Bullish Hidden Divergence Signals Rally Toward 6,950 ResistanceThe S&P 500 E-mini is showing a bullish hidden divergence on the MACD indicator, suggesting strong underlying momentum despite recent pullbacks. Price has bounced from key support near 6,538 and is targeting the major resistance level at 6,953. Watch for confirmation of this move as it could mark the continuation of the uptrend and a potential breakout to new highs.
S&P 500 E-mini Futures
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Market insights
ES - November 25th - Daily Trade PlanNovember 25th- Daily Trade Plan - 8:25am
*Before reading this trade plan, if you did not read yesterday's take the time to read it first! (You can view the posts in the related publication section) *
If my posts provide quality information that has helped you with your trading journey. Feel free to boost it for others to find and learn, also!
My daily trade plan and real-time notes that I post are intended for myself to easily be able to go back and review my plan and how I did from an execution perspective.
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As many of you know that when we have a big sell off like we did last week, we squeeze higher and usually will back test the area we broke down from. When this happens, we will have 2-3 days where price will not flush the previous day's low and you have to find opportunities in other levels to grab some points.
When we are in a tight range, we can usually find a flush and reclaim of the 9:30-9:45am low can be another good place to look to enter. This could be something like flush below 6715 to 6706-11 and then reclaim the session opening low. (This is not how I typically look for points, but it is a good way when we are in a tight range and have limited setups.)
The overnight high is 6732 and Overnight low is 6701.
Key Levels Today
1. 6732 reclaim (Back test of this level should give us a move to 6755)
2. 6701 flush and reclaim
3. 6669 - flush and reclaim
4. 6623 - flush and reclaim
Below there and I would be patient and wait to see what price does at the levels below.
I will post an update around 10am EST
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Couple of things about how I color code my levels.
1. Purple shows the weekly Low
2. Red shows the current overnight session High/Low (time of post)
3. Blue shows the previous day's session Low (also other previous day's lows)
5. White Levels are previous day's session High/Low
Uptrend Started After Liberation Day - All Has Broken BelowThe US markets have been described as “on a rally” for quite some time. I would not agree if it is meant to describe the overall US market, but would agree if it refers specifically to AI or tech stocks. Why?
Among the four major US indices, the Russell—representing a much broader base of US-listed companies—continues to struggle to break above its high from last year, even though the others have far surpassed it. In fact, it has since corrected by 9.5% since its all-time high just last month.
After that, the other indices are also following suit only in the past few days, breaking below this uptrend that started in April.
Russell has taken the lead and has broken below this trend in late October.
The earliest clue came from the Russell Index, where many suppliers of the Magnificent 7 companies are also part of Russell 2000 components. When the Russell—or smaller-cap companies—starts to weaken, it often reflects broader market pressures that may eventually spill over to the rest of the indices or vice versa.
Video version on the process of how I monitor the four indices and then narrow it down to the individual index.
Micro E-mini Russell 2000 Index
Ticker: M2K
Minimum fluctuation:
0.10 index points = $0.50
Disclaimer:
• What presented here is not a recommendation, please consult your licensed broker.
• Our mission is to create lateral thinking skills for every investor and trader, knowing when to take a calculated risk with market uncertainty and a bolder risk when opportunity arises.
CME Real-time Market Data help identify trading set-ups in real-time and express my market views. If you have futures in your trading portfolio, you can check out on CME Group data plans available that suit your trading needs www.tradingview.com
The Magnificent Seven - A Great Victory with High CasualtyCME: Micro E-Mini S&P 500 ( CME_MINI:MES1! )
The “Magnificent Seven” are the darlings in the U.S. stock market. The seven High-Tech stocks, including Nvidia NASDAQ:NVDA , Apple NASDAQ:AAPL , Tesla NASDAQ:TSLA , Microsoft NASDAQ:MSFT , Google NASDAQ:GOOGL , Meta NASDAQ:META and Amazon NASDAQ:AMZN , are up roughly 21% year-to-date as a group. Together they represent 34-37% of the market capitalization of the entire S&P 500 index.
Meanwhile, the remaining 493 companies in the S&P 500 returned just 12% YTD. Altogether, the S&P 500 index has a YTD return of 13.5% as of November 24th.
During the stock market bull run driven by A.I., a high concentration of the “Mag 7” could generate better returns. An investor could buy the MAGS Magnificent Seven ETF, which invests 100% in the “Mag 7” only. MAGS has a YTD return of 21.0%. A more aggressive investor could play his bet in Direxion Daily Magnificent 7 Bull 2X Shares ETF. This fund aims to replicate twice the return of the “Mag 7” and yield 29.0% YTD.
Minding the Risk of Mag 7 Casualty
The nickname “Magnificent Seven” came from the 1960 American Western. In the plot, a gang of bandits periodically raids a poor Mexican village for food and supplies. The farmers turn to gunslinger Chris Adams for help. Chris assembles a group of seven warriors to fight the gang. They eventually defeat the bandits and save the village.
The Magnificent Seven is my favorite Western movie. The gun fight led by Yul Brynner and Steve McQueen is legendary. And the Oscar-winning theme song is still playing in many grand ceremonies these days.
