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Trend Following - Week in Review - July 26, 2024

Trend Following - Week in Review - July 26, 2024

Welcome to "This Week in Trend", where each week, we cover key movements and trends in the futures markets, offering insights on commodities and indices shaping the economy. From price surges to notable declines, we provide an overview of the factors driving these changes. Stay informed about the latest developments and navigate the market with confidence. Join us weekly to explore the dynamic world of futures trading and the trends that matter most.

“Haul Away, Boys, the Market's Rolling!”

Trend Barometer

This week, our trusty Trend Barometer has shown a slight improvement from 30 to 36 with a small partial recovery on Friday. However, it still indicates moderately weak conditions for trend followers, signalling a tough environment to navigate. The SG Trend Index mirrors these challenges, reflecting a month-to-date (MTD) decline of -3.36%, a further significant drop from the 0.28% MTD gain observed last week. This month has been one of two halves, with strong performance in the first half now whittled away in the latter half.

The ongoing difficulties are evident, as this week has been characterized by mixed movements across asset classes. These fluctuations have created an unstable and volatile market environment, making it increasingly challenging for trend followers to identify and capitalize on clear trends. The turbulence in the markets underscores the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of trading, requiring resilience and adaptability from those navigating these financial waters.

The Top Traders Unplugged (TTU) Trend Barometer is a proprietary tool that measures the percentage of markets with medium to strong trends. Just as a thermometer reading of 0 degrees Celsius equates to freezing, when the TTU Trend Barometer reads a value that is less than 40%, market trendiness begins to get “colder” or weaken. Likewise, when the TTU Trend Barometer gets above 55%, the environment gets “hotter” (better).

Weekly Asset Class Snapshot

Source: Finwiz.com

Here’s how different asset classes moved this week and some of the broad reasons behind these movements:

  • Volatility Index: +1.15%: Heightened market uncertainty driven by fluctuating economic data and geopolitical tensions.
  • Grains: +0.01%: Minimal movement due to balanced supply concerns and stable demand.
  • Meats: +2.74%: Strong consumer demand and supply chain adjustments.
  • Bond: +0.24%: Slight increase reflecting investor moves towards safer assets amid volatility.
  • Energy: -1.68%: Decline influenced by fluctuating crude oil prices and global demand concerns.
  • Metal: -2.41%: Significant drop due to decreased industrial demand and strong supply conditions.
  • Soft Commodity: -0.16%: Slight decline with varied performance across products like coffee, cocoa, and sugar.
  • Equity Index: -0.08%: Minor decline reflecting mixed investor sentiment and reactions to corporate earnings and economic indicators.
  • Currency: -0.33%: Small decrease influenced by global trade dynamics, interest rate differentials, and macroeconomic data.

Top 10 Bear and Bull Price Moves

Here's a detailed analysis of the key market movers for the week.

Source: Finwiz.com

What’s Moving Up

Rough Rice Increases by 6.92%

Rough rice prices surged by 6.92% this week, reflecting significant volatility and uncertainty in the agricultural markets. This move came after a period of bearish corrections, indicating that trend followers may have started shorting rough rice to capitalize on the downward momentum. However, this week's bullish move has likely caught many off guard.

Reasons for the Recent Downtrend:

  • Increased Global Supply:
    • High Production Levels: Major rice-producing countries, such as the United States, have reported higher production levels, leading to an oversupply in the market​ (Barchart.com)​​ (CME Group)​.
    • Inventory Build-Up: The increased production has resulted in higher inventory levels, exerting downward pressure on prices.
  • Weaker Demand:
    • Economic Conditions: Fluctuating economic conditions and changes in consumer behaviour have affected demand. Lower consumer spending and reduced industrial activity have impacted the market​ (Barchart.com)​.
    • Substitution Effects: The rise in prices of alternative grains has led some consumers and industries to switch from rice to other options, decreasing demand.
  • Market Sentiment:
    • Speculative Activities: Speculative trading activities have also played a role in the downtrend. Traders betting on continued high yields and oversupply have kept prices suppressed​ (Barchart.com)​​ (Nasdaq)​.

