InvestMacro

Currency Speculators drop their Euro Bets to 43-Week Low on ECB Rates

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 September 12th and shows a quick view of how large market participants (for-profit speculators and commercial traders) were positioned in the futures markets. All currency positions are in direct relation to the US dollar where, for example, a bet for the euro is a bet that the euro will rise versus the dollar while a bet against the euro will be a bet that the euro will decline versus the dollar.

Weekly Speculator Changes led by Australian Dollar & US Dollar Index

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

Leading the gains for the currency markets was the Australian Dollar (4,004 contracts) with the US Dollar Index (2,712 contracts) and Bitcoin (193 contracts) also showing positive weeks.

The currencies seeing declines in speculator bets on the week were the EuroFX (-23,151 contracts) with the Canadian Dollar (-16,920 contracts), the Swiss Franc (-4,013 contracts), the Japanese Yen (-1,577 contracts), the Brazilian Real (-756 contracts), Mexican Peso (-650 contracts), the New Zealand Dollar (-620 contracts) and the British Pound (-210 contracts) also registering lower bets on the week.

Currency Traders drop their Euro Bets to 43-Week Low on ECB Rates

Highlighting the COT currency’s data this week is the dropping speculator positioning for the Euro Currency. Large speculative Euro positions dropped sharply this week by over -23,000 contracts and declined for a fourth consecutive week. Euro weekly positions have now decreased for the seventh time in the past eight weeks as well as in nine out of the past eleven weeks.

The Euro speculative standing still remains in a highly bullish level with the net position at a total of +113,080 contracts currently. However, the net position has now fallen by a total of -46,783 contracts in just the past four weeks and by a total of -65,752 contracts over the past eight weeks.

Overall, the Euro net speculator level has been above the +100,000 contract level for forty-six straight weeks and ascended to a 137-week high with a total net position of +187,089 contracts on May 16th – the most bullish point since a total of 188,116 contracts was reached on September 29th of 2020.

The European Central Bank has helped dampen the sentiment for the Euro currency as the bank raised its rate by 25 basis points to 4 percent on Thursday but signaled that there may be no more rate hikes on the docket. The ECB also revised their economic growth projections lower with the bank seeing just 0.7 percent growth in 2023. Following the announcement, many participants are expecting not to see further rate rises and even possible rate cuts if the economy continues to deteriorate.

The Euro currency spot price (versus the US Dollar) has been retreating mightily and this week declined for a ninth consecutive week. The EUR/USD exchange rate closed at 1.0735 on Friday with the low of the week hitting the lowest level since March. The EUR/USD had been as high as 1.1310 on July 18th before starting on its current nine-week downtrend.

Data Snapshot of Forex Market Traders | Columns Legend

Sep-12-2023	OI	OI-Index	Spec-Net	Spec-Index	Com-Net	COM-Index	Smalls-Net	Smalls-Index
USD Index	40,982	37	6,071	35	-7,727	63	1,656	26
EUR	743,759	60	113,080	67	-149,981	33	36,901	38
GBP	227,437	54	46,174	88	-51,168	17	4,994	68
JPY	270,854	92	-98,713	11	106,644	88	-7,931	37
CHF	49,945	70	-9,338	31	12,351	62	-3,013	50
CAD	217,080	74	-41,883	15	49,275	90	-7,392	6
AUD	256,219	100	-79,533	11	94,990	90	-15,457	15
NZD	67,487	100	-14,620	14	17,257	87	-2,637	19
MXN	235,720	50	66,871	80	-71,492	19	4,621	41
RUB	20,930	4	7,543	31	-7,150	69	-393	24
BRL	34,969	19	13,177	53	-15,160	46	1,983	53
Bitcoin	15,423	73	2,232	100	-2,543	0	311	20

Strength Scores led by Bitcoin & British Pound

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 Bitcoin (100 percent) and the British Pound (88 percent) lead the currency markets this week. The Mexican Peso (80 percent), EuroFX (67 percent) and the Brazilian Real (53 percent) come in as the next highest in the weekly strength scores.

On the downside, the Australian Dollar (11 percent), the Japanese Yen (11 percent), the New Zealand Dollar (14 percent) and the Canadian Dollar (15 percent) come in at the lowest strength levels currently and are in Extreme-Bearish territory (below 20 percent).

Strength Statistics:
US Dollar Index (35.1 percent) vs US Dollar Index previous week (30.5 percent)
EuroFX (67.4 percent) vs EuroFX previous week (77.1 percent)
British Pound Sterling (87.8 percent) vs British Pound Sterling previous week (88.0 percent)
Japanese Yen (11.4 percent) vs Japanese Yen previous week (12.3 percent)
Swiss Franc (30.9 percent) vs Swiss Franc previous week (41.9 percent)
Canadian Dollar (15.5 percent) vs Canadian Dollar previous week (31.3 percent)
Australian Dollar (11.1 percent) vs Australian Dollar previous week (7.4 percent)
New Zealand Dollar (14.0 percent) vs New Zealand Dollar previous week (15.6 percent)
Mexican Peso (80.0 percent) vs Mexican Peso previous week (80.3 percent)
Brazilian Real (52.6 percent) vs Brazilian Real previous week (53.5 percent)
Bitcoin (100.0 percent) vs Bitcoin previous week (97.1 percent)

Bitcoin & US Dollar Index top the 6-Week Strength Trends

COT Strength Score Trends (or move index, calculates the 6-week changes in strength scores) showed that the Bitcoin (42 percent) and the US Dollar Index (5 percent) lead the past six weeks trends for the currencies.

The Canadian Dollar (-45 percent) leads the downside trend scores currently with the New Zealand Dollar (-44 percent), Brazilian Real (-26 percent) and the Australian Dollar (-26 percent) following next with lower trend scores.

Strength Trend Statistics:
US Dollar Index (4.9 percent) vs US Dollar Index previous week (-4.5 percent)
EuroFX (-24.7 percent) vs EuroFX previous week (-17.2 percent)
British Pound Sterling (-2.4 percent) vs British Pound Sterling previous week (-8.8 percent)
Japanese Yen (-11.6 percent) vs Japanese Yen previous week (-11.5 percent)
Swiss Franc (-1.6 percent) vs Swiss Franc previous week (8.5 percent)
Canadian Dollar (-45.0 percent) vs Canadian Dollar previous week (-28.4 percent)
Australian Dollar (-25.7 percent) vs Australian Dollar previous week (-30.0 percent)
New Zealand Dollar (-43.9 percent) vs New Zealand Dollar previous week (-35.4 percent)
Mexican Peso (-13.2 percent) vs Mexican Peso previous week (-12.4 percent)
Brazilian Real (-25.6 percent) vs Brazilian Real previous week (-22.9 percent)
Bitcoin (41.7 percent) vs Bitcoin previous week (40.4 percent)

Individual COT Forex Markets:

US Dollar Index Futures:

The US Dollar Index large speculator standing this week totaled a net position of 6,071 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly advance of 2,712 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 3,359 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 35.1 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 63.5 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 25.8 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.

US DOLLAR INDEX Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	61.4	19.3	11.0
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	46.5	38.1	7.0
– Net Position:	6,071	-7,727	1,656
– Gross Longs:	25,145	7,906	4,510
– Gross Shorts:	19,074	15,633	2,854
– Long to Short Ratio:	1.3 to 1	0.5 to 1	1.6 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	35.1	63.5	25.8
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish	Bullish	Bearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	4.9	-6.6	14.7

Euro Currency Futures:

The Euro Currency large speculator standing this week totaled a net position of 113,080 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly lowering of -23,151 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 136,231 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 67.4 percent. The commercials are Bearish with a score of 33.3 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 37.9 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.

EURO Currency Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	28.6	55.5	12.5
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	13.4	75.7	7.5
– Net Position:	113,080	-149,981	36,901
– Gross Longs:	212,376	412,967	92,784
– Gross Shorts:	99,296	562,948	55,883
– Long to Short Ratio:	2.1 to 1	0.7 to 1	1.7 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	67.4	33.3	37.9
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bullish	Bearish	Bearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-24.7	26.7	-20.1

British Pound Sterling Futures:

The British Pound Sterling large speculator standing this week totaled a net position of 46,174 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly reduction of -210 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 46,384 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 87.8 percent. The commercials are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 17.0 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 67.8 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.

BRITISH POUND Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	42.8	35.4	14.1
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	22.5	57.9	11.9
– Net Position:	46,174	-51,168	4,994
– Gross Longs:	97,365	80,441	32,133
– Gross Shorts:	51,191	131,609	27,139
– Long to Short Ratio:	1.9 to 1	0.6 to 1	1.2 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	87.8	17.0	67.8
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bullish-Extreme	Bearish-Extreme	Bullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-2.4	8.7	-23.9

Japanese Yen Futures:

The Japanese Yen large speculator standing this week totaled a net position of -98,713 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly reduction of -1,577 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -97,136 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 11.4 percent. The commercials are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 87.7 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 37.3 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.

JAPANESE YEN Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	14.1	67.8	13.3
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	50.6	28.4	16.2
– Net Position:	-98,713	106,644	-7,931
– Gross Longs:	38,247	183,589	36,043
– Gross Shorts:	136,960	76,945	43,974
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.3 to 1	2.4 to 1	0.8 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	11.4	87.7	37.3
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish-Extreme	Bullish-Extreme	Bearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-11.6	11.4	-7.8

Swiss Franc Futures:

The Swiss Franc large speculator standing this week totaled a net position of -9,338 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly fall of -4,013 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -5,325 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 30.9 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 62.0 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 50.3 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.