The analyst who coined the term for the stocks may also be a big fan of the movie. However, he only saw the great victory but overlooked its heavy toll. Four out of the seven warriors perished in the final fight.
A question for today: Could all seven stocks be winners to the end?
In past technological breakthroughs, many big players did not survive, even if they were market leaders at some point and technology did prevail eventually:
• In the Railway boom of the mid-1900s, thousands of railroad companies were formed. At least 300 were listed in the New York Stock Exchange. And 99% of them went bankrupt once the industry consolidated.
• In the automobile boom of the early 1920s, over 600 car makers were founded, and only 30 of them were still operational by the 1930s. And the eventual victors were the Big Three in Detroit.
• In the Internet boom of the 1990s, thousands of startups popped up. And 80% went bankrupt when the dotcom bubble burst in 2000.
• Since Tesla was founded in 2003, over 100 electric vehicle companies were founded. Dozens already folded after burning through cash and not generating sales.
We are seeing the same pattern repeating in renewable energy (solar and wind), computer chips, and now in A.I. startups too. Taken from historical lessons, investing in individual stocks in any transformational new technology sector is highly risky. The leading man could be sidelined as soon as a newer version of the technology comes through.
I have no doubt that A.I. is our future. I just don’t know which of the Mag 7 will survive to the end to collect their $20 payout from the Mexican farmers.
Investing in Micro E-Mini S&P 500 Futures
If an investor is bullish on A.I. but mindful of the single-stock risk exposure, he could explore the CME Micro E-Mini S&P 500 Futures.
The MES contracts offer smaller-sized versions of CME Group’s benchmark S&P 500 futures (ES) contracts. Micro futures have a contract size of $5 times the S&P 500 index, which is 1/10th of the E-Mini contract.
Micro contracts are very liquid. CME Group data shows that 2,349,680 contracts were traded last Friday, November 21st. Open Interest at the end of the day was 298,556.
Buying or selling 1 MES contract requires an initial margin of $2,262. With Monday closing price of 6,677.75, each March 2026 contract (MESH6) has a notional value of $33,388.75 (= 6677.75 x 5). Compared with investing in stocks, the futures contracts offer a built-in leverage of about 14.8 times (=33388.75/2262).
Hypothetically, if S&P futures price rises 10% to 7,012, the price gain of 668 points will translate into $3,340 (= 668*5) in profit for a long position, given each index point equal to $5 for the Micro contract. Using the initial margin of $2,262 as a cost base, the trade would produce a theoretical return of 147% (=3340/2262).
The risk to long Micro S&P is that the US stock market correction continues to deepen. To limit the downside risk, a trader could set up a stop-loss when entering a long position.
For illustration, a trade executed a long trade at 6,680 could be combined with a 6,300 stop. If the S&P falls to 6,000, the trader’s position will be liquidated well before that. The maximum loss would be $1,900 (= (6680-6300) * $5).
Happy trading.
Disclaimers
*Trade ideas cited above are for illustration only, as an integral part of a case study to demonstrate the fundamental concepts in risk management under the market scenarios being discussed. They shall not be construed as investment recommendations or advice. Nor are they used to promote any specific products, or services.
CME Real-time Market Data help identify trading set-ups and express my market views. If you have futures in your trading portfolio, you can check out on CME Group data plans available that suit your trading needs www.tradingview.com
Attitude adjustmentThe S&P 500 daily chart reflects an attitude adjustment in the S&P 500. Two days ago it was concerned that the Fed would not lower interest rates but there were signs of this attitude changing as buyer started to return to the market on Friday and follow through on Monday. The big issue is can these buyers maintain this upward pressure. Tuesday can provide us with information about the rest of the week.
ES (SPX, SPY) Analysis, Levels, Setups for Tue (Nov 25th)Market Outlook: Analyzing Technical Trends and Economic Indicators
The recent rebound from the 6520–6450 support zone has generated a constructive short-term outlook. However, the market now approaches a significant supply area in the 6800 range. While the immediate trend appears to favor modest gains, contingent upon maintaining support between 6660 and 6645, a pivotal decision zone resides between 6765 and 6815. A strong acceptance above this band could trigger an upward movement towards 6855–6930, while failure to hold could lead to a corrective phase targeting 6690, 6625, and potentially 6550.
Upcoming Economic Data: November 25
The week ahead is marked by a wealth of economic data expected to impact trading activity, particularly in the U.S. housing market and consumer sentiment. Key reports scheduled for Tuesday morning include the S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Index for September, the Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index for November, Pending Home Sales for October, and the Richmond Fed Manufacturing Index. These releases, set for the 9:00–10:00 ET window, could introduce volatility into the markets.
Recent trends in consumer confidence have suggested a dampened sentiment due to the prolonged government shutdown and slow job growth. A disappointing report could perpetuate discussions of recession and further Fed interest rate cuts, while an unexpected improvement would likely support the current risk-on sentiment.
On the corporate front, pre-market earnings from major players like Analog Devices, Alibaba, Best Buy, Dick’s Sporting Goods, J.M. Smucker, and NIO could further influence market dynamics in the early hours, especially if there are surprises in their guidance.
