Archive for Financial News – Page 134

Optimism over corporate earnings is fueling stock indices. The Hong Kong index reached a 5-month high

By JustMarkets

On Monday, the Dow Jones (US30) rose by 0.38%, while the S&P 500 (US500) Index gained 0.32%. The NASDAQ Technology Index (US100) closed positive 0.35%. Meanwhile, the S&P 500 (US500) and NASDAQ (US100) 100 indices hit 2-week highs. Optimism over first-quarter earnings, positive corporate news, and lower bond yields contribute to the broader market’s gains.

Tesla’s (TSLA) shares are up more than 12% after the company met vital security and data privacy requirements in China. It will partner with Baidu (BIDU) to introduce a fully autonomous driving feature. Domino’s Pizza (DPZ) is up more than 4% after reporting better-than-expected revenue from operations in the first quarter. Apple (AAPL) shares are up more than 3% after Bernstein upgraded its rating to “outperform.”

First-quarter earnings results were mostly better than expected, which is favorable for the stock. According to Bloomberg Intelligence, about 81% of the S&P 500 companies already reported beat first-quarter earnings estimates.

In the coming days, markets will focus on the outcome of Tuesday/Wednesday’s FOMC meeting and Fed Chair Powell’s comments on how long the Federal Reserve is willing to wait before cutting interest rates. Recent US price data has signaled solid core inflation, pushing back rate cut expectations. Currently, markets are pricing in a 25 bps chance of a rate cut of 2% at the next FOMC meeting on May 1 and 13% at the next meeting on June 12. In addition, the earnings results of AMZN and AAPL on Thursday will also determine the market’s direction.

Equity markets in Europe were mostly down on Monday. Germany’s DAX (DE40) was down 0.24%, France’s CAC 40 (FR40) closed negative 0.29%, Spain’s IBEX 35 (ES35) decreased by 0.48%, and the UK’s FTSE 100 (UK100) closed positive 0.09%.

Hawkish comments from ECB Governing Council representatives Knot and Wunsch on Monday put moderate pressure on European indices when they said the ECB should be cautious, sending a signal to markets that it will cut rates for a second consecutive month in July. The Eurozone economic confidence indicator for April unexpectedly fell by 0.6 to 95.6, weaker than expectations of a rise to 96.7. Germany’s consumer price index (EU harmonized) for April rose by 2.4% y/y, stronger than expectations of 2.3% y/y.

WTI crude oil prices fell to $82.5/bbl on Tuesday, extending losses from the previous session as peace talks between Israel and Hamas eased fears of a widening conflict in the Middle East. Markets are awaiting the Hamas leadership’s response to a phased truce offer made by Israel over the weekend in Cairo. However, ongoing Houthi attacks on maritime traffic south of the Suez Canal keep investors on edge.

Asian markets were predominantly up yesterday. Japan’s Nikkei 225 (JP225) rose by 0.81%, China’s FTSE China A50 (CHA50) added 0.64%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng (HK50) gained 0.54%, and Australia’s ASX 200 (AU200) was positive 0.81%. The Hang Seng (HK50) retreated from the 5-month peak the previous day as some traders sought to lock in profits after substantial gains in the last six sessions. Meanwhile, investors were digesting China’s manufacturing PMI data for April, where official data showed a second consecutive month of growth in factory activity. Private Caixin survey data indicated the manufacturing sector grew the most in 14 months.

On Monday, the yen fell to 160 per dollar for the first time since 1990 before making a more than 3% jump to 154.5 per dollar due to a supposed intervention by Japanese authorities. Meanwhile, the government has not confirmed whether it has intervened in the markets to support the yen, although chief currency diplomat Masato Kanda said they would release the results at the end of next month. Japan’s March 2024 retail sales rose 1.2% year-on-year, slowing significantly from the upwardly revised 4.7% rise in February and well below market expectations for a 2.5% rise. Nevertheless, it was the 25th consecutive month of retail sales growth as consumption in Japan continued to rise.

Flash data showed that retail sales in Australia fell by 0.4% in March 2024, falling short of the 0.2% growth projection, which was also revised down from February. It was the first decline in retail sales since December last year, as turnover fell across all sectors.

S&P 500 (US500) 5,116.17 +16.21 (+0.32%)

Dow Jones (US30) 38,386.09 +146.43 (+0.38%)

DAX (DE40) 18,118.32 −42.69 (−0.24%)

FTSE 100 (UK100) 8,147.03 +7.20 (+0.09%)

USD Index 105.64 −0.32 (−0.30%)

Important events today:
  • – Japan Unemployment Rate (m/m) at 02:30 (GMT+3);
  • – Japan Industrial Production (m/m) at 02:50 (GMT+3);
  • – Australia Retail Sales (m/m) at 04:30 (GMT+3);
  • – China Manufacturing PMI (m/m) at 04:30 (GMT+3);
  • – China Non-Manufacturing PMI (m/m) at 04:30 (GMT+3);
  • – China Caixin Manufacturing PMI (m/m) at 04:45 (GMT+3);
  • – German Retail Sales (m/m) at 09:00 (GMT+3);
  • – Switzerland KOF Leading Indicators (m/m) at 10:30 (GMT+3);
  • – German Unemployment Rate (m/m) at 10:55 (GMT+3);
  • – German GDP (m/m) at 11:00 (GMT+3);
  • – Eurozone Consumer Price Index (m/m) at 12:00 (GMT+3);
  • – Eurozone GDP (q/q) at 12:00 (GMT+3);
  • – Canada GDP (m/m) at 15:30 (GMT+3);
  • – US Chicago PMI (m/m) at 16:45 (GMT+3);
  • – US CB Consumer Confidence (m/m) at 17:00 (GMT+3).

By JustMarkets

 

This article reflects a personal opinion and should not be interpreted as an investment advice, and/or offer, and/or a persistent request for carrying out financial transactions, and/or a guarantee, and/or a forecast of future events.

FXTM’s Copper: Hits fresh two-year high!

By ForexTime

  • FXTM launches 10 new commodities!
  • Copper jumps to two-year high
  • Prices up almost 20% year-to-date
  • Bulls in control on H4/D1 charts
  • Key levels of interest at $4.58, $4.54 & $4.50

In case you missed it, FXTM’s new Copper commodity has just hit a fresh two-year high!

Prices punched above $4.65 per pound on Tuesday morning thanks to fundamental forces.

Note: COMEX Copper is priced per pound.

Before we cover the fundamentals, here are some fun facts about copper:

  • 3rd most widely used metal in the world.
  • Used in buildings, electronic products, machinery and transportation.
  • Chile has the world’s largest copper mine.
  • China is the world’s largest consumer.
  • Hit all-time high of $5.01 in March 2022

 

Now here are the basics:

 

What is Copper?

It is a shiny, reddish, and malleable metal widely used in our everyday lives.

This metal has major industrial uses and is an essential nutrient in our daily diet!

What does FXTM’s Copper track?

FXTM’s Copper tracks Copper futures on the New York Mercantile Exchange’s COMEX division.

COMEX is an abbreviation of the Commodity Exchange Inc.

