"the top is in", "for the rates"gm,
markets tend to be forward looking, and based off my understanding + the chart data, it appears the top is in for the rates.
i predict the market will begin to price in future rate cuts and start bringing the us10y down.
this will open the door to a "risk on" enviroment for big tech, as well as risk assets like crypto .
---
the count on the us10y is relatively simple.
5 waves up from the 2020 lows.
predicting 3 waves down into the year ahead.
the low on the us10y should coincide with a high in the global liquidity index,,, which is set to peak into the end first month of 2026.
🌙
---
ps. check out the last us10y update from 2 years ago via:
Interestrates
$EUNITR - Europe Interest Rates $EUNITR
(January/2025)
source: European Central Bank
- The European Central Bank lowered its key interest rates by 25 bps in January 2025, as expected, reducing the deposit facility rate to 2.75%, the main refinancing rate to 2.90%, and the marginal lending rate to 3.15%.
This move reflects the ECB’s updated inflation outlook, with price pressures easing in line with projections.
While domestic inflation remains elevated due to delayed wage and price adjustments, wage growth is moderating, and corporate profits are absorbing some inflationary effects.
Despite persistent tight financing conditions, the rate cut is expected to gradually ease borrowing costs for firms and households.
The ECB remains data-driven and has not committed to a predetermined rate path, emphasizing a cautious approach to ensuring inflation stabilizes at its 2% target.
$USINTR -U.S Interest Rates ECONOMICS:USINTR
(January 2025)
source: Federal Reserve
-The Fed kept the funds rate steady at the 4.25%-4.5% range as expected, pausing its rate-cutting cycle after three consecutive reductions in 2024.
The Fed showed more optimism about the labor market and noted that inflation remains somewhat elevated, removing the reference to ongoing progress toward the 2% target.
The Fed also said the economic outlook is uncertain, and is attentive to the risks to both sides of its dual mandate.
Silver/Gold Ratio signals Lower Interest Rates AheadWhen OANDA:XAGUSD (Silver) does well relative to OANDA:XAUUSD (Gold), it means the economy is strong and interest rates tend to rise when that happens. The opposite is also true. When Silver is weak relative to Gold, interest rates tend to fall.
See how it works historically? The 1997 drop in rates when the silver/gold ratio shot up is the rare exception
Why does it work? Silver is an economic metal used in industry and gold is a precious metal which used to be used for technology in the 1970's.
Well - it shows now that rates should be going down because the economy is flat, weak or recessionary. However you want to label it, the economy can afford lower interest rates.
This LONG TERM indicator has worked quite well and deserves to be on your list of indicators to track the likely path of interest rates. OF COURSE, the more important factor is WHO is at the head of the Fed.
Lower rates would make sense especially if the profligate Government spending machine slows down its aggressive spending. The global war on covid didn't help and the clear message that the market is telling us is that we needed to slow down the price hikes but we now have a US Gov't deeply in debt and struggling to be able to justify lower rates.
Here's to clarity on the future moves by the Fed, which if you were just looking at this indicator you would be cutting rates steadily for the foreseeable future.
Cheers,
Tim
11:47AM EST January 28, 2025
$JPINTR -Japan's Interest Rate (December/2024)ECONOMICS:JPINTR 3.6%
(December/2024)
source: Ministry of Internal Affairs & Communications
- The annual inflation rate in Japan jumped to 3.6% in December 2024 from 2.9% in the prior month, marking the highest reading since January 2023.
Food prices rose at the steepest pace in a year (6.4% vs 4.8% in November), with fresh vegetables and fresh food contributing the most to the upturn.
Further, electricity prices (18.7% vs 9.9%) and gas cost (5.6% vs 3.5%) increased at the fastest rate in four months with the absence of energy subsidies since May.
Additional upward pressure also came from housing (0.8% vs 0.9%), clothing (2.9% vs 2.6%), transport (1.1% vs 0.9%), furniture and household utensils (3.0% vs 3.7%), healthcare (1.7% vs 1.6%), recreation (4.0% vs 4.5%), and miscellaneous items (1.1% vs 1.1%).