SWISS FRANC Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	18.0	52.1	27.6
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	36.7	27.4	33.6
– Net Position:	-9,338	12,351	-3,013
– Gross Longs:	9,009	26,017	13,771
– Gross Shorts:	18,347	13,666	16,784
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.5 to 1	1.9 to 1	0.8 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	30.9	62.0	50.3
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish	Bullish	Bullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-1.6	14.7	-27.2

Canadian Dollar Futures:

The Canadian Dollar large speculator standing this week totaled a net position of -41,883 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly reduction of -16,920 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -24,963 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 15.5 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 6.4 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.

CANADIAN DOLLAR Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	18.6	60.8	14.6
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	37.9	38.1	18.0
– Net Position:	-41,883	49,275	-7,392
– Gross Longs:	40,298	131,976	31,767
– Gross Shorts:	82,181	82,701	39,159
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.5 to 1	1.6 to 1	0.8 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	15.5	89.7	6.4
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish-Extreme	Bullish-Extreme	Bearish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-45.0	49.4	-54.0

Australian Dollar Futures:

The Australian Dollar large speculator standing this week totaled a net position of -79,533 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly advance of 4,004 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -83,537 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 11.1 percent. The commercials are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 89.6 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 14.7 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.

AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	18.5	64.4	8.7
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	49.5	27.3	14.7
– Net Position:	-79,533	94,990	-15,457
– Gross Longs:	47,309	164,961	22,273
– Gross Shorts:	126,842	69,971	37,730
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.4 to 1	2.4 to 1	0.6 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	11.1	89.6	14.7
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish-Extreme	Bullish-Extreme	Bearish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-25.7	28.7	-24.3

New Zealand Dollar Futures:

The New Zealand Dollar large speculator standing this week totaled a net position of -14,620 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly lowering of -620 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -14,000 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 14.0 percent. The commercials are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 87.2 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 18.6 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.

NEW ZEALAND DOLLAR Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	21.9	62.8	5.1
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	43.6	37.2	9.0
– Net Position:	-14,620	17,257	-2,637
– Gross Longs:	14,797	42,395	3,420
– Gross Shorts:	29,417	25,138	6,057
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.5 to 1	1.7 to 1	0.6 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	14.0	87.2	18.6
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish-Extreme	Bullish-Extreme	Bearish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-43.9	45.2	-35.5

Mexican Peso Futures:

The Mexican Peso large speculator standing this week totaled a net position of 66,871 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly fall of -650 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 67,521 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 80.0 percent. The commercials are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 18.7 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 40.7 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.

MEXICAN PESO Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	39.5	52.4	3.1
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	11.1	82.8	1.1
– Net Position:	66,871	-71,492	4,621
– Gross Longs:	93,022	123,575	7,268
– Gross Shorts:	26,151	195,067	2,647
– Long to Short Ratio:	3.6 to 1	0.6 to 1	2.7 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	80.0	18.7	40.7
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bullish	Bearish-Extreme	Bearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-13.2	12.8	0.5

Brazilian Real Futures:

The Brazilian Real large speculator standing this week totaled a net position of 13,177 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly decline of -756 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 13,933 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 52.6 percent. The commercials are Bearish with a score of 46.0 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 52.9 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.

BRAZIL REAL Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	56.3	33.1	9.5
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	18.6	76.4	3.8
– Net Position:	13,177	-15,160	1,983
– Gross Longs:	19,696	11,568	3,305
– Gross Shorts:	6,519	26,728	1,322
– Long to Short Ratio:	3.0 to 1	0.4 to 1	2.5 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	52.6	46.0	52.9
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bullish	Bearish	Bullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-25.6	21.6	24.1

Bitcoin Futures:

The Bitcoin large speculator standing this week totaled a net position of 2,232 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly rise of 193 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 2,039 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-Extreme with a score of 100.0 percent. The commercials are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 0.0 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 20.0 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.

BITCOIN Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	77.1	0.8	7.4
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	62.6	17.2	5.3
– Net Position:	2,232	-2,543	311
– Gross Longs:	11,893	117	1,134
– Gross Shorts:	9,661	2,660	823
– Long to Short Ratio:	1.2 to 1	0.0 to 1	1.4 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	100.0	0.0	20.0
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bullish-Extreme	Bearish-Extreme	Bearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	41.7	-66.9	-7.1

Article By InvestMacro – Receive 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.

17 Sep

COT Metals Charts: Speculator Bets led lower by Gold, Silver & Platinum

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 September 12th and shows a quick view of how large traders (for-profit speculators and commercial entities) were positioned in the futures markets.

Weekly Speculator Bets led lower by Gold, Silver & Platinum

The COT metals markets speculator bets were overall lower this week as just one out of the six metals markets we cover had higher positioning while the other five markets had lower speculator contracts.

Leading the gains for the metals was Palladium (309 contracts) with also showing positive weeks.

The markets with declines in speculator bets for the week were Gold (-14,142 contracts) with Silver (-8,771 contracts), Platinum (-7,881 contracts), Copper (-5,564 contracts) and Steel (-588 contracts) also registering lower bets on the week.

Data Snapshot of Commodity Market Traders | Columns Legend

Sep-12-2023	OI	OI-Index	Spec-Net	Spec-Index	Com-Net	COM-Index	Smalls-Net	Smalls-Index
Gold	441,221	9	123,864	32	-144,810	68	20,946	32
Silver	125,292	14	18,033	44	-32,040	55	14,007	44
Copper	196,198	39	-12,334	20	9,886	80	2,448	34
Palladium	17,838	82	-10,712	2	10,761	99	-49	39
Platinum	87,021	100	6,721	31	-12,396	68	5,675	44

Strength Scores led by Steel & Silver

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 Steel (61 percent) and Silver (44 percent) lead the metals markets this week. Palladium (2 percent) comes in as the next highest in the weekly strength scores.

On the downside, Copper (20 percent) comes in at the lowest strength level currently and is in Extreme-Bearish territory (below 20 percent). The next lowest strength score was Platinum (31 percent).

Strength Statistics:
Gold (31.6 percent) vs Gold previous week (37.8 percent)
Silver (44.0 percent) vs Silver previous week (56.5 percent)
Copper (20.2 percent) vs Copper previous week (25.0 percent)
Platinum (31.1 percent) vs Platinum previous week (49.3 percent)
Palladium (2.1 percent) vs Palladium previous week (0.0 percent)
Steel (60.6 percent) vs Palladium previous week (62.3 percent)

Steel & Palladium top the 6-Week Strength Trends

COT Strength Score Trends (or move index, calculates the 6-week changes in strength scores) showed that Steel (-9 percent) and Palladium (-10 percent) lead the past six weeks trends for metals. Silver (-18 percent) is the next highest positive mover in the latest trends data.

Gold (-18 percent) leads the downside trend scores currently with Copper (-20 percent) as the next market with lower trend scores.

Move Statistics:
Gold (-18.1 percent) vs Gold previous week (-15.7 percent)
Silver (-18.3 percent) vs Silver previous week (-14.4 percent)
Copper (-19.9 percent) vs Copper previous week (-6.9 percent)
Platinum (-12.9 percent) vs Platinum previous week (-2.0 percent)
Palladium (-9.6 percent) vs Palladium previous week (-17.9 percent)
Steel (-8.9 percent) vs Steel previous week (-8.1 percent)

Individual Markets:

Gold Comex Futures:

The Gold Comex Futures large speculator standing this week came in at a net position of 123,864 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly lowering of -14,142 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 138,006 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 31.6 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 68.1 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 32.4 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.

Gold Futures Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	53.4	25.6	10.6
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	25.3	58.4	5.8
– Net Position:	123,864	-144,810	20,946
– Gross Longs:	235,704	113,062	46,740
– Gross Shorts:	111,840	257,872	25,794
– Long to Short Ratio:	2.1 to 1	0.4 to 1	1.8 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	31.6	68.1	32.4
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish	Bullish	Bearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-18.1	16.2	-2.5

Silver Comex Futures:

The Silver Comex Futures large speculator standing this week came in at a net position of 18,033 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly reduction of -8,771 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 26,804 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 44.0 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 55.1 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 44.3 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.

Silver Futures Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	42.3	31.9	21.1
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	27.9	57.5	9.9
– Net Position:	18,033	-32,040	14,007
– Gross Longs:	52,963	40,030	26,427
– Gross Shorts:	34,930	72,070	12,420
– Long to Short Ratio:	1.5 to 1	0.6 to 1	2.1 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	44.0	55.1	44.3
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish	Bullish	Bearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-18.3	14.5	4.6

Copper Grade #1 Futures:

The Copper Grade #1 Futures large speculator standing this week came in at a net position of -12,334 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly reduction of -5,564 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -6,770 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 20.2 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 79.8 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 33.9 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.

Copper Futures Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	34.3	39.0	8.2
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	40.6	34.0	6.9
– Net Position:	-12,334	9,886	2,448
– Gross Longs:	67,333	76,561	16,045
– Gross Shorts:	79,667	66,675	13,597
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.8 to 1	1.1 to 1	1.2 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	20.2	79.8	33.9
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish	Bullish	Bearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-19.9	23.2	-31.3

Platinum Futures:

The Platinum Futures large speculator standing this week came in at a net position of 6,721 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly decline of -7,881 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 14,602 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 31.1 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 67.9 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 44.0 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.

Platinum Futures Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	50.1	23.0	10.4
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	42.4	37.2	3.9
– Net Position:	6,721	-12,396	5,675
– Gross Longs:	43,619	19,999	9,083
– Gross Shorts:	36,898	32,395	3,408
– Long to Short Ratio:	1.2 to 1	0.6 to 1	2.7 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	31.1	67.9	44.0
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish	Bullish	Bearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-12.9	10.5	6.7

Palladium Futures:

The Palladium Futures large speculator standing this week came in at a net position of -10,712 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly gain of 309 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -11,021 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 2.1 percent. The commercials are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 99.2 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 38.8 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.

