23/12/24 Weekly outlookLast weeks high: $108,403.98
Last weeks low: $92,261.97
Midpoint: $100,332.98
Last week we saw a swing fail pattern (SFP) of the week previous' high. Ever since then it's been a steady sell off throughout the week, mostly thanks to JPows FOMC statements despite a 25bps cut as forecast. BTC is now battling the 4H 200 EMA for the first time since the US election, a much needed pullback or the start of a further sell-off?
Going into the holidays we should expect a lower volume as whales take some time off, retail will remain as crypto is shilled to family members over Christmas dinner so the market will continue to be interesting. The 4H 200 EMA is a key battleground, I would have hoped to see a better reaction off the moving average initially but maybe this is bad timing due to the holidays and lower volume, or the reluctance to open new trades while markets are shut etc.
This week is obviously quiet in terms of data releases, there are various token unlocks ENA, IMX, FET and burns for some key altcoins such as ISP & BONK. I think the general consensus is that normal service will resume in January once everything opens back up.
So for this week it's probably better to set alerts for key areas you want to get involved in, planning for when volume returns to the markets and when Trump takes office too.
Merry Christmas to all and good luck!
FOMC
Decoding the BTC-ES Correlation During FOMC Meetings1. Introduction
The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meetings are pivotal events that significantly impact global financial markets. Traders across asset classes closely monitor these meetings for insights into the Federal Reserve’s stance on monetary policy, interest rates, and economic outlook.
In this article, we delve into the correlation between Bitcoin futures (BTC) and E-mini S&P 500 futures (ES) during FOMC meetings. Focusing on the window from one day prior to one day after each meeting, our findings reveal that BTC and ES exhibit a positive correlation 63% of the time. This relationship offers valuable insights for traders navigating these volatile periods.
2. The Significance of Correlations in Market Analysis
Correlation is a vital tool in market analysis, representing the relationship between two assets. A positive correlation indicates that two assets move in the same direction, while a negative correlation implies they move in opposite directions.
BTC and ES are particularly intriguing to study due to their distinct market segments—cryptocurrency and traditional equities. Observing how these two assets interact during FOMC meetings provides a window into macroeconomic forces that affect both markets.
The key finding: BTC and ES are positively correlated 63% of the time around FOMC meetings. This suggests that, despite their differences, both markets often react similarly to macroeconomic developments during these critical periods.
3. Methodology and Data Overview
To analyze the BTC-ES correlation, we focused on a specific timeframe: one day before to one day after each FOMC meeting. Daily closing prices for both assets were used to calculate correlations, providing a clear view of their relationship during these events.
The analysis includes data from multiple FOMC meetings spanning several years. The accompanying charts—such as the correlation heatmap, table of BTC-ES correlations, and line chart—help visualize these findings, highlighting the periods of positive and negative correlation.
Contract Specifications:
o E-mini S&P 500 Futures (ES):
Contract Size: $50 x S&P 500 Index.
Minimum Tick: 0.25 points, equivalent to $12.50.
Initial Margin Requirement: Approximately $15,500 (subject to change).
o Bitcoin Futures (BTC):
Contract Size: 5 Bitcoin.
Minimum Tick: $5 per Bitcoin, equivalent to $25 per tick.
Initial Margin Requirement: Approximately $112,000 (subject to change).
These specifications highlight the differences in notional value and margin requirements, underscoring the distinct characteristics of each contract.
4. Findings: BTC and ES Correlations During FOMC Meetings
The analysis reveals several noteworthy trends:
Positive Correlations (63% of the time): During these periods, BTC and ES tend to move in the same direction, reflecting shared sensitivity to macroeconomic themes such as interest rate adjustments or economic projections.
Negative Correlations: These occur sporadically, suggesting that, in certain scenarios, BTC and ES respond differently to FOMC announcements.
