LTC - My long-term safe tradeHead and shoulders complete -
The dip post head and shoulders has now also played out, while LTC is currently in a prolonged consolidation phase, the refusal to dip below the key support levels does lend some bullish sentiment for the long term.
Bullish Case: If LTC continues to hold above the strong support level and begins to break above key resistance levels, particularly around $70-$100, it could indicate the start of a new bullish trend.
News:
There's significant optimism due to a substantial increase in daily transactions, which have surged by 500% in 2024. This growth is largely driven by increased whale activity, signaling strong interest from large investors.
Charlie Lee Announces Expansion Into Banking Services - The highlight of this expansion is Litecoin’s integration into the banking app of Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria (BBVA), a major global financial institution. This partnership allows users to purchase LTC directly through the BBVA app. The integration is a significant step towards bridging the gap between traditional banking and cryptocurrencies.
Overall strong bullish sentiment for an overwhelmingly under-valued coin.
NEWS
Food and Liquidity - An Uncanny Relationship (USD CPI NEWS)I hope that this video finds you well, I really want you to sit and listen to what it is I have to say in this video, I could be absolutely wrong as I have been before but that doesn't mean that what I am saying doesn't make sense (at least to me) lol.
Anyway I wish you a safe CPI News event.
EUR USD IdeaWelcome to a new week, FX friends! EUR/USD has managed to dip into the discount of its range, and if it continues to trade higher into the 1.09452 level, As of now, we’re not in a trade and are keeping it cool with EUR/USD swing trades.
If EUR/USD fails to break through 1.09452 and we see a 4-hour displacement candle with levels starting to break down, we’ll enter with scalp trades. We’re prepared for both sides of the market.
BTC Dips to 58K: Accumulation Time?GM crypto bro's, happy working day! This morning, BTC finally dropped to the 58K area, as mentioned in previous market updates. The fear and greed index is at 25, indicating extreme fear, while the stoch RSI is at 56, with the potential to continue rising towards the oversold area.
Currently, 58K is a good zone for accumulating Bitcoin, given the extreme fear in the market. There’s still a possibility for BTC to drop further, perhaps to the 57K-56K range, but the probability of this is only about 30%, with a 70% chance of pumping to the 65K area.
But keep in mind, the market is dynamic—don't get caught up in FOMO, stay safe, keep calm, and always remember that anything can happen in the crypto market.
Always manage your risks, and as always, that’s all for today’s crypto update. I’m Akki, signing off. Have a nice day.
BTC: Sideways or Pump Ahead?GM crypto bro's, happy weekend! This morning, BTC is still moving sideways. The fear and greed index is at 39, indicating fear, while the stoch RSI is on its way to the overbought area.
Overall, our targets remain the same as yesterday: a chance for a correction to the 58K area followed by a pump to 65K, or maybe even an instant pump to 65K—after all, anything can happen in the market.
But let’s see how the market makers will draw the BTC chart going forward. Always manage your risks, and as always, that’s all for today’s crypto update. I’m Akki, signing off. Have a nice day.
Weekend Russia-Ukraine Update for Natural Gas Traders in FX MarkHey everyone,
I wanted to share some important updates with you regarding recent developments that could significantly impact our natural gas trades. In the past few days, Ukraine's attack on the Sudzha gas transfer station in Russia's Kursk region has raised some serious concerns. As you know, the Sudzha station is a critical point for gas flow from Russia to Europe, and any disruption here could directly affect our natural gas trading. It's something we all need to keep a close eye on.
To give you some context, Gazprom supplied approximately 14.9 billion cubic meters (bcm) of gas through Sudzha in 2023. This volume accounts for about 4.5% of the EU's annual consumption and nearly half of all Russian gas exports to Europe. Since the beginning of the year, the daily gas flow through this station has remained above 40 million cubic meters. These numbers highlight just how vital Sudzha is for European gas supply.
The main function of the Sudzha gas metering station is to record gas consumption and measure the quality indicators of the gas. The gas flow is measured using two primary methods: variable pressure drop and the more precise ultrasonic method, which measures the propagation speed of ultrasonic waves in the gas flow. The station is equipped with converters, pressure and temperature sensors, shut-off valves, and other equipment essential for accurate gas flow measurement.
In addition, the station features an automated control system that collects, processes, and transmits data on gas parameters. This system is responsible for overseeing the operation process and maintaining accurate records. If there’s an issue at the station, not only would the gas flow be disrupted, but tracking the quality and quantity of the gas would also become much more difficult.
Given these details, it’s crucial for us to closely monitor what's happening in the gas markets and adjust our strategies accordingly. As uncertainty increases, so do the potential risks and opportunities, so I strongly advise you to carefully set your stops in your trades.
Wishing you all a profitable week ahead!