Palladium Futures Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	25.0	62.9	9.1
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	85.0	2.6	9.4
– Net Position:	-10,712	10,761	-49
– Gross Longs:	4,452	11,217	1,627
– Gross Shorts:	15,164	456	1,676
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.3 to 1	24.6 to 1	1.0 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	2.1	99.2	38.8
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish-Extreme	Bullish-Extreme	Bearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-9.6	7.9	12.6

Steel Futures Futures:

The Steel Futures large speculator standing this week came in at a net position of -5,030 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly decrease of -588 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -4,442 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 60.6 percent. The commercials are Bearish with a score of 40.0 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 4.6 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.

Steel Futures Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	5.5	88.0	1.0
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	29.6	63.2	1.8
– Net Position:	-5,030	5,182	-152
– Gross Longs:	1,154	18,389	215
– Gross Shorts:	6,184	13,207	367
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.2 to 1	1.4 to 1	0.6 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	60.6	40.0	4.6
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bullish	Bearish	Bearish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-8.9	9.5	-22.9

Article By InvestMacro – Receive our weekly COT Newsletter

COT Updates Financial News Metals

17 Sep

COT Bonds Charts: Speculator Bets led by 10-Year Bonds & SOFR 3-Months

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 September 12th 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 10-Year Bonds & SOFR 3-Months

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

Leading the gains for the bond markets was the 10-Year Bonds (47,233 contracts) with SOFR 3-Months (44,439 contracts), the Ultra 10-Year Bonds (30,615 contracts), the 5-Year Bonds (25,238 contracts), the US Treasury Bonds (5,605 contracts) and the Ultra Treasury Bonds (1,346 contracts) also showing positive weeks.

The bond markets with declines in speculator bets for the week were the Fed Funds with a drop by -38,064 contracts and the 2-Year Bonds with a decline of -21,719 contracts on the week.

Data Snapshot of Bond Market Traders | Columns Legend

Sep-12-2023	OI	OI-Index	Spec-Net	Spec-Index	Com-Net	COM-Index	Smalls-Net	Smalls-Index
SOFR-3-Months	10,667,873	100	316,511	99	-313,438	0	-3,073	86
FedFunds	1,458,261	43	-184,954	25	195,040	75	-10,086	71
2-Year	3,653,520	85	-1,239,609	2	1,128,539	99	111,070	93
Long T-Bond	1,339,675	72	-192,687	22	152,663	65	40,024	78
10-Year	4,681,032	87	-744,302	10	720,210	95	24,092	79
5-Year	5,391,830	85	-1,031,030	17	954,444	79	76,586	90

Strength Scores led by SOFR 3-Months & Ultra 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 SOFR 3-Months (99 percent) leads the bond markets this week. The Ultra Treasury Bonds (32 percent) comes in as the next highest in the weekly strength scores.

On the downside, the 2-Year Bonds (2 percent), the 10-Year Bonds (10 percent), the Ultra 10-Year Bonds (15 percent) and the 5-Year Bonds (17 percent) come in at the lowest strength level currently and are in Extreme-Bearish territory (below 20 percent).

Strength Statistics:
Fed Funds (24.9 percent) vs Fed Funds previous week (31.9 percent)
2-Year Bond (2.3 percent) vs 2-Year Bond previous week (3.9 percent)
5-Year Bond (16.7 percent) vs 5-Year Bond previous week (14.8 percent)
10-Year Bond (10.3 percent) vs 10-Year Bond previous week (5.7 percent)
Ultra 10-Year Bond (14.6 percent) vs Ultra 10-Year Bond previous week (8.4 percent)
US Treasury Bond (21.9 percent) vs US Treasury Bond previous week (20.1 percent)
Ultra US Treasury Bond (32.1 percent) vs Ultra US Treasury Bond previous week (31.6 percent)
SOFR 3-Months (99.4 percent) vs SOFR 3-Months previous week (96.4 percent)

SOFR 3-Months & Ultra Treasury 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 SOFR 3-Months (35 percent) and the Ultra Treasury Bonds (32 percent) lead the past six weeks trends for bonds. The 5-Year Bonds (17 percent) and the are the next highest positive movers in the latest trends data.

The 2-Year Bonds (-11 percent), the 10-Year Bonds (-10 percent) and the Fed Funds (-10 percent) lead the downside trend scores currently.

Strength Trend Statistics:
Fed Funds (-9.8 percent) vs Fed Funds previous week (2.2 percent)
2-Year Bond (-10.6 percent) vs 2-Year Bond previous week (-5.3 percent)
5-Year Bond (16.7 percent) vs 5-Year Bond previous week (6.0 percent)
10-Year Bond (-9.6 percent) vs 10-Year Bond previous week (-16.3 percent)
Ultra 10-Year Bond (7.9 percent) vs Ultra 10-Year Bond previous week (4.3 percent)
US Treasury Bond (-2.0 percent) vs US Treasury Bond previous week (-17.1 percent)
Ultra US Treasury Bond (32.1 percent) vs Ultra US Treasury Bond previous week (26.8 percent)
SOFR 3-Months (35.2 percent) vs SOFR 3-Months previous week (18.2 percent)

Secured Overnight Financing Rate (3-Month) Futures:

The Secured Overnight Financing Rate (3-Month) large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of 316,511 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly boost of 44,439 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 272,072 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 99.4 percent. The commercials are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 0.1 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 86.2 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.

SOFR 3-Months Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	17.9	58.2	0.3
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	14.9	61.1	0.4
– Net Position:	316,511	-313,438	-3,073
– Gross Longs:	1,910,702	6,204,626	37,259
– Gross Shorts:	1,594,191	6,518,064	40,332
– Long to Short Ratio:	1.2 to 1	1.0 to 1	0.9 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	99.4	0.1	86.2
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bullish-Extreme	Bearish-Extreme	Bullish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	35.2	-36.8	11.6

30-Day Federal Funds Futures:

The 30-Day Federal Funds large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of -184,954 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly reduction of -38,064 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -146,890 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 24.9 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 75.4 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 71.2 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 Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	7.2	74.8	2.4
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	19.9	61.4	3.1
– Net Position:	-184,954	195,040	-10,086
– Gross Longs:	104,572	1,091,054	35,676
– Gross Shorts:	289,526	896,014	45,762
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.4 to 1	1.2 to 1	0.8 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	24.9	75.4	71.2
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish	Bullish	Bullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-9.8	10.6	-9.4

2-Year Treasury Note Futures:

The 2-Year Treasury Note large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of -1,239,609 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly lowering of -21,719 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -1,217,890 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 2.3 percent. The commercials are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 98.8 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 93.2 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.

2-Year Treasury Note Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	8.8	83.0	7.1
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	42.7	52.1	4.1
– Net Position:	-1,239,609	1,128,539	111,070
– Gross Longs:	320,048	3,031,053	259,610
– Gross Shorts:	1,559,657	1,902,514	148,540
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.2 to 1	1.6 to 1	1.7 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	2.3	98.8	93.2
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish-Extreme	Bullish-Extreme	Bullish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-10.6	12.0	0.6

5-Year Treasury Note Futures:

The 5-Year Treasury Note large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of -1,031,030 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly increase of 25,238 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -1,056,268 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 16.7 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 79.4 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 90.0 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.

5-Year Treasury Note Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	8.6	82.8	7.5
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	27.8	65.1	6.1
– Net Position:	-1,031,030	954,444	76,586
– Gross Longs:	465,279	4,464,077	405,798
– Gross Shorts:	1,496,309	3,509,633	329,212
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.3 to 1	1.3 to 1	1.2 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	16.7	79.4	90.0
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish-Extreme	Bullish	Bullish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	16.7	-20.6	7.1

10-Year Treasury Note Futures:

The 10-Year Treasury Note large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of -744,302 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly rise of 47,233 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -791,535 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 10.3 percent. The commercials are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 94.7 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 78.8 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.

10-Year Treasury Note Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	10.0	79.3	8.6
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	25.9	63.9	8.1
– Net Position:	-744,302	720,210	24,092
– Gross Longs:	467,114	3,712,430	404,705
– Gross Shorts:	1,211,416	2,992,220	380,613
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.4 to 1	1.2 to 1	1.1 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	10.3	94.7	78.8
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish-Extreme	Bullish-Extreme	Bullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-9.6	7.3	6.3

Ultra 10-Year Notes Futures:

The Ultra 10-Year Notes large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of -146,433 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly lift of 30,615 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -177,048 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 14.6 percent. The commercials are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 84.3 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 62.0 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 Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	12.1	75.5	10.7
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	20.4	62.3	15.6
– Net Position:	-146,433	233,935	-87,502
– Gross Longs:	216,251	1,344,525	189,889
– Gross Shorts:	362,684	1,110,590	277,391
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.6 to 1	1.2 to 1	0.7 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	14.6	84.3	62.0
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish-Extreme	Bullish-Extreme	Bullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	7.9	-9.4	2.9

US Treasury Bonds Futures:

The US Treasury Bonds large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of -192,687 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly increase of 5,605 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -198,292 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 21.9 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 65.0 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 77.6 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.