Technical Analysis: Higher-Timeframe Perspective
From a higher-timeframe standpoint, the daily chart reflects a completed down-swing exiting the prior weak high around 6930, retracting to the extension zone between 6525 and 6455 where buyers have demonstrated strong interest. This low now appears as a "strong low" in technical analysis terms, aligning with higher timeframe discount levels and previous demand signals. Oscillators indicate a shift from oversold conditions, currently suggesting a corrective rally rather than an immediate resumption of a downward trend.
However, trading remains constrained within a 4-hour supply band between approximately 6765 and 6815. This range is characterized by the last notable lower high and previous sell-side momentum that precipitated the significant drop to 6520. Unless price breaches the 6815 threshold, the overall swing structure continues to reflect a "lower-high" scenario, which necessitates caution for any bullish positions as they occur within a broader corrective framework.
Intraday Trading Dynamics: Expectations for the Day
Analyzing the intraday structure on the 1-hour and 30-minute charts reveals that Monday’s trading culminated in a robust upward trend from the London low of 6625 to the New York AM low of 6646, concluding with a consolidation phase just beneath the Asia session high at 6724. The cluster of highs around 6715–6725 precisely correlates with an intraday equilibrium line situated just below the upper edge of the 4-hour supply band.
Volume data indicates strong buying activity emerging from the base established at 6520–6625, tapering off as prices approached the 6715–6725 range. Further insights from the 1-hour oscillator hint at a cooling in momentum, suggesting that initial price reactions may favor mean reversion rather than an unimpeded breakout.
Looking ahead into the New York trading hours:
- Asia Session: Anticipate a trading range likely between 6700 and 6730, with potential stop raids above 6725 and minor retracements towards 6685.
- London Session: If buyers can sustain the 6685–6660 level during potential pullbacks, this could establish a foundation for another attempt at reaching the 6765–6815 supply zone during the New York data release.
- New York Open: Provided that the 6660–6645 area holds during 15-minute closes, the baseline scenario suggests a rotation into the 6765–6815 decision band between late London and early New York. A significant rejection in this zone, characterized by long upper wicks and unsuccessful 15-minute closes above 6815, would favor a pullback towards 6690–6710 by day’s end. Conversely, clear acceptance above 6815 on robust volume would pave the way for targets at 6855 and potentially back to 6930.
Key zones
Resistance zones:
R1: 6724–6735 – Asia session high and intraday shelf, currently capping price.
R2: 6765–6815 – 4h supply block and 1.272 extension on the recent down-swing; prior 4h lower-high origin; this is the primary A++ short zone.
R3: 6855–6930 – Overhead daily supply with the prior weak high; if reached, expect heavy responsive selling on first touch.
Support zones:
S1: 6685–6660 – Intraday demand from the late-day push; includes London high at 6669.5 and prior structure; key pivot for the bullish case.
S2: 6645–6625 – NY AM low and London session low; first real downside objective if S1 fails.
S3: 6550–6525 – “Strong low” zone around the 1.272 extension; if this breaks on a closing basis the entire rebound thesis is likely wrong and the door opens toward the 1.618 around 6455 and even 6375.
A++ Setup 1 – Short fade from 6765–6815 (Tier-1 rejection play)
Entry zone: 6780–6805, leaning as close to 6800 as price action allows after the spike and stall.
Invalidation / hard stop: 6827, above the 4h supply high and the 1.272 line; if price can close above there, the rejection idea is wrong.
Targets and management:
TP1: 6710–6690 (retest of intraday equilibrium and prior 30m shelf). That gives roughly 2R from a 6785–6800 entry with a 20–25 point stop.
TP2: 6645–6625 (London and NY AM lows cluster). This is where you want the bulk of the remaining size off if sellers stay in control.
TP3: 6550–6525 (strong low zone) only if macro tape turns risk-off; treat this as a runner target, not baseline.
A++ Setup 2 – Long continuation from 6660–6680 (Tier-1 acceptance play)
Entry zone: 6670–6680 after the sweep and reclaim; avoid catching the first knife if momentum is still heavy.
Invalidation / hard stop: 6643, below the combined London low band; a 15m close below 6645 means the demand shelf failed.
Initial risk: roughly 30–37 points depending on fill.
Targets and management:
TP1: 6724–6735 (Asia high / intraday range top). From a 6675 entry with a 30-point stop this is just over 1.5R; to keep the setup A++, bias toward entries closer to 6670 or take partials slightly higher, around 6740, where 2R is reached.
TP2: 6765–6815 (4h supply band). This is where you expect strong counter-flow; plan to remove most of the remaining size here.
TP3: 6855–6930 only if price slices through 6815 on strong volume and macro data support risk-on; in that case trail under 1h higher lows rather than using static targets.
Day 75 — 3/3 Win Rate on 4 Hours of SleepEnded the day +$234.68 trading S&P Futures. Running on just 4 hours of sleep, I knew I wasn’t operating at 100% this morning. The market open was showing mixed signals, and given how wild the action has been lately, I decided the smartest move was to sit on my hands. I waited until later in the session when things slowed down, found my spots, and sniped a few setups. I ended up going 3/3 on my trades and decided to walk away green before the fatigue set in and the market took it back.
