US100 trade ideas
USNAS100 Braces for Fed Decision – Key Pivot at 24,300USNAS100 – Overview
The Nasdaq is set for a highly volatile session as markets await the Federal Reserve’s rate decision later today.
Traders widely expect a 25 bps cut, but a surprise 50 bps cut—though less likely—would signal stronger confidence in stable inflation and U.S. economic health, fueling a strong bullish rally.
Even if the Fed delivers the expected 25 bps cut, the key market mover will be Chair Powell’s press conference and the updated dot plot, which could reshape expectations for future easing.
Technical Outlook
📉 Bearish scenario
While trading below 24,300, price shows potential for a pullback toward 24,115.
A confirmed break below 24,115 would extend the bearish move toward 23,870 → 23,700.
📈 Bullish scenario
Stabilization above 24,115 keeps the broader uptrend intact.
A breakout above 24,300 would confirm bullish momentum, targeting 24,550 → 24,700 → 24,850.
📌 Market Context:
50 bps cut + dovish Powell → strong bullish breakout above 24,300 toward 24,550+.
25 bps cut + cautious guidance → moderate moves; price may remain range-bound or retest 24,115 before resuming higher.
Hawkish tone → deeper correction toward 23,870 or lower.
NAS100 Outlook: Recent rise has been steady!Market context on NAS100 remains bullish clearly. The most recent move saw a steady recovery, heading towards the upper boundary of the newly projected channel. And this right here is another great opportunity to get involved.
The market is likely in the early stages of a new impulsive leg to the upside right here.
We could also have short-term consolidation or pullback, then a continuation toward the upper boundary but I believe the latter is more plausible.
My target will be at 25,100.
NAS100 - Stock market awaits Federal Reserve meeting!The indicator is above the EMA200 and EMA50 on the one-hour timeframe and is in its long-term ascending channel. If the drawn upward trajectory is maintained, I can expect the future to continue as it has in the past. In case of a valid breakdown, its downward path is to the specified range, which can be approached with a reward for buying.
Last week’s economic data painted a mixed picture of the U.S. economy. On the one hand, new jobless claims rose to 263,000, above the market forecast of 235,000, signaling labor market weakness. On the other hand, the August inflation report came in hotter than expected, though most of the increase stemmed from housing costs rather than tariff pressures. Rents rose 0.34%, marking the fastest gain since December 2024, while shelter costs climbed 0.39%, the sharpest jump since January 2025. Still, real-time housing indicators suggest that prices are adjusting, which will likely be reflected in official data in the coming months.
Meanwhile, the yield on the U.S. 10-year Treasury fell below 4% for the first time since April—a sign that markets are reacting more to labor market weakness and the prospect of Fed rate cuts than to inflation concerns.
CIBC, analyzing the August Consumer Price Index (CPI) report, stated that while the data came in slightly above expectations, it was not strong enough to dissuade the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) from delivering a 25-basis-point cut next week. Ali Jafari, an economist at the bank, wrote: “There was little in the report to prevent a September rate cut. More importantly, the labor market needs support, and a weaker jobs market implies softer demand-side inflationary pressures ahead.”
On a yearly basis, core inflation held steady at 3.1%, while headline inflation rose two-tenths to 2.9%, both in line with forecasts. More troubling, however, are signs that price increases are spreading into new sectors. The report noted: “Tariff pass-through effects intensified this month, with core goods prices rising at the fastest pace since broad tariffs were imposed. Today’s report also showed the first notable increase in new car prices, suggesting that tariff impacts may now be extending to higher-ticket items, though overall car price gains remain modest.”
CIBC expects the Fed to cut rates in September and October, pause afterward, and then deliver two additional cuts in the first half of next year. The bank added: “The overall U.S. inflation picture remains notably above target, but the Fed is willing to tolerate this for now, given growing concerns about a weakening economy and a labor market showing signs of fatigue.”
Separately, U.S. President Donald Trump once again criticized the Fed in an interview with Fox News, saying the central bank “always acts late on interest rates.” He added: “We have the best stock market in history. Inflation has come down, equities are climbing, so rates should be lower.”
These comments come as the Fed is widely expected to cut rates at Wednesday’s meeting. While such a move could reduce borrowing costs in the short term, analysts caution that lower short-term rates do not necessarily translate into lower long-term yields.
Morgan Stanley now projects that the Fed will cut rates by 25 basis points at each of the three remaining meetings this year—an upgrade from earlier forecasts of only September and December cuts. The bank also expects three additional 25-basis-point cuts in January, April, and July of 2026.
At the same time, Standard Chartered has revised its outlook and now anticipates a 50-basis-point cut in September—double its previous forecast. The shift followed weak August jobs data showing employment growth had slowed sharply and unemployment rose to 4.3%, the highest since late 2020. The bank described labor market conditions as “dramatic,” noting that in just six weeks the market shifted from “strong” to “weak.” It characterized the larger cut as a form of “catch-up” to align monetary policy with economic realities.
This week is set to be pivotal for global markets, with a series of central bank decisions and key economic releases. Monday will see the Empire State manufacturing index, followed by Tuesday’s August retail sales report. On Wednesday, housing starts and building permits will be released, along with the Bank of Canada’s rate decision. The highlight of the week, however, will be the Fed meeting and Jerome Powell’s press conference.