US Treasury Bonds Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	5.9	78.8	14.3
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	20.3	67.4	11.3
– Net Position:	-192,687	152,663	40,024
– Gross Longs:	79,656	1,056,184	191,340
– Gross Shorts:	272,343	903,521	151,316
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.3 to 1	1.2 to 1	1.3 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	21.9	65.0	77.6
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish	Bullish	Bullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-2.0	0.0	4.3

Ultra US Treasury Bonds Futures:

The Ultra US Treasury Bonds large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of -376,925 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly boost of 1,346 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -378,271 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 32.1 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 66.6 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 68.5 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 Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	5.4	82.8	11.1
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	29.8	60.5	9.0
– Net Position:	-376,925	343,799	33,126
– Gross Longs:	83,739	1,279,765	172,214
– Gross Shorts:	460,664	935,966	139,088
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.2 to 1	1.4 to 1	1.2 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	32.1	66.6	68.5
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish	Bullish	Bullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	32.1	-33.4	-10.1

Article By InvestMacro – Receive our weekly COT Newsletter

Bonds COT Updates Financial News

17 Sep

COT Soft Commodities Charts: Speculator Bets led by Sugar & Live Cattle

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 September 12th 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 Sugar & Live Cattle

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

Leading the gains for the softs markets was Sugar (9,014 contracts) with Live Cattle (6,055 contracts), Lean Hogs (5,402 contracts) and Cocoa (1,403 contracts) also having positive weeks.

The markets with the declines in speculator bets this week were Corn (-42,356 contracts) with Coffee (-18,522 contracts), Soybean Oil (-9,933 contracts), Cotton (-5,028 contracts), Soybean Meal (-4,467 contracts), Wheat (-3,209 contracts) and Soybeans (-2,112 contracts) also registering lower bets on the week.

Data Snapshot of Commodity Market Traders | Columns Legend

Sep-12-2023	OI	OI-Index	Spec-Net	Spec-Index	Com-Net	COM-Index	Smalls-Net	Smalls-Index
WTI Crude	1,791,696	35	326,871	47	-348,713	57	21,842	24
Gold	441,221	9	123,864	32	-144,810	68	20,946	32
Silver	125,292	14	18,033	44	-32,040	55	14,007	44
Copper	196,198	39	-12,334	20	9,886	80	2,448	34
Palladium	17,838	82	-10,712	2	10,761	99	-49	39
Platinum	87,021	100	6,721	31	-12,396	68	5,675	44
Natural Gas	1,171,747	44	-112,044	27	86,523	74	25,521	41
Brent	136,160	13	-48,610	17	47,945	90	665	18
Heating Oil	334,395	50	36,922	92	-62,799	7	25,877	88
Soybeans	740,047	36	85,217	23	-68,440	73	-16,777	64
Corn	1,268,176	10	-87,988	0	118,836	100	-30,848	90
Coffee	180,118	3	8,495	36	-8,052	68	-443	7
Sugar	996,532	70	244,435	77	-297,725	19	53,290	72
Wheat	391,669	61	-49,619	32	46,521	66	3,098	82

Strength Scores led by Cocoa & Live Cattle

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 Cocoa (100 percent) and Live Cattle (79 percent) lead the softs markets this week. Sugar (77 percent), Soybean Meal (51 percent) and Cotton (47 percent) come in as the next highest in the weekly strength scores.

On the downside, Corn (0 percent) comes in at the lowest strength levels currently and is in Extreme-Bearish territory (below 20 percent). The next lowest strength scores are Soybeans (23 percent), Lean Hogs (29 percent) and Wheat (32 percent).

Strength Statistics:
Corn (0.0 percent) vs Corn previous week (6.7 percent)
Sugar (77.3 percent) vs Sugar previous week (74.1 percent)
Coffee (36.1 percent) vs Coffee previous week (61.8 percent)
Soybeans (22.6 percent) vs Soybeans previous week (23.5 percent)
Soybean Oil (44.8 percent) vs Soybean Oil previous week (50.6 percent)
Soybean Meal (50.6 percent) vs Soybean Meal previous week (53.1 percent)
Live Cattle (78.7 percent) vs Live Cattle previous week (72.2 percent)
Lean Hogs (29.1 percent) vs Lean Hogs previous week (24.6 percent)
Cotton (47.4 percent) vs Cotton previous week (51.2 percent)
Cocoa (100.0 percent) vs Cocoa previous week (98.6 percent)
Wheat (31.5 percent) vs Wheat previous week (33.8 percent)

Sugar & Cocoa top the 6-Week Strength Trends

COT Strength Score Trends (or move index, calculates the 6-week changes in strength scores) showed that Sugar (12 percent) and Cocoa (10 percent) lead the past six weeks trends for soft commodities. Cotton (6 percent), Lean Hogs (3 percent) and Live Cattle (2 percent) are the next highest positive movers in the latest trends data.

Corn (-26 percent) leads the downside trend scores currently with Coffee (-23 percent), Wheat (-17 percent) and Soybean Meal (-12 percent) following next with lower trend scores.

Strength Trend Statistics:
Corn (-26.4 percent) vs Corn previous week (-18.3 percent)
Sugar (11.6 percent) vs Sugar previous week (5.5 percent)
Coffee (-23.1 percent) vs Coffee previous week (-0.0 percent)
Soybeans (-11.2 percent) vs Soybeans previous week (-18.7 percent)
Soybean Oil (-2.6 percent) vs Soybean Oil previous week (1.1 percent)
Soybean Meal (-11.8 percent) vs Soybean Meal previous week (-7.6 percent)
Live Cattle (1.7 percent) vs Live Cattle previous week (-9.5 percent)
Lean Hogs (2.9 percent) vs Lean Hogs previous week (-2.6 percent)
Cotton (5.6 percent) vs Cotton previous week (13.9 percent)
Cocoa (9.7 percent) vs Cocoa previous week (8.5 percent)
Wheat (-16.7 percent) vs Wheat previous week (-18.4 percent)

Individual Soft Commodities Markets:

CORN Futures:

The CORN large speculator standing this week reached a net position of -87,988 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly decline of -42,356 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -45,632 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 Bearish-Extreme with a score of 0.0 percent. The commercials are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 100.0 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 89.9 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.

CORN Futures Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	20.9	49.5	10.3
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	27.8	40.2	12.7
– Net Position:	-87,988	118,836	-30,848
– Gross Longs:	264,473	628,085	130,320
– Gross Shorts:	352,461	509,249	161,168
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.8 to 1	1.2 to 1	0.8 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	0.0	100.0	89.9
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish-Extreme	Bullish-Extreme	Bullish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-26.4	22.0	55.4

SUGAR Futures:

The SUGAR large speculator standing this week reached a net position of 244,435 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly lift of 9,014 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 235,421 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 77.3 percent. The commercials are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 18.8 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 72.0 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.

SUGAR Futures Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	33.0	44.8	9.9
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	8.4	74.7	4.6
– Net Position:	244,435	-297,725	53,290
– Gross Longs:	328,566	446,542	98,865
– Gross Shorts:	84,131	744,267	45,575
– Long to Short Ratio:	3.9 to 1	0.6 to 1	2.2 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	77.3	18.8	72.0
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bullish	Bearish-Extreme	Bullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	11.6	-15.6	24.2

COFFEE Futures:

The COFFEE large speculator standing this week reached a net position of 8,495 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly fall of -18,522 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 33,494 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 36.1 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 67.9 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 7.3 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.

COFFEE Futures Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	23.4	47.0	3.7
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	18.7	51.4	3.9
– Net Position:	8,495	-8,052	-443
– Gross Longs:	42,190	84,606	6,662
– Gross Shorts:	33,695	92,658	7,105
– Long to Short Ratio:	1.3 to 1	0.9 to 1	0.9 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	36.1	67.9	7.3
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish	Bullish	Bearish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-23.1	24.0	-19.8

SOYBEANS Futures:

The SOYBEANS large speculator standing this week reached a net position of 85,217 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly decline of -2,112 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 87,329 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 22.6 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 73.2 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 63.6 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.

SOYBEANS Futures Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	22.0	49.5	6.7
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	10.5	58.8	9.0
– Net Position:	85,217	-68,440	-16,777
– Gross Longs:	162,761	366,434	49,882
– Gross Shorts:	77,544	434,874	66,659
– Long to Short Ratio:	2.1 to 1	0.8 to 1	0.7 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	22.6	73.2	63.6
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish	Bullish	Bullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-11.2	9.3	3.9

SOYBEAN OIL Futures:

The SOYBEAN OIL large speculator standing this week reached a net position of 46,002 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly decrease of -9,933 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 55,935 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 44.8 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 53.4 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 52.1 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.

SOYBEAN OIL Futures Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	20.6	50.9	6.7
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	10.8	62.9	4.5
– Net Position:	46,002	-56,338	10,336
– Gross Longs:	97,027	240,105	31,734
– Gross Shorts:	51,025	296,443	21,398
– Long to Short Ratio:	1.9 to 1	0.8 to 1	1.5 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	44.8	53.4	52.1
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish	Bullish	Bullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-2.6	2.3	0.1

SOYBEAN MEAL Futures:

The SOYBEAN MEAL large speculator standing this week reached a net position of 88,283 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly decline of -4,467 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 92,750 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 50.6 percent. The commercials are Bearish with a score of 49.9 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 40.6 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.

SOYBEAN MEAL Futures Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	23.9	41.4	9.6
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	4.6	64.8	5.5
– Net Position:	88,283	-107,255	18,972
– Gross Longs:	109,513	189,177	43,929
– Gross Shorts:	21,230	296,432	24,957
– Long to Short Ratio:	5.2 to 1	0.6 to 1	1.8 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	50.6	49.9	40.6
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bullish	Bearish	Bearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-11.8	11.9	0.1

LIVE CATTLE Futures:

The LIVE CATTLE large speculator standing this week reached a net position of 92,544 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly boost of 6,055 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 86,489 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 78.7 percent. The commercials are Bearish with a score of 27.4 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 8.5 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.

