen different trading platforms, including E-futures, Sierra Chart, and MultiCharts. This diversity allows a trader to select the specific environment that best supports their automated logic. Whether you need the heavy-duty backtesting capabilities of a quant-focused platform or the streamlined execution of a mobile-friendly interface, Cannon provides the tools.

Reputation and Verified Success

According to reviews on Trustpilot, Cannon Trading Company consistently maintains one of the highest ratings in the brokerage industry. Traders frequently cite their transparency regarding fees and their proactive approach to customer service. In the world of futures trading, where trust is the primary currency, Cannon’s reputation for integrity is their most valuable asset.

Strategic Implementation of Automated Systems

Implementing automated futures trading requires a disciplined approach to strategy development. The most successful traders follow a rigorous pipeline that involves data acquisition, backtesting, and forward-testing (paper trading).

Backtesting with Historical CME Data

Before any capital is risked, a strategy must be tested against historical data provided by the CME. This allows the trader to see how the algorithm would have performed during historical events like the 2008 financial crisis or the 1987 crash. Cannon Trading Company assists by providing high-quality historical data feeds that ensure the backtest is as accurate as possible.

Optimizing for LLM and Geo-Location

In 2026, the intersection of Large Language Models (LLMs) and trading is becoming a reality. Advanced traders are using LLMs to scan global news sentiment and feed that data as a “feature” into their automated systems. Geographically, as trading moves to a global 24/7 model, the ability of a broker like Cannon Trading Company to provide around-the-clock support is no longer a luxury—it is a requirement.

FAQ: Automated Futures Trading

What is the minimum capital required for automated futures trading?

While it varies by broker, many traders start with Micro E-mini contracts which require significantly less margin than standard contracts. Cannon Trading Company offers competitive margin rates to help traders of all sizes get started.

Can I automate my trading without knowing how to code?

Yes. Many platforms offered by Cannon Trading Company, such as MultiCharts, provide “point-and-click” strategy builders or use simplified scripting languages that are accessible to non-programmers.

Is automated futures trading safer than manual trading?

“Safety” is relative. Automation removes emotional errors like “revenge trading,” but it introduces technical risks like connectivity issues. Using a broker with a 24-hour trade desk, like Cannon Trading Company, mitigates these technical risks.

What are the most common automated strategies for the CME markets?

Common strategies include trend following (riding a price move), mean reversion (betting that price will return to an average), and arbitrage (exploiting price differences between related contracts like the E-mini S&P 500 and its Micro counterpart).

How does Cannon Trading Company handle technical support for APIs?

Cannon provides dedicated technical support to help traders troubleshoot API connectivity and ensure their automated systems are communicating correctly with the E-futures servers.

Are there hidden fees in automated trading?

Professional brokers like Cannon Trading Company are transparent about their costs. Costs typically include commissions per contract, exchange fees from the CME, and potentially a platform or data fee.

Try a FREE Demo!

Ready to start trading futures? Call us at 1(800)454-9572 (US) or (310)859-9572 (International), or email info@cannontrading.com to speak with one of our experienced, Series-3 licensed futures brokers and begin your futures trading journey with Cannon Trading Company today.

Disclaimer: Trading Futures, Options on Futures, and retail off-exchange foreign currency transactions involve substantial risk of loss and are not suitable for all investors. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Carefully consider if trading is suitable for you in light of your circumstances, knowledge, and financial resources. You may lose all or more of your initial investment. Opinions, market data, and recommendations are subject to change at any time.

Important: Trading commodity futures and options involves a substantial risk of loss. The recommendations contained in this article are opinions only and do not guarantee any profits. This article is for educational purposes. Past performances are not necessarily indicative of future results.

This article has been generated with the help of AI Technology and modified for accuracy and compliance.

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The Week Ahead: 10 Fed Speeches PLUS: State of the Union address Tuesday, Tradingview Indicators, May Soybeans, Levels, Reports; Your 6 Important Can’t-Miss Need-To-Knows for Trading Futures the Week of February 23rd, 2026

Posted on February 20, 2026 by Cannon Operations

Cannon Futures Weekly Letter

In Today’s Issue #1279

The Week Ahead – Iran Deadline, State of Union, Fed Speeches
Futures 101 – Trading Signals AVAILABLE on TradingView!
Cannon Edge – Your Futures trading Map for the week ahead!
Hot Market of the Week – May Soybeans
Broker’s Trading System of the Week – NQ Day Trading System
Trading Levels for Next Week
Trading Reports for Next Week