Note: Unlike other metals like gold and silver, copper futures are traded as a commodity.

The lowdown…

Copper prices have been trending higher in recent months.

The commodity has gained almost 20% since the start of 2024 due to supply-side factors and expectations around booming demand.

  • In December, Cobre Panama one of the world’s largest copper mines was forced to stop operations.
  • Earlier this month, metal exchanges were prohibited from accepting new Russian production of copper, aluminum and nickel.
  • Zambia, Africa’s second-largest copper producer was hit by power cuts.

The bigger picture

It is not only supply shortages that have boosted copper prices.

The clean energy transition and artificial intelligence projects could fuel upside gains.

Copper remains in hot demand because of its use in electronic devices. But it is also a crucial component in the creation of solar panels, wind turbines and hydro systems.

What does this mean?

Well according to the International Copper Study Group (ICSG), world copper mine production in 2024 has been revised down to 0.5% compared to the 3.7% forecast in October 2023.

In addition, demand is expected to increase by 2% in 2024 and jump to 2.5% in 2025!

With production falling and demand rising, this could spell more gains for copper down the road.

Looking at the technicals…

Prices are firmly bullish on the daily charts with bulls in a position of power.

However, a technical throwback could be in play on the H1 charts with prices testing potential support levels.

  • Sustained weakness below $4.58 may encourage a decline towards the 100-day SMA and $4.50.
  • Should prices rebound from the 100-day SMA, this could trigger a move back towards $4.58, $4.60 and $4.65.


Forex-Time-LogoArticle by ForexTime

ForexTime Ltd (FXTM) is an award winning international online forex broker regulated by CySEC 185/12 www.forextime.com

European indices grow on the ECB’s “dovish” position. Quarterly reports of mega-companies support the broad market

By JustMarkets

On Friday, the Dow Jones (US30) Index gained 0.40% (for the week +0.32%), while the S&P 500 (US500) Index gained 1.02% (for the week +2.26%). The NASDAQ Technology Index (US100) closed positive 2.03% (for the week +3.45%). Positive earnings results from Alphabet (GOOG) and Microsoft (MSFT) are helping to boost the overall market. Alphabet is up more than 10% after reporting better-than-expected first-quarter earnings. Additionally, Microsoft is up more than 2% after reporting better-than-consensus earnings. Shares of chip companies also jumped after tech megacaps, including Meta Platforms, Alphabet, and Microsoft, said they will continue to increase investment in artificial intelligence, which should boost demand for AI chip companies. Stock indices maintained gains despite economic news from the US, which showed that March personal spending and the March core PCE deflator rose more than expected, a hawkish factor for Fed policy. On the downside, Intel (INTC) fell more than 10% after forecasting weaker-than-expected second-quarter earnings.

US personal spending for March rose by 0.8% m/m, stronger than expectations of 0.6% m/m. Personal income for March rose by 0.5% m/m, which aligns with expectations. The US core PCE deflator for March, the Fed’s preferred measure of inflation, came in at 2.8% y/y, unchanged from February and above expectations of 2.7% y/y. The University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index for April was revised down 0.7% to 77.2, weaker than expectations of no change at 77.9.

Equity markets in Europe were mostly up on Friday. Germany’s DAX (DE40) rose by 1.36% (for the week +2.38%), France’s CAC 40 (FR40) closed up 0.89% (for the week +0.25%), Spain’s IBEX 35 (ES35) added 1.56% (for the week +3.10%), and the UK’s FTSE 100 (UK100) closed positive 0.75% (for the week +3.09%).

The Eurozone M3 Money Supply for March grew more than expected, which is negative for the euro. March 1-year ECB inflation expectations fell to 3.0% from 3.1% in February, the lowest in two years. However, March’s 3-year inflation expectations were 2.5%, unchanged from February’s and above expectations of 2.4%. Swaps estimate the ECB’s chances of a 25 bps rate cut at its next meeting on June 6 at 88%. This is a growth factor for the European indices.

WTI crude oil prices fell to around $83 a barrel on Monday, recouping some of last week’s gains. High US inflation further undermined sentiment around interest rate cuts, worsening the demand outlook. Investors now await the US central bank’s monetary policy decision this week, which is expected to keep borrowing costs at current high levels. The latest US PCE inflation data strengthened the dollar, increasing oil prices as dollar-denominated commodities become more expensive for buyers holding other currencies.

Asian markets were mostly up last week. Japan’s Nikkei 225 (JP225) rose by 1.86%, China’s FTSE China A50 (CHA50) gained 2.06% for the week, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng (HK50) jumped by 7.56% for the week, and Australia’s ASX 200 (AU200) was negative 0.87%.

The Japanese yen strengthened 2% to 155 per dollar on Monday after falling to 160.2 earlier in the session. Markets saw this as a possible government intervention as Japanese banks are reportedly actively dumping dollars. Traders have been on alert for a possible intervention by Japanese authorities for some time as the yen has slumped to 34-year lows and lost more than 10% against the dollar this year.

Vietnam’s annual inflation rate rose to 4.4% in April 2024 from 3.97% in the previous month. This was the highest inflation rate since January 2023, with food prices rising the most in eight months (4.32% vs. 4.05% in March).

S&P 500 (US500) 5,099.96 +51.54 (+1.02%)

Dow Jones (US30) 38,239.66 +122.77 (+0.32%)

DAX (DE40) 18,161.01 +243.73 (+1.36%)

FTSE 100 (UK100) 8,139.83 +60.97 (+0.75%)

USD Index 106.09 +0.16 (+0.15%)

Important events today:
  • – German Consumer Price Index (m/m) at 15:00 (GMT+3).

By JustMarkets

 

This article reflects a personal opinion and should not be interpreted as an investment advice, and/or offer, and/or a persistent request for carrying out financial transactions, and/or a guarantee, and/or a forecast of future events.

Japanese yen shows volatility amid speculation of intervention

By RoboForex Analytical Department

The USD/JPY pair is hovering around 155.00 on Monday, having earlier touched a new 34-year peak at 160.00. Market rumours suggest that the Japanese authorities might have intervened in the currency market, although there has been no official confirmation. Today’s market movement is particularly notable due to a public holiday in Japan, which has resulted in minimal market liquidity. This scenario made it relatively easy for investors to prompt significant changes in the quotes.

Last week, the Bank of Japan (BoJ) maintained its monetary policy foundation, keeping the interest rate steady at 0-0.1% per annum. Market participants were left disappointed, as they had anticipated a more pronounced reaction from the BoJ.

The primary driver of the yen’s ongoing weakness is the significant discrepancy between the interest rates set by the BoJ and the US Federal Reserve. This interest rate gap exerts substantial pressure on the yen, making any actual intervention largely ineffective. The BoJ, aware of this reality, has thus far limited its actions to verbal interventions to influence the yen’s value.

Technical analysis of USD/JPY

On the H4 chart of USD/JPY, a growth wave reaching the level of 160.16 was realised. The structure of the first impulse of decline to 154.70 is currently forming. Once this level is reached, a correction to 157.35 (testing from below) is anticipated, potentially followed by a new wave of decline towards 152.32, with the prospect of continuing the trend to 149.65. This scenario is technically supported by the MACD oscillator, which is positioned above zero at the highs but is expected to decline to new lows.