CAPITALCOM:NATURALGAS FOREXCOM:NATURALGAS
BTC Weekend Moves: Correction or Pump?GM crypto bro's, happy weekend to those on vacation, and stay strong for those still working like me. Okay, this morning BTC has started to correct as I mentioned in yesterday's market update. The fear and greed index is at a neutral 40, while the stoch RSI has exited the oversold area and is heading towards overbought.
From a price action perspective, my outlook this morning is that BTC still has a chance to continue its correction to around the 58K area, while the nearest target for a pump is in the 65K area.
But let's see how the market makers will draw the BTC chart going forward. Always manage your risks, and as always, that’s all for today’s crypto update. I’m Akki, signing off. Have a nice day.
BTC Hits 58K! What's Next for the Weekend?GM crypto bro's, as I mentioned yesterday, BTC has pumped back up and even surpassed our 58K target. The fear and greed index is now at a neutral 48, while the stoch RSI has successfully exited the oversold area.
As we approach the weekend, there’s a possibility for BTC to retest the 58K - 60K area. But keep in mind, the market is dynamic. Don’t be FOMO, stay safe, keep calm, and always remember that nothing is impossible in the crypto market. Anything can happen.
Always manage your risks, and as always, that’s all for today’s crypto update. I’m Akki, signing off. Have a nice day.
BTC Fear Index Rises! Is Recovery in Sight?GM crypto bro's, this morning, the fear and greed index has increased from yesterday's 17 (extreme fear) to 29 (fear). The stoch RSI is also starting to show signs of recovery from its oversold area.
Overall, the outlook remains the same as yesterday. Our target for BTC is to retest the 58K area first. Like always, keep in mind the market is dynamic. Don't be FOMO, stay safe, keep calm, and always remember that nothing is impossible in the crypto market. Anything can happen.
Always manage your risks, and as always, that's all for today's crypto update.
I'm Akki, signing off. Have a nice day.
EUR USD IdeaAs our grand Bullback and Continuation Theory from yesterday could still be in play, there is a critical observation to consider: our daily candle wick 1.10089 closed only over the previous range high. From years of trading experience, this is not a bullish move warranting full risk on the bullback.
To think like a professional trader, if the market maker didn’t push these highs, what's the reasoning behind it? Did they just grab liquidity and go short, or are we still on the path to continuation? The answer is elusive. Therefore, my swing trade idea here will be scaled down in terms of risk.
Here’s my warning if you have a similar trading plan: Be patient. Market makers are extremely tricky, and there's no need to let them hit our stops. Wait for a 4-hour shift before making a trade.
We will keep our ideas posted, so stay tuned and let's navigate the market smartly!
Extreme Fear! BTC Fear Index Drops to 17! What's Next?GM crypto bro's, finally, the market has slightly calmed down this morning after our portfolios got nuked yesterday. Keep staying strong, guys.
Okay, this morning's update: the fear and greed index has dropped back to 17 (extreme fear), while the stoch RSI is still dead like yesterday. In terms of price action, BTC has a small chance to visit around the 58K area and then go sideways in the 57K - 56K range. Hopefully, there won't be any more crazy drops. The long candle on 05/08/2024 has already claimed many casualties.
There is a possibility that the current market drop is part of a plan by big money, whales, etc., to buy the dip on a massive scale, considering the growing rumors that Grandpa Powell from the FED might cut interest rates in September.
Like always, keep in mind the market is dynamic. Don't be FOMO, stay safe, keep calm, and always remember that nothing is impossible in the crypto market. Anything can happen, even the impossible.
Always manage your risks, and as always, that's all for today's crypto update.
I'm Akki, signing off. Stay sane, my liquidated friends, and have a nice day.
Fear & Greed Index Plummets as BTCUSD Dumps SignificantlyGM Crypto Bro's, this morning BTC dumped significantly, causing the Fear and Greed Index to drop to 26 (fear). The Stoch RSI is still resting in the oversold area.
There is a big chance for a drop into the red zone around the 50K area, but there is also a small chance for a pump in the nearest blue zone.
As always, keep in mind that the market is dynamic. Don't be FOMO, stay safe, keep calm. Remember, anything can happen in the crypto market these days. Maintain your risk, and that's all for today's crypto update. I'm Akki, one chart, and have a nice day
BTCUSD: 60K Drop! Fear Index at 34 - What's Next?GM guys, happy weekend... or not, as BTC dropped to 60K. This morning, the fear and greed index is still in the fear zone at 34, and the stoch RSI is still in the oversold area.
BTC has finally revisited the 60K area as I mentioned in yesterday’s market update. My personal market outlook suggests a low probability of BTC dropping below 60K, but in the crypto market, anything is possible, so a deeper drop is still on the table.
However, as usual, when the fear and greed index is in the fear zone, it usually doesn’t take long for the market to pump again, at least until the index reaches neutral before possibly dumping again, or continuing to pump until it hits greed.