5. Interpretation: Why Do BTC and ES Correlate?
The observed correlation between Bitcoin futures (BTC) and E-mini S&P 500 futures (ES) around FOMC meetings can be attributed to several factors:
Macro Sensitivity: Both BTC and ES are heavily influenced by macroeconomic variables such as interest rate decisions, inflation expectations, and liquidity changes. The FOMC meetings, being central to these narratives, often create synchronized market reactions.
Institutional Adoption: The increasing participation of institutional investors in Bitcoin trading aligns its performance more closely with traditional risk assets like equities. This is evident during FOMC events, where institutional sentiment towards risk assets tends to align.
Market Liquidity: FOMC meetings often drive liquidity shifts across asset classes. This can lead to aligned movement in BTC and ES as traders adjust their portfolios in response to policy announcements.
This correlation provides traders with actionable insights into how these assets might react during future FOMC windows.
6. Forward-Looking Implications
Understanding the historical correlation between BTC and ES during FOMC meetings offers a strategic edge for traders:
Hedging Opportunities: Traders can use the BTC-ES relationship to construct hedging strategies, such as using one asset to offset potential adverse moves in the other.
Volatility Exploitation: Positive correlation periods may signal opportunities for trend-following strategies, while negative correlation phases could favor pairs trading strategies.
Risk-On/Risk-Off Cues: The alignment or divergence of BTC and ES can act as a barometer for market-wide sentiment, aiding decision-making in other correlated assets.
Future FOMC events could present similar dynamics, and traders can leverage this data to refine their approach.
7. Risk Management Considerations
While correlations provide valuable insights, they are not guaranteed to persist. Effective risk management is crucial, particularly during volatile periods like FOMC meetings:
Stop-Loss Orders: Ensure every trade is equipped with a stop-loss to cap potential losses.
Position Sizing: Adjust position sizes based on volatility and margin requirements for BTC and ES.
Diversification: Avoid over-concentration in highly correlated assets to reduce portfolio risk.
Monitoring Correlations: Regularly assess whether the BTC-ES correlation holds true during future events, as changing market conditions could alter these relationships.
A disciplined approach to risk management enhances the probability of navigating FOMC volatility successfully.
8. Conclusion
The correlation between Bitcoin futures (BTC) and E-mini S&P 500 futures (ES) around FOMC meetings highlights the interconnected nature of modern financial markets. With 63% of these events showing positive correlation, traders can glean actionable insights into how these assets react to macroeconomic shifts.
While the relationship between BTC and ES may fluctuate, understanding its drivers and implications equips traders with tools to navigate market volatility effectively. By combining historical analysis with proactive risk management, traders can make informed decisions during future FOMC windows.
When charting futures, the data provided could be delayed. Traders working with the ticker symbols discussed in this idea may prefer to use CME Group real-time data plan on TradingView: www.tradingview.com - This consideration is particularly important for shorter-term traders, whereas it may be less critical for those focused on longer-term trading strategies.
General Disclaimer:
The trade ideas presented herein are solely for illustrative purposes forming a part of a case study intended to demonstrate key principles in risk management within the context of the specific market scenarios discussed. These ideas are not to be interpreted as investment recommendations or financial advice. They do not endorse or promote any specific trading strategies, financial products, or services. The information provided is based on data believed to be reliable; however, its accuracy or completeness cannot be guaranteed. Trading in financial markets involves risks, including the potential loss of principal. Each individual should conduct their own research and consult with professional financial advisors before making any investment decisions. The author or publisher of this content bears no responsibility for any actions taken based on the information provided or for any resultant financial or other losses.
THIS IS A FAKE OUT IMO! BUY THE DIPNASDAQ:QQQ AMEX:SPY AMEX:IWM
THIS IS A FAKE OUT! BUY THE DIP 👇
-Strong Economic Fundamentals
-Hawkish FED spreading FUD
-Same Government shutdown scares every year
-2T+ in options (mostly call) expiring today
-Gains being pressured to be sold for 24 taxes
-Scare meme coin & gambler bro's out the markets
-Incoming party is for business & the stock market
-VIX spiked faster than Japanese trade crisis
-Inflation still coming down
-AI is still strong and a catalyst
-Company earnings are still hefty
-Global markets are curling up not down
All of these reasons explain my point of this being a FAKE OUT. I will be buying this DIP because I see nothing CONCRETE! All I see is that the market maker and FED Chair Powell teamed up to be the GRINCH & SCROOGE this Holiday season. Not financial advice.