On the H1 chart, the upward growth wave to 160.16 has been completed. We are now observing the formation of the first impulse of the decline wave. The local target of this downside impulse at 155.15 has been achieved. We anticipate a corrective move to 157.35 (testing from below). Subsequently, the next phase of the downward trend to 154.65 is expected, which is the primary target. After completing this, a correction back to 157.35 may be considered. The Stochastic oscillator confirms this bearish outlook, with its signal line below 50 and pointing strictly downwards.

 

Disclaimer

Any forecasts contained herein are based on the author’s particular opinion. This analysis may not be treated as trading advice. RoboForex bears no responsibility for trading results based on trading recommendations and reviews contained herein.

COT Bonds Charts: Speculator Weekly Changes led by 5-Year & 10-Year Bonds

By InvestMacro

Here are the latest charts and statistics for the Commitment of Traders (COT) reports data published by the Commodities Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).

The latest COT data is updated through Tuesday April 23th and shows a quick view of how large traders (for-profit speculators and commercial hedgers) were positioned in the futures markets.

Weekly Speculator Changes led by 5-Year & 10-Year Bonds

The COT bond market speculator bets were lower this week as three out of the eight bond markets we cover had higher positioning while the other five markets had lower speculator contracts.

Leading the gains for the bond markets was the 5-Year Bonds (103,933 contracts) with the 10-Year Bonds (8,119 contracts) and the Fed Funds (536 contracts) also showing positive weeks.

The bond markets with declines in speculator bets for the week were the SOFR 3-Months (-104,410 contracts), the 2-Year Bonds (-34,423 contracts), the Ultra 10-Year Bonds (-25,928 contracts), the US Treasury Bonds (-5,407 contracts) and the Ultra Treasury Bonds (-3,700 contracts) also seeing lower bets on the week.


Net Speculators Leaderboard

Legend: Weekly Speculators Change | Speculators Current Net Position | Speculators Strength Score compared to last 3-Years (0-100 range)


Strength Scores led by Fed Funds & US Treasury Bonds

COT Strength Scores (a normalized measure of Speculator positions over a 3-Year range, from 0 to 100 where above 80 is Extreme-Bullish and below 20 is Extreme-Bearish) showed that the Fed Funds (81 percent) and the US Treasury Bonds (76 percent) lead the bond markets this week. The Ultra Treasury Bonds (66 percent) comes in as the next highest in the weekly strength scores.

On the downside, the Ultra 10-Year Bonds (8 percent) comes in at the lowest strength level currently and is in Extreme-Bearish territory (below 20 percent). The next lowest strength scores were the 5-Year Bonds (24 percent) and the 2-Year Bonds (32 percent).

Strength Statistics:
Fed Funds (81.2 percent) vs Fed Funds previous week (81.1 percent)
2-Year Bond (31.7 percent) vs 2-Year Bond previous week (33.9 percent)
5-Year Bond (24.2 percent) vs 5-Year Bond previous week (17.5 percent)
10-Year Bond (50.0 percent) vs 10-Year Bond previous week (49.3 percent)
Ultra 10-Year Bond (7.8 percent) vs Ultra 10-Year Bond previous week (13.1 percent)
US Treasury Bond (76.1 percent) vs US Treasury Bond previous week (78.0 percent)
Ultra US Treasury Bond (65.8 percent) vs Ultra US Treasury Bond previous week (67.3 percent)
SOFR 3-Months (48.3 percent) vs SOFR 3-Months previous week (53.7 percent)


Fed Funds & 10-Year Bonds top the 6-Week Strength Trends

COT Strength Score Trends (or move index, calculates the 6-week changes in strength scores) showed that the Fed Funds (54 percent) and the 10-Year Bonds (23 percent) lead the past six weeks trends for bonds. The US Treasury Bonds (12 percent) is the next highest positive movers in the latest trends data.

The SOFR 3-Months (-34 percent) and the Ultra 10-Year Bonds (-21 percent) lead the downside trend scores currently with the 2-Year Bonds (-3 percent) following next with lower trend scores.

Strength Trend Statistics:
Fed Funds (54.5 percent) vs Fed Funds previous week (52.2 percent)
2-Year Bond (-2.7 percent) vs 2-Year Bond previous week (3.4 percent)
5-Year Bond (11.0 percent) vs 5-Year Bond previous week (6.2 percent)
10-Year Bond (23.3 percent) vs 10-Year Bond previous week (32.8 percent)
Ultra 10-Year Bond (-21.5 percent) vs Ultra 10-Year Bond previous week (-5.7 percent)
US Treasury Bond (11.6 percent) vs US Treasury Bond previous week (14.7 percent)
Ultra US Treasury Bond (7.7 percent) vs Ultra US Treasury Bond previous week (11.2 percent)
SOFR 3-Months (-34.1 percent) vs SOFR 3-Months previous week (-12.5 percent)


Secured Overnight Financing Rate (3-Month) Futures:

SOFR 3-Months Bonds Futures COT ChartThe Secured Overnight Financing Rate (3-Month) large speculator standing this week totaled a net position of -232,377 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly decline of -104,410 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -127,967 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish with a score of 48.3 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 51.8 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 85.3 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Weak Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Weak Uptrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Long Position.

SOFR 3-Months StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:14.558.30.3
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:16.856.00.4
– Net Position:-232,377237,071-4,694
– Gross Longs:1,467,2405,894,33933,941
– Gross Shorts:1,699,6175,657,26838,635
– Long to Short Ratio:0.9 to 11.0 to 10.9 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):48.351.885.3
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BearishBullishBullish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:-34.134.00.9

 


30-Day Federal Funds Futures:

Federal Funds 30-Day Bonds Futures COT ChartThe 30-Day Federal Funds large speculator standing this week totaled a net position of 59,264 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly lift of 536 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 58,728 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bullish-Extreme with a score of 81.2 percent. The commercials are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 17.5 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 87.4 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Downtrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Downtrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Short Position.

30-Day Federal Funds StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:21.261.82.1
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:18.064.82.2
– Net Position:59,264-57,401-1,863
– Gross Longs:397,9361,161,61040,379
– Gross Shorts:338,6721,219,01142,242
– Long to Short Ratio:1.2 to 11.0 to 11.0 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):81.217.587.4
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):Bullish-ExtremeBearish-ExtremeBullish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:54.5-53.5-6.5

 


2-Year Treasury Note Futures:

2-Year Treasury Bonds Futures COT ChartThe 2-Year Treasury Note large speculator standing this week totaled a net position of -980,726 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly decrease of -34,423 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -946,303 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish with a score of 31.7 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 65.3 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 91.6 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Strong Downtrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Strong Downtrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Short Position.