Keep in mind the market is dynamic. Don’t be FOMO, stay safe, keep calm. Remember, nothing is impossible in the crypto market right now. Anything can happen, even the impossible. Always maintain risk, and as always, that’s the crypto update for today.
I’m Akki, one chart. Have a nice day.
Macro Monday 56~Venezuela - Democracy Beacons Economic Reform Macro Monday 56
Venezuela - Democracy Beacons Economic Reform
As one of the core members of OPEC, Venezuela holds the distinction of having the largest oil reserves in the world with over 304 billion barrels beneath its surface. This is marginally more than the Saudi Arabia oil reserves.
If you ever wondered where the largest oil reserves in the whole world where, they are located on the Orinoco Oil Belt in Central Venezuela.
Unfortunately Venezuela has suffered from political and economic factors that hasn’t allowed the country and its people to benefit from this large natural resource. A national election on the 28th July 2024 has the potential to change everything and allow Venezuelans to form a democratic government. This has the promise of leading the country into a new positive social and economic epoch.
Venezuela’s oil production plummeted by c.75% over the past ten years, largely due to political missteps. The current administrations illegal expropriations of foreign oil and gas assets were a major red flag for potential investors. Additionally, Venezuela’s poor governance, mismanagement, and U.S. sanctions have contributed to a drastic decline in oil output. In September 2023, Venezuela produced only 735,000 barrels per day, making it the 10th-largest producer in OPEC despite it being the largest global oil reserve. The situation highlights the some challenges faced by petrostates that heavily rely on oil exports and their governance over it.
Path to Democracy calls for International Support
Venezuela stands at a critical juncture, with the potential for a historic return to democracy by way of national election on 28th July 2024.
The opposition has rallied behind a leading candidate, Edmundo González of the Democratic Unity Platform (PUD) for the upcoming national election. He has taken the place of the former disqualified Maria Corina Machado (unfairly ousted by the incumbent). The incumbent President Nicolás Maduro remains a significant obstacle and still gains support from a Chavista Base.
The Chavista Base refers to the loyal supporters of Chavismo, a left-wing populist political ideology associated with the late Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez. These supporters are committed to strong socialist ideas, programs, and government style that characterized Chávez’s rule from 1999 to 2013. Despite international pressure, sanctions and disapproval, this group remains fiercely loyal to the Chavista movement and its successor, President Nicolás Maduro. The opposition Edmundo González, has been leading the polls by over 20 - 40 points and thus the people of Venezuela are calling out for change having suffered under the socialist regime.
Maduro's regime has arguably eroded democracy and has been the cause of significant economic pitfalls, and social unrest. To support Venezuelans’ fight for democracy, the United States may offer a legal off-ramp for Maduro and his allies, ensuring they won’t face prosecution if they recognize electoral defeat. This approach has worked in other countries like South Africa and Chile, after which both countries could move forward constructively and relatively peacefully. This approach could allow for a peaceful transition to democracy in Venezuela. A democratic Venezuela would benefit U.S. foreign policy, limit migration to the U.S, and reduce the influence of Russia and China in the South Americas via pacts like the BRICS. Previous efforts to achieve the off-ramp approach in Venezuela have failed, however the opposition leader González is ahead in most polls and the election is days away. With some international pressure/support, this could be a major moment for Venezuela, opening up the country and its resources to operate under a free market, allowing for competitive growth, innovation freedom, consumer sovereignty and free flowing export economy.
Exports
Venezuela is historically highly dependent on its petroleum oil exports. Crude oil, in particular, has been the primary driver of its export revenue. In recent years, Venezuela’s top exports include:
1. Mineral fuels including oil: This category represents 26.1% of total exports.
2. Iron and steel: Comprising 21% of exports.
3. Organic chemicals: Accounting for 9.9% of exports.
4. Aluminum: Representing 8.4% of exports.
5. Fish: Contributing 7.5% to export value.
These products collectively account for 88.1% of Venezuela’s global shipments. Notably, mineral fuels (especially crude oil) have experienced significant growth in recent years. China, Turkey, Spain, the U.S., and Brazil are among Venezuela’s main export partners.
Blooming Tourism Sector
In 2023 Venezuela experienced a remarkable resurgence in international tourism. The country welcomed 1.25 million foreign visitors, marking a 90% increase compared to the previous year when 656,000 people arrived. While specific revenue figures for 2023 are not readily available, this surge in tourist arrivals indicates a positive trend for the Venezuelan tourism sector.
I thought id mention just just a few attractions:
1.Angel Falls: Located in Canaima National Park, Angel Falls is the highest waterfall in the world, dropping 979 meters. Best seen during the rainy season (May to November) when water flow is abundant.
2.Los Roques Archipelago: This chain of islands, 160 kilometres north of the central coast, offers sun-drenched beaches, turquoise waters, and coral reefs. It’s a paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts.