In contrast, prices continued to fall for communication (-2.1% vs -3.0%) and education (-1.0% vs -1.0%).
The core inflation rate rose to a 16-month high of 3.0%, up from 2.7% in November and matching consensus. Monthly, the CPI increased by 0.6%, the highest figure in 14 months.
The Top 3 Catalyst Of Forex TradingSpotting a breakout is a good strategy because its something that
I have always wanted to learn how to do
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-
Now you need to be careful when you are trading forex options
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and remember to take profit as well
Now in about 2 weeks time the biggest catalyst in the forex
market is going to take place.
Think of these before you
trade CAPITALCOM:EURCAD
In this forex pair there are 3 catalysts to consider:
-The Bank of Canada's interest rate decision
-The unemployment numbers
-The GDP numbers
It's important to take note of the catalyst
as you build your own trading strategy
either way, you can learn from the one
am using its called the rocket booster
strategy to learn more about it
Rocket boost this content right now
Disclaimer: Trading is risky please learn risk
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USDJPY - BoJ Interest Rate Decision?!Here is our in-depth view and update on USDJPY . Potential opportunities and what to look out for. This is a long-term overview on the pair sharing possible entries and important Key Levels.
Alright first, let’s take a step back and take a look at USDJPY from a bigger perspective. For this we will be looking at the H4 time-frame .
USDJPY is currently trading at around 155.800 . Our scenarios are in play after the BoJ (Bank of Japan) Interest Rate Decision is out. Let’s take another look at them with more in-depth outcomes. These scenarios are written from just a TA (Technical Analysis) point of view.
Scenario 1: BUYS
-We broke above 156.700 .
With the break of 156.700 we can expect a possible move up to 158.748. With a a further break of this KL (Key Level) we can expect more upside on the pair potentially reaching top of the long-term range sitting at 161.820.
Scenario 2: SELLS
-We broke below 154.881 .
If we break bellow 154.881 we can expect more downside on the pair even up to 152.000. With breaks of this level we could see even lower levels sitting at around 149.394 or “bottom of the long-term range”.
IMPORTANT KEY LEVELS:
- 161.820; top of the long-term range
- 158.748; breaks above would result in more upside
- 154.881; breaks below would result in sells
- 152.817; breaks below confirming lower levels
- 152.030; breaks below confirming lower levels
- 149.394; bottom of the long-term range
Personal opinion:
It’s not advised to enter into sells or buys before we have a clear break or the BoJ Interest Rate Decision data out. For now we are patiently waiting on either breaks to the upside or breaks to the downside. More volatility on the pair is expected tomorrow so be careful.
KEY NOTES
- USDJPY breaking above 156.700 would confirm buys.
- USDJPY breaking below 154.881 would confirm sells.
- BoJ Interest Rate Decision is tomorrow.
Happy trading!
FxPocket
Are We Forming A Top On The US10YR?It looks like we may be forming a top on the US10YR. I assume there will be some volatility in the first few months with the new Trump administration. Trump went on record saying that rates are currently too high. His last term in 2017, it took rates about 5-6 months to come down. Will this time be faster?
Where is the Stock Market Heading? Forecast & Analysis thread!Where is the Stock Market Heading? 📈📉
Stock Market Forecast & Analysis🧵
In this thread, we’re breaking it down for you:
-TA on TVC:VIX NASDAQ:QQQ AMEX:SPY AMEX:IWM TVC:VIX
-Economic Data
-Insights & Predictions
Let's dive in friends!
Not financial advice
NASDAQ:QQQ
Monthly Chart analysis:
-H5 Indicator is GREEN
-We are above 9ema and smoothing avg.
Most importantly we are still within our Williams Consolidation Box which is my personal strategy I use with the Wr%. As long as we stay within the confines of this Box we will continue to climb higher on the Q's outside of pullbacks.