🔑 Key Levels for Tomorrow
Above 6720 = Bullish Below 6705 = Bearish
📰 News Highlights
*FED’S WALLER SUPPORTS DECEMBER RATE CUT, FED CHAIR TALKS
ES - Week 48 15min timeframeT.A explained -
BackSide (BS)
FrontSide (FS)
Inverse BS (Inv.BS)
Inverse FS (Inv.FS)
BS & FS levels are expected support when dashed lines, tested when dotted and resistance when solid lines.
The inverse is true for the Inv. BS Inv. FS levels, they are resistance as dashed lines, tested as dotted and support as solid lines.
Monthly timeframe is color pink
weekly grey
daily is red
4hr is orange
1hr is yellow
15min is blue
5min is green if they are shown.
strength favors the higher timeframe.
2x dotted levels are origin levels where trends have or will originate. When trends break, price will target the origin of the trend. its math, when the trend breaks, the vertex breaks too so the higher timeframe level/trend that breaks, the more volatility there could be as strength in the orders flow in to fuel the move.
S&P500: Poised for Further Pullback The S&P 500 futures are currently trading just above support at 6,540 points, but are expected to see a temporary pullback within magenta wave (4). In our primary scenario, we anticipate the sell-off will extend into the green Long Target Zone between 6,163 and 5,912 points. From this area, we expect the start of wave (5), which would complete the magenta five-wave sequence and push the index higher—ideally above resistance at 6,952 points. This move would also mark the final high of the broader blue wave (III). However, if selling pressure intensifies and the Long Target Zone is breached, our alternative scenario will come into play (probability: 31%). In this case, blue wave alt.(III) would already be complete, and the index would enter a significantly deeper correction phase.
/ES1! Analysis towards openingJust purchased Trading View Premium today and I've been playing around some of the features they offered, when I realized looking at the cummulative delta that there is a divergence and passive sellers have been absorving throughout the friday session. I guess when they are done accumulating their short positions there will be another imbalances to a lower floor. Let's see what the gamma says at opening.
ES - November 24th - Daily Trade PlanNovember 24th- Daily Trade Plan - 7:20am
*Before reading this trade plan, if you did not read yesterday's take the time to read it first! (You can view the posts in the related publication section) *
If my posts provide quality information that has helped you with your trading journey. Feel free to boost it for others to find and learn, also!
My daily trade plan and real-time notes that I post are intended for myself to easily be able to go back and review my plan and how I did from an execution perspective.
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Friday's trade plan had 2 excellent setups with the flush of 6540 and reclaim around 10:45am and the back test of the 6594 breakout around 11:45am. That is all that was needed to have a nice day to end the week.
Overnight we gapped at the open and the overnight high was 6669 and overnight low is 6625. We should have a pretty straightforward day with the following key levels.
Key Levels Today
1. 6625 flush and reclaim
2. 6608 flush and reclaim (could go down to 6594 and then recovery)
3. 6540 flush and reclaim
4. 6524 flush and reclaim
5. 6669 reclaim level and back test to move higher
I will post an update around 10am EST
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Couple of things about how I color code my levels.
1. Purple shows the weekly Low
2. Red shows the current overnight session High/Low (time of post)
3. Blue shows the previous day's session Low (also other previous day's lows)
4. Yellow Levels are levels that show support and resistance levels of interest.
5. White Levels are previous day's session High/Low
ES 6763: Heavy-Volume Resistance + FVG Confluence Short SetupPrice is approaching a strong resistance on ES at 6763. This level sits at the start of a heavy-volume zone created during a major selloff, where sellers built short positions and are likely to defend again. A bearish Fair Value Gap aligns with the same level, adding strong confluence. If price pulls back into 6763, the short setup becomes highly attractive.
ES (SPX, SPY) Week Ahead Analysis - (Nov 24th - 28th)Executive Overview
Equity markets, particularly the E-mini S&P 500 (ES), are currently navigating a broader weekly uptrend, yet have entered a phase of short-term correction after encountering resistance around the 6,900 to 7,000 level. Presently, prices hover near 6,660, finding support from a robust pocket in the mid-6,500s.
Recent volatility indices have surged, with the VIX now in the low 20s and the term structure exhibiting a near flat or slight backwardation. Meanwhile, key credit metrics, funding conditions, and spread behaviors remain stable, suggesting that the current market dynamics are more indicative of equity valuation adjustments and positioning realignments rather than a sign of systemic distress.
Looking ahead to the coming week, we anticipate a choppy trading environment characterized by two-sided price movements within a range of 6,520 to 6,780. Intraday strategies are likely to involve selling into strength around resistance levels R1 and R2, while seeking to capitalize on buying opportunities when prices approach support levels S1. Notably, the VIX is expected to remain elevated above its recent teens regime during this period.
A critical point of focus will be the 6,520 to 6,540 support zone. Should this area fail to hold on a daily closing basis, we could see the correction extend toward the 6,420 to 6,450 range, with further downside potential targeting the low-6,300s.