LIVE CATTLE Futures Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	44.3	28.6	8.6
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	15.9	52.6	13.1
– Net Position:	92,544	-77,999	-14,545
– Gross Longs:	144,383	93,333	28,157
– Gross Shorts:	51,839	171,332	42,702
– Long to Short Ratio:	2.8 to 1	0.5 to 1	0.7 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	78.7	27.4	8.5
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bullish	Bearish	Bearish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	1.7	2.3	-19.3

LEAN HOGS Futures:

The LEAN HOGS large speculator standing this week reached a net position of -730 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly advance of 5,402 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -6,132 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 29.1 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 74.6 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 65.5 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.

LEAN HOGS Futures Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	33.7	37.5	9.8
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	34.1	35.1	11.8
– Net Position:	-730	4,709	-3,979
– Gross Longs:	66,425	73,897	19,379
– Gross Shorts:	67,155	69,188	23,358
– Long to Short Ratio:	1.0 to 1	1.1 to 1	0.8 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	29.1	74.6	65.5
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish	Bullish	Bullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	2.9	-0.6	-12.7

COTTON Futures:

The COTTON large speculator standing this week reached a net position of 51,382 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly fall of -5,028 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 56,410 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 47.4 percent. The commercials are Bearish with a score of 49.6 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 69.4 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.

COTTON Futures Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	38.2	42.6	7.6
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	15.6	69.0	3.7
– Net Position:	51,382	-60,187	8,805
– Gross Longs:	86,922	96,890	17,240
– Gross Shorts:	35,540	157,077	8,435
– Long to Short Ratio:	2.4 to 1	0.6 to 1	2.0 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	47.4	49.6	69.4
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish	Bearish	Bullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	5.6	-4.6	-4.1

COCOA Futures:

The COCOA large speculator standing this week reached a net position of 87,623 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly gain of 1,403 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 86,220 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 100.0 percent. The commercials are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 0.0 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 35.2 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 Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	47.1	24.7	4.4
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	17.6	55.4	3.1
– Net Position:	87,623	-91,493	3,870
– Gross Longs:	140,004	73,434	13,097
– Gross Shorts:	52,381	164,927	9,227
– Long to Short Ratio:	2.7 to 1	0.4 to 1	1.4 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	100.0	0.0	35.2
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bullish-Extreme	Bearish-Extreme	Bearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	9.7	-10.1	5.8

WHEAT Futures:

The WHEAT large speculator standing this week reached a net position of -49,619 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly decrease of -3,209 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -46,410 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 31.5 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 66.1 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 81.6 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.

WHEAT Futures Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	29.2	34.0	10.1
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	41.8	22.1	9.3
– Net Position:	-49,619	46,521	3,098
– Gross Longs:	114,277	133,152	39,447
– Gross Shorts:	163,896	86,631	36,349
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.7 to 1	1.5 to 1	1.1 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	31.5	66.1	81.6
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish	Bullish	Bullish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-16.7	11.7	34.7

Article By InvestMacro – Receive our weekly COT Newsletter

COT Updates Financial News Soft Commodities

17 Sep

COT Stock Market Charts: Weekly Speculator Bets led by S&P500-Mini & 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 September 12th 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 S&P500-Mini & Russell-Mini

The COT stock markets speculator bets were higher this week as four 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 S&P500-Mini (27,878 contracts) with the Russell-Mini (8,096 contracts), the Nikkei 225 (656 contracts) and the VIX (3,384 contracts) also showing positive weeks.

The markets with the declines in speculator bets this week were the MSCI EAFE-Mini (-20,113 contracts) with the Nasdaq-Mini (-4,494 contracts) and the DowJones-Mini (-1,176 contracts) also registering lower bets on the week.

Data Snapshot of Stock Market Traders | Columns Legend

Sep-12-2023	OI	OI-Index	Spec-Net	Spec-Index	Com-Net	COM-Index	Smalls-Net	Smalls-Index
S&P500-Mini	2,520,164	48	-116,333	47	87,045	52	29,288	49
Nikkei 225	16,425	17	514	72	-918	30	404	33
Nasdaq-Mini	303,321	77	9,056	82	-9,508	17	452	66
DowJones-Mini	102,910	69	-12,900	37	12,437	59	463	46
VIX	418,072	81	-39,342	90	40,099	6	-757	92
Nikkei 225 Yen	46,463	29	3,889	46	6,646	29	-10,535	73

Strength Scores led by VIX & Nasdaq-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 (90 percent) and the Nasdaq-Mini (82 percent) lead the stock markets this week. The Nikkei 225 (72 percent) and S&P500-Mini (47 percent) come in as the next highest in the weekly strength scores.

On the downside, the MSCI EAFE-Mini (0 percent) comes in at the lowest strength level currently and is in Extreme-Bearish territory (below 20 percent). The next lowest strength score is the Russell-Mini (34 percent).

Strength Statistics:
VIX (90.3 percent) vs VIX previous week (87.8 percent)
S&P500-Mini (47.4 percent) vs S&P500-Mini previous week (43.2 percent)
DowJones-Mini (37.4 percent) vs DowJones-Mini previous week (40.7 percent)
Nasdaq-Mini (82.4 percent) vs Nasdaq-Mini previous week (85.0 percent)
Russell2000-Mini (33.8 percent) vs Russell2000-Mini previous week (28.9 percent)
Nikkei USD (72.4 percent) vs Nikkei USD previous week (68.2 percent)
EAFE-Mini (0.0 percent) vs EAFE-Mini previous week (19.4 percent)

S&P500-Mini & Nasdaq-Mini 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 (13 percent) leads the past six weeks trends for the stock markets. The Nasdaq-Mini (12 percent), the Nikkei 225 (9 percent) and the VIX (2 percent) are the next highest positive movers in the latest trends data.

The DowJones-Mini (-41 percent) leads the downside trend scores currently with the MSCI EAFE-Mini (-33 percent) coming in as the next market with lower trend scores.

Strength Trend Statistics:
VIX (2.1 percent) vs VIX previous week (-0.4 percent)
S&P500-Mini (12.5 percent) vs S&P500-Mini previous week (13.2 percent)
DowJones-Mini (-41.0 percent) vs DowJones-Mini previous week (-37.2 percent)
Nasdaq-Mini (11.8 percent) vs Nasdaq-Mini previous week (13.9 percent)
Russell2000-Mini (1.6 percent) vs Russell2000-Mini previous week (-1.8 percent)
Nikkei USD (8.9 percent) vs Nikkei USD previous week (16.0 percent)
EAFE-Mini (-32.8 percent) vs EAFE-Mini previous week (-6.9 percent)

Individual Stock Market Charts:

VIX Volatility Futures:

The VIX Volatility large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of -39,342 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly boost of 3,384 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -42,726 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 90.3 percent. The commercials are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 6.2 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 91.9 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.

VIX Volatility Futures Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	24.9	46.0	6.5
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	34.3	36.4	6.7
– Net Position:	-39,342	40,099	-757
– Gross Longs:	104,179	192,419	27,224
– Gross Shorts:	143,521	152,320	27,981
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.7 to 1	1.3 to 1	1.0 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	90.3	6.2	91.9
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bullish-Extreme	Bearish-Extreme	Bullish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	2.1	-3.0	6.8

S&P500 Mini Futures:

The S&P500 Mini large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of -116,333 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly increase of 27,878 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -144,211 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 47.4 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 51.9 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 48.9 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.

S&P500 Mini Futures Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	11.1	72.3	11.4
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	15.7	68.8	10.2
– Net Position:	-116,333	87,045	29,288
– Gross Longs:	279,471	1,821,412	286,894
– Gross Shorts:	395,804	1,734,367	257,606
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.7 to 1	1.1 to 1	1.1 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	47.4	51.9	48.9
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish	Bullish	Bearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	12.5	-13.6	5.8

Dow Jones Mini Futures:

The Dow Jones Mini large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of -12,900 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly fall of -1,176 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -11,724 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 59.1 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 46.1 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.

Dow Jones Mini Futures Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	22.1	58.9	14.2
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	34.7	46.8	13.7
– Net Position:	-12,900	12,437	463
– Gross Longs:	22,788	60,631	14,578
– Gross Shorts:	35,688	48,194	14,115
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.6 to 1	1.3 to 1	1.0 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	37.4	59.1	46.1
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish	Bullish	Bearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-41.0	28.2	2.9

Nasdaq Mini Futures:

The Nasdaq Mini large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of 9,056 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly decline of -4,494 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 13,550 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 82.4 percent. The commercials are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 16.5 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 66.2 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 Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	22.6	56.6	14.8
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	19.7	59.7	14.7
– Net Position:	9,056	-9,508	452
– Gross Longs:	68,674	171,570	44,891
– Gross Shorts:	59,618	181,078	44,439
– Long to Short Ratio:	1.2 to 1	0.9 to 1	1.0 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	82.4	16.5	66.2
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bullish-Extreme	Bearish-Extreme	Bullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	11.8	-13.8	2.1

Russell 2000 Mini Futures:

The Russell 2000 Mini large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of -63,615 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly rise of 8,096 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -71,711 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 33.8 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 63.7 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 40.7 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.

Russell 2000 Mini Futures Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	8.7	81.9	5.8
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	20.5	71.0	4.9
– Net Position:	-63,615	59,033	4,582
– Gross Longs:	47,088	443,198	31,308
– Gross Shorts:	110,703	384,165	26,726
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.4 to 1	1.2 to 1	1.2 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	33.8	63.7	40.7
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish	Bullish	Bearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	1.6	-1.8	1.8

Nikkei Stock Average (USD) Futures:

The Nikkei Stock Average (USD) large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of 514 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly rise of 656 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -142 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 72.4 percent. The commercials are Bearish with a score of 30.3 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 33.4 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.