This Week's Price Surge Within the Existing Downtrend:

This week's 6.92% increase in rough rice prices is a notable move within the broader bearish trend observed since mid-2020. The primary drivers for this week's surge include:

  • Supply Concerns:
    • Adverse Weather Conditions: Ongoing adverse weather conditions in key rice-producing regions have raised concerns about future supply, pushing prices higher​ (Barchart.com)​.
    • Planting Delays: Delays in planting due to unfavourable weather conditions earlier in the season have also contributed to supply concerns.
  • Demand Factors:
    • Increased Demand: There has been a surge in demand for rough rice due to its use in various food products. This increased demand has exerted upward pressure on prices.
    • Export Demand: Strong export demand from countries with lower production levels has also contributed to the price increase.
  • Market Sentiment:
    • Speculative Activities: Speculative trading and market sentiment around potential supply disruptions have driven prices upward. Traders reacting to news of adverse weather and its impact on future supply have pushed prices higher.

Reception by Trend Followers:

  • Strategic Adjustments:
    • The surge in rough rice prices may prompt trend followers to reassess their positions. Increased volatility could lead to adjustments in their trading strategies to capitalize on the changing market conditions.
  • Risk Management:
    • Generally, increased market volatility tends to mean an initial unfavourable hit to trend followers as their strategies need to adjust to these new volatile conditions. However, once adjusted to increased volatility and new emerging trends, substantial improvement in results often follows. Staying vigilant and adaptable is crucial in navigating the turbulent market environment.
Source: Finwiz.com

Soybean Meal Increases by 5.12%

Soybean meal prices surged by 5.12% this week, despite the broader long-term but volatile bearish trend observed since February 2023. This up move stands out against the recent short trend that began following the peak in May 2024. The increase in prices has likely impacted trend followers who were short on this trade, reducing the gains from their positions.

Reasons for the Long-Term Bearish Trend:

  • Increased Global Supply:
    • High Production Levels: Major soybean-producing countries, including the United States, Brazil, and Argentina, have reported high production levels, leading to an oversupply in the market​ (Barchart.com)​.
    • Inventory Build-Up: The increased production has led to higher inventory levels, exerting downward pressure on prices.
  • Weaker Demand:
    • Economic Slowdown: The global economic slowdown has reduced demand for soybean meal. Lower consumer spending and reduced industrial activity have impacted the market​ (Barchart.com)​.
    • Substitution Effects: The rise in prices of alternative feedstocks has led some consumers and industries to switch from soybean meal to other options, decreasing demand​ (Barchart.com)​.
  • Market Sentiment:
    • Speculative Activities: Speculative trading activities have also played a role in the downtrend. Traders betting on continued high yields and oversupply have kept prices suppressed​ (Barchart.com)​​ (Nasdaq)​.

This Week's Price Surge Within the Existing Downtrend:

This week's 5.12% increase in soybean meal prices is a notable move within the broader bearish trend observed since February 2023. The primary drivers for this week's surge include:

  • Supply Concerns:
    • Adverse Weather Conditions: Ongoing adverse weather conditions in key soybean-producing regions have raised concerns about future supply, pushing prices higher​ (Barchart.com)​.
    • Planting Delays: Delays in planting due to unfavorable weather conditions earlier in the season have also contributed to supply concerns.
  • Demand Factors:
    • Increased Demand: There has been a surge in demand for soybean meal due to its use in animal feed. This increased demand has exerted upward pressure on prices.
    • Export Demand: Strong export demand from countries with lower production levels has also contributed to the price increase.
  • Market Sentiment:
    • Speculative Activities: Speculative trading and market sentiment around potential supply disruptions have driven prices upward. Traders reacting to news of adverse weather and its impact on future supply have pushed prices higher​ (Barchart.com)​​ (Nasdaq)​.

Reception by Trend Followers:

  • Strategic Adjustments:
    • The surge in soybean meal prices may prompt trend followers to reassess their positions. Increased volatility could lead to adjustments in their trading strategies to capitalize on the changing market conditions.
  • Risk Management:
    • Generally, increased market volatility tends to mean an initial unfavourable hit to trend followers as their strategies need to adjust to these new volatile conditions. However, once adjusted to increased volatility and new emerging trends, substantial improvement in results often follows. Staying vigilant and adaptable is crucial in navigating the turbulent market environment.
Source: Finwiz.com

Cocoa Increases by 4.72%

Cocoa prices increased by 4.72% this week, reflecting ongoing volatility and uncertainty in the market. The recent swings in both bullish and bearish directions highlight the unpredictable nature of cocoa's future trend. While some long-term trend followers may still hold long positions from the remarkable bullish run to its peak in April 2024, many are likely waiting for a clearer directional signal.