Weekly Chart Analysis:
-H5 Indicator is GREEN
-Held volume shelf
-Wicked back above 9ema (BULLISH)
-Ascending triangle patterns Measured Move has not been realized yet. $580
-Created a Hammer Candle which is a reversal candle found at the bottom of downtrends, pullback, or corrections.
Had a Normal 6% Pullback and bounced hard around the S/R Zone. Everything I'm seeing is BULLISH going into CES2025 week and I believe we continue back to ATH's!
TVC:VIX
First up we have the Volatility AMEX:SPY Index which spiked up due to the FED dropping a FUD Nuke on the markets heading and causing the largest one day volatility spike in 2024.
But, as you see below we have fallen in line since that day. We have created a bearish flag pattern and broken down through the base and should continue to flush lower.
Keep in mind 60-70% of breakouts (either direction) come back to retest the point of the breakout area. Could see this happen with FOMC minutes being released this Wednesday.
AMEX:SPY
Monthly Chart analysis:
-H5 Indicator is GREEN
-We are above 9ema and smoothing avg.
-Wicked off previous resistance flipped into support
Most importantly we are still within our Williams Consolidation Box and thriving! $650 2025 PT!
Weekly Chart Analysis:
-H5 Indicator is GREEN
-Wicked back above smoothing line
-Created a Hammer Candle right above 9ema
Had a Normal 4.35% Pullback and bounced hard around the S/R Zone. Everything I'm seeing is BULLISH going into CES2025 week and I believe we continue back to ATH's on the SPY!
AMEX:IWM
As I've stated in other posts the CAPITALCOM:RTY typically runs and plays catchup to the SPY and QQQ towards the end of bull runs and before the big corrections or crash comes.
Weekly Chart Analysis:
-At the bottom of an uptrend channel
-Sitting on a massive volume shelf
-At a massive S/R area
-At the retest point for the Multi-Year CupnHandle breakout! With a Measured Move up to $306. Thats the same measurement of the CAPITALCOM:RTY catching back up to the $SPY.
ECONOMICS:USCIR - Core Inflation Rate YoY
Inflation is dead and falling like a rock! I don't hold any weight into what the FED was saying about inflation when he was the Grinch and spreading FUD.
The FED is always to slow to do what is needed to be done and right now that is to continue to cut before things in the economy start to break due to higher rates. They raised rates to SLOW and they are choosing to cut rates to SLOW!
What I'm seeing is we will continue to fall with small pockets of bounce backs in inflation on the overall down trend to sub 3 then sub 2 as you can see on the chart with the yellow levels.
Overall Economic numbers are very positive and have been beating what the experts have been forecasting in December.
We have some more data coming out this week and we will see if that trend continues.
Like I said in a separate post, the FED has been talking about a boogeyman and spreading FUD but the DATA and NUMBERS show the BOOGEYMAN isn't REAL!
Thanks for reading friend! If you enjoyed this analysis and forecast of the markets please like/ follow/ share if you feel I deserved it!
ALL SOCIALS/ LINKS IN SIGNATURE BELOW AND PROFILE.
2025 Outlook : DXYThe U.S. Dollar Index (DXY), which measures the dollar's value against a basket of major currencies, has shown notable strength in the last quarter of 2024. This trend is influenced by several key factors:
1) Federal Reserve Policy and Inflation Concerns
The Federal Reserve's renewed cautious approach to interest rate cuts has been pivotal in supporting the dollar's value.
Concerns about inflation, potentially exacerbated by anticipated fiscal policies under President Donald Trump's administration, further contribute to this cautious monetary approach.
The Fed's reluctance to reduce rates aggressively may continue to bolster the DXY.
2) Economic Performance and Trade Policies
The U.S. economy's robust performance, coupled with expectations of new tariffs and tax reforms under the Trump administration, is anticipated to sustain the dollar's strength.
However, these policies may lead to increased inflationary pressures, influencing the Fed's monetary decisions and, consequently, the DXY's trajectory.