2-Year Treasury Note StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:12.879.16.5
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:37.058.03.4
– Net Position:-980,726855,608125,118
– Gross Longs:518,8473,206,411264,099
– Gross Shorts:1,499,5732,350,803138,981
– Long to Short Ratio:0.3 to 11.4 to 11.9 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):31.765.391.6
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BearishBullishBullish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:-2.72.72.1

 


5-Year Treasury Note Futures:

5-Year Treasury Bonds Futures COT ChartThe 5-Year Treasury Note large speculator standing this week totaled a net position of -1,090,289 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly boost of 103,933 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -1,194,222 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish with a score of 24.2 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 72.0 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 88.1 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Strong Downtrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Strong Downtrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Short Position.

5-Year Treasury Note StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:7.783.07.2
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:26.066.75.2
– Net Position:-1,090,289970,956119,333
– Gross Longs:458,9884,946,205426,940
– Gross Shorts:1,549,2773,975,249307,607
– Long to Short Ratio:0.3 to 11.2 to 11.4 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):24.272.088.1
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BearishBullishBullish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:11.0-13.71.3

 


10-Year Treasury Note Futures:

10-Year Treasury Notes Bonds Futures COT ChartThe 10-Year Treasury Note large speculator standing this week totaled a net position of -353,920 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly increase of 8,119 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -362,039 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bullish with a score of 50.0 percent. The commercials are Bearish with a score of 40.7 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 72.9 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Strong Downtrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Strong Downtrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Short Position.

10-Year Treasury Note StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:12.275.99.0
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:20.167.99.1
– Net Position:-353,920356,954-3,034
– Gross Longs:546,3673,404,137405,097
– Gross Shorts:900,2873,047,183408,131
– Long to Short Ratio:0.6 to 11.1 to 11.0 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):50.040.772.9
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BullishBearishBullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:23.3-26.0-9.9

 


Ultra 10-Year Notes Futures:

Ultra 10-Year Treasury Notes Bonds Futures COT ChartThe Ultra 10-Year Notes large speculator standing this week totaled a net position of -239,527 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly fall of -25,928 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -213,599 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish-Extreme with a score of 7.8 percent. The commercials are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 93.6 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 67.4 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Weak Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Weak Uptrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Long Position.

Ultra 10-Year Notes StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:11.476.710.2
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:23.061.314.0
– Net Position:-239,527318,016-78,489
– Gross Longs:234,2701,578,675209,370
– Gross Shorts:473,7971,260,659287,859
– Long to Short Ratio:0.5 to 11.3 to 10.7 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):7.893.667.4
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):Bearish-ExtremeBullish-ExtremeBullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:-21.527.7-3.6

 


US Treasury Bonds Futures:

US Year Treasury Notes Long Bonds Futures COT ChartThe US Treasury Bonds large speculator standing this week totaled a net position of -21,171 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly reduction of -5,407 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -15,764 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bullish with a score of 76.1 percent. The commercials are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 9.1 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 74.3 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Strong Downtrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Strong Downtrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Short Position.

US Treasury Bonds StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:16.370.112.8
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:17.771.110.5
– Net Position:-21,171-14,33535,506
– Gross Longs:252,7371,086,997198,692
– Gross Shorts:273,9081,101,332163,186
– Long to Short Ratio:0.9 to 11.0 to 11.2 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):76.19.174.3
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BullishBearish-ExtremeBullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:11.6-5.3-14.8

 


Ultra US Treasury Bonds Futures:

Ultra US Year Treasury Notes Long Bonds Futures COT ChartThe Ultra US Treasury Bonds large speculator standing this week totaled a net position of -298,500 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly decline of -3,700 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -294,800 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bullish with a score of 65.8 percent. The commercials are Bearish with a score of 44.5 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 33.4 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Strong Downtrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Strong Downtrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Short Position.

Ultra US Treasury Bonds StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:8.880.110.7
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:27.261.411.0
– Net Position:-298,500302,463-3,963
– Gross Longs:142,4731,297,057173,986
– Gross Shorts:440,973994,594177,949
– Long to Short Ratio:0.3 to 11.3 to 11.0 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):65.844.533.4
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BullishBearishBearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:7.7-0.3-16.7

 


Article By InvestMacroReceive our weekly COT Newsletter

*COT Report: The COT data, released weekly to the public each Friday, is updated through the most recent Tuesday (data is 3 days old) and shows a quick view of how large speculators or non-commercials (for-profit traders) were positioned in the futures markets.

The CFTC categorizes trader positions according to commercial hedgers (traders who use futures contracts for hedging as part of the business), non-commercials (large traders who speculate to realize trading profits) and nonreportable traders (usually small traders/speculators) as well as their open interest (contracts open in the market at time of reporting). See CFTC criteria here.

COT Stock Market Charts: Speculator Bets led by VIX & Russell-Mini

By InvestMacro

Here are the latest charts and statistics for the Commitment of Traders (COT) data published by the Commodities Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).

The latest COT data is updated through Tuesday April 23th and shows a quick view of how large traders (for-profit speculators and commercial entities) were positioned in the futures markets.

Weekly Speculator Changes led by VIX & Russell-Mini

The COT stock markets speculator bets were lower this week as three out of the seven stock markets we cover had higher positioning while the other four markets had lower speculator contracts.

Leading the gains for the stock markets was the VIX (4,474 contracts) with the Russell-Mini (2,350 contracts) and the MSCI EAFE-Mini (1,985 contracts) also showing positive weeks.

The markets with the declines in speculator bets this week were the DowJones-Mini (-6,827 contracts) with the S&P500-Mini (-6,436 contracts), the Nasdaq-Mini (-2,404 contracts) and the Nikkei 225 (-528 contracts) also registering lower bets on the week.


Net Speculators Leaderboard

Legend: Weekly Speculators Change | Speculators Current Net Position | Speculators Strength Score compared to last 3-Years (0-100 range)


Strength Scores led by VIX & S&P500-Mini

COT Strength Scores (a normalized measure of Speculator positions over a 3-Year range, from 0 to 100 where above 80 is Extreme-Bullish and below 20 is Extreme-Bearish) showed that the VIX (96 percent) and the S&P500-Mini (75 percent) lead the stock markets this week. The DowJones-Mini (71 percent) and Nikkei 225 (68 percent) come in as the next highest in the weekly strength scores.

On the downside, the Nasdaq-Mini (49 percent) comes in at the lowest strength level currently.

Strength Statistics:
VIX (95.6 percent) vs VIX previous week (90.8 percent)
S&P500-Mini (74.8 percent) vs S&P500-Mini previous week (75.8 percent)
DowJones-Mini (71.4 percent) vs DowJones-Mini previous week (82.5 percent)
Nasdaq-Mini (48.7 percent) vs Nasdaq-Mini previous week (52.4 percent)
Russell2000-Mini (59.5 percent) vs Russell2000-Mini previous week (57.8 percent)
Nikkei USD (68.4 percent) vs Nikkei USD previous week (72.9 percent)
EAFE-Mini (62.6 percent) vs EAFE-Mini previous week (60.6 percent)


S&P500-Mini & VIX top the 6-Week Strength Trends

COT Strength Score Trends (or move index, calculates the 6-week changes in strength scores) showed that the S&P500-Mini (46 percent) leads the past six weeks trends for the stock markets. The VIX (34 percent), the MSCI EAFE-Mini (18 percent) and the Nikkei 225 (10 percent) are the next highest positive movers in the latest trends data.