Reasons for the Long-Term Bullish Trend:

  • Supply Concerns:
    • Adverse Weather Conditions: Cocoa-producing regions, particularly in West Africa, faced significant weather-related challenges such as droughts and heavy rains, impacting crop yields and reducing supply​ (Barchart.com)​​ (Nasdaq)​.
    • Supply Chain Disruptions: Logistical challenges and transportation delays have exacerbated supply constraints, driving prices higher.
  • Strong Demand:
    • Global Demand: Despite supply challenges, global demand for cocoa remained robust. Major markets, including Europe and the United States, saw sustained consumption of cocoa products​ (CME Group)​.
    • Consumer Preferences: The rising demand for premium chocolate products contributed to higher overall cocoa prices.
  • Economic Factors:
    • Currency Fluctuations: The depreciation of local currencies in major cocoa-producing countries against the US Dollar made exports more expensive, adding upward pressure on global prices.
    • Inflation: Rising inflation rates impacted commodity prices, including cocoa, as production and transportation costs increased.

This Week's Price Increase Within the Current Uncertainty:

This week's 4.72% increase in cocoa prices comes amid a phase of significant volatility and uncertainty. The primary drivers for this week's surge include:

  • Market Sentiment:
    • Speculative Trading: Speculative activities have contributed to the price increase. Traders reacting to short-term news and market developments have influenced price movements​ (CME Group)​.
    • Profit-Taking and Position Adjustments: After the significant rise to its peak in April 2024, some investors may be adjusting their positions, leading to price fluctuations.
  • Supply Dynamics:
    • Improved Weather Conditions: Recent improvements in weather conditions in key producing regions may have alleviated some supply concerns, contributing to the price increase.
    • Seasonal Factors: Seasonal variations in production and harvest cycles can impact supply levels, influencing price movements.
  • Demand Factors:
    • Sustained Demand: Continuous demand for cocoa products, especially during seasonal peaks, has supported prices. Increased demand for premium chocolate products remains a key driver.

Reception by Trend Followers

  • Impact on Long Positions:
    • Trend followers who have been long on cocoa since the bullish trend began would see this week's increase as a breath of fresh air. The up move supports their long positions and offers an opportunity to benefit from the continued positive sentiment in the market.
  • Assessment of Trend Direction:
    • Despite this week's rise, the overall volatility suggests uncertainty about the future trend direction. Trend followers need to monitor the market closely for clear indications of a sustained upward or downward movement, as the current conditions reflect a highly dynamic environment.
  • Strategic Adjustments:
    • Trend followers may need to reassess their positions and remain vigilant for any signs of sustained movement that could alter the trend dynamics. The current increase is viewed as a temporary fluctuation within a broader volatile environment, requiring careful strategic adjustments to navigate potential shifts in the market effectively.
Source: Finwiz.com

Lean Hogs Increase by 4.13%

Lean hogs prices increased by 4.13% this week, reflecting a sharp upward move that supports the potential commencement of a new bullish trend. This positive movement comes amid a backdrop of volatility, indicating that trend followers might be monitoring closely for further confirmation of this new direction.

Reasons for the Recent Volatility:

  • Supply Factors:
    • Increased Production Levels: Major pork-producing countries have reported higher production levels, contributing to significant supply in the market. Advances in farming practices and increased herd sizes have led to higher outputs​ (Barchart.com)​​ (Nasdaq)​.
    • Inventory Build-Up: The increased production has resulted in higher inventory levels, which can exert downward pressure on prices when demand does not match supply​ (Barchart.com)​.
  • Demand Dynamics:
    • Economic Slowdown: The global economic slowdown has had mixed effects on demand for pork products. While overall consumer spending and industrial activity may be impacted, specific demand patterns for pork can fluctuate​ (Barchart.com)​​ (Nasdaq)​.
    • Substitution Effects: Rising prices of alternative meats have led some consumers to switch from other meats to pork, increasing demand for lean hogs​ (Barchart.com)​.
  • Market Sentiment:
    • Speculative Activities: Speculative trading activities have played a significant role in the recent volatility. Traders reacting to short-term news and market developments have influenced price movements​ (Barchart.com)​​ (Nasdaq)​.