Multi-Timeframe Analysis of Market Structure
Weekly Trend: Premium/Discount
The current market structure remains characterized by higher highs (HH) and higher lows (HL). The last significant upward movement peaked just shy of 7,000, while the ongoing pullback has managed to hold above the previous weekly higher low band, located in the high-5,000s to low-6,000s range. A notable supply zone exists from approximately 6,850 to just above 7,000, identified as a weak high. Below this, a robust demand/value area spans from around 5,850 (at the 1.272 Fibonacci retracement) down to approximately 5,575 (the 2.0 Fibonacci level) from the previous major leg. On this timeframe, the E-mini S&P (ES) is trading at a premium in relation to the substantial 5,800–5,900 weekly value area. However, we have transitioned from momentum-driven expansion to a mean-reverting correction phase.
Daily Trend and Range
Shifting to a daily perspective, the structure has inverted to a short-term downtrend, marked by a lower high established near 6,900, followed by a lower swing low around the 6,520s. Fibonacci retracement levels from the last sell-off align as follows: 1.272 at approximately 6,521, 1.618 at around 6,418, and 2.0 at approximately 6,304. The 6,520s zone is precisely where price action found support. For the upcoming week, the operative daily range can be defined between 6,520–6,540 as the lower band and 6,760–6,780 as the upper band, coinciding with the previous breakdown area and recent four-hour lower high.
Four-Hour Structure
Analyzing the four-hour chart reveals a clear downward impulse from the mid-6,700s lower high to lows in the mid-6,500s, followed by a sharp rebound. A Fibonacci sequence applied to this movement suggests retracement levels of 1.272 at approximately 6,527, 1.618 at around 6,455, and 2.0 at roughly 6,376. These levels coincide with a notable demand block around the 6,520–6,540 range, identified as a "strong low," with additional liquidity found in the 6,450s and 6,370s. The recent upward movement from these lows appears corrective within the broader impulse, indicating a potential lower high is forming under the 6,680–6,700 area. Until price reclaims and maintains this band, the four-hour swing remains in a down-to-sideways trend.
Hourly Context
From an hourly viewpoint, the ES experienced a decline from approximately 6,770 to the mid-6,500s, subsequently establishing a series of higher lows as it grinds upward. Recent hourly activity shows price pressing against an overhead resistance zone located around 6,660–6,670, just beneath the Asia Session high of 6,662.5 and the New York PM high / previous day high at 6,677.5. The volume-weighted average price (VWAP) is situated near 6,609.75, with prior intraday lows clustering between 6,594 and 6,611.75. Intraday, the ES is currently mid-range, confined between support levels at 6,640–6,642 (Asia Session Low) and resistance at 6,662.5–6,677.5 (Asia Session High / New York PM High / Previous Day High / Yearly Value Area High).
Weekly and Daily Oscillators / Momentum
The weekly oscillator has retracted from overbought conditions but remains elevated, signifying a cool-off within a strong uptrend. Conversely, the daily oscillator is currently oversold and beginning to reverse, showing readings in the mid-20s with the first uptick following a significant downturn. This pattern is classic for potential bounces; however, confirmation of a full trend reversal is yet to materialize.
Key levels and zones
Resistance (R-side)
R1: 6,662–6,678
• Components: Asia Session High 6,662.5, NYPM High / PDH 6,677.5, Y-VAH also anchored at 6,677.5, plus a clear 1H/30m shelf.
• Significance: This is the nearest control ceiling; it capped Friday’s rebound and marks the boundary between neutral intraday and more aggressive squeeze potential.
• Role: First place to fade “pop-and-fail” wicks for short A++ plays, and the first area that must be decisively reclaimed for bulls to press a larger squeeze.
R2: 6,760–6,780
• Components: Prior 4H lower high and breakdown zone; 1H HH before the large red impulse bar; sits just below a dense daily supply band.
• Significance: A retest of broken support turned resistance. Acceptance back above here would suggest the entire recent flush was a failed breakdown, opening the path to retest the highs.
R3: 6,895–6,945
• Components: 1H fib extensions 1.272 ≈ 6,895.75 and 1.618 ≈ 6,942.50, plus prior weekly weak high / supply band just under 7,000.
• Significance: This is the larger-timeframe cap. Reaching this zone in one week would likely require either a decisively dovish Fed tone or very strong data.
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Support (S-side)
S1: 6,520–6,540
• Components: Daily fib 1.272 ≈ 6,521.25, 4H fib 1.272 ≈ 6,527.25, recent swing low cluster and strong demand band.
• Significance: This is the primary weekly pivot for the current correction. First major A++ long location if it’s flushed and reclaimed during liquid hours.
S2: 6,418–6,455
• Components: Daily 1.618 ≈ 6,418, 4H 1.618 ≈ 6,455.50, plus a “strong low” label in that region.
• Significance: This is deeper discount inside the current swing, where larger timeframe players would be expected to defend aggressively if the broader uptrend is to remain intact.
S3: 6,304–6,376
• Components: Daily 2.0 ≈ 6,304.00, 4H 2.0 ≈ 6,376.25, lower edge of the current visible demand block.
• Significance: If price reaches here this week, the market is in a full-fledged risk-off extension, but still within the context of the broader weekly uptrend.
S4: 5,850–5,575 (weekly)
• Components: Weekly fibs 1.272 ≈ 5,850.75, 1.618 ≈ 5,721.00, 2.0 ≈ 5,577.50.
• Significance: True structural weekly demand; a tail-risk destination if macro or credit conditions were to deteriorate sharply.