3) Global Economic Comparisons
Comparatively weaker economic growth in regions like Europe and Japan, where central banks maintain dovish policies, enhances the dollar's appeal.
This divergence in economic performance and monetary policy stances contributes to the DXY's bullish outlook.
Projections for the DXY in 2025 may vary.
A rise to around the 115 level (2022 high), driven by the factors mentioned above, seems very likely.
Additionally, based on the Fibonacci Extension, the DXY could possibly reach a high of 124.50 in the long-term.
However, fluctuations are anticipated at those historic high levels, with some significant declines.
While the current outlook for the DXY appears bullish, it's essential to consider potential risks, including:
- Trade Policies: The implementation of new tariffs could introduce uncertainties affecting the dollar's value.
- Global Economic Conditions: Improvements in other economies or shifts in their monetary policies could influence the DXY's trajectory.
- Domestic Economic Indicators: Factors such as the U.S. budget deficit and overall economic health will play significant roles in shaping the dollar's strength.
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.
100 Years of 100% ProbabilityThis Chart shows the normalized Bollinger Band Width for the US Ten Year Treasury Bond Yield.
Basis = 10 Year SMA
Upper and Lower Bollinger Bands = 3.0 Standard Deviations from Basis
Normalized BB Width = (Upper - Lower) / Basis
For the last century, 100% of the time that US Ten Year Yields extended 3 Standard Deviations above their 10 Year SMA while their normalized Bollinger Band width reached this 100 year long trend, rates experienced a sharp and meaningful correction.
*** During World War II, width reached the trend line but rates remained at the 10 year average and did not extend 3 Standard Deviations above it.
$USGDPQQ -U.S GDP (Q3/2024)ECONOMICS:USGDPQQ
(Q3/2024)
source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis
- The US economy expanded an annualized 3.1% in Q3, higher than 2.8% in the 2nd estimate and above 3% in Q2.
The update primarily reflected upward revisions to exports and consumer spending that were partly offset by a downward revision to private inventory investment.
Imports, which are a subtraction in the calculation of GDP, were revised up.
$JPINTR - Japan's Interest RateECONOMICS:JPINTR
(Devember/2024)
source: Bank of Japan
-The Bank of Japan (BoJ) maintained its key short-term interest rate at around 0.25% during its final meeting of the year, keeping it at the highest level since 2008 and meeting market consensus.
The vote was split 8-1, with board member Naoki Tamura advocating for a 25bps increase.
Thursday's decision came despite the US implementing its third rate cut this year, as the BoJ needed more time to assess certain risks, particularly US economic policies under Donald Trump and next year's wage outlook.
The board adhered to its assessment that Japan's economy is on track for a moderate recovery, despite some areas of weakness.
Private consumption continued its upward trend, aided by improving corporate profits and business spending. Meanwhile, exports and industrial output remained relatively flat.
On inflation, the YoY figures have ranged between 2.0% and 2.5%, driven by higher service prices.
Inflation expectations showed a moderate rise, and the underlying CPI is expected to add gradually.
USD/JPY price action: breakout rally after hawkish FedThe USD/JPY pair has surged over 2% to reach 157.51, marking the yen's weakest level in four months. This significant rally follows recent interest rate decisions by the Federal Reserve and the Bank of Japan. Despite the Fed's 25bps rate cut, the US dollar has gained strength due to the market's anticipation of only two rate cuts in 2025, contrasting with earlier expectations of four. This decision maintains the interest rate differential between the US and Japan, benefiting carry trade strategies. Meanwhile, the BoJ has kept its short-term rate steady at 0.25%, its highest since 2008, with potential rate hikes forecasted if economic conditions align. The US's optimistic economic projections, with rising GDP, inflation, and job growth, further bolster the dollar's appeal. As global economic uncertainties and political changes unfold, traders should monitor central bank signals to navigate the USD/JPY's trajectory and carry trade opportunities.