This Week's Price Increase Within the Current Market Conditions:

This week's 4.13% increase in lean hogs prices highlights the significant volatility and uncertainty in the market. The primary drivers for this week's sharp move include:

  • Supply Concerns:
    • Stable Production: Continued high production levels in key pork-producing regions have ensured a stable supply, which supports consistent market prices.
    • Seasonal Demand Variations: As market conditions change seasonally, demand for pork products can fluctuate, influencing price movements.
  • Export Demand:
    • Economic Conditions: The global economic landscape affects export demand, with major importing countries adjusting their purchases based on their own economic challenges and sufficient stockpiles​ (Barchart.com)​.
  • Market Sentiment:
    • Speculative Trading: Market sentiment and speculative trading activities have likely played a role in the price increase, with traders reacting to supply and demand dynamics in the short term.

Reception by Trend Followers:

  • Assessment of Trend Direction:
    • Despite this week's rise, it is likely too early to determine if this marks the beginning of a protracted bullish trend. Trend followers need to monitor the market closely for clear indications of sustained upward movement.
  • Strategic Adjustments:
    • Trend followers are likely watching this asset from the sidelines, waiting for more definitive signals before taking action. The current increase is seen as a potential signal of a new bullish trend but requires further confirmation before committing to strategic adjustments.
Source: Finwiz.com

Russell 2000 Increases by 3.35%

The Russell 2000 index rose by 3.35% this week, bolstering the overall long trend that has been in place since the low of November 2023. This upward movement is likely attracting medium to long-term trend followers to go long on the index, as they seek to capitalize on the continued positive momentum.

Reasons for the Long-Term Bullish Trend:

  • Economic Recovery:
    • Improved Economic Indicators: Positive economic data and improved corporate earnings have supported the overall bullish trend in the Russell 2000 since November 2023. The recovery from economic downturns has bolstered investor confidence in smaller companies that the index represents.
    • Stimulus Measures: Ongoing government stimulus measures and monetary policies aimed at sustaining economic growth have contributed to the bullish sentiment.
  • Market Sentiment:
    • Investor Confidence: Increased investor confidence in the prospects of small-cap companies has driven sustained interest in the Russell 2000. This confidence is often reflected in higher trading volumes and price gains.
    • Speculative Activities: Speculative trading activities have also played a role in driving prices higher as traders look to capitalize on the positive momentum.
  • Sector Rotation:
    • Shift from Large-Caps to Small-Caps: There has been a noticeable shift from large-cap stocks to small-cap stocks, as investors seek higher growth potential. This rotation has provided additional support for the Russell 2000's bullish trend.

This Week's Price Increase Within the Current Trend:

This week's 3.35% increase in the Russell 2000 further supports the ongoing long-term bullish trend. The primary drivers for this week's upmove include:

  • Positive Economic Data:
    • Strong Earnings Reports: Better-than-expected earnings reports from several small-cap companies have boosted investor confidence, leading to increased buying activity.
    • Macroeconomic Indicators: Favorable macroeconomic indicators, such as low unemployment rates and increased consumer spending, have contributed to the positive sentiment.
  • Market Dynamics:
    • Sector Performance: Strong performance in key sectors within the Russell 2000, such as technology and healthcare, has driven the index higher.
    • Technical Factors: The index has breached significant resistance levels, encouraging technical traders to join the bullish trend.
  • Global Market Conditions:
    • Stability in Global Markets: Stability in global markets and reduced geopolitical tensions have also supported the overall upward movement of the index.

Reception by Trend Followers

Trend followers may adjust their strategies to increase their long positions in response to the continued positive trend. The current increase is viewed as a continuation of the broader upward movement, prompting strategic adjustments to maximize potential gains.

Impact on Long Positions:

Trend followers who have been long on the Russell 2000 since the bullish trend began would see this week's increase as a reinforcement of their positions. The up move supports their long trades and offers further opportunities to capitalize on the positive momentum.

