Neutral
BTC - a last dip before new ATH ?The chart is in 3H cause couldn't zoom out more with lower timeframes :((
Pattern recognition at its best
since the low of the 10 October, the price action is an extremely exact copy paste of march/April ATH :
- A significant top, ATH for the first pattern and 3 months high for last week
- first take profits, to 200MA 4H for the first pattern, to 100 MA 4H, 4 days ago
- 2nd wave and 3rd wave higher than the second (almost hit ATH), the second wave has been made and BTC will probably make the third tomorrow
in April this followed a correction. The pattern was bigger in April in % price and in time, so we should see shorter waves and lower price movements now.
The conditions for this to continue as the last time and to see the last dip is to have a 3rd wave going around 69K :
- if we break above 69k the pattern get invalidated
- if we stay to long time above .618 fib extension at 66K3 the pattern get invalidated
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Careful don't mind me, I'm neutral on this idea, and will not do anything before seeing a clear path. What changes now from April is that the halving was priced in way before so I'm seeing also lot of reasons why prices could just go above 69k and fly from now
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Last but not least, BTC is for the moment following the orange path from my precedent idea, putting my target for fall 2025 at 240K, but this can change a lot
Good Luck
Cheers
Options Blueprint Series [Intermediate]: Vega-Neutral Gold Play1. Introduction
Gold is currently in an uptrend, presenting a potentially favorable environment for bullish traders. However, with implied volatility (IV) sitting around its mean, there’s uncertainty about whether IV will rise or fall in the near future. In such a scenario, traders may want to neutralize their vega exposure to avoid being negatively affected by changes in volatility.
This article focuses on setting up a Call Ratio Spread, a bullish option strategy that provides positive delta while allowing for further adjustments that could keep vega neutral. This allows traders to capitalize on Gold’s potential uptrend while minimizing risk from changes in implied volatility.
2. Current Market Context
The Gold futures market shows strong levels of support, which reinforces the bullish outlook. On the continuous Gold futures chart above GC1!, we observe key support levels at 2646.2 and 2627.2-2572.5. These levels could act as price floors, helping the uptrend continue if tested.
Similarly, when examining the contract-specific below chart for GCQ2025, we identify supports at 2725.4 and 2729.5-2705.5. These levels provide solid ground for bullish trades on this specific contract, giving traders additional confidence in entering long positions.
With implied volatility near its average (see the chart below), the market’s future volatility direction is unclear. Traders using options may choose adapt to this environment, ensuring that changes in volatility do not work against them.
3. Options Strategy: Call Ratio Spread
To take advantage of Gold’s uptrend while neutralizing the risk from changes in volatility, we could employ a Call Ratio Spread. This strategy offers a bullish stance while maintaining vega neutrality, protecting the trader from swings in implied volatility.
Setup:
Buy 1x 2600 Call at 256.15
Sell 2x 3500 Calls at 23.32
Expiration: July 28, 2025
This configuration generates positive delta, meaning the strategy will benefit from upward price movement. At the same time, by selling two calls at a higher strike, we offset the vega exposure, ensuring that changes in volatility won’t dramatically affect the position.
The strike prices and expiration selected help create a risk profile that works well in a bullish market. The maximum gain potential occurs if Gold continues to rise but stays below the higher 3500 strike, while the vega neutrality minimizes any volatility risks as the trade begins.
Notice the breakeven point for this strategy is 2809.5, meaning the trade becomes profitable if Gold exceeds this level by expiration.
4. Why Use Micros?
Traders looking for a more flexible approach can consider using Micro Gold Futures (symbol: MGC) instead of standard Gold futures contracts. Micro Gold Futures offer smaller contract sizes, which translate into lower margin requirements and a more precise way to control risk. This makes them an attractive alternative for traders with smaller accounts or those looking to scale into positions gradually.
Additionally, Micro Gold Futures allow traders to fine-tune their exposure to Gold without the larger capital commitment required by standard contracts. For those implementing strategies like the Call Ratio Spread, Micros provide a cost-effective way to execute similar trades with a lower financial commitment.
Contract Specs and Margin Requirements
Gold Futures (symbol: GC) represent 100 troy ounces of gold, and their margin requirements can vary depending on market volatility and the broker. Typically, the initial margin requirement for a standard Gold futures contract is around $10,000 to $12,000, but this can fluctuate. For traders seeking more flexibility, Micro Gold Futures (symbol: MGC) offer a smaller contract size, representing 10 troy ounces of gold. The margin requirement for Micro Gold Futures is significantly lower, usually in the range of $1,000 to $1,200, making it a more accessible option for those with smaller accounts or those looking to fine-tune their exposure.