The DowJones-Mini (-14 percent) and the Russell-Mini (-12 percent) lead the downside trend scores currently.

Strength Trend Statistics:
VIX (33.7 percent) vs VIX previous week (25.4 percent)
S&P500-Mini (45.9 percent) vs S&P500-Mini previous week (41.5 percent)
DowJones-Mini (-14.3 percent) vs DowJones-Mini previous week (-1.5 percent)
Nasdaq-Mini (7.3 percent) vs Nasdaq-Mini previous week (12.2 percent)
Russell2000-Mini (-12.1 percent) vs Russell2000-Mini previous week (-11.1 percent)
Nikkei USD (10.3 percent) vs Nikkei USD previous week (28.5 percent)
EAFE-Mini (17.9 percent) vs EAFE-Mini previous week (8.9 percent)


Individual Stock Market Charts:

VIX Volatility Futures:

VIX Volatility Futures COT ChartThe VIX Volatility large speculator standing this week was a net position of -18,000 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly advance of 4,474 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -22,474 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bullish-Extreme with a score of 95.6 percent. The commercials are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 5.2 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 68.5 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Uptrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Long Position.

VIX Volatility Futures StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:24.741.26.6
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:29.634.88.1
– Net Position:-18,00023,471-5,471
– Gross Longs:89,831150,09124,178
– Gross Shorts:107,831126,62029,649
– Long to Short Ratio:0.8 to 11.2 to 10.8 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):95.65.268.5
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):Bullish-ExtremeBearish-ExtremeBullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:33.7-29.9-20.2

 


S&P500 Mini Futures:

SP500 Mini Futures COT ChartThe S&P500 Mini large speculator standing this week was a net position of 67,678 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly reduction of -6,436 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 74,114 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bullish with a score of 74.8 percent. The commercials are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 13.7 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 85.6 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Uptrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Long Position.

S&P500 Mini Futures StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:15.567.813.9
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:12.277.08.0
– Net Position:67,678-189,951122,273
– Gross Longs:320,5521,402,033288,399
– Gross Shorts:252,8741,591,984166,126
– Long to Short Ratio:1.3 to 10.9 to 11.7 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):74.813.785.6
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BullishBearish-ExtremeBullish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:45.9-45.89.6

 


Dow Jones Mini Futures:

Dow Jones Mini Futures COT ChartThe Dow Jones Mini large speculator standing this week was a net position of 6,852 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly reduction of -6,827 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 13,679 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bullish with a score of 71.4 percent. The commercials are Bearish with a score of 27.0 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 48.2 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Weak Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Weak Uptrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Long Position.

Dow Jones Mini Futures StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:21.262.014.2
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:13.770.513.2
– Net Position:6,852-7,730878
– Gross Longs:19,26656,28012,873
– Gross Shorts:12,41464,01011,995
– Long to Short Ratio:1.6 to 10.9 to 11.1 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):71.427.048.2
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BullishBearishBearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:-14.314.6-6.2

 


Nasdaq Mini Futures:

Nasdaq Mini Futures COT ChartThe Nasdaq Mini large speculator standing this week was a net position of 6,125 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly decline of -2,404 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 8,529 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish with a score of 48.7 percent. The commercials are Bearish with a score of 32.2 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 100.0 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Uptrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Long Position.

Nasdaq Mini Futures StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:24.855.317.1
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:22.462.512.3
– Net Position:6,125-18,47812,353
– Gross Longs:63,431141,71443,786
– Gross Shorts:57,306160,19231,433
– Long to Short Ratio:1.1 to 10.9 to 11.4 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):48.732.2100.0
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BearishBearishBullish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:7.3-10.812.5

 


Russell 2000 Mini Futures:

Russell 2000 Mini Futures COT ChartThe Russell 2000 Mini large speculator standing this week was a net position of -36,100 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly increase of 2,350 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -38,450 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bullish with a score of 59.5 percent. The commercials are Bearish with a score of 39.8 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 49.1 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Weak Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Weak Uptrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Long Position.

Russell 2000 Mini Futures StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:15.277.85.8
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:22.771.54.6
– Net Position:-36,10030,1405,960
– Gross Longs:72,411371,75127,723
– Gross Shorts:108,511341,61121,763
– Long to Short Ratio:0.7 to 11.1 to 11.3 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):59.539.849.1
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BullishBearishBearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:-12.19.76.3

 


Nikkei Stock Average (USD) Futures:

Nikkei Stock Average (USD) Futures COT ChartThe Nikkei Stock Average (USD) large speculator standing this week was a net position of -1,384 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly decrease of -528 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -856 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bullish with a score of 68.4 percent. The commercials are Bearish with a score of 30.3 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 59.4 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Weak Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Weak Uptrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Long Position.

Nikkei Stock Average Futures StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:5.969.624.5
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:14.769.515.8
– Net Position:-1,384111,373
– Gross Longs:92210,9293,849
– Gross Shorts:2,30610,9182,476
– Long to Short Ratio:0.4 to 11.0 to 11.6 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):68.430.359.4
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BullishBearishBullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:10.3-3.2-11.8

 


MSCI EAFE Mini Futures:

MSCI EAFE Mini Futures COT ChartThe MSCI EAFE Mini large speculator standing this week was a net position of -3,647 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly lift of 1,985 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -5,632 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bullish with a score of 62.6 percent. The commercials are Bearish with a score of 35.3 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 43.9 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Uptrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Long Position.

MSCI EAFE Mini Futures StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:7.489.42.8
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:8.289.81.6
– Net Position:-3,647-1,7395,386
– Gross Longs:31,113377,78112,016
– Gross Shorts:34,760379,5206,630
– Long to Short Ratio:0.9 to 11.0 to 11.8 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):62.635.343.9
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BullishBearishBearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:17.9-14.1-17.4

 


Article By InvestMacroReceive our weekly COT Newsletter

*COT Report: The COT data, released weekly to the public each Friday, is updated through the most recent Tuesday (data is 3 days old) and shows a quick view of how large speculators or non-commercials (for-profit traders) were positioned in the futures markets.

The CFTC categorizes trader positions according to commercial hedgers (traders who use futures contracts for hedging as part of the business), non-commercials (large traders who speculate to realize trading profits) and nonreportable traders (usually small traders/speculators) as well as their open interest (contracts open in the market at time of reporting). See CFTC criteria here.

COT Soft Commodities Charts: Speculator Bets led by Corn & Soybean Meal

By InvestMacro

Here are the latest charts and statistics for the Commitment of Traders (COT) reports data published by the Commodities Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).

The latest COT data is updated through Tuesday April 23th and shows a quick view of how large traders (for-profit speculators and commercial entities) were positioned in the futures markets.

Weekly Speculator Changes led by Corn & Soybean Meal

The COT soft commodities markets speculator bets were higher this week as seven out of the eleven softs markets we cover had higher positioning while the other four markets had lower speculator contracts.