Forex Traders Await the Fed's DecisionForex Traders Await the Fed's Decision
The Federal Reserve is set to announce its interest rate decision today at 21:00 GMT+2, with Fed Chair Jerome Powell holding a press conference 30 minutes later. According to Forex Factory, the market expects a rate cut to 4.25%-4.50% from the current 4.50%-4.75%.
Analysts at Apollo Global Management, in their Economic Outlook, predict:
→ In 2025, the Fed will continue lowering rates but at a slower pace than the market anticipates;
→ By the end of 2025, the rate is expected to settle at 4.0%.
In anticipation of today's decision, the currency markets are experiencing a period of calm.
The technical analysis of the EUR/USD chart shows that the pair consolidates between the upper boundary of a descending channel and the lower black support line, forming a narrowing triangle pattern (highlighted in purple).
Today's Fed meeting could trigger a surge in volatility, potentially driving sharp movements in USD pairs. For EUR/USD, opposite scenarios are possible:
→ An upward movement with a bullish breakout of the upper boundary of the long-term descending channel;
→ Continuation of the downtrend with a breakout below the lower black support line.
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.
USD/JPY carry trade explainedCurrently, the USD/JPY pair is trading around 154.26, influenced by upcoming policy decisions from the US Federal Reserve and the Bank of Japan (BoJ). The US Fed's anticipated 25bps rate cut could potentially narrow the interest rate gap, affecting the carry trade's immediate appeal. However, the strong performance of the US economy, with robust job growth and rising inflation, might sustain the dollar's strength, keeping the carry trade attractive. Meanwhile, the BoJ's steady interest rate at 0.25% and potential for future hikes offer a contrasting backdrop, maintaining the yen's role as a low-interest currency. Global economic uncertainties and political changes in both the US and Japan could impact these dynamics, so traders should monitor central bank signals and economic data closely to navigate potential shifts in the carry trade's profitability.
Market Year Wrap 2024: Key Highlights and Outlook for 2025Market Year Wrap 2024: Key Highlights and Outlook for 2025
The year 2024 has been a transformative period in the global financial markets, characterised by a mix of challenges and opportunities. Inflation battles, monetary policy shifts, economic uncertainties, and surprising bouts of optimism dominated the landscape. These forces created a volatile yet dynamic environment where some markets flourished while others struggled under significant pressure.
From central bank interventions to geopolitical developments and technological advancements, every corner of the financial world experienced notable activity. In this article, we will take a detailed look at the major trends and events shaping the global economy in 2024 and provide insights into what lies ahead in 2025.
Inflation and Interest Rates: A Balancing Act
In 2024, inflation showed signs of moderation globally. In the United States, it stabilised around 2.7%, marking a notable shift that bolstered market confidence and set a cautiously optimistic tone for the broader economy.
Throughout the year, rate cuts dominated monetary policy discussions. Following the unprecedented rate hikes implemented in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, major central banks began scaling back rates. However, they had to walk a tightrope between a complex landscape of lower but still stubborn inflation and resilient labour markets and the necessity for monetary easing. The magnitude and pace of these cuts varied significantly, reflecting differences in economic conditions across regions and creating complex relationships in the forex market.
Analysts widely anticipate that policymakers will adopt a more measured approach to easing monetary policy as 2025 unfolds. Most developed market central banks, excluding Japan, are expected to reduce interest rates to neutral levels by the year's end. However, if economic conditions deteriorate more than anticipated, there is potential for central banks to push rates below neutral to support growth.
The Fed, in particular, faces a delicate balancing act, as it must carefully navigate potential policy developments—such as trade tariffs—that may not ultimately materialise. At the same time, any resurgence in inflationary pressures could prompt a shift toward a more restrictive rate trajectory in 2025 and beyond, further complicating the policy landscape.
Forex Market: A Year of Divergence
Currency markets in 2024 were shaped by a combination of monetary policy shifts, economic recovery efforts, and political developments. The US dollar experienced a rollercoaster year, initially depreciating against major currencies as markets anticipated the Federal Reserve’s first rate cut since the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it rebounded toward the end of the year, influenced by post-election optimism and expectations of protectionist trade policies under the Trump administration.