5. Risk Management
As with any options trade, managing risk is essential. In the case of a Call Ratio Spread, the primary risk comes from the naked short calls at the 3500 strike price. If Gold rallies aggressively beyond 3500, the trader faces unlimited risk due to the uncovered nature of the short positions.
To mitigate this risk, traders should consider using stop-loss orders or adjusting the trade if Gold's price approaches the 3500 level too quickly. Another way to eliminate the unlimited risk component to the upside would be to convert the Call Ratio Spread into a Call Butterfly by buying an additional call above the 3500 strike price, effectively capping the risk. This adjustment still allows for positive delta exposure while limiting potential losses if Gold moves sharply higher.
Additionally, monitoring implied volatility is key. While the position starts with neutral vega exposure, this will change as the underlying asset price moves and time passes, especially as expiration approaches. The vega exposure can increase or decrease depending on these factors. If maintaining the vega-neutral characteristic is a priority, further adjustments—such as rolling options or modifying strike prices—could be made to keep the position aligned with the trader’s volatility outlook.
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.
WIF Stuck in a Wedge Pattern: Patience is Key For a BreakoutWIF is forming a very long but distinct WXYXZ wedge pattern, tightly confined within its channel. The structure is clear, with repeated ABC corrective waves confirming the pattern’s integrity. While the setup is clear, it suggests we may have to trade within the boundaries of the channel for now.
For those looking to trade short-term, focus on the key levels within the wedge, but be prepared to wait patiently for the eventual breakout—it could take time, but when it happens, it should be significant.
BTC btc "arrowhead"neutral zone orange line based on past moving averages and current measurement up to november 1st 2024,. Purple lines represent arrowhead fibonacci of price above and below the standard average neutral between support and resistance based from all the way back to october 2024, one year prior. Not a lot of activity above 160%, main range of bitcoin remaining in 78% lower half and over 100% gains upper region.
SOLANA - On the VERGE of CRITICAL TerritoryIt has been trading lower and lower and is now approaching the most important level in this region: $122.
It's hard to predict what will happen once it reaches that level. Both bulls and bears have a strong case to try and take control of that area.
As for me, I will remain neutral in this area unless:
There is a clear retest of $122 followed by a reclaim of the EQLs at $134.
There is a deviation below $122 with a strong reclaim.
Alternatively:
I might consider taking a significant short position below $122.
This level is crucial for bulls if the price is to continue moving higher. September is becoming increasingly interesting.
8.18.2024 Weekly Pre-Market Analysis S&PThis is my Weekly Pre-Market Analysis on the S&P>
Right now we are going to wait for market structure to form.
We saw lower highs and higher lows form on Friday after the last bullish move up. So we do not have a clear direction as to which way if may head.
We have a plan for a SHORT position as well as a plan for a LONG position.
We just need to watch the LOWS & HIGHS form on the 15 minute chart, before we even think of getting into a trade.
Russel 2000 - Consolidation into Q3
Hey Guys,
For this Index the Consolidation period has been there since the big Engulfing Candle on the Yearly Chart happened in 22.
To become bullish again Russel has to move beyond 2280 (-1625 is the lower end with a mid-point of 1940)…
Until then I will take a neutral bias towards this Index. Most likely we will consolidate on the 3D Chart between the two white lines - Demand and Supply Lines from the Quarterly Chart. Keep in mind that the Blue Box is the High of 23 and the Red Box Constitutes the Middle Line of 22.
I am looking to go long from the lower part and short from the upper part of the Consolidation - until a break occurs.
Normally I would enter on the 4h or 2h Chart but I will break it down to the 1H Chart because I like to take entries from there (Risk - Reward wise).
Thanks for reading
Fear and Greed Index: Decoding Crypto Market Sentiment!Hey everyone! If you enjoy this content, please consider giving it a thumbs up and following for more analysis.
The cryptocurrency market is known for its volatility, and emotions can often drive trading decisions. The Fear and Greed Index attempts to quantify these emotions, providing a snapshot of investor sentiment at a given time.
What is the Fear and Greed Index?
The Fear and Greed Index is a composite score ranging from 0 (Extreme Fear) to 100 (Extreme Greed).
It analyzes several data points to arrive at a single value:
Volatility:
Higher price swings indicate greater fear, while lower volatility suggests a calmer market.
Market Momentum:
Rapid price increases point to greed, while sustained price drops signal fear.
Social Media Sentiment:
Analyzing the tone of social media discussions about cryptocurrency can reveal fear or greed.
Survey Data:
Polls and surveys gauging investor sentiment are also factored in.