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Volatility Backdrop
The VIX spot closed at approximately 23.4 on Friday, having surged beyond 26 earlier in the week, marking the highest levels observed since spring. The VIX futures curve has shifted to a flat or mildly backwardated structure, with near-term contracts hovering around 22.9 for late November and extending into subsequent months. Meanwhile, rates volatility (MOVE) is situated near 78–79, close to its historical average, indicating it is not in crisis territory.
The volatility complex is signaling a notable expectation of an equity shock, although it does not reflect panic in the funding or rates sectors. The flat to slightly backwardated volatility curve suggests potential for larger intraday swings and gap risks, while also presenting significant reward opportunities when market entries align with critical price levels.
Options and Positioning
The total put/call ratio currently stands at approximately 0.87, with the index put/call ratio around 1.03, and exchange-traded products (ETP) at about 1.28. In contrast, the equity-only put/call ratio is at a lower 0.56. The 10-day moving average of the total put/call ratio is approximately 0.90, which is not indicative of panic extremes. The SKEW index is around 148—elevated, yet falling short of the extreme levels (150–160+) that typically signal substantial tail-risk hedging.
Institutional hedging remains present but lacks urgency; there is a distinct preference for put options in indices and ETFs, while single-stock options continue to skew toward calls. Coupled with a VIX in the low-20s and a near-flat curve, this indicates that dealers are likely moderately short gamma at current strike prices. Consequently, price movements beyond key levels may extend further than usual before reversion occurs. This inference, drawn from the volatility and put/call configurations, does not represent a direct measurement.
Market Breadth and Internals
Earlier in the week, the NYSE experienced a significant imbalance, with decliners outnumbering advancers by more than 3:1, alongside a higher count of new lows than new highs, a classic indicator of distribution. However, by Friday, the breadth reversed sharply, with approximately 2,237 advancers against 548 decliners on the NYSE. Nevertheless, the McClellan Oscillator remains negative (~-72), and the Summation Index is in a downward trajectory, suggesting ongoing repair rather than the emergence of a new bull trend. Defensive sectors, including health care and consumer staples, have outperformed, while tech and speculative AI stocks led the recent selloff.
The market has transitioned from a clear uptrend to a choppy corrective phase characterized by distribution. The activity on Friday, while indicative of an oversold breadth thrust, has not confirmed a market bottom.
Credit and Funding
The high-yield ETF (HYG) is trading around 80.3, only slightly below recent highs, indicating no signs of disorderly selling. The US high-yield option-adjusted spread (OAS) is near 3.17%, and B-rated high-yield OAS is about 3.3%, both well below long-term averages (>5%) and only marginally above recent tight levels.
Conclusion:
Credit markets display relative calm, reinforcing the notion that the recent weakness in equities is driven by valuation and sentiment rather than a funding crunch.
Sentiment and Crowd Positioning
Recent AAII survey results indicate roughly 32.6% of respondents identify as bulls, while 23.9% classify as bears. This results in a negative bull-bear spread of about -11%, contrasted with a long-run average of +6%. The combination of an elevated VIX, a negative bull-bear spread, and moderate put/call ratios reflects a climate of pessimism without full-fledged capitulation.
Practical Takeaway:
There exists potential for an upward squeeze if macroeconomic headlines shift towards dovish sentiment. However, a prolonged risk-off environment remains possible if critical support levels like S1 and S2 break.
Cross-Asset and Global Risk Tone
Global equities experienced their most significant weekly pullback since early this year, with the MSCI World Index declining by roughly 3%. Europe’s Stoxx 600 recorded its largest weekly drop since summer, primarily driven by weakness in the tech sector and increased volatility. The cryptocurrency market is in a full risk-off stance, with Bitcoin dipping to a seven-month low before rebounding around $84k, accompanied by sentiment indicators reflecting extreme pessimism and heavy liquidations, now followed by a weekend bounce from oversold RSI levels.
Relative Risk Tone:
The Nasdaq-100 (NQ) remains weaker compared to the S&P 500 (ES), aligning with the decline in tech and AI sectors, while defensive and value-oriented sectors maintain resilience. Overall, the cross-asset narrative suggests a risk-off tone, yet not systemic in nature—exactly the backdrop where well-defined level trading is most effective.
Macro and Data Calendar
The upcoming holiday-shortened week is set to unveil a series of delayed U.S. economic data, including September retail sales, PPI, Core PPI, home prices, pending home sales, inventories, and consumer confidence on Tuesday, followed by jobless claims, durable goods, Chicago PMI, and the Beige Book on Wednesday. The prior government shutdown has postponed key GDP and inflation reports, heightening uncertainty around the Fed's December decisions. Federal Reserve officials exhibit divided opinions about another rate cut in December; some advocate for a pause with inflation near 3%, while others, including at least one governor and the NY Fed president, lean toward support for an additional 25 basis point reduction. Market odds for a December cut have shifted within a ~50–70% range, depending on daily fluctuations.
Classification of the Recent Move:
This market dynamic appears primarily as a reset in valuations and positioning following the exuberance surrounding AI and tech, exacerbated by data-related uncertainty rather than stemming from a definitive “data shock” event.
13. Two A++ setups (for the coming sessions)
These are plan-level plays, to be executed only if price action and vol conditions line up as described.