XAUUSD continue its downtrend.After the FOMC statement, gold continued its bearish trend strongly. Now, on the 4-hour chart, we can see a clear retest of the previously broken zone, forming an engulfing candlestick pattern. Therefore, we can expect a retest of the zone on the 15-minute chart to look for a short and continue the trend, potentially reaching around 2540.
Remember to trade responsibly with good risk management.
Let's make some profits, good luck.
THE KOG REPORT - FOMC THE KOG REPORT – FOMC
This is our view for FOMC, please do your own research and analysis to make an informed decision on the markets. It is not recommended you try to trade the event if you have less than 6 months trading experience and have a trusted risk strategy in place. The markets are extremely volatile, and these events can cause aggressive swings in price.
For this FOMC we have the following key levels which need to be monitored and can be used for potential spikes. 2630-25 support, which is too close to target from here could give us that push upside into the higher levels of 2650-55 and above that 2660-65. It’s that higher region we will want to be watching closely for a potential RIP and opportunity to then short back down as shown on the chart. Immediate levels are no good to us here if there is exaggerated volume in the markets on the release, or the press conference 30mins after.
On the flip, if we continue the move downside breaking through the 2630 level we will be looking lower, 2610 as the point of interest but the extension of the move into the 2590-95 region is where we will want to be to waiting for the RIP and potential opportunities to then long back up.
Simple one this time, if we don’t get the levels, we want we’ll stay out of it and come back tomorrow to look for a decent set up.
Our bias target at 2667 still remains so please play caution.
RED BOXES:
Break above 2640 for 2650, 2660 and above that 2668
Break below 2625 for 2610, 2596
Please do support us by hitting the like button, leaving a comment, and giving us a follow. We’ve been doing this for a long time now providing traders with in-depth free analysis on Gold, so your likes and comments are very much appreciated.
As always, trade safe.
KOG
Nasdaq 100 Index Plummets After Fed DecisionNasdaq 100 Index Plummets After Fed Decision
On 17th December, analysing the Nasdaq 100 chart (US Tech 100 mini on FXOpen), we:
→ Drew a blue upward channel relevant for 2024;
→ Noted that the price was near the upper boundary of the channel, while the RSI indicator had entered the overbought zone;
→ Suggested that bulls might face difficulties in pushing the price to a new all-time high.
Yesterday, the Fed cut the interest rate by 0.25%. Although it was anticipated, the market reaction was sharply negative. The Nasdaq 100 (US Tech 100 mini on FXOpen) dropped by approximately 4%.
The steep market reaction was driven by Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s comments during the press conference, where he stated that the FOMC plans to cut rates only twice in 2025, contrary to market expectations of four cuts.
Technical analysis of the Nasdaq 100 (US Tech 100 mini on FXOpen) chart shows that:
→ The price remains in the upper half of the channel, supported by the 21,230 level, which previously acted as resistance (as indicated by arrows).
→ We can assume that the area around the median of the blue channel (marked by orange lines) could act as a barrier to further downward momentum, as medians often serve as equilibrium zones where supply and demand balance out.
What’s next? According to analysts at Zacks, record highs for the tech stock index may not be a topic of discussion in the near future.
There is a possibility that a local descending channel could form, potentially driving the price into the lower half of the broader upward channel.
This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.
BTC DECEMBER FOMC Going into FOMC the consensus is we'll see a 25bps cut from the FED (95% chance), this would take interest rates from 4.75% to 4.5%. Because the expectation of a cut is so certain, we can assume that the markets have priced this in so baring any craziness in the form of a different result we should see market sentiment remain the same, bullish.