The British pound demonstrated resilience throughout 2024, supported by the Bank of England’s patient and measured approach to monetary policy. Despite potential rate cuts, the pound maintained its strength, reflecting confidence in the UK’s economic fundamentals. In contrast, the euro faced significant headwinds. The ECB’s aggressive easing measures widened interest rate differentials with the pound and the dollar, weakening the euro. By the end of the year, trade uncertainty stemming from potential US tariffs weighed heavily on the euro, given the Eurozone’s dependence on global trade.
The Japanese yen experienced mixed fortunes, bolstered by the Bank of Japan’s decision to raise its benchmark interest rate to 0.25%, the highest level since 2008. This move provided much-needed support for the yen, although concerns about potential US trade policies created downside risks. Meanwhile, commodity-linked currencies such as the Australian and Canadian dollars saw fluctuations driven by interest rate differentials, global trade dynamics and their respective economies' ties to the United States and China.
Analysts caution that President Trump’s tariff policies could intensify the overvaluation of the US dollar in 2025, potentially heightening the risk of global financial instability. The prospect of trade restrictions may add complexity to an already volatile economic landscape.
Commodity Markets: Precious Metals Shine, Oil Struggles
Commodity markets have seen a resurgence in investor interest. According to data from WisdomTree and Bloomberg, the proportion of investors allocating resources to commodities rose to 79% in 2024, compared to 71% in 2023—an expected rebound after a challenging year for commodities in 2023.
Precious metals, particularly gold and silver, emerged as top performers. As of time of the writing on 11th December, gold prices surged by over 30%, while silver outpaced gold with a 35% gain. Several factors drove these impressive performances, including geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainties surrounding the US presidential election, and strong demand from emerging market central banks. According to analysts, these factors should continue supporting precious metals in 2025.
Natural gas prices also experienced significant growth, rising 30% to 50% across major markets in Asia, Europe, and North America. Colder weather forecasts have fueled demand, particularly in Europe and Asia. Analysts suggest that this bullish sentiment in gas markets is likely to persist through the winter, with prices unlikely to see significant declines until well into 2025. However, high gas prices are expected to increase power costs globally, straining fragile economic growth in key regions such as China and Europe while rekindling inflationary concerns.
Oil, however, faced a challenging year despite geopolitical crises and production cuts. One of the reasons is a weak demand, particularly from China. In the United States, gasoline inventories exceeded long-term seasonal levels. According to analysts, the growing transition to electric vehicles in developed markets represents a long-term challenge for oil demand. Although some analysts anticipate a recovery in 2025 as OPEC+ production cuts take effect and geopolitical risks persist.
Stock Markets: Tech Leads the Charge
The US stock market delivered robust performances in 2024, reaching new record highs, with the technology sector at the forefront. Innovations in artificial intelligence (AI) played a pivotal role in driving growth, with major companies such as Microsoft, Nvidia, and Amazon reporting strong earnings. This momentum boosted broader indices, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 recording gains of 28.57% and 27.4%, respectively, as of 10th December.
The broader market also benefited from declining inflation, interest rate cuts, and better-than-expected corporate earnings. These factors may contribute to the stock market growth in 2025. However, stretched valuations temper some of the optimism, and concerns about potential trade tariffs add a layer of uncertainty.
Looking Ahead to 2025: Key Market Drivers
As we look ahead to 2025, several critical factors are poised to influence the direction of financial markets.
Central Bank Policies
Central banks will remain pivotal in shaping financial markets in 2025. The balance between maintaining growth and addressing inflationary pressures will be a key theme for central banks throughout the year, influencing the strength of equity markets. Interest rate differentials will play a significant role in determining currency movements.
Global Economic Recovery
The global economy is expected to continue rebounding from pandemic effects. GDP growth, employment trends, and trade balances will be key factors influencing financial markets.