Dominance:
The market share of Bitcoin (BTC) relative to other cryptocurrencies is considered.
How to Interpret the Fear and Greed Index:
0-24: Extreme Fear: This indicates a potentially oversold market where investors are panicking. It might be a buying opportunity for long-term investors with a high-risk tolerance.
25-49: Fear: The market is cautious, and prices could go either way.
50-74: Greed: Investor sentiment is becoming optimistic, potentially leading to price increases. However, be cautious of entering a potentially overbought market.
75-100: Extreme Greed: Euphoria reigns, and prices could be inflated. This might be a good time to take profits or exercise caution before entering new positions.
Is the Fear and Greed Index Manipulated?
Can people mess with it? Kinda. They might try to fake positive social media stuff to make the index look more greedy than it is. Also, the way the index weighs different things can be tweaked a bit.
But here's the thing: There's a lot of data going into the score, so it's not super easy to manipulate. Plus, everyone knows how it works, so investors can take it with a grain of salt.
The Fear and Greed Index at 47 (Neutral)
With a current score of 47, the Fear and Greed Index suggests a neutral market sentiment. Investors are neither overly fearful nor excessively greedy. This could indicate a period of consolidation or a wait-and-see approach before the market makes its next move.
Remember:
The Fear and Greed Index is just one data point among many. Always conduct your own research and employ a comprehensive trading strategy before making any investment decisions.
#202424 - a weekly price action market recap and outlook - dax Good Evening and I hope you are well.
dax xetra - this is the first time I post a xetra chart as well. I trade the dax cfd but I want to find out how big the interest in my post is for xetra vs cfd. Only difference is in price.
Quote from last week:
bear case: Bears making lower highs and lower lows. They closed 3 consecutive days below the daily 20ema and it was the 3rd consecutive monthly close below 18500. They also printed 3 consecutive weekly bear bars. Having said all that, bears sold off for 525 points while the last pull-back from the previous ath sold off for 940 points. So what did they accomplish in the past 3 weeks? Not much. Are they really betting on a big acceleration downward now at the bull trend line, after they tried for 3 weeks now or will the face the reality, that the market does not want to go lower and will give up on shorts? Only possibility I see is that they get a big big gap down on Monday Globex or early on to stay below the breakout price of 18500ish (counting only the bar body). If bulls get above the daily ema again, I think they will give up and they would try again 18770 or possibly even wait for 18880 again. If we get a leg up and it’s strong, I can see bears just not even trying and we would find out where bulls want to take it.
comment: Market in total balance inside key levels. It’s the 4th consecutive bear week but we are still above the midpoint of the first week of May where dax gained 800 points. This selling is as weak as it gets and that’s why another leg up is much more likely than an acceleration to the downside. We are oscillating around the daily 20ema at 18550 and right at the bull trend line from January. Market is in breakout mode and will have it next week. Odds favor the bulls but I wait for confirmation after US CPI and FOMC.
current market cycle: trading range
key levels: 18400 / 18900
bull case: It’s a trading range near the ath and that’s all there is to it. If market was rejecting higher prices, we would have traded below 18000 long time ago. The bullish gap#2 stayed open and there is an argument for a head & shoulders bottom with the neckline 17700 and a measured move would bring us right back to retest 18900.
Invalidation is below 18400.
bear case: Unless bears print a big daily bear bar below 18400, they are not doing much. Thursday and Friday we made higher highs and higher lows and I do think bears will give up on Monday if the buying pressure is strong enough. Not much more magic to it currently.
Invalidation is a daily close above 18650.
outlook last week: “In favor of bulls, if they break 18650 early next week. TP 18770 at least but I think we can do a total ripper. If bears somehow manage to keep it below 18700, we can retest the lows and if they do a big surprise below 18400, we will see 18250 fast and below that is 17900.”
→ Last Sunday we traded 18497 and now we are at 18557. Bulls got a higher high but bears kept it below 18650 for the week. Not the worst outlook but not on point either.
short term: Still in favor of the bulls, unless bears get a strong daily close below 18400. Retest of 19000 is expected. If we can’t get it before CPI & FOMC and CPI comes in hot, I will go big on shorts for at least 17900 over the next 1-3 weeks.
medium-long term: 17000 over the next 3-6 Months and when we get there, I update again.
current swing trade: None and depending on Wednesday, I will initiate new positions.
Chart update: The wave thesis is gone. This sideways movement has gone on for too long and we might see 18890 again but just as a leg inside a trading range. If it strongly moves way beyond 18900, I’m wrong and we might be on our way to 19400 or 20000.