At-a-Glance Levels

Instrument	S2	S1	Pivot	R1	R2
Gold (GC) — April (#GC)	4956.43	5035.97	5078.83	5158.37	5201.23
Silver (SI) — Mar. (#SI)	74.72	79.47	82.03	86.77	89.33
Crude Oil (CL) — April. (#CL)	65.19	65.79	66.41	67.01	67.63
Mar. Bonds (ZB) — Mar. (#ZB)	116 18/32	117	117 15/32	117 29/32	118 12/32

What Futures Traders Should Watch This Week

By John Thorpe, Senior Broker

fed

Shutdown? 10 Fed Speeches, including State of The Union

The Stalemate on Capitol Hill festers, how long will the “essential” employees go without pay before the safety of our air traffic system falters? 10 fed speeches for the market to digest. Speaking of digesting, some investors may need antacid while others will be celebrating like a tailgate party at the national championship game.

Tuesday, President Trump will be presenting the State of the Union Address to the Congress divided. Bring your popcorn.

Whether the event is positive or negative will be provided by the evening session, real time, tune into your trading platforms to view any potential fireworks. Re: the Fed, of note, there will be 10 Fed speakers during daytime trading hours throughout the week. (see below for times)

We’ll see you next week! Please enjoy a safe and memorable weekend.

Earnings Next Week:

· Mon. Dominion Resources

· Tue. Home Depot, Realty Income, American Tower

· Wed. Nvidia, HSBC Holdings, TJX Companies, Lowe’s

· Thu. Salesforce, Intuit, Dell, Vistra

· Fri. Quiet

FED SPEECHES: (all times CST)

· Mon. Waller 7:00am

· Tues. Goolsbee 7:00 am, Bostic 8:00, Collins 8:00, Waller 8:15, Cook 8:30

· Wed. Barkin 8:45 am, Musalem 12:20

· Thu. Bowman 9:00 am

· Fri. Jefferson 11:00 am

Econ Data: (all times CST)

· Mon. Natl Activity Index, Factory Orders, Dallas Fed

· Tue. Redbook YoY, Case Shiller, Consumer Conf, Dallas Fed svcs,

· Wed. EIA Crude stocks.

· Thu. Jobless claims, Nat Gas Stocks,

· Fri. Core PPI, CHGO PMI, Construction Spending, Baker Hughes Rig count

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WATCH VIDEO BELOW BY CLICKING ON THE IMAGE!

Introducing Cannon Edge — Your Daily Futures Snapshot

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

Current price and daily % change
30‑day and 52‑week highs/lows
PROPRIETARY Short‑term and long‑term trend signals
Coverage across equity indices, metals, energies, currencies, and ags

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

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

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

May Soybeans

May soybeans satisfied the second upside PriceCount objective to the $11.61 area and are now reacting with a potential key reversal to the downside. At this point, IF the chart can sustain further upside, the November highs would be the next layer of overhead to contend with before any possibility of taking aim at the third count.

Learn more spreads and seasonal patterns in commodity futures HERE

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

Abacus Raider Xtreme Trading System

System Description

Market Sector: Stock Indexes

Markets Traded: NQ ,

System Type: Day Trading

Suggested Capital: $9,500

Developer Fee per contract: $175.00 Monthly Subscription

A day trading system currently traded by the developer who has 15+ years’ experience. It is based on the successful Abacus Raider NQ system but expanded significantly to generate an average of 15-25 trades a month.

By utilizing negative correlations between positions, a low level of capital requirement is retained but with greatly increased profit potential over time.

All trades are strictly limited to a duration of only a few minutes to minimize risk and provide an unparalleled risk/reward profile. The system is available in the NQ market only (no MNQ).

Get Started

Learn More

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

System Trades Disclosure:

System Description

“System Description” is based upon information obtained from specific system marketing documents, system developers and/or system vendors themselves. While the information is believed to be reliable, we cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy.

Actual Monthly Performance

The table and charts represent the monthly/quarterly/annual summation of actual trades based on system-specified contract(s) executed through Striker Securities, Inc. using the referenced trading system or system vendor for the stated time period. Commissions and monthly vendor fees are deducted from the tabulation. Results are based on 1 contract.

