Exports’ share in GDP at record territory, how would firmer $ affect that?

Amidst relentless rally, excessively bullish dollar sentiment R between U.S. exports and dollar weak, but continual strength can hurt exports Previously, recession has tagged along with persistent drop in ‘share of U.S. exports in nominal GDP’ Since it bottomed early … Continued

Non commercials net long VIX futures first time in three years — what implications?

posted in: Derivatives, Equities, Technicals | 0

Spot VIX has had topsy-turvy ride this month First time in three years, hedge funds went net long VIX futures last week On three other occasions past five years, this preceded lower VIX in outer weeks/months The VIX has done … Continued

Gold probably wants to go lower near-term

posted in: Currency, Derivatives, Technicals | 0

James Bullard’s recent dovish comments fail to ignite interest in gold Possibility of triple-bottom reversal, but needs confirmation With recent thrust waning, near-term bias is down Since its peak in September 2011 at $1,924/ounce, gold has been trapped in a … Continued

Healthy if greenback tests early-September breakout, probably will

posted in: Currency, Derivatives, Technicals | 0

In wake of early September breakout, U.S. dollar in limbo Too soon to say if breakout is reversal or continuation of prior downward trend Sentiment too bullish, reflected in large speculators’ futures position, raising odds of mean reversion The U.S. … Continued

Options market waving green flag to stocks, for now

posted in: Derivatives, Equities, Technicals | 0

Options market at levels consistent with bottom in stocks, at least near-term Signal in midst of several other grossly oversold technical indicators Tone of rally to decide if it is investable or tradable bottom Extreme readings in the options market … Continued

Bulls on back foot, bears have spring in step

posted in: Derivatives, Equities, Technicals | 0

200-day moving average perceived by many as demarcation line between bull and bear market VIX surges past 17-18 and nears two-year-plus 21-22 resistance, but yet to retreat (Re) action at/near previous breakdown points to decide who wins out Defensive sectors … Continued

Gold sitting on must-hold support

In 12 years ended September 2011, gold surged nearly eight times Momentum reversed and was never recouped even though QE3 was launched late ‘12 Sitting on crucial support; lot depends on if U.S. $ takes break from 12-wk, eight-percent-plus rally … Continued