Trade War Uncertainty
Potential trade tariffs pose a significant risk. The scope, products, and geographies targeted will determine the impact on global GDP, inflation, and interest rates. Any escalation in trade tensions could disrupt markets and strain economic recovery.
Artificial Intelligence and Innovation
AI and emerging technologies may drive productivity gains, offering an upside to global growth. By boosting efficiency and reducing costs, AI could also exert disinflationary pressure, influencing economic dynamics in the long term.
Geopolitical Tensions
Geopolitical risks, including trade disputes and political conflicts, remain unpredictable but could disrupt markets.
Final Thoughts: Embracing Opportunities Amid Volatility
The year 2024 brought its share of challenges and opportunities, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of global markets. From navigating geopolitical uncertainties and evolving monetary policies to embracing the transformative potential of technologies like artificial intelligence, market participants faced a dynamic landscape.
Looking ahead to 2025, the horizon offers new opportunities. Continued advancements in innovation, shifts in economic policies, and the resolution of key global tensions could set the stage for exciting market fluctuations. Use the new year to test your skills and look for new opportunities!
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SPX × US10Y: A Signal for Market Tops and Economic Shifts1. Combining Equity Levels and Yield Sensitivity
SPX (S&P 500) reflects equity market strength and investor sentiment. When SPX is rising, it typically indicates optimism or strong earnings growth expectations.
US10Y (10-year Treasury yield) reflects the cost of capital and inflation expectations. Rising yields can signify tightening financial conditions or economic overheating.
When you multiply these two metrics, the product magnifies the impact of simultaneous market exuberance (high SPX) and rising yields (high US10Y). A very high SPX × US10Y value could indicate a market environment where valuations are stretched, and higher yields are increasing the cost of capital—often a precursor to market corrections.
2. Historical Patterns
In prior market tops, both equity valuations (SPX) and yields (US10Y) often peak together before significant corrections:
Dot-Com Bubble (2000): SPX was highly elevated, and rising yields signaled an end to loose monetary conditions.
2007-2008 Financial Crisis: SPX was at record highs, and US10Y yields were climbing, reflecting tighter monetary policy.
2021-2022 Post-Pandemic: SPX hit record highs, and yields started to rise sharply as inflation surged, leading to a market correction.
The SPX × US10Y value tends to peak during these moments, providing a warning signal of market excess.
If you are using the SPX × US10Y (multiplication) instead of division, it can still serve as a market indicator, though the mechanics are slightly different. Here’s why the product of the S&P 500 and the 10-year Treasury yield (SPX × US10Y) might be relevant for predicting market tops:
3. Economic Logic Behind the Indicator
A. Reflects Cost of Capital
Rising US10Y yields increase the discount rate used to value stocks. High SPX × US10Y suggests equities are vulnerable to revaluation if yields continue to rise.
B. Overheating Economy
High SPX × US10Y often coincides with an overheating economy, where inflation pressures push yields higher, while equities are driven by optimism. This imbalance can quickly reverse if monetary tightening occurs.
C. Peak Growth Phase
A peak in the SPX × US10Y value might signal the economy is at the late stage of the business cycle, where growth slows, and equities face headwinds.
4. Why It May Predict Market Tops
Valuation Excess: A high SPX × US10Y product reflects elevated valuations combined with tightening financial conditions.
Transition to Risk-Off Environment: Rising yields make bonds more attractive relative to stocks, potentially triggering equity outflows.
Fed Policy Influence: If yields are rising due to Federal Reserve tightening, equity markets often react negatively as borrowing costs rise and liquidity is withdrawn.
EURUSD ShortCurrently short on EU
Reasons:
- Downwards trend
- COT traders overwhelmingly bearish on EUR
- Political instability in Europe
- Bad economic news in Europe
- ECB president "highlighted that euro area economic growth is expected to weaken in the coming months"
- US expected to also cut rates, but looks a lot stronger economically compared to most of the world right now