The Chart
Caracas Stock Exchange- BME:IBC
Summary
I cannot recommend taking an entry on the above chart and regardless, it would be incredibly difficult to do so with sanctions in place and the political turmoil that is yet to be resolved. However, a major date is approaching for the national election this coming Sunday 28th July 2024 , and it could be the beginning of a monumental positive shift for the future of Venezuela’s economy. We can only watch from afar and not forget that this country boasts thee largest oil reserves in the world, has a blooming tourism scene with some of the most unique tourist attractions, and a varied export economy. Somewhere in the future there will likely be great opportunity in Venezuela, however for the moment we await the shifting winds of democracy to catch the Venezuelan sails. Lets see what happens this Sunday.
PUKA
$QQQ Nasdaq with Rate Hiking Cycle DatesGoing along with my usual 'Key Hidden Levels' in the markets perspective that NEWS is an important price level to mark on charts so it is visible to everyone, I have created the update to the "Rate Hiking Cycle" chart.
The purple triangles and lines are the range of the day of the announcement and the mid-point of the day plotted horizontally forward.
With this data you can see how past levels where the Fed Rate Decision occurred has provided either support or resistance to the movement of the market. Typically it hasn't been as obvious the the observer of a chart all by itself without these markings.
At some point these important news levels will be visible for all of us investors so we can see and understand more quickly how the market is absorbing or dealing with the news.
I hope you enjoy this chart an continue to update it for yourself. I will work to get these dates into the system so you can all see them on every chart.
Wishing you all the best in your investing and trading.
Tim
1:48PM, Thursday May 23, 2024
How Did MSFT Stock Price React To Global Outage?How Did MSFT Stock Price React To Global Outage?
On 19th July, a global outage occurred. Numerous computers running Windows worldwide experienced "blue screens of death" (BSOD), affecting companies in different sectors, including airlines, hospitals, media, banks, and others.
The outage was caused by a CrowdStrike's Falcon Sensor update, a component of the Windows system that essentially works to protect computers from cyber threats. CrowdStrike quickly acknowledged the issue, stating that it was not a cyberattack but an update error, and suggested a solution.
According to CNBC, the large-scale outage did not significantly impact the operation of most financial markets. Representatives of the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq stated on Friday that they were operating despite the issues with the CrowdStrike update. The only noticeable unpleasant consequence for most was the inability to calculate the Russell stock indices, including the popular Russell 2000. However, the confusion was resolved later on Friday.
At the same time, the large-scale outage affected stock prices, including Microsoft. In pre-market trading on Friday, MSFT's price dropped below $430, but during the main session, the price managed to rise above it. As technical analysis of the MSFT chart shows, the $430 level is important – as it acted as resistance in March-May 2024. Therefore, its role as support might be justified by analysts.
Additionally, the MSFT share price is near the lower boundary of the upward channel (shown in blue), which may provide additional support. However, no one can guarantee that the mentioned support levels will lead to a subsequent bullish impulse.
On 19th July, we wrote about bearish signs on META stock charts. These are bearish aggression signs, which are concerning:
→ the price's inability to reach the upper boundary of the blue channel in early July;
→ a wide bearish gap when breaking through the median on 17th July.
Wall Street analysts remain positive for now. According to TipRanks, the average forecast for MSFT is $504.12 (+15.33% from the current price) over the next 12 months.
Microsoft's Q2 earnings report, scheduled for release on 30 July, has the potential to significantly alter the balance of sentiments.
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.
Analysis of XAU/USD: Gold Price Sets Historical RecordAnalysis of XAU/USD: Gold Price Sets Historical Record
As the XAU/USD chart shows, on 16th July, the gold price rose above $2460 for the first time in history. The bullish sentiment is driven by:
→ Anticipation of Fed rate cuts, as the appeal of non-yielding bullion generally increases in low-interest-rate environments.
→ Geopolitical tensions, with an attempt on Trump's life possibly boosting demand for the "safe-haven asset."
→ Demand from central banks.
Reuters reports that analysts at Commonwealth Bank of Australia believe the gold price could exceed their forecast of $2500 per ounce by the end of 2024. "It is worth highlighting gold's ability to find support under any conditions this year," they say.
Can the gold price rise further?
Technical analysis of the XAU/USD chart provides valuable insights:
→ The gold price is in an upward trend (shown in blue).
→ The support level at $2290, reinforced by the median line of the blue channel, pushed the price up (shown by an arrow).
→ The bulls managed to break the $2385 level, which had acted as resistance since 7 June (shown by arrows).
→ The bearish Head and Shoulders (SHS) pattern failed.
The contours of the upward channel suggest the potential for the gold price to rise to its upper boundary, where the psychological level of $2500 per ounce also lies. Thus, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia's forecast could come true much earlier than the end of 2024.
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.