Leading the gains for the softs markets was Corn (44,689 contracts) with Soybean Meal (27,275 contracts), Wheat (19,506 contracts), Soybeans (17,323 contracts), Live Cattle (4,542 contracts), Soybean Oil (3,205 contracts), also showing positive weeks.

The markets with the declines in speculator bets this week were Cotton (-23,470 contracts), Sugar (-17,463 contracts), Coffee (-4,157 contracts), Cocoa (-4,251 contracts) and Lean Hogs (125 contracts) also registering lower bets on the week.


Softs Net Speculators Leaderboard

Legend: Weekly Speculators Change | Speculators Current Net Position | Speculators Strength Score compared to last 3-Years (0-100 range)


Strength Scores led by Coffee & Lean Hogs

COT Strength Scores (a normalized measure of Speculator positions over a 3-Year range, from 0 to 100 where above 80 is Extreme-Bullish and below 20 is Extreme-Bearish) showed that Coffee (96 percent) and Lean Hogs (76 percent) lead the softs markets this week.

On the downside, Sugar (7 percent), Soybeans (10 percent), Soybean Oil (11 percent) and the Corn (13 percent) come in at the lowest strength levels currently and are in Extreme-Bearish territory (below 20 percent).

Strength Statistics:
Corn (13.2 percent) vs Corn previous week (7.6 percent)
Sugar (6.9 percent) vs Sugar previous week (13.2 percent)
Coffee (96.0 percent) vs Coffee previous week (100.0 percent)
Soybeans (9.6 percent) vs Soybeans previous week (5.7 percent)
Soybean Oil (11.2 percent) vs Soybean Oil previous week (9.2 percent)
Soybean Meal (33.3 percent) vs Soybean Meal previous week (22.1 percent)
Live Cattle (30.2 percent) vs Live Cattle previous week (25.3 percent)
Lean Hogs (76.2 percent) vs Lean Hogs previous week (76.1 percent)
Cotton (30.4 percent) vs Cotton previous week (48.1 percent)
Cocoa (40.1 percent) vs Cocoa previous week (44.5 percent)
Wheat (37.4 percent) vs Wheat previous week (23.8 percent)


Soybean Meal & Lean Hogs top the 6-Week Strength Trends

COT Strength Score Trends (or move index, calculates the 6-week changes in strength scores) showed that Soybean Meal (29 percent) and Lean Hogs (20 percent) lead the past six weeks trends for soft commodities. Coffee (15 percent), Wheat (7 percent) and Soybeans (6 percent) are the next highest positive movers in the latest trends data.

Cotton (-52 percent) leads the downside trend scores currently with Live Cattle (-27 percent), Cocoa (-17 percent) and Sugar (-14 percent) following next with lower trend scores.

Strength Trend Statistics:
Corn (3.6 percent) vs Corn previous week (3.2 percent)
Sugar (-14.4 percent) vs Sugar previous week (-7.0 percent)
Coffee (15.1 percent) vs Coffee previous week (22.0 percent)
Soybeans (5.8 percent) vs Soybeans previous week (5.7 percent)
Soybean Oil (0.8 percent) vs Soybean Oil previous week (9.2 percent)
Soybean Meal (29.3 percent) vs Soybean Meal previous week (19.1 percent)
Live Cattle (-27.3 percent) vs Live Cattle previous week (-27.9 percent)
Lean Hogs (20.2 percent) vs Lean Hogs previous week (18.6 percent)
Cotton (-51.7 percent) vs Cotton previous week (-36.7 percent)
Cocoa (-16.5 percent) vs Cocoa previous week (-9.7 percent)
Wheat (7.2 percent) vs Wheat previous week (-12.6 percent)


Individual Soft Commodities Markets:

CORN Futures:

CORN Futures COT ChartThe CORN large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of -160,168 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly rise of 44,689 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -204,857 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish-Extreme with a score of 13.2 percent. The commercials are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 85.8 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 91.3 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Downtrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Downtrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Short Position.

CORN Futures StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:19.144.79.9
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:29.733.310.7
– Net Position:-160,168172,388-12,220
– Gross Longs:288,529676,526149,210
– Gross Shorts:448,697504,138161,430
– Long to Short Ratio:0.6 to 11.3 to 10.9 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):13.285.891.3
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):Bearish-ExtremeBullish-ExtremeBullish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:3.6-3.4-2.9

 


SUGAR Futures:

SUGAR Futures COT ChartThe SUGAR large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of 45,101 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly decrease of -17,463 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 62,564 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish-Extreme with a score of 6.9 percent. The commercials are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 97.4 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 8.1 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Strong Downtrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Strong Downtrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Short Position.

SUGAR Futures StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:23.954.68.0
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:18.459.48.7
– Net Position:45,101-39,150-5,951
– Gross Longs:197,297451,98066,162
– Gross Shorts:152,196491,13072,113
– Long to Short Ratio:1.3 to 10.9 to 10.9 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):6.997.48.1
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):Bearish-ExtremeBullish-ExtremeBearish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:-14.415.4-13.4

 


COFFEE Futures:

COFFEE Futures COT ChartThe COFFEE large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of 71,914 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly decline of -4,157 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 76,071 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bullish-Extreme with a score of 96.0 percent. The commercials are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 3.5 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 58.7 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Strong Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Strong Uptrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Long Position.

COFFEE Futures StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:39.534.93.5
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:9.266.62.1
– Net Position:71,914-75,2153,301
– Gross Longs:93,73682,8768,334
– Gross Shorts:21,822158,0915,033
– Long to Short Ratio:4.3 to 10.5 to 11.7 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):96.03.558.7
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):Bullish-ExtremeBearish-ExtremeBullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:15.1-16.419.9

 


SOYBEANS Futures:

SOYBEANS Futures COT ChartThe SOYBEANS large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of -154,570 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly advance of 17,323 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -171,893 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish-Extreme with a score of 9.6 percent. The commercials are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 89.3 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 97.6 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Downtrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Downtrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Short Position.

SOYBEANS Futures StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:11.858.96.8
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:30.839.37.4
– Net Position:-154,570159,322-4,752
– Gross Longs:96,430479,37355,609
– Gross Shorts:251,000320,05160,361
– Long to Short Ratio:0.4 to 11.5 to 10.9 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):9.689.397.6
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):Bearish-ExtremeBullish-ExtremeBullish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:5.8-7.115.7

 


SOYBEAN OIL Futures:

SOYBEAN OIL Futures COT ChartThe SOYBEAN OIL large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of -31,341 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly advance of 3,205 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -34,546 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish-Extreme with a score of 11.2 percent. The commercials are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 89.7 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 15.4 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Strong Downtrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Strong Downtrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Short Position.

SOYBEAN OIL Futures StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:20.351.35.0
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:25.845.94.9
– Net Position:-31,34131,005336
– Gross Longs:115,457291,90528,361
– Gross Shorts:146,798260,90028,025
– Long to Short Ratio:0.8 to 11.1 to 11.0 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):11.289.715.4
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):Bearish-ExtremeBullish-ExtremeBearish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:0.80.3-6.5

 


SOYBEAN MEAL Futures:

SOYBEAN MEAL Futures COT ChartThe SOYBEAN MEAL large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of 14,443 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly increase of 27,275 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -12,832 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish with a score of 33.3 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 65.2 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 32.7 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Downtrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Downtrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Short Position.