If a client trades 2 contracts his gain or loss is twice as displayed (and so on). This table is presented for information purposes only and is not a solicitation for the referenced system or vendor. The purpose of this information is for clients to compare their brokerage statements to what is displayed on Striker’s site. Striker as a matter of policy has no ownership with the referenced system or vendor or any other trading system or vendor.

Past trade history may not be indicative of future results. The results indicated here may or may not be typical of the performance of this system and, ALTHOUGH WE BELIEVE THIS INFORMATION TO BE ACCURATE, CANNON TRADING COMPANY MAKES NO ENDORSEMENT OF THIS OR ANY SYSTEM NOR WARRANTS ITS PERFORMANCE.

This is not the only trading system that Striker executes for its clients. Potential traders should carefully investigate, evaluate and compare trading systems before investing capital. Some or all trading systems may involve an inappropriate level of risk for potential traders. It is the nature of commodity trading that where there is the opportunity for profit, there is also the risk of loss.

In opening an account through CANNON TRADING COMPANY, Customer acknowledges and agrees that he/she will rely solely upon the information that CANNON TRADING COMPANYprovides to you. Thus, all prior third-party materials provided are superseded by the information and disclosures provided by CANNON TRADING COMPANY.

Important Information About this Trading System Analysis

Statistics, tables, charts and other information on trading system monthly performance are based on actual trading unless otherwise specified. Actual dollar and percentage gains/losses experienced by investors would depend on many factors not accounted for in these statistics, including, but not limited to, starting account balances, market behavior, developer fees, incidence of split fills and other variations in order execution, and the duration and extent of individual investor participation in the specified system.

While the information and statistics given are believed to be complete and accurate we cannot guarantee their completeness or accuracy as they results are key punched and subject to human error. Performance information is not the performance of a single account, but a compilation of several accounts over time, and is based on the physical trading ticket.

THIS INFORMATION IS PROVIDED FOR EDUCATIONAL/ INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND USED BY CURRENT CLIENTS TO AUDIT THEIR STATEMENTS TO STRIKER SITE. These results are not indicative of, and have no bearing on, any individual results that may be attained by the trading system in the future.

This trading system, like any other, may involve an inappropriate level of risk for prospective investors. THE RISK OF LOSS IN TRADING COMMODITY FUTURES AND OPTIONS CAN BE SUBSTANTIAL AND MAY NOT BE SUITABLE FOR ALL INVESTORS. Prior to purchasing or leasing a trading system from this or any other system vendor or investing in a trading system with a registered commodity trading representative, investors need to carefully consider whether such trading is suitable for them in light of their own specific financial condition.

In some cases, futures accounts are subject to substantial charges for commission, management, incentive or advisory fees. It may be necessary for accounts subject to these charges to make substantial trading profits to avoid depletion or exhaustion of their assets. In addition, one should carefully study the accompanying prospectus, account forms, disclosure documents and/or risk disclosure statements required by the CFTC or NFA, which are provided directly by the system vendor and/or CTA’s.

The information contained in this report is provided with the objective of “standardizing” trading systems measurements, and it is intended for educational /informational purposes only. All information is offered with the understanding that an investor considering purchasing or leasing a system must carry out his/her own research and due diligence in deciding whether to purchase or lease any trading system noted within or without this report. This report does not constitute a solicitation to purchase or invest in any trading system which may be mentioned herein.

CANNON TRADING COMPANY AND STRIKER SECURITES, INC. MAKES NO ENDORSEMENT OF THIS OR ANY OTHER TRADING SYSTEM NOR WARRANTS ITS PERFORMANCE. THIS IS NOT A SOLICITATION TO PURCHASE OR SUBSCRIBE TO ANY TRADING SYSTEM.

Futures Trading Disclaimer:

Transactions in securities futures, commodity and index futures and options on futures carry a high degree of risk. The amount of initial margin is small relative to the value of the futures contract, meaning that transactions are heavily “leveraged”. A relatively small market movement will have a proportionately larger impact on the funds you have deposited or will have to deposit: this may work against you as well as for you.

You may sustain a total loss of initial margin funds and any additional funds deposited with the clearing firm to maintain your position. If the market moves against your position or margin levels are increased, you may be called upon to pay substantial additional funds on short notice to maintain your position. If you fail to comply with a request for additional funds within the time prescribed, your position may be liquidated at a loss and you will be liable for any resulting deficit.