A FED pause,(although unlikely according to data) would be very bearish in the the short term in terms of volatility. I would expect to see price revisit the $98-99K mark where the 4H 200EMA would roughly be. In a bullmarket the 4H 200EMA can be used as a great support level often bouncing off of it.
For a 25bps cut which is the expected outcome, we have two paths IMO. The bullish path is consolidation under the ATH then a break above, retest and off we go towards $110,000. The bearish path is a loss of this key S/R level after a consolidation above support and break under with a confirmed retest of new resistance. I know it's typical "could go up, could go down", however it's the context that matters here.
Alts have taken a back seat for the last week or so, BTC.D at a key level and a rejection off this level would mean alts can play catch-up while as BTC consolidates. We very rarely see BTC drop and altcoins pump so this is the most likely outcome to me baring no upsets in FOMC.
EURUSD UNTIL FOMC:4H Analysis OANDA:EURUSD
EURUSD is in consolidation phase & has been moving in the range highlighted in the chart. Now, until FOMC we can only trade on highs and lows of the ongoing chart pattern
BUY LEVEL RECOMMENDATION: 1.04330 & 1.04272
SELL LEVEL RECOMMENDATION: 1.06101
For SL, we should use very small and according to our risk: reward plan.
If you guys find my idea helpful or insightful in possible way, then don't forget boost to and comment on the idea. I'll be very interested to see your take on the market.
10-year Treasury Yield Surging ahead last FOMC in 2024After a politically charged November, bond markets have shifted their gaze back to economic fundamentals, setting the stage for a crucial Federal Reserve meeting on December 17. Recent data—including a robust jobs report and rising inflation—have reignited debates over long-term yields and the Fed’s future rate trajectory.
With the Fed’s dot plot and 2025 outlook in focus, the bond yield rallies ahead of the meeting reflects heightened anticipation of pivotal policy signals. This piece unpacks the dynamics driving Treasury yields and explores a potential trade setup deploying CME Yield futures to navigate the unfolding market environment.
MARKETS ARE FOCUSSING ON ECONOMIC DATA AGAIN
In November, U.S. Treasury yields were more influenced by political factors than by economic data. The 10-year Treasury yield remained largely unchanged after the 13/Nov CPI report, which showed headline CPI rising to 2.6% year-over-year in October, up from 2.4% in September. While the higher inflation suggested potential risks to bond yields—given that prolonged inflation could lead the Federal Reserve to slow its pace of rate cuts—Treasury yields were mostly unaffected by the data.
Instead, yields declined sharply when markets opened on November 25, following President Trump’s announcement of Scott Bessent as his pick for U.S. Treasury Secretary. Bessent, a fund manager, is anticipated to prioritize tax cuts and fiscal caution. The announcement drove the 10-year Treasury yield nearly 30 basis points lower over the next week, reaching its lowest level in over a month.
In the past two weeks, however, market focus appears to have shifted back to economic data. The non-farm payrolls report for November, released on December 6, exceeded expectations with 227,000 jobs added. Additionally, October’s dismal figure of 12,000 jobs was revised upward to 36,000, providing further support to the positive sentiment.
The improved jobs report soothed investor concerns, signalling that the state of the US economy may not be as bad as previously perceived. The jobs report eventually drove a 5-basis point recovery over the following week.
The latest CPI report for November also reaffirmed the trend that investors were focussing attention on economic data as 10Y yields surged after the report, rising nearly 19 basis points from the 09/Dec low.
10Y-2Y spreads have also surged by 8 basis points since 09/Dec. Investors can monitor the yield spreads using CME’s Treasury watch tool .
Source: CME TreasuryWatch
The tool can also be used to monitor the yield curve. Over the past month, the decline in Treasury yields has been concentrated in shorter-term tenors (2Y, 3Y, and 5Y), while the 30Y yield has remained largely unchanged. In contrast, the increase in yields over the past week has been more uniform across all tenors.