Nikkei Stock Average Futures Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	10.9	68.5	20.6
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	7.8	74.1	18.1
– Net Position:	514	-918	404
– Gross Longs:	1,793	11,249	3,383
– Gross Shorts:	1,279	12,167	2,979
– Long to Short Ratio:	1.4 to 1	0.9 to 1	1.1 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	72.4	30.3	33.4
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bullish	Bearish	Bearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	8.9	-3.1	-10.6

MSCI EAFE Mini Futures:

The MSCI EAFE Mini large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of -58,192 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly lowering of -20,113 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -38,079 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 0.0 percent. The commercials are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 100.0 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 37.9 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.

MSCI EAFE Mini Futures Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	4.9	90.3	2.8
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	17.6	78.6	1.9
– Net Position:	-58,192	54,008	4,184
– Gross Longs:	22,550	415,412	12,927
– Gross Shorts:	80,742	361,404	8,743
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.3 to 1	1.1 to 1	1.5 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	0.0	100.0	37.9
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish-Extreme	Bullish-Extreme	Bearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-32.8	35.7	-13.4

Article By InvestMacro – Receive our weekly COT Newsletter

COT Updates Financial News Stock Market News

16 Sep

Speculator Extremes: Cocoa, Bitcoin, EAFE & Corn lead Bullish & Bearish Positions

By InvestMacro

The latest update for the weekly Commitment of Traders (COT) report was released by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) on Friday for data ending on September 12th.

This weekly Extreme Positions report highlights the Most Bullish and Most Bearish Positions for the speculator category. Extreme positioning in these markets can foreshadow strong moves in the underlying market.

To signify an extreme position, we use the Strength Index (also known as the COT Index) of each instrument, a common method of measuring COT data. The Strength Index is simply a comparison of current trader positions against the range of positions over the previous 3 years. We use over 80 percent as extremely bullish and under 20 percent as extremely bearish. (Compare Strength Index scores across all markets in the data table or cot leaders table)

Speculators or Non-Commercials Notes:

Speculators, classified as non-commercial traders by the CFTC, are made up of large commodity funds, hedge funds and other significant for-profit participants. The Specs are generally regarded as trend-followers in their behavior towards price action – net speculator bets and prices tend to go in the same directions. These traders often look to buy when prices are rising and sell when prices are falling. To illustrate this point, many times speculator contracts can be found at their most extremes (bullish or bearish) when prices are also close to their highest or lowest levels.

These extreme levels can be dangerous for the large speculators as the trade is most crowded, there is less trading ammunition still sitting on the sidelines to push the trend further and prices have moved a significant distance. When the trend becomes exhausted, some speculators take profits while others look to also exit positions when prices fail to continue in the same direction. This process usually plays out over many months to years and can ultimately create a reverse effect where prices start to fall and speculators start a process of selling when prices are falling.

Here Are This Week’s Most Bullish Speculator Positions:

Cocoa Futures

The Cocoa Futures speculator position comes in as the most bullish extreme standing this week. The Cocoa Futures speculator level is currently at a 100.0 percent score of its 3-year range.

The six-week trend for the percent strength score totaled 9.7 this week. The overall net speculator position was a total of 87,623 net contracts this week with a change of 1,403 contract in the weekly speculator bets.

Bitcoin

The Bitcoin speculator position comes next in the extreme standings this week. The Bitcoin speculator level is now at a 100.0 percent score of its 3-year range.

The six-week trend for the percent strength score was 41.7 this week. The speculator position registered 2,232 net contracts this week with a weekly change of 193 contracts in speculator bets.

3-Month Secured Overnight Financing Rate

The 3-Month Secured Overnight Financing Rate speculator position comes in third this week in the extreme standings. The 3-Month Secured Overnight Financing Rate speculator level resides at a 99.4 percent score of its 3-year range.

The six-week trend for the speculator strength score came in at 35.2 this week. The overall speculator position was 316,511 net contracts this week with a change of 44,439 contracts in the weekly speculator bets.

Heating Oil

The Heating Oil speculator position comes up number four in the extreme standings this week. The Heating Oil speculator level is at a 92.3 percent score of its 3-year range.

The six-week trend for the speculator strength score totaled a change of 23.3 this week. The overall speculator position was 36,922 net contracts this week with a change of -1,815 contracts in the speculator bets.

VIX

The VIX speculator position rounds out the top five in this week’s bullish extreme standings. The VIX speculator level sits at a 90.3 percent score of its 3-year range. The six-week trend for the speculator strength score was 2.1 this week.

The speculator position was -39,342 net contracts this week with a change of 3,384 contracts in the weekly speculator bets.

This Week’s Most Bearish Speculator Positions:

MSCI EAFE MINI

The MSCI EAFE MINI speculator position comes in as the most bearish extreme standing this week. The MSCI EAFE MINI speculator level is at a 0.0 percent score of its 3-year range.

The six-week trend for the speculator strength score was -32.8 this week. The overall speculator position was -58,192 net contracts this week with a change of -20,113 contracts in the speculator bets.

Corn

The Corn speculator position comes in next for the most bearish extreme standing on the week. The Corn speculator level is at a 0.0 percent score of its 3-year range.

The six-week trend for the speculator strength score was -26.4 this week. The speculator position was -87,988 net contracts this week with a change of -42,356 contracts in the weekly speculator bets.

Palladium

The Palladium speculator position comes in as third most bearish extreme standing of the week. The Palladium speculator level resides at a 2.1 percent score of its 3-year range.

The six-week trend for the speculator strength score was -9.6 this week. The overall speculator position was -10,712 net contracts this week with a change of 309 contracts in the speculator bets.

2-Year Bond

The 2-Year Bond speculator position comes in as this week’s fourth most bearish extreme standing. The 2-Year Bond speculator level is at a 2.3 percent score of its 3-year range.

The six-week trend for the speculator strength score was -10.6 this week. The speculator position was -1,239,609 net contracts this week with a change of -21,719 contracts in the weekly speculator bets.

10-Year Note

Finally, the 10-Year Note speculator position comes in as the fifth most bearish extreme standing for this week. The 10-Year Note speculator level is at a 10.3 percent score of its 3-year range.

The six-week trend for the speculator strength score was -9.6 this week. The speculator position was -744,302 net contracts this week with a change of 47,233 contracts in the weekly speculator bets.

Article By InvestMacro – Receive our weekly COT Newsletter

COT Updates Opinions

15 Sep

Murrey Math Lines 15.09.2023 (Brent, S&P 500)

By RoboForex.com

Brent

Brent crude oil quotes and the RSI on H4 are in their respective overbought areas. In this situation, a downward breakout of 8/8 (93.75) is expected, followed by a decline to the support at 6/8 (90.62). The scenario can be cancelled by an upward breakout of +1/8 (95.31). In this case, the quotes could aim at the resistance at +2/8 (96.88).

On M15, the lower boundary of the VoltyChannel is too far from the current price, so the decline might only be supported by a downward breakout of 8/8 (93.75) on H4.

S&P 500

On H4, the S&P 500 index quotes are above the 200-day Moving Average, indicating the prevalence of an uptrend. However, the RSI has already reached the overbought area. As a result, in these circumstances, a test of 4/8 (4531.2) is expected, followed by a rebound from this level and a decline to the support at 3/8 (4492.2). The scenario can be cancelled by rising above the resistance level of 4/8 (4453.1). In this case, the S&P 500 could continue growing and reach 5/8 (4570.3).

On M15, the lower boundary of the VoltyChannel is too far from the current price, so the decline might only be supported by a rebound from 4/8 (4531.2) on H4.

Article By RoboForex.com

Attention!
Forecasts presented in this section only reflect the author s private opinion and should not be considered as guidance for trading. RoboForex LP bears no responsibility for trading results based on trading recommendations described in these analytical reviews.

Energy Financial News

15 Sep

Week Ahead: Will Fed Decision Trigger NQ100_m Breakout?

By ForexTime

Exceptional list of high-risk events next week
Our focus falls on Fed decision which could move NQ100_m
Fed expected to leave rates unchanged
Much focus will be on any clues offered on future rate moves
NQ100_m breakout on horizon with 15200 and 15630 key levels of interest

The exceptional list of high-risk events and top-tier economic reports could rock global financial markets in the week ahead!

All eyes will be on the central bank mashup including the Federal Reserve, Bank of England (BoE), and Bank of Japan (BoJ) among many others. Key economic data from the UK, Eurozone, and Japan to name a few will also be in focus:

Monday, September 18

CAD: Canada housing starts

Tuesday, September 19

CAD: Canada CPI
AUD: RBA meeting minutes
EUR: Eurozone CPI
USD: US housing starts

Wednesday, September 20

CNH: China loan prime rates
EUR: Eurozone new car registrations
JPY: Japan trade
CAD: BoC meeting minutes
GBP: UK August CPI
USD: Fed rate decision

Thursday, September 21

CHF: SNB rate decision
EUR: Eurozone consumer confidence
NZD: New Zealand GDP
GBP: BoE rate decision
USD: leading index, initial jobless claims

Friday, September 22

AUD: Judo Bank Australia PMI’s
JPY: BOJ rate decision, CPI, PMI’s
CAD: Canada retail sales
EUR: Eurozone S&P Global PMI’s, Germany PMI’s
GBP: UK S&P Global/CIPS PMI’s
USD: S&P Global Manufacturing PMI

Given the jampacked economic schedule, it may be wise to fasten your seatbelts and get ready for a wild ride.

Our focus falls on the September FOMC meeting which could trigger a major move on the NQ100_m.