Assessment of Trend Direction:

This week's rise aligns with the ongoing bullish trend, providing clear indications of sustained upward movement. Trend followers are likely to continue monitoring the market for further confirmation of the trend's strength.

Strategic Adjustments:

Trend followers may adjust their strategies to increase their long positions in response to the continued positive trend. The current increase is viewed as a continuation of the broader upward movement, prompting strategic adjustments to maximize potential gains.

Source: Finwiz.com

What’s Moving Down

Natural Gas Declines by 5.86%

Natural gas prices declined by 5.86% this week, reflecting a sharp short move that aligns with the ongoing protracted congestion phase observed since February 2023. This decline is likely viewed by many trend followers as a mean-reverting oscillation rather than a clear directional trend, prompting them to sit on the sidelines and watch for a potential breakout from this long-term congestion range.

Reasons for the Protracted Congestion Phase:

  • Supply Factors:
    • High Production Levels: Major natural gas-producing regions, including the United States and Russia, have maintained high production levels, contributing to a stable supply. Technological advancements in extraction, such as hydraulic fracturing, have also increased output​ (Barchart.com)​.
    • Inventory Build-Up: The mild winter season in the northern hemisphere led to lower-than-expected consumption, resulting in higher storage levels and preventing significant price increases​ (Barchart.com)​.
  • Demand Factors:
    • Economic Slowdown: The global economic slowdown has led to reduced industrial activity and lower energy consumption. This uncertainty has kept demand for natural gas relatively stable but not strong enough to drive a clear trend​ (Barchart.com)​.
    • Transition to Renewables: The ongoing shift towards renewable energy sources has decreased the demand for fossil fuels, including natural gas​ (Barchart.com)​.
  • Market Sentiment:
    • Speculative Activities: Speculative trading has contributed to the congestion phase, with traders reacting to short-term news and market developments without driving a sustained trend​ (Barchart.com)​.

This Week's Price Decline Within the Current Market Conditions:

This week's 5.86% decline in natural gas prices is a notable move within the existing congestion phase. The primary drivers for this week's sharp move include:

  • Supply Surplus:
    • Continued High Production: Ongoing high production levels in key natural gas-producing regions have ensured a stable supply, exerting downward pressure on prices.
    • Lower Seasonal Demand: As the summer season progresses, demand for natural gas typically decreases, contributing to the price decline.
  • Weak Export Demand:
    • Economic Slowdown: The global economic slowdown has affected export demand, with major importing countries reducing their purchases due to sufficient stockpiles and economic challenges.
  • Market Sentiment:
    • Speculative Trading: Market sentiment and speculative trading activities have likely played a role in the price decline, with traders reacting to short-term supply and demand dynamics.

Reception by Trend Followers

  • Assessment of Trend Direction:
    • Despite this week's decline, it is likely too early to determine if this marks the beginning of a new trend. Trend followers need to monitor the market closely for clear indications of a sustained movement that breaks out of the current congestion phase.
  • Strategic Adjustments:
    • Trend followers are likely sitting on the sidelines, watching for a definitive breakout from the long-term congestion range. The current decline is viewed as a potential mean-reverting oscillation rather than a clear trend signal, requiring careful monitoring before making strategic adjustments.
Source: Finwiz.com

Soybean Oil Declines by 5.78%

Soybean oil prices declined by 5.78% this week, continuing to support the longer-term bearish trend. This downward movement reinforces the existing negative sentiment surrounding soybean oil, driven by several key factors that have been influencing the market for an extended period.

Reasons for the Long-Term Bearish Trend:

  • Increased Global Supply:
    • High Production Levels: Major soybean oil-producing countries, including the United States, Brazil, and Argentina, have reported high production levels, contributing to an oversupply in the market​ (Barchart.com)​ .
    • Inventory Build-Up: The increased production has led to higher inventory levels, exerting downward pressure on prices .
  • Weaker Demand:
    • Economic Slowdown: The global economic slowdown has reduced demand for soybean oil. Lower consumer spending and reduced industrial activity have impacted the market​ (Barchart.com)​ .
    • Substitution Effects: The rise in prices of alternative oils has led some consumers and industries to switch from soybean oil to other options, decreasing demand​ (Barchart.com)​.
  • Market Sentiment:
    • Speculative Activities: Speculative trading activities have also played a role in the downtrend. Traders betting on continued high yields and oversupply have kept prices suppressed​ (Barchart.com)​ .