Source: CME TreasuryWatch
The November report showed inflation rising even further to 2.7%, although in-line with expectations, it suggests that inflation may be more persistent than previously perceived. This has led to expectations of a higher inflation premium for long-term treasuries which may have contributed to the rally in 10Y treasury yields.
FED DOT PLOT REMAINS THE HIGHLIGHT NEXT WEEK
Markets are almost certain of a 25-basis-point rate cut at the FOMC meeting on 17/Dec, with FedWatch indicating a 97% probability of this outcome as of 16/Dec. However, the primary focus will likely be on the Fed's guidance for the rate trajectory in the coming year. Alongside the rate decision, the Fed is expected to release its dot plot and summary of economic projections at the December meeting.
The December meeting is crucial as participants closely monitor the outlook for 2025. At last year’s December meeting, the Fed projected significant rate cuts in 2024, which triggered a substantial equity rally and a decline in bond yields.
Source: CME FedWatch
Per CME FedWatch, market participants expect an additional 50 basis points of rate cuts in 2025. However, the Fed's September dot plot indicated expectations for 100 basis points of cuts in 2025. If the December dot plot reaffirms the projection of 100 basis points, bond yields could decline sharply.
Source: Federal Reserve
BOND YIELDS HAVE RALLIED HEADING INTO THE MEETING IN THE PAST
The 10-year Treasury yields have rallied ahead of three of the last four FOMC meetings, with the increases notably concentrated in the three days leading up to the meetings. Given the recent trajectory of 10-year yields, a similar pattern may be likely this time.
The 10Y-2Y spread has shown a similar trend, increasing ahead of the last three FOMC meetings. However, following the November meeting, the 10Y-2Y spread declined. This suggests it may be prudent to position ahead of the meeting to mitigate potential post-meeting volatility.
Hypothetical Trade Setup
Market participants are nearly certain of a rate cut at the upcoming FOMC meeting, but the summary of economic projections is likely to carry greater significance. Currently, market expectations for rate cuts in 2025 are more conservative than the Fed's previous dot plot. If the Fed reaffirms expectations for more aggressive rate cuts next year, bond yields could sharply reverse their two-week rally.
While the 10-year yield outlook remains uncertain and subject to risk, the 10Y-2Y spread has a more optimistic trajectory. The spread stands to benefit from expectations of further rate cuts and its ongoing normalization trend. Additionally, historical trends suggest that positioning before the FOMC meeting may be advantageous, as the spread corrected after the last meeting.
Investors can express a view on the steepening of the 10Y-2Y yield spread using CME yield futures.
CME Yield Futures are quoted directly in yield with a 1 basis point (“bps”) change representing USD 10 in one lot of Yield Future contract. This simplifies spread calculations with a 1 bps change in spread representing profit & loss of USD 10. The individual margin requirements for 2Y and 10Y Yield futures are USD 330 and USD 320, respectively, at the time of writing. However, with CME’s 50% margin offset for the spread, the required margin drops to USD 325 as of 16/Dec, making this trade even more compelling.
The below hypothetical trade setup provides a reward to risk ratio of 1.94x:
Entry: 13.5 basis points
Target: 30 basis points
Stop Loss: 5 basis points
Profit at Target: USD 165 (16.5 basis points x USD 10)
Loss at Stop: USD 85 (8.5 basis points x USD 10)
Reward to Risk: 1.94x
MARKET DATA
CME Real-time Market Data helps identify trading set-ups and express market views better. If you have futures in your trading portfolio, you can check out on CME Group data plans available that suit your trading needs tradingview.com/cme .
DISCLAIMER
This case study is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment recommendations or advice. Nor are they used to promote any specific products, or services.
Trading or investment ideas cited here are for illustration only, as an integral part of a case study to demonstrate the fundamental concepts in risk management or trading under the market scenarios being discussed. Please read the FULL DISCLAIMER the link to which is provided in our profile description.