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Daily Levels for Feb. 23rd, 2026

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Trading Reports for Next Week

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

www.mrci.com

Find us on Trustpilot

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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METALS have ENTERED THE CHAT!!!! PLUS: Copper, May Canola, Levels, Reports; Your 5 Important Can’t-Miss Need-To-Knows for Trading Futures on February 19th, 2026

Posted on February 18, 2026 by Cannon Operations

Short trading Week

By Mark O’Brien, Senior Broker

At-a-Glance Levels

Instrument	S2	S1	Pivot	R1	R2
Gold (GC) — April (#GC)	4803.90	4902.70	4967.30	5066.10	5130.70
Silver (SI) — Mar. (#SI)	69.86	73.53	75.93	79.60	82.00
Crude Oil (CL) — Mar. (#CL)	60.84	63.04	64.23	66.43	67.62
Mar. Bonds (ZB) — Mar. (#ZB)	117 4/32	117 11/32	117 23/32	117 30/32	118 10/32

General:

Yesterday and today, four holidays from different cultures and religions overlapped in a rare calendar-timed line-up thanks to several long solar, lunar and lunisolar calendar cycles. So . . .

Happy Lunar New Year (yesterday)
Happy Fat Tuesday/Mardi Gras (yesterday)
Happy Ash Wednesday
Happy 1^st day of Ramadan.

Metals:

metals

With metals prices dominating futures traders’ headspace, it was notable that UBS, the multinational investment bank and financial services firm based in Switzerland, gave a “what’s next for commodities,” update this week and metals took center stage. UBS is the world’s largest private bank with over $6.1 trillion in assets. It manages the largest amount of private wealth in the world and is a leading market maker. So, their insights are probably worth monitoring.

Here are a few highlights:

Copper

After copper futures prices hit a record high in late January before consolidating, UBS projects, “further supply shortages for copper . . . . that should support prices over the medium term, while structural drivers (e.g., electrification) underpin long-term demand.

Precious metals futures prices including gold, while volatile, rose in January as political, geopolitical, and economic uncertainties drove “safe haven” demand. The bank “see(s) gold resuming its climb, rising as high as $6,200/oz by mid-year, supported by central bank and investor demand, large fiscal deficits, lower real U.S. interest rates, and geopolitical risks.”

Metals 2026

In short, they believe fundamentals remain supportive for the metals sector. More broadly, their view is that “commodities are set to play a more prominent role in portfolios in 2026, in our view, offering diversification amid supply-demand imbalances, geopolitical risks, and the global energy transition. We like broad commodity exposure, and continue to favor gold, which we see as an attractive hedge.”

New 100 ounce Silver contract! This contract is now available on our FREE CannonX platform with symbol SICH26. Demo available here.

Introducing Cannon Edge — Your Daily Futures Snapshot

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

Current price and daily % change
30‑day and 52‑week highs/lows
PROPRIETARY Short‑term and long‑term trend signals
Coverage across equity indices, metals, energies, currencies, and ags

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

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

May Canola

The rally in May canola has broken out above the November high, opening the topside for a run to the third upside PriceCount objective to the 686 area. It would be normal for the chart to react from this level in the form of a near term or corrective trade, at least. At this point, IF you can sustain further upside we are left with the low percentage fourth upside count to aim for in the 773 area.

FREE TRIAL AVAILABLE

Learn more at www.qtchartoftheday.com

Daily Levels for February 19th, 2026

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Click here for quick and easy instructions.

Economic Reports

provided by: ForexFactory.com

All times are Central Time ( Chicago)

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FOMC Tomorrow PLUS: Lunar New Year Notice, Dual Dissent Comparison, Levels, Reports; Your 5 Important Can’t-Miss Need-To-Knows for Trading Futures on February 18th, 2026

Posted on February 17, 2026 by Cannon Operations

FOMC Approaching!

Lunar New Year Holiday Notice – Hong Kong & China

Please note that February 17–19 is a public holiday in Hong Kong and China in observance of the Lunar New Year.

We wish all our traders across the Far East a Happy Lunar New Year and a prosperous year ahead.

At-a-Glance Levels

Instrument	S2	S1	Pivot	R1	R2
Gold (GC) — April (#GC)	4721.33	4808.67	4951.53	5028.87	5161.73
Silver (SI) — Mar. (#SI)	67.88	70.55	74.49	77.16	81.09
Crude Oil (CL) — Mar. (#CL)	60.43	61.31	62.63	63.51	64.83
Mar. Bonds (ZB) — Mar. (#ZB)	117 9/32	117 19/32	118	118 10/32	118 23/32