This Week's Price Decline Within the Current Market Conditions:

This week's 5.78% decline in soybean oil prices is a significant move within the broader bearish trend. The primary drivers for this week's sharp decline include:

  • Supply Concerns:
    • Continued High Production: Ongoing high production levels in key soybean oil-producing regions have ensured a stable supply, exerting downward pressure on prices.
    • Lower Seasonal Demand: As market conditions fluctuate, the demand for soybean oil can decrease seasonally, contributing to the price decline.
  • Weak Export Demand:
    • Economic Slowdown: The global economic slowdown has affected export demand, with major importing countries reducing their purchases due to sufficient stockpiles and economic challenges​ (Barchart.com)​.
  • Market Sentiment:
    • Speculative Trading: Market sentiment and speculative trading activities have likely played a role in the price decline, with traders reacting to short-term supply and demand dynamics.

Reception by Trend Followers

  • Impact on Short Positions:
    • Trend followers who have been short on soybean oil would see this week's decline as a positive reinforcement of their positions. The downmove supports their short trades and offers further opportunities to capitalize on the bearish trend.
  • Assessment of Trend Direction:
    • This week's decline aligns with the ongoing bearish trend, providing clear indications of sustained downward movement. Trend followers are likely to continue monitoring the market for further confirmation of the trend's strength.
  • Strategic Adjustments:
    • Trend followers may adjust their strategies to increase their short positions in response to the continued negative trend. The current decline is viewed as a continuation of the broader downward movement, prompting strategic adjustments to maximize potential gains.
Source: Finwiz.com

Silver Declines by 4.19%

Silver prices declined by 4.19% this week, signalling a potential end to the bullish trend that has been observed since September 2022. This downward movement has likely been unwelcome news for trend followers, who may have been positioned long based on the previous positive momentum.

Reasons for the Recent Volatility:

  • Economic Indicators:
    • Improved Economic Data: Positive economic indicators and stronger-than-expected economic performance in major economies have reduced the safe-haven appeal of silver, contributing to the price decline​ (Barchart.com)​​ (Nasdaq)​.
    • Interest Rate Expectations: Speculation about potential interest rate hikes by central banks has also impacted market sentiment, making precious metals like silver less attractive as interest-bearing assets become more appealing​ (Barchart.com)​.
  • Market Sentiment:
    • Speculative Activities: Speculative trading activities have contributed to the recent volatility in silver prices. Traders reacting to short-term market developments have influenced price movements​ (Barchart.com)​​ (Nasdaq)​.
    • Profit-Taking: After a prolonged bullish phase, some investors may be taking profits, leading to downward pressure on prices.
  • Supply and Demand Dynamics:
    • Industrial Demand: While silver is widely used in industrial applications, fluctuations in industrial demand can impact prices. Changes in manufacturing activity and demand for electronics can influence market dynamics​ (Barchart.com)​.
    • Investment Demand: The demand for silver as an investment vehicle can also be volatile, influenced by broader market trends and economic conditions.

This Week's Price Decline Within the Current Market Conditions:

This week's 4.19% decline in silver prices is a significant move that may signal the end of the bullish trend observed since September 2022. The primary drivers for this week's decline include:

  • Economic Data Reactions:
    • Strong Economic Indicators: Better-than-expected economic data from major economies have reduced the appeal of safe-haven assets like silver, contributing to the price decline.
    • Interest Rate Speculation: Expectations of potential interest rate hikes have influenced market sentiment, leading to a shift away from precious metals.
  • Market Dynamics:
    • Profit-Taking: Investors taking profits after the prolonged bullish phase have added downward pressure on prices.
    • Speculative Trading: Short-term speculative trading activities have also played a role in the price decline, with traders reacting to immediate market developments.