The Federal Reserve is widely expected to leave interest rates unchanged at 5.5% at the September 19-20 meeting. However, much focus will be on what vital clues the central bank offers on future rate hikes. Investors will also be keeping a close eye on the economic projections, including the ones for interest rates known as the dot plot.

Ultimately, if Jerome Powell strikes a hawkish tone during his press conference and leaves the door open for further rates, this could boost bets around the Fed making a move before the end of 2023.

As of writing, traders have practically ruled out the possibility of a rate hike next week. However, the probability of a 25 basis point hike by November stands at 35% with this jumping to 44% by December, according to Fed funds futures.

How might the Fed decision impact the NQ100_m?

The NQ100_m index is filled with tech stocks that dislike higher interest rates because their value is based on earnings projected in the future.

The NQ100_m could find itself under fresh selling pressure if the Federal Reserve signals that one more rate hike is still on the table in 2023.
Should Jerome Powell strike a cautious tone, and the economic projections/dot plot suggests that the Fed may be done with raising rates, this could push the NQ100_m higher.

Looking at the technical picture…

The NQ100_m remains trapped within a range on the daily charts with support at 15200 and resistance at 15630. Prices seem to be riding above the 50-day SMA while the MACD trades above zero. A breakout could be on the horizon, but this may require the assistance of a potent fundamental spark.

A solid daily close and breakout above 15630 may inspire a move higher toward 15800 and 15947, respectively.
Should prices sink below 15200, this could trigger a decline towards 15000 and 14670.

Zooming out, there is a larger range on the weekly charts with support at 14670 and resistance at 15840. A solid breakout and close above 15840 may inspire a move to levels not seen since January 2022 at 16500. Should prices slip below 14670, the next key level of interest can be found around 14440.

Article by ForexTime

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

Economics & Fundamentals Financial News

15 Sep

Oil is hitting new highs again. The ECB has reached its peak interest rate

By JustMarkets

On Thursday’s stock market close, the Dow Jones Index (US30) increased by 1.00%, while the S&P 500 Index (US500) added 0.85%. The NASDAQ Technology Index (US100) closed positive by 0.81% on Thursday.

Weekly US Initial Jobless Claims rose by 3,000 to 220,000 from expectations of 5,000, indicating a stronger than expected labor market. The data boosted equities and reinforced the assumption that the Fed will be able to achieve a soft landing for the US economy. The US goods and services price index for August accelerated to 1.6% y/y from 0.8% y/y in July, the highest reading in 4 months and slightly stronger than expectations of 1.3% y/y. US retail sales for August rose by 0.6% m/m, which was stronger than expectations of 0.1% m/m. The probability of a rate hike by the US Fed has decreased further. Markets estimate the odds of a 25 bps rate hike at the September 20 FOMC meeting at 2% and a 25 bps hike at the November 1 FOMC meeting at 35%.

Equity markets in Europe were mostly up yesterday. Germany’s DAX (DE40) rose by 0.97%, France’s CAC 40 (FR40) gained 1.19% on Thursday, Spain’s IBEX 35 (ES35) added 1.44%, and the UK’s FTSE 100 (UK100) closed positive by 1.95%. The ECB decision contributed to the growth of European indices. Yesterday, the ECB raised the main refinancing rate by 25 bps to 4.50% from 4.25% and said the new level would make a “significant contribution” to controlling inflation. The ECB signaled its intention to maintain this rate, stating the following: “Based on the current assessment, the Governing Council considers that the ECB’s key interest rates have reached levels that, if maintained for a sufficiently long time, will make a substantial contribution to the timely return of inflation to target.” In other words, the ECB hinted at the end of the tightening cycle. The ECB also lowered its 2023 eurozone GDP forecast to 0.7% from the previous forecast of 0.9% and raised its 2023 inflation forecast to 5.6% from the previous forecast of 5.4%.

Oil prices are creeping higher, raising concerns about the impact on the downward trajectory of inflation. Prices for West Texas Intermediate crude, the US benchmark, are up 15% year-to-date and are above $90 a barrel. Prices for Brent crude, the international benchmark, are up 5% for the year and have also crossed the $90 mark. Saudi Arabia and Russia recently agreed to extend voluntary oil production cuts until the end of this year, reducing the global market by 1.3 million barrels of oil and boosting energy prices. Yesterday, oil prices were supported by news from China. The Bank of China (PBoC) lowered the reserve requirement ratio by 25 bps to 10.50% from 10.75%, which could stimulate economic growth and boost energy demand in China, the world’s second-largest oil consumer.

The EIA natural gas inventory report published on Thursday showed an increase of 57 bcf over the last week. This reflected negatively on prices as inventories came in above expectations at 50 bcf, although below the 5-year average for this time of year of 76 bcf. As of September 8, natural gas inventories were up 15.7% YoY and 6.8% above the 5-year seasonal average, indicating a sufficient natural gas supply.

Asian markets were mostly up on Thursday. Japan’s Nikkei 225 (JP225) rose by 1.41% yesterday, China’s FTSE China A50 (CHA50) gained 0.08%, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng (HK50) ended the day up by 0.21%, and Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 (AU200) ended Thursday positive 0.46%.

The People’s Bank of China (PBoC) lowered the reserve requirement ratio for most banks by 25 bps to 10.50% from 10.75%. Lowering the norm frees up cash for banks, allowing them to lend more to businesses and consumers. It will also lead to more liquidity in the Chinese economy, which could boost growth.

Data released on Friday also showed that China’s industrial production and retail sales rose more than expected in August. However, fixed asset investment declined, and new home sales fell, indicating that much of Asia’s largest economy remains under pressure. Chinese stocks have suffered significant losses for the year amid growing concerns that the country’s economic recovery is much slower than initially expected.

S&P 500 (F)(US500) 4,505.56 +38.12 (+0.85%)

Dow Jones (US30) 34,921.53 +346.00 (+1.00%)

DAX (DE40) 15,805.29 +151.26 (+0.97%)

FTSE 100 (UK100) 7,673.08 +147.09 (+1.95%)

USD Index 105.36 +0.60 (+0.57%)

Important events for today:

– China Industrial Production (m/m) at 05:00 (GMT+3);
– China Retail Sales (m/m) at 05:00 (GMT+3);
– China Unemployment Rate (m/m) at 05:00 (GMT+3);
– Eurozone Trade Balance (m/m) at 12:00 (GMT+3);
– US NY Empire State Manufacturing Index (m/m) at 15:30 (GMT+3);
– US Industrial Production (m/m) at 16:15 (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.

Economics & Fundamentals Financial News

14 Sep

Investors Flock To Disruptive Mortgage Tech Stocks

Streetwise Reports (9/13/23)

As the newer generation becomes homebuyers, lenders are seeing a major push for non-traditional lending options. Read to see how Rocket Companies Inc., Loan Depot, and Beeline Loans are disrupting the industry with online applications and artificial intelligence and why they should be on investors’ radars.

Owning a home is a huge part of the American Dream and the first step for some to solidify their place in adulthood. In fact, a survey by Bankrate found that “owning a home is still very much a part of the “American Dream,” as cited by 74% of U.S. adults. This is more than those who point to being able to retire (66%), having a successful career (60%), owning a car, truck, or other automobile (50%), having children (40%), and getting a college degree (35%).”

Still, most Americans are unable to buy a house outright, making mortgages a key part of achieving this height of American success.

Rising Interest Rates

In an August 5 article, Market Watch personal finance reporter Aarthi Swaminathan pointed out that The United States is at a ‘critical stage’ regarding mortgages.

The report noted that “if the economy continues to show signs of strength, and the U.S. Federal Reserve hikes its benchmark interest rate once again, rates could go up to 8%.”

Legendary investor Barbara Corcoran told Yahoo Finance that “Now is a great time to buy a home” despite rising interest rates.

However, the article also stressed that the economy is currently hinting at a possible cool-down and that the “rate of inflation is easing.” Swaminathan wrote, “That could lead to a slowdown — or even drop — in mortgage rates.” This is not promised, but something homebuyers and investor should keep their eye on.

Still, while some people may be waiting for interest rates to go down before they start their home search, some experts believe now is actually the time to buy.

Legendary investor Barbara Corcoran spoke with Fox Business about the current state of the market. She said, “The minute those interest rates come down, all hell’s going to break loose, and the prices are going to go through the roof,” she said, commenting that we could see a Covid-like market once again.

With this in mind, Corcoran told Yahoo Finance that “Now is a great time to buy a home” despite rising interest rates.

Homebuyers Looking for a Change

As with most things, mortgages come in two categories: The old and the new. There are the long, held mortgages that have been around for generations, yet they are running into some competition as the new guys usher in a new way to play the game of life.

Some of the long-standing mortgage companies include:

Wells Fargo & Co. (WFC:NYSE), which announced at the beginning of this year that it intended to scale back mortgages, but last year saw 143,000 loans at a value of US$79 billion.
Bank of America Corp. (BAC:NYSE), which saw 121,000 loans at a value of US$54 billion.
JPMorgan Chase & Co (JPM:NYSE), which saw 115,000 loans at a value of US$73 billion, with an average loan amount of US$631,000.

While non-traditional lenders did make gains in 2021, traditional financial institutions won back some ground in 2022, yet some non-bank lenders did manage to hold on to their advantages.

Rocket Companies Inc. was the top mortgage lender in 2022, with 464,000 loans that generated a value of US$127.6 billion.

Loan Depot Inc. had 156,000 loans with a value of US$53 billion.

It seems clear from these results that homebuyers are looking for change in the market. This may be partly due to the younger crowd gaining interest in home buying. 51.5% of millennials are homeowners as of this year.