A++ Setup 1: R1 Rejection Short
Trigger
Inside NY AM or the first hour of NY PM:
1. 15m candle wicks above 6,670–6,675 and closes back under 6,665.
2. 5m prints a lower high beneath that wick, closing back below ~6,660.
3. 1m breaks down through the intraday shelf near 6,655 with increased selling volume / negative delta.
Execution
• Entry: around 6,660–6,665 on the first 1m pullback that fails under the broken shelf.
• Initial stop: above the wick high, e.g. 6,690 (adjust to the actual 15m high but keep risk in the 20–25 point range).
• Risk (example): entry 6,665, stop 6,690 → 25 pts.
Targets
• TP1: 6,615–6,620 (VWAP / prior intraday shelf) → about 2R (50 pts) from a 25-pt stop.
• TP2: 6,540–6,550 (upper edge of S1 / prior congestion) – roughly 4R.
• TP3 (runner): 6,520–6,530 (core of S1 cluster) – 5R+ if reached.
A++ Setup 2: S1 Flush-and-Reclaim Long
Trigger
15m candle flushes below 6,530, ideally tagging 6,520–6,525, with a long tail and closes back above ~6,535–6,540.
5m shows a higher low above the 15m wick low, with real bids stepping in and volume picking up.
1m pushes back through 6,545–6,550 and holds, turning that band into a floor.
Execution
• Entry: 6,545–6,550 on the first 1m pullback that holds above 6,540 after the reclaim.
• Initial stop: below the 15m flush low, e.g. 6,515–6,520.
• Example parameters: entry 6,550, stop 6,520 → 30-pt risk.
Targets
• TP1: 6,595–6,600 (local shelf / prior L at 6,594 and ONH/VWAP neighborhood) → about 2R (60 pts) from a 30-pt stop.
• TP2: 6,662–6,678 (R1 band) – the same ceiling from Setup 1; that’s roughly 4R+ from the entry.
• TP3 (runner): 6,760–6,780 (R2) if data and vol cooperate, giving 7R+ potential.
If that microstructure doesn’t show up, downgrade each play from A++ to stand-aside – let someone else fight in the middle of the range and keep your capital for when the levels truly light up.
Good Luck !!!
ID: 2025 - 0136.12.2025
Trade #13 of 2025 executed.
Trade entry at 162 DTE (days to expiration).
Excellent fills this morning, well under mid. Created a GTC working order two days ago and let price come to me. No chasing. There are TONS of external liquidity voids resting below.
Target profit is 5% ROI
Happy Trading!
-kevin
ES Gap AlertFutures are up but they all gapped up which means that has to fill, but you guys know that by now, lol. It is headed down right now.
Not sure what the pattern will be because market will be closed Thu and half day on Fri, and day after Thanksgiving is usually low volume trading.
We'll see what futures look like before open tomorrow.
ES1! – Retest of LVN Before Targeting Equal LowsThe S&P 500 (ES) shows clear weakness after breaking down from the previous highs.
Price is now pulling back into the LVN, a low-support area that often acts as a simple reaction point before continuation.
My idea:
I expect a small retracement into the LVN, followed by a bearish continuation aiming for the equal lows liquidity, and potentially extending toward the deeper volume zone around 6200.
Next week ES BearishNext week’s price outlook appears bearish.
Market structure shows a clear downtrend following the confirmed break of the previous swing low.
Price is expected to retrace into the iFVG before continuing lower toward the downside order block.
The iFVG aligns precisely with the lowest tick of the highest candle of the prior move and sits in the correct position relative to the previous supply zone.
The order block below is a high-probability area, as five liquidity lows are positioned directly above it.
S&P 500 E-mini Futures: Short Target Achieved, Long Setup 21.Nov
S&P 500 E-mini Futures: Short Target Achieved, Long Setup in Play
Today’s session on the S&P 500 E-mini Futures (ES) presented a textbook example of how patience and planning pay off in intraday trading. Let’s break down the trade idea, execution, and the next steps.
Market Context
Instrument: S&P 500 E-mini Futures (ESZ2025)
Current Price: 6,547.25 (-0.16%)
Timeframe: 15-minute chart
Session Behavior: After an initial push higher, the market showed signs of exhaustion near the previous high, creating an opportunity for a short scalp before considering a long re-entry.
Trade Recap: Short Position
Earlier today, a short position was initiated near the supply zone (highlighted in red on the chart) around 6,594.50, targeting a retracement toward the mid-range.
Entry: Around 6,594.50
Target: 6,532.25 (achieved successfully)
Reasoning: Price rejected the upper liquidity zone, forming lower highs and signaling a short-term bearish move. Volume spikes confirmed selling pressure.
This short trade hit its target cleanly, validating the setup and risk management.
Current Setup: Long Bias
With the short target achieved, the focus now shifts to a long re-entry. Here’s why:
Demand Zone: Price reacted strongly near 6,532.25, sweeping liquidity and bouncing back.
Volume Profile: Notice the spike in buying volume at the lows, suggesting accumulation.
Structure: The market is forming a higher low on the 15-minute chart, indicating potential bullish continuation.