Reception by Trend Followers

  • Impact on Long Positions:
    • Trend followers who have been long on silver since the bullish trend began would see this week's decline as a significant setback. The down move takes the shine off their long positions and raises concerns about the sustainability of the bullish trend.
  • Assessment of Trend Direction:
    • This week's decline suggests a potential shift in trend direction, indicating that the bullish trend since September 2022 may be coming to an end. Trend followers need to monitor the market closely for clear indications of sustained downward movement.
  • Strategic Adjustments:
    • Trend followers may need to reassess their positions and remain vigilant for any signs of sustained movement that could alter the trend dynamics. The current decline is viewed as a potential signal of a trend reversal, requiring careful strategic adjustments to navigate potential shifts in the market effectively.
Source: Finwiz.com

Oats Decline by 4.08%

Oats prices declined by 4.08% this week, continuing to fluctuate within a protracted congestion range that has persisted since September 2022. Despite the weekly decline, there is no significant change to the overall position. Trend followers are likely watching from the sidelines, waiting for signs of a breakout before committing to any positions.

Reasons for the Protracted Congestion Phase:

  • Supply Factors:
    • Stable Production Levels: Oats production in key growing regions has remained stable, contributing to consistent supply in the market. Favorable weather conditions and steady agricultural practices have supported this stability.
    • Inventory Levels: Adequate inventory levels have helped maintain a balance between supply and demand, preventing significant price movements​ (Barchart.com)​.
  • Demand Dynamics:
    • Economic Conditions: The global economic slowdown has resulted in stable but subdued demand for oats. Lower consumer spending and reduced industrial activity have impacted overall market dynamics​ (Barchart.com)​.
    • Consumer Preferences: While oats remain a staple in many diets, changes in consumer preferences and the availability of alternative grains have kept demand growth modest.
  • Market Sentiment:
    • Speculative Activities: Speculative trading in oats has been limited, with traders reacting to broader market trends rather than driving significant price movements within the oats market specifically​ (Barchart.com)​.

This Week's Price Decline Within the Current Market Conditions:

This week's 4.08% decline in oats prices fits within the long-standing congestion range that has characterized the market since September 2022. The primary drivers for this week's move include:

  • Supply and Demand Balance:
    • Stable Supply: Ongoing stable production and inventory levels have contributed to the price decline, as there is no significant shortage or surplus to drive a breakout.
    • Seasonal Demand Variations: As with many agricultural commodities, seasonal factors can influence short-term demand, contributing to weekly fluctuations without altering the longer-term congestion range.
  • Market Dynamics:
    • Limited Speculative Interest: The lack of strong speculative interest has kept oats prices within the congestion range, with traders waiting for clearer signals before making substantial moves.

Reception by Trend Followers

  • Assessment of Trend Direction:
    • Despite this week's decline, the long-term congestion range remains intact. Trend followers are likely to view the current price movement as part of the ongoing sideways trading pattern rather than a signal of a new trend direction.
  • Strategic Adjustments:
    • Trend followers are unlikely to participate in the current move, opting instead to watch and wait for signs of a breakout from the congestion range. The current environment requires patience, with trend followers prepared to act once a clear directional trend emerges.
Source: Finwiz.com

Cotton Declines by 3.75%

Cotton prices declined by 3.75% this week, reinforcing the overall bearish sentiment that has prevailed since its recent peak in March 2024. This week's downward movement is likely attracting trend followers to jump on board the short ride, as it aligns with the ongoing negative trend.

Reasons for the Long-Term Bearish Trend:

  • Increased Global Supply:
    • High Production Levels: Major cotton-producing countries, including the United States, India, and China, have reported high production levels, contributing to an oversupply in the market​ (Barchart.com)​​ (Nasdaq)​.
    • Inventory Build-Up: The increased production has led to higher inventory levels, exerting downward pressure on prices​ (Barchart.com)​.
  • Weaker Demand:
    • Economic Slowdown: The global economic slowdown has reduced demand for cotton. Lower consumer spending and reduced industrial activity have impacted the market​ (Barchart.com)​.
    • Substitution Effects: The rise in prices of alternative fibers has led some consumers and industries to switch from cotton to other options, decreasing demand​ (Barchart.com)​.
  • Market Sentiment:
    • Speculative Activities: Speculative trading activities have also played a role in the downtrend. Traders betting on continued high yields and oversupply have kept prices suppressed​ (Barchart.com)​.