SOYBEAN MEAL Futures StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:25.544.79.7
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:22.451.46.1
– Net Position:14,443-31,56017,117
– Gross Longs:120,442211,55645,894
– Gross Shorts:105,999243,11628,777
– Long to Short Ratio:1.1 to 10.9 to 11.6 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):33.365.232.7
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BearishBullishBearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:29.3-28.63.6

 


LIVE CATTLE Futures:

LIVE CATTLE Futures COT ChartThe LIVE CATTLE large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of 47,553 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly rise of 4,542 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 43,011 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish with a score of 30.2 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 74.0 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 48.7 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Uptrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Long Position.

LIVE CATTLE Futures StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:36.535.49.4
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:19.150.012.2
– Net Position:47,553-39,851-7,702
– Gross Longs:99,62196,67625,617
– Gross Shorts:52,068136,52733,319
– Long to Short Ratio:1.9 to 10.7 to 10.8 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):30.274.048.7
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BearishBullishBearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:-27.332.7-7.9

 


LEAN HOGS Futures:

LEAN HOGS Futures COT ChartThe LEAN HOGS large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of 56,616 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly boost of 125 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 56,491 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bullish with a score of 76.2 percent. The commercials are Bearish with a score of 26.0 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 41.6 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Strong Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Strong Uptrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Long Position.

LEAN HOGS Futures StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:40.832.97.5
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:21.948.610.6
– Net Position:56,616-47,302-9,314
– Gross Longs:122,47498,81222,604
– Gross Shorts:65,858146,11431,918
– Long to Short Ratio:1.9 to 10.7 to 10.7 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):76.226.041.6
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BullishBearishBearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:20.2-17.9-21.9

 


COTTON Futures:

COTTON Futures COT ChartThe COTTON large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of 28,859 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly fall of -23,470 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 52,329 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish with a score of 30.4 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 69.3 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 29.5 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Weak Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Weak Uptrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Long Position.

COTTON Futures StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:36.641.56.5
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:22.556.85.4
– Net Position:28,859-31,0882,229
– Gross Longs:74,76584,77413,337
– Gross Shorts:45,906115,86211,108
– Long to Short Ratio:1.6 to 10.7 to 11.2 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):30.469.329.5
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BearishBullishBearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:-51.751.4-43.3

 


COCOA Futures:

COCOA Futures COT ChartThe COCOA large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of 29,584 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly fall of -4,251 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 33,835 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish with a score of 40.1 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 56.5 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 61.8 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Strong Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Strong Uptrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Long Position.

COCOA Futures StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:33.832.88.1
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:14.555.94.3
– Net Position:29,584-35,4035,819
– Gross Longs:51,68550,13712,440
– Gross Shorts:22,10185,5406,621
– Long to Short Ratio:2.3 to 10.6 to 11.9 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):40.156.561.8
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BearishBullishBullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:-16.515.74.9

 


WHEAT Futures:

WHEAT Futures COT ChartThe WHEAT large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of -43,391 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly advance of 19,506 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -62,897 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish with a score of 37.4 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 60.4 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 58.1 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Weak Downtrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Weak Downtrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Short Position.

WHEAT Futures StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:32.936.18.1
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:44.524.08.6
– Net Position:-43,39145,239-1,848
– Gross Longs:123,697135,43930,321
– Gross Shorts:167,08890,20032,169
– Long to Short Ratio:0.7 to 11.5 to 10.9 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):37.460.458.1
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BearishBullishBullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:7.2-7.80.7

 


Article By InvestMacroReceive our weekly COT Newsletter

*COT Report: The COT data, released weekly to the public each Friday, is updated through the most recent Tuesday (data is 3 days old) and shows a quick view of how large speculators or non-commercials (for-profit traders) were positioned in the futures markets.

The CFTC categorizes trader positions according to commercial hedgers (traders who use futures contracts for hedging as part of the business), non-commercials (large traders who speculate to realize trading profits) and nonreportable traders (usually small traders/speculators) as well as their open interest (contracts open in the market at time of reporting). See CFTC criteria here.

Today, investors’ focus is on the PCE Price Index inflation report

By JustMarkets

As of Thursday’s close, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (US30) was down 0.98%, while the S&P 500 Index (US500) lost 0.46%. The NASDAQ Technology Index (US100) closed negative 0.64%. US stock indices closed modestly lower, led by technological stock weakness. Meta Platforms (META) fell more than 10% after forecasting second-quarter revenue below consensus and raising its full-year total expense estimate. IBM (IBM) also fell more than 8% after it reported weak first-quarter earnings from its consulting division. In addition, shares of Caterpillar (CAT) fell more than 6% after the company said it expects second-quarter sales to decline from a year ago. Stock losses also accelerated after bond yields jumped on signs of a strengthening labor market when weekly jobless claims unexpectedly fell to a 2-month low, a hawkish factor for Fed policy.

US weekly initial jobless claims unexpectedly fell by 5,000 to a 2-month low of 207,000, indicating a stronger labor market than expectations of a rise to 215,000. US Q1 GDP was revised downward to 1.6% (q/q annualized) from 3.4%, weaker than expectations of 2.5%, and Q1 personal consumption was revised downward to 2.5% from 3.3%, weaker than expectations of 3.0%.

Microsoft said Thursday that its profit rose by 20% for January-March. Based on licensing the Windows operating system, Microsoft’s personal computer business earned $15.6 billion in the quarter, up 17% from a year ago. Microsoft shares rose about 4% in trading. The company said it intends to spend even more in the coming months to build infrastructure to build and operate artificial intelligence systems.

The PCE inflation report will be released in the US today. The March Personal Consumption Goods Price Index is predicted to show a mixed picture of inflationary trends, which could strengthen the US Federal Reserve’s resolve to refrain from raising interest rates. Nearly all Fed officials who have spoken recently have reiterated that the Central Bank is not ready to cut rates. Analysts at BofA expect the Fed to start cutting rates in December at quarterly intervals. For gold and indices to continue to rise, it is now crucial for inflation to continue to decline, as rising oil prices could start a new spiral of inflation unwinding.

Equity markets in Europe mostly went up yesterday. Germany’s DAX (DE40) decreased by 0.95%, France’s CAC 40 (FR40) closed down by 0.93%, Spain’s IBEX 35 (ES35) lost 0.40% cheaper, and the UK’s FTSE 100 (UK100) closed positive 0.48%. The GfK German Consumer Confidence Index for May rose by 3.1 to a 2-year high of 24.2, beating expectations of 26.0.

ECB Governing Council spokesman Muller said yesterday that he does not favor cutting interest rates for the second consecutive meeting after an expected first cut in June. His counterpart, ECB Governing Council spokesman Panetta, said ECB rate cuts need to be made soon because “unnecessary delays could leave the ECB uncomfortably close to the effective lower bound if stagflation takes root and inflation expectations fall below target.”