Long Plan
Entry Zone: Between 6,532.25 and 6,528.25 (green zone)
Stop Loss: Below 6,523.25 (to protect against deeper liquidity sweep)
Target: Sweep of the day’s high near 6,604.75 or equal highs at 6,594.50 for partials.
Key Observations
Liquidity Sweep: The wick below 6,532.25 suggests stop hunts before reversal.
Risk-to-Reward: Favorable setup with tight stop and clear upside targets.
Market Sentiment: Despite intraday volatility, the broader trend remains bullish, supporting the long bias.
Conclusion
The short scalp was a success, and now the market offers a compelling long opportunity. Traders should monitor price action closely around the demand zone and manage risk diligently. If the bullish momentum holds, a sweep of the day’s high is likely.
✅ Pro Tip: Always wait for confirmation before entering a reversal trade. Volume and price structure are your best friends in identifying genuine shifts in momentum.
Do your own analysis before taking any decisions these are only my way of looking at the market today and valid for today only
ES UpdateIndicators neutral, ES and RTY are sitting right t the downtrend line. NQ and YM got rejected by the same line.
FDAX indicators also neutral, I'm mostly cash since I don't know which way the market will go Monday.
Fed WIlliams put a December rate cut back on the table, so I'm not as bearish as I was yesterday. I had to sell my XLF puts then flip GM calls to make money today, lol. Monday can go either way.
ES1 - Scary Face Done, Markets Warming Up
A fast bullish whipsaw recovery needed to arrive or very bearish scenarios could play out.
And now that bullish whipsaw may well be printing to pull the trend out of the fire.
On S&P Futures this may prove to be a slightly lower low liquidity shakeout and moving on up.
If it gets impulsive here then its even possible that the correction is over with no bearish cause carried over.
Stocks are warming up and crypto (TOTAL and BTC) are bouncing from tidy ratios - signalling a potential bottom.
Its been a scary area but this is likely to be the prime dip buy territory.
Assets warming up today may be starting new bull trends whereas assets sitting quietly may not.
This all remains relevant so long as there is not another stock index upside whipsaw.
If there is then its back to the bearish lens - but its looking good here and there are plenty of breakouts in ... stocks.
As said before, the 1.618 is a little way above and that is the next ratio based liquidity juncture.
If S&P can get moving then I think it gets there and we may see some significant bull trends 🧐.
ES - November 21st - Daily Trade PlanNovember 21st- Daily Trade Plan - 6:45am
*Before reading this trade plan, IF, you did not read yesterdays, or the Weekly Trade Plan take the time to read it first! (You can see both posts in the related publication section) *
If my posts provide quality information that has helped you with your trading journey. Feel free to boost it for others to find and learn, also!
My daily trade plan and real-time notes that I post are intended for myself to easily be able to go back and review my plan and how I did from an execution perspective.
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I mentioned the following a couple of times this week in my Daily Trade Plan -
"Remember, we have Thanksgiving next week and I would not be surprised if price tests the 6540 level by Friday and we rally end of the week as retail and sentiment becomes more bearish."
Yesterday's Daily Trade Plan I wrote the following:
"Price can reach 6775-85 area that will be a good resistance level. As I have said many times, when price rallies like it has before the NYSE Open, it could be a trap, and Institutions could start selling around the 6775-85 area. We will need to see what price does in the first hour."
In my note at 1:55pm yesterday I wrote -
"Price is trying to lose the daily low and if we do, we should be looking at 6570 (Reclaim of 6592) or 6540 (Reclaim of 6550) being the next key levels to grab some points. When price has such a massive red day the way it has been on the 1hr chart. It is better to wait for the weekly lows and be patient."
Yesterday it looked like price was going to just take off and we had found our low for the week, then Institutions pulled the rug at 6790 and when you have more than 2 - (15 min red candles) like we did yesterday, just wait and be patient for price to find a low, flush it and recover it. Price tried to recover 6592 late afternoon but couldn't. Since we had a massive red day, we should attempt to retest the levels above all the way up to 6726 at minimum when we get the squeeze higher.
Overnight high is 6594 and the low is 6525. We attempted this am a nice flush and recovery of 6540 (Yesterday's Low) but have found resistance at 6570. If price can take out the 6594 level and back test it to move higher, that would be a nice level to look for points to take us higher. Below that we need to flush 6540 and reclaim or 6525 and reclaim.
I have no idea what price will do today, but my general lean is that we flush 6540 or 6525 and reclaim these levels for a squeeze higher. If price is flushing lower, I will just wait for the reclaim of these levels to ride higher. The other level I will be watching is 6594 and looking for a back test of that level to enter for higher prices.
Key Levels Today -
1. 6540 flush and reclaim
2. 6525 flush and reclaim
3. 6594 take out this level and enter on a back test.
We might only get a sell off down to 6550 with price taking out 6572 would be a good micro level to enter for a test of 6594.
I will post an update around 10am EST
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Couple of things about how I color code my levels.
1. Purple shows the weekly Low
2. Red shows the current overnight session High/Low (time of post)
3. Blue shows the previous day's session Low (also other previous day's lows)
4. Yellow Levels are levels that show support and resistance levels of interest.
5. White Levels are previous day's session High/Low






