This Week's Price Decline Within the Current Market Conditions:

This week's 3.75% decline in cotton prices supports the broader bearish trend observed since March 2024. The primary drivers for this week's sharp decline include:

  • Supply Concerns:
    • Continued High Production: Ongoing high production levels in key cotton-producing regions have ensured a stable supply, exerting downward pressure on prices.
    • Inventory Levels: The persistent high inventory levels continue to weigh on market prices.
  • Demand Dynamics:
    • Weak Consumer Demand: The global economic conditions have led to reduced consumer demand for cotton products, influencing the downward price movement.
    • Industrial Activity: Reduced industrial activity and demand for textiles have also contributed to the price decline.
  • Market Sentiment:
    • Speculative Trading: Market sentiment and speculative trading activities have likely played a role in the price decline, with traders reacting to short-term supply and demand dynamics.

Reception by Trend Followers

  • Impact on Short Positions:
    • Trend followers who have been short on cotton since the bearish trend began would see this week's decline as a reinforcement of their positions. The down move supports their short trades and offers further opportunities to capitalize on the negative trend.
  • Assessment of Trend Direction:
    • This week's decline aligns with the ongoing bearish trend, providing clear indications of sustained downward movement. Trend followers are likely to continue monitoring the market for further confirmation of the trend's strength.
  • Strategic Adjustments:
    • Trend followers may adjust their strategies to increase their short positions in response to the continued negative trend. The current decline is viewed as a continuation of the broader downward movement, prompting strategic adjustments to maximize potential gains.
Source: Finwiz.com

Conclusion

This week in trend has been defined by continued volatility and diverse movements across various asset classes. The Trend Barometer showed a slight improvement to 36, yet it still reflects moderately weak conditions for trend followers. The SG Trend Index faced a significant decline, dropping -3.36% MTD from last week’s 0.28% gain, underscoring a challenging environment for trend-following strategies.

Key Highlights:

  • Volatility Index: The VIX saw a modest increase of 1.15%, indicating ongoing market uncertainty. This rise in the "fear gauge" points to a volatile landscape where trend followers must remain agile and responsive.
  • Commodities Mixed Performance: Rough rice surged by 6.92%, and soybean meal increased by 5.12%, presenting opportunities for reassessment amid volatility. Conversely, energy and metals sectors faced declines, with natural gas and soybean oil dropping 5.86% and 5.78%, respectively, highlighting the continued challenges in these markets.
  • Agricultural Commodities: Cocoa and lean hogs increased by 4.72% and 4.13%, respectively, reflecting the sector's dynamic nature. These movements suggest potential bullish opportunities, albeit within a context of significant market fluctuations.
  • Equity Indexes: The Russell 2000 rose by 3.35%, continuing its long-term bullish trend since November 2023. This positive movement offers a bright spot for trend followers positioned long, providing a counterbalance to declines in other sectors.
  • Precious Metals: Silver declined by 4.19%, signalling a potential end to its bullish trend. This drop may prompt trend followers to re-evaluate positions and prepare for a possible downward shift.

Strategic Implications for Trend Followers:

The week’s increased volatility poses initial challenges as strategies adapt to new market conditions. However, such an environment often leads to significant opportunities as trends emerge from heightened activity. Vigilance and adaptability remain crucial for navigating these turbulent times.

The varied performance across asset classes underscores the importance of diversification and continuous monitoring of market signals. While assets like rough rice and soybean meal show temporary uptrends, the overall bearish trends in energy and metals continue to present profitable short positions. Conversely, the sustained bullish trend in the Russell 2000 provides opportunities for long positions.

As we move forward, the interplay of economic data, central bank policies, and geopolitical events will continue to shape market dynamics. Trend followers must remain agile, ready to capitalize on new trends as they develop. The current environment emphasizes the need for a robust risk management framework to navigate potential ups and downs effectively.

Join us next week for another edition of "This Week in Trend," where we will continue to explore the dynamic world of futures trading and provide insights to help you navigate these markets with confidence. In this ever-changing landscape, a strategic mindset and adaptability will be your best allies. Thank you for joining us, and we look forward to another exciting week in the futures markets!

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List of Resources used in the Week in Review

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