Nightly $SPX / $SPY Predictions for 12.16.2024🔮
📅Mon Dec 16
⏰9:45am
Flash Manufacturing PMI
📅Tue Dec 17
⏰8:30am
Retail Sales m/m
📅Wed Dec 18
⏰2:00pm
FOMC Statement
📅Thu Dec 19
⏰8:30am
Final GDP q/q
Unemployment Claims
📅Fri Dec 20
⏰8:30am
Core PCE Price Index m/m
#trading #stock #stockmarket #today #daytrading #swingtrading #charting #investing
$RESPPANWW Fed Balance Sheet at 2020 Level Before QEVery interesting chart to watch here FRED:RESPPANWW
Clearly shows we're still in QT, but obviously markets have been pumping.
The Fed balance sheet is sitting at $6.9T which is the level in 2020 when the Fed continued its 2nd round of QE.
I doubt they would announce they are buying assets again at the next FOMC on 12/17, but quite possibly at the January or March 2025 meeting after Trump takes office.
BITCOIN 120K end of yearBitcoin is currently progressing through minuette wave 3, with the remaining wave 5 subwaves expected to complete soon. The projected target is $120k, aligning closely with the anticipated 25bps rate cut from the upcoming FOMC meeting.
If realized, this could fuel a strong bullish momentum, potentially driving Bitcoin higher through the holiday season and into Christmas!
Gold Awaiting the FOMCGold prices are experiencing a recovery after hitting a six-day low at $2,605, consolidating around $2,625. Market attention is focused on the November Fed meeting minutes, which could provide decisive signals regarding a possible rate cut in December, currently estimated at a 61% probability according to the CME FedWatch Tool. If the intraday support at $2,605 fails, prices could target $2,550. Conversely, a daily close above $2,670 would be necessary to reignite bullish momentum, with targets at $2,700 and $2,750. The fundamental context remains complex: Donald Trump's statements on new tariffs have reignited demand for safe-haven assets, including gold and the US dollar, while rebounding bond yields cap enthusiasm for the precious metal. Decreasing geopolitical tensions between Israel and Lebanon represent an additional headwind for gold, as they reduce the need for global risk hedging. Additionally, Trump's appointment of Scott Bessent as Treasury Secretary has reassured bond markets, strengthening the dollar and limiting gold's gains. Overall, gold prices are balanced between contrasting fundamental and technical forces, as traders await the Fed minutes for clearer direction.
XAUUSD - The rise of gold is over!?Gold is above EMA200 and EMA50 in the 4H timeframe. In case of a corrective movement with low momentum, we can witness the continued rise and see supply zones and sell within that range with a suitable risk reward.
After enduring two weeks of sharp declines following Donald Trump's election victory, the gold market bounced back with a strong bounce last week. The price of this precious metal grew in all trading sessions of the week and by Friday afternoon, with an increase of nearly 150 dollars, it once again attracted the attention of investors.
Commerzbank commodity analyst Carsten Fritsch notes that the Swiss Federal Customs Service released data on gold exports in October this week. "These data showed very different trends. Deliveries to China were significantly weaker at just 5 tonnes. Almost no gold was exported to Hong Kong. On the other hand, exports to India have increased. However, the export level in October was still relatively low at 11.7 tons. A little more gold than the previous month has been delivered to America.
However, inflows of 30 tonnes into US-listed gold ETFs, reported by the World Gold Council (WGC), in October were higher than the 9.4 tonnes reported. The sharp increase in Swiss gold exports to the UK to 31.9 tonnes is surprising, although gold ETFs listed there recorded outflows in October, according to the World Gold Council.
Darin Newsom, chief market analyst at Barchart.com, stated in his analysis of the future trend of gold:
"The path of movement of gold is still upward. But due to the speed and intensity of the recent upward trend, there is a possibility of a sudden correction in the market. This risk increases due to the Thanksgiving holiday in the United States and the end of the month."
He also emphasized:
"Despite this, geopolitical factors continue to play a decisive role in the market. The current chaos has overwhelmed technical analysis and Russian President Putin has not backed down from his nuclear threats. These conditions will most likely lead investors to buy gold until the end of 2024."