Asian markets were predominantly rising yesterday. Japan’s Nikkei 225 (JP225) was down 2.16%, China’s FTSE China A50 (CHA50) was up 0.52% for the day, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng (HK50) was up 0.48%, and Australia’s ASX 200 (AU200) was not trading.

The Japanese yen fell to 156 per dollar, the first time since May 1990, as the Bank of Japan (BoJ) left interest rates unchanged despite pressure from the sharply declining currency. Meanwhile, the Central Bank revised its inflation forecasts and said the economy will likely continue growing healthy. Investors also reacted to data that Tokyo’s core inflation rate slowed to a two-year low of 1.6% in April. The yen has lost about 10% against the dollar this year as the Bank of Japan kept rates near zero despite interest rate hikes in other major economies, prompting traders to borrow yen and invest in higher-yielding currencies.

S&P 500 (US500) 5,048.42 −23.21 (−0.46%)

Dow Jones (US30) 38,085.80 −375.12 (−0.98%)

DAX (DE40) 17,917.28 −171.42 (−0.95%)

FTSE 100 (UK100) 8,078.86 +38.48 (+0.48%)

USD Index 105.57 −0.28 (−0.27%)

Important events today:
  • – Japan Tokyo Core CPI (m/m) at 02:30 (GMT+3);
  • – Australia Producer Price Index (q/q) at 04:30 (GMT+3);
  • – Japan BoJ Monetary Policy Statement at 06:00 (GMT+3);
  • – Japan BoJ Interest Rate Decision at 06:00 (GMT+3);
  • – Japan BoJ Outlook Report at 06:00 (GMT+3);
  • – Japan BoJ Press Conference at 09:30 (GMT+3);
  • – Switzerland SNB Chairman Thomas Jordan speaks at 11:00 (GMT+3);
  • – US PCE Price Index (m/m) at 15:30 (GMT+3);
  • – US Michigan Consumer Sentiment (m/m) at 17:00 (GMT+3).

By JustMarkets

 

This article reflects a personal opinion and should not be interpreted as an investment advice, and/or offer, and/or a persistent request for carrying out financial transactions, and/or a guarantee, and/or a forecast of future events.

Gold price recovers amid uncertain US economic outlook

By RoboForex Analytical Department

The price of a troy ounce of gold climbed to 2330.00 USD on Friday. This surge was driven by investors’ ongoing evaluation of the potential direction of the US Federal Reserve’s monetary policy following mixed macroeconomic data.

The US GDP for Q1 did not meet expectations, marking the slowest recovery in two years. The economy expanded by only 1.6%, significantly lower than the forecasted 2.5%. In contrast, GDP growth in Q4 2023 reached 3.4%. The Fed’s consensus forecast for 2024 expects economic growth of 2.1%.

The underwhelming economic performance might prompt the Fed to consider a reduction in interest rates. However, a localised acceleration in consumer inflation suggests that monetary policy might remain restrictive for longer.

As long as interest rates remain high, gold’s appeal as an investment option is somewhat diminished since it does not generate its yield as bonds do. Nonetheless, in times of rising inflation, gold increasingly becomes a valuable hedge against currency devaluation.

Today, the stock exchange will focus on the March Core PCE figures. These data are expected to provide further insights into the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy outlook.

Technical analysis of XAU/USD

On the H4 chart of XAU/USD, a consolidation range has formed above 2346.00, with the ongoing development of the third wave of decline aiming for 2262.22. The local target for this wave at 2296.96 has been reached. Today, a corrective move towards 2346.00 is expected, followed by an anticipated further decline to 2262.22. This bearish scenario is supported technically by the MACD indicator, whose signal line is below zero and is trending downwards towards new lows.

On the H1 chart, the corrective movement towards 2346.00 (testing from below) is continuing. Once completed, a new downward wave towards 2277.00 is expected, potentially reaching 2262.22. This outlook is confirmed by the Stochastic oscillator, with its signal line currently above 80 but poised for a decline towards 20.

 

Disclaimer

Any forecasts contained herein are based on the author’s particular opinion. This analysis may not be treated as trading advice. RoboForex bears no responsibility for trading results based on trading recommendations and reviews contained herein.

This “Bullish Buzz” Reaches Highest Level in 53 Years

Learn what the AIM Index reveals

By Elliott Wave International

Yes, there’s been a recent pickup in stock market volatility, but overall, bullish sentiment remains very much alive and well.

Indeed, here’s a Feb. 18 Yahoo! Finance headline:

A Bull Market is Here.

On April 9, a Fox Business headline reflects the views of a well-known investment manager:

Fed doesn’t matter in this bull market

An extreme in bullish sentiment also shows up in the Advisor and Investor Model, which is a very broad measure of market sentiment compiled by SentimenTrader.com. The model is also known as the AIM Index.

This chart and commentary from the April Elliott Wave Financial Forecast, a monthly publication which covers major U.S. financial markets, provide insight:

A Record-Long Bullish Buzz

The AIM Index constantly fluctuates between extremes; what’s unparalleled about it now is how long it’s been pinned to the top of its range. After hitting its highest possible reading of 1.0 on December 19, it stayed above .90 for the entirety of the first quarter for all but one week. This relentless bullish buzz is represented here by the index’s 20-week average. At 0.93, the April 2 reading is the highest in 53 years.

Yes, it’s possible that this dogged bullish sentiment could persist even longer. Yet, as you might imagine, Elliott Wave International considers extremes in market sentiment to be major red flags.

The April Elliott Wave Theorist, a monthly publication which analyzes major financial and cultural trends, reveals another cautionary sign via this chart and commentary:

Equal Optimism at Lower Prices

As many pundits are saying, the market is not beyond the valuation of 2021, so what’s the problem? But that was the year of the most overvalued U.S. stock market of all time, from which broad indexes such as the Russell 2000 have not recovered. That optimism has returned to an equivalent level is a big deal. …

This is an especially critical time to keep on top of the stock market’s Elliott wave pattern.

If you’re unfamiliar with Elliott wave analysis, read Frost & Prechter’s Elliott Wave Principle: Key to Market Behavior, which is the definitive text on the subject. Here’s a quote from the book:

[Ralph N.] Elliott recognized that not news, but something else forms the patterns evident in the market. Generally speaking, the important analytical question is not the news per se, but the importance the market places or appears to place on the news. In periods of increasing optimism, the market’s apparent reaction to an item of news is often different from what it would have been if the market were in a downtrend. It is easy to label the progression of Elliott waves on a historical price chart, but it is impossible to pick out, say, the occurrences of war, the most dramatic of human activities, on the basis of recorded stock market action. The psychology of the market in relation to the news, then, is sometimes useful, especially when the market acts contrarily to what one would “normally” expect.

If you’d like to read the entire online version of Elliott Wave Principle: Key to Market Behavior, you can get complimentary access by following this link: Elliott Wave Principle: Key to Market Behavior.

This article was syndicated by Elliott Wave International and was originally published under the headline This “Bullish Buzz” Reaches Highest Level in 53 Years. EWI is the world’s largest market forecasting firm. Its staff of full-time analysts led by Chartered Market Technician Robert Prechter provides 24-hour-a-day market analysis to institutional and private investors around the world.