This generation increased by 7 million homeowners over the last five years, but they are still behind Gen Z, who are becoming homeowners at higher rates than millennials were at the same ages.

Gen Z and Millennial homebuyers are more likely to gravitate toward mobile and online over traditional lenders. According to Chase’s Digital Banking Attitudes Study, over 86% of Gen Z and 89% of millennials conduct their banking through apps. 61% of Gen Z and 71% of millennials use apps to transfer money. Managing money through online means is overwhelmingly popular with younger generations due to its convenience. This is where nontraditional lenders come in.

Top Mortgage Lender Rocket Mortgage

Recently, Rocket Companies Inc. (RKT:NYSE) announced financial results for Q223. In Q223, Rocket reported net revenue of US$1.236 billion and adjusted revenue of US$1.002 billion. This exceeded the high end of the company’s guidance range.

In light of this news, Rocket’s Interim CEO, Bill Emerson, said, “Rocket‘s performance in the second quarter demonstrates the strength of our business and our commitment to delivering superior client service through innovation.”

Digital Platform Makes Rocket #1

In July, Rocket ranked number one in the U.S. for Client Satisfaction in Mortgage Servicing by J.D. Power for the ninth time. According to the release, this accolade was given based entirely on client feedback from an independent research firm.

With this, Executive Vice President of Servicing at Rocket Mortgage LaQuanda Sain said, “Many homebuyers don’t think twice about who will service their mortgage when they apply for a home loan but, with a mortgage lasting as many as 30 years, their servicer can make a huge difference.”

Rocket also ranked in the following categories:

Digital Channels
Easy to do Business With
Keeps Clients Informed and Educated
Resolving Problems or Questions

A big part of this ranking was Rocket’s 24/7 online self-serve resources, which aided over 100,000 homeowners in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian.

In July, Rocket ranked number one in the U.S. for Client Satisfaction in Mortgage Servicing by J.D. Power for the ninth time. According to the release, this accolade was given based entirely on client feedback from an independent research firm.

Rocket currently has a 4.5 out of 5 on Nerd Wallet, which noted a pro of the company being a “streamlined online process with document and asset retrieval capabilities, as well as the ability to edit your preapproval letter.”

On July 18, Morningstar Equity Analyst Michael Miller gave Rocket a US$13 Fair Value Estimate, noting, “In our view, Rocket Companies has established a clear competitive advantage in its core mortgage lending operations that should allow it to continue to increase its market share while still maintaining its strong margins and returns on invested capital.”

Then, in an August 4 report, James Faucette of Morgan Stanley rated Rocket as Attractive, saying, “As elevated mortgage rates and low housing inventories continued to weigh on industry-wide Purchase and Refi activity during the quarter, RKT sharpened its focus on expense efficiencies across the company.”

Technical Analyst Clive Maund told Streetwise Reports, “Rocket Companies’ business model accords with the times, which is why its stock is starting to advance out of a large base pattern. The consolidation pattern since early mid-July, which has brought the price back to its rising 50-day moving average, has allowed the earlier overbought condition to unwind, setting it up for renewed advance. It is believed to be forming a small base here just above its 50-day moving average from which it should soon advance, but even if the support at US$10.00 fails, it shouldn’t fall far before reversing back smartly to the upside.”

13 other analysts also cover the company.

Streetwise Ownership Overview*

Rocket Companies Inc. (RKT:NYSE)

	Institutions: 73.5%
	Retail: 21.06%
	Management & Insiders: 5.44%

73.5%

21.1%

5.4%

^*Share Structure as of 8/10/2023

Source: Thomson Reuters

Rocket: Ownership and Share Structure

According to Thomson Reuters, 73.50% of the company is held by institutional investors. Fidelity Management & Research Co. has 8.84%, with 11.22 million shares. The Vangaurd Group Inc. has 8.56%, with 10.88 million. Fidelity Investments Canada ULC has 5.77%, with 7.32 million. Caledonia (Private) Investments Pty Ltd. has 4.18%, with 5.30 million. Invesco Advisors Inc. has 3.93%, with 4.99 million, and BlackRock Institutional Trust Companies 3.88%, 4.93 million.

5.44% is with management and insiders. CEO Jay Farner has 4.20%, with 5.33 million shares. Director Matthew Rizik has 0.36%, with 0.45 million. President and COO Robert Walters has 0.26%, with 0.33 million, and CFO Julie Booth has 0.17%, with 0.22 million.

The rest is with retail investors.

Market Watch notes that Rocket has a market cap of US$22.88 billion and 127 million shares outstanding. It trades in the 52-week range between US$5.97 and US$11.68.

Loan Depot

On August 6, Loan Depot Inc. (LDI:NYSE) released financial results for Q223. Revenue was up by 31% from the first quarter of this year, which the company attributes to higher pull-through weighted lock volume and gain on sale margins for the company. Loan Depot noted it “continues to maintain a strong liquidity profile, exiting the quarter with a cash balance of US$719.1 million.”

In this release, CEO Frank Martell noted, ““As we move forward in the second half of 2023, we plan to continue maintaining a strong liquidity position and aggressively reduce our costs. Importantly, we are also investing in critical operating platforms, which we expect will deliver higher levels of automation and operating leverage and position us for additional growth and margin expansion in 2024.”

Analyst John Lafferty of PriceTarget Research gave Loan Depot an A rating (the highest given by the research company). Lafferty wrote that the stock was selling well beyond its value at US$2.21, gave the company a target price of US$7, and commented, “Reflecting future returns on capital that are forecasted to be in line with the cost of capital, LDI is expected to be Value Creation neutral. loanDepot has a current Value Trend Rating of A.”

According to Reuters, 21.93% of Loan Depot shares are held by management and insiders. CIO and Head Economist Jeff DerGuarahian has 7.73%, with 6.10 million shares. President Jeff Walsh has 5.30%, with 4.24 million, and Managing Director of Operations and Servicing Dan Binowitz has 1.01%, with 0.80 million.

29.63% is with institutional investors. Cannell Capital LLC has 5.73%, with 4.52 million shares. The Vangaurd Group Inc. has 5.47%, with 4.31 million. Parthenon Capital Partners has 5.11%, with 4.03 million. Brandywine Global Investment Management has 4.49%, with 3.54 million, and Knightsbridge Wealth Management has 3.33%, with 2.63 million.

The rest is in retail.

Market Watch notes that Loan Depot has a market cap of US$639.89 million and 78.89 shares outstanding. It trades in the 52-week range between US$1.2500 and US$3.0200.

New Kid on the Block: Beeline Loans

While public non-traditional lenders have been making waves, there is a private company rising in the industry, Beeline Loans Inc.

Beeline Loans, Inc. launched a proprietary front-end mortgage platform in June 2020 and closed approximately 2,000 loans by the end of 2021. For 2024, the company expects to close about 3,000 loans. Despite the timing of their launch, which included Covid-19, the highest percentage increase in rates in 25 years, war in Ukraine, and housing inventories and consumer confidence being near all-time lows, the company has gained market share against larger legacy lenders.

“While other mortgage lenders have been slumping, Beeline is gaining traction,” wrote Guy Bennett in an article for Yahoo Finance.

Beeline is also not stuck with just one type of loan offering. The company provides FHA and VA, while also providing popular Non-QM loans such as Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR), bank statements, bridge, and fix-n-flip loans.

Bennett noted that “Beeline’s mix of home investors is about 300% higher than the national average.” However, this is not the only thing that sets Beeline apart from other online mortgage companies.

Chris Connelly, a Managing Director at Ellington Financial Group (a shareholder in the company), said,” Because of their very diverse set of product offerings, younger home buyers have more options at Beeline vs. traditional mortgage lenders and a better chance to get financing for a new home.”

On April 13, 2013, Robinhood revolutionized the stock-buying industry by fractionalizing stocks. This allowed people who previously were excluded from the stock market into the industry and paved the way for younger generations to get involved. Beeline is now doing for mortgages what Robinhood did for the stock market.

Beeline stands out from the crowd because it has incorporated artificial intelligence into its services with its chatbot, Bob. This addresses the needs of a rapidly emerging demographic who demand a digital process and real-time certainty.

On June 1, the company rolled out improvements to the AI system so that it is able to answer complex queries and give detailed quotes at all hours.

“Bob never sleeps,” the company noted, “he’s busy answering surprisingly complicated questions about Beeline’s wide range of conventional and non-QM products with great speed and accuracy, even at 2 a.m. He then poses highly personalized product-specific questions to generate a quote in real-time.

Chris Connelly, a Managing Director at Ellington Financial Group (a shareholder in the company), said,” Because of their very diverse set of product offerings, younger home buyers have more options at Beeline vs. traditional mortgage lenders and a better chance to get financing for a new home.”

Beeline is a private company with over US$40 million currently invested. The largest shareholder is founder Nick Liuzza, who has over US$10 million invested in Beeline. Cavalry Investment Fund, Ellington, and Atalaya are all significant investors.

Important Disclosures:

Beeline has a consulting relationship with an affiliate of Streetwise Reports, and pays a monthly consulting fee between US$8,000 and US$20,000.
As of the date of this article, officers and/or employees of Streetwise Reports LLC (including members of their household) own securities of Beeline.
Amanda Duvall and Katherine DeGilio wrote this article for Streetwise Reports LLC and provides services to Streetwise Reports as an employee.
The article does not constitute investment advice. Each reader is encouraged to consult with his or her individual financial professional. By opening this page, each reader accepts and agrees to Streetwise Reports’ terms of use and full legal disclaimer. This article is not a solicitation for investment. Streetwise Reports does not render general or specific investment advice and the information on Streetwise Reports should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Streetwise Reports does not endorse or recommend the business, products, services or securities of any company mentioned on Streetwise Reports.

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