Next week, the US economic calendar will be shorter than usual due to the Thanksgiving holiday, but several key reports will continue to be in the focus of traders. On Tuesday, the Conference Board's consumer confidence index for November and new home sales for October will be released in early market hours. Next, the minutes of the last meeting of the Federal Reserve Open Market Committee (FOMC) are published.
On Wednesday, key data releases will be limited to the early hours of the day due to the Thanksgiving holiday. The market will watch the release of the Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) core inflation index for October, which is one of the key indicators considered by the Federal Reserve to assess inflation. At the same time, the statistics of durable goods orders and the weekly report of unemployment claimants will also be published. Then, pending home sales figures for October will be released, which will provide a clear picture of housing market trends.
TIA/USDT 4H Celestia is a project that has a lot of potential this Bullrun, we saw an early surge in the beginning of the year once the project was released nearly one year ago. A modular blockchain network, first of its kind is an exciting new technology and we've seen how well new projects do during their first Bullrun often outperforming their older rivals.
I would like to see the bullish pennant formation playing out now. The bearish downtrend breakout caused by a republican victory results in a breakout & retest of the BULLISH OB as new support. Now a bullish pennant has formed midway up the mini range, normally this is a continuation pattern and with the bullish narrative in play I think it's probable we see this pattern play out fully with the resulting rally hitting resistance around the $6 mark (BEARISH OB).
IF deciding to take the trade once the parameters are met a conservative 2.25R trade is in play , once the first TP is hit the larger SL can be moved to Break Even . I do believe that TIA continues to move beyond the $6 mark however there is a lot of resistance there for now. A separate trade outlook will be needed to tackle that area.
XAU/USD : Bullish Movement Ahead ? (READ THE CAPTION)Analyzing the #Gold chart on the 4-hour timeframe, we see that yesterday’s bearish trend played out as expected, hitting all downside targets at $2717, $2700, and $2686, even extending further to $2643. This aggressive decline resulted in over 1000 pips of movement within a single day.
Currently trading around $2670, gold faces a significant liquidity gap, and with the interest rate decision due tonight, I expect the price to recover and potentially fill this gap. Expect heavy market volatility—trade cautiously!
Please support me with your likes and comments to motivate me to share more analysis with you and share your opinion about the possible trend of this chart with me !
Best Regards , Arman Shaban
GBP/USD tests key 1.30 handle ahead of FOMCThe pound rallied following the Bank of England’s decision to cut interest rates earlier. Governor Bailey refrained from defining what “gradual” would mean for the pace of future cuts. The GBP/USD rally was aided by a sharp drop in the US dollar. The focus is now turning to the FOMC rate decision, which means the greenback could change course again.
The Bank of England lowered rates by 25 basis points to 4.75%, aligning with market expectations. The Monetary Policy Committee voted 8-1 in favor of the cut, as anticipated. However, the BoE maintains it can’t lower rates “too quickly or by too much,” opting instead for a more measured approach. The central bank sees a gradual easing as appropriate, keeping to its September guidance on rates.
The recent budget is expected to lift inflation slightly, adding around 0.5% to CPI at its peak according to the BoE —just above the forecast from the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR). Like the OBR, the BoE isn’t expecting significant economic growth from this budget. As it stands, the Bank intends to continue cutting rates gradually over the coming months. This should keep the GBP under pressure.
Will the GBP/USD now hold below the key 1.30 handle or break above it? What it does here will determine the near-term direction. All eyes are on the Fed Chair Powell.
The Fed could shed light on the central bank’s next steps. Markets are fully expecting a 25-basis-point reduction. Chair Powell may steer clear of any commitment to a rapid easing cycle, especially if he believes Trump’s policies could drive inflation. Any indication of hawkishness could boost bond yields further, which could give the dollar another boost. Even though rate expectations have shifted, significant changes in market trends are unlikely in the immediate term. However, over the coming quarters, rising US yields could strengthen the dollar, adding pressure on other economies while supporting the US market’s broader trend.
By Fawad Razaqzada, market analyst with FOREX.com