On Thursday, the Bank of England will announce its policy decision, followed by U.S. jobless claims and the Philadelphia Fed manufacturing survey. The busy week will conclude Friday with the Bank of Japan’s policy announcement.
US 100 Index – Assessing a Crucial Week for Tech StocksAs a trader it can be helpful to spend some time on a Sunday afternoon sitting at your trading desk gathering your thoughts and preparing for the week ahead. Checking the Pepperstone economic calendar to assess the scheduled risk events in terms of timing and importance can be a useful part of this process. This upcoming week is quite impressive, packed with central bank meetings and economic data that could impact many, if not all, of the major markets available to trade on the Pepperstone platform.
The standout event could be the Federal Reserve (Fed) interest rate announcement on Wednesday at 1900 BST, which is followed closely by the press conference led by Chairman Powell, which starts at 1930 BST. However, Thursday’s Bank of England interest rate decision at 1200 BST, or Friday’s Bank of Japan interest rate decision due at 0400 BST, and then the press conference led by Governor Ueda may also keep traders on volatility alert.
The US 100 index is the focus of today’s commentary as it can be more sensitive than other indices to interest rate moves made by the Fed.
As can be seen on the daily Pepperstone chart above, the US 100 index has experienced a period of higher highs and higher lows since the 2025 low was hit way back at 16290 on April 7th, helped in no small part by a re-engagement of traders with the potential of artificial intelligence and what it could mean for the future earnings of the leading companies in this space. This AI driver is still in very much in play but may take a backseat this week due to the Federal Reserve rate decision.
Since the surprise weaker than expected US employment report on August 1st (Non-farm payrolls) market expectations for Fed rate cuts have increased, helping to support the latest US 100 uptrend from its August 1st lows at 22678 to print numerous record closing highs, the latest being Friday at 24096.
For the Fed interest rate decision on Wednesday, a 25bps (0.25%) cut is fully priced by traders, but there is a small outside chance of a 50bps (0.5%) cut, a decision which, if it happened, could generate equal amounts of uncertainty that policy makers feel they could be behind the curve in supporting the economy and that the labour market is weakening faster than anticipated, but also surprise that the Fed may be willing to cut rates faster, which as a general rule can be supportive of US100 index gains.
The press conference may also be a relevant consideration for US 100 price volatility. Traders will be keen to hear Chairman Powell’s stance on the possibility for further rate cuts, with economists predicting just one more 25bps cut into the end of 2025, while the market is pricing another 2 25bps reductions. Any comments he makes on the independence of the US central bank, with an appeal court ruling expected imminently on whether President Trump has the authority to sack Fed Governor Cook, as well as his thoughts on the deterioration of the US labour markets and direction of inflation could also be important.
Technical Update: New All-Time Highs Posted
After reaching a new all-time high of 24142 on Friday, the market continues to show signs of a positive trend, which has been evident since the low of 16290 recorded on April 7th.
As the chart above shows, the market has formed a pattern of higher highs and higher lows. While this doesn’t guarantee that prices will continue to rise, the recent new peak suggests there might be further upward momentum ahead.
Although positive sentiment appears to remain in place, this week’s upcoming data releases and interest rate decision could significantly impact price movements.
As a result, it may be important to identify and then monitor key support and resistance levels in case an increased spell of volatility emerges.
Potential Resistance Levels:
Following the recording of the latest all-time high at 24142 on Friday, traders may be anticipating continued attempts at upward momentum to extend the current uptrend.
The outlook suggests that further attempts to push toward the next resistance levels could emerge in the coming week.
With the US 100 index now entering uncharted territory, traders may be turning their attention to Fibonacci extension levels based on the August 13th to 20th sell-off. The 38.2% extension is at 24368, and if this level is breached, the next potential resistance could be 24607, the 61.8% extension.
Potential Support Levels:
The US 100 recently closed back above the rising Bollinger mid-average, currently at 23606, and so this level could act as the first initial support for the week. If retested, it may be important to monitor whether the market can hold above it on a closing basis.
A closing break below 23606 wouldn’t necessarily signal a negative shift, but it could open the door for a test of 22970, which is the low from August 20th, and potentially lower if that level fails to hold.
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NASDAQ INDEX (US100): To the New Highs!
US100 index successfully broke and closed above a major
daily resistance cluster on Friday.
The index will likely grow more and reach new highs soon.
The next resistance is 24300
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NAS100Success in forex and stocks comes from a combination of knowledge, discipline, and patience. Understanding market trends, economic factors, and company fundamentals is crucial, but equally important is controlling emotions and sticking to a well-planned strategy. Continuous learning, adapting to changing conditions, and managing risk wisely can turn opportunities into consistent growth over time. Consistency, not luck, separates successful traders from the rest.
NASDAQ | H2 Double Top | GTradingMethodHello Traders! 👋
🧐 Market Overview:
CPI is out today — and it could be the spark the NASDAQ needs. Price is stalling at the previous all-time high, and that’s where I’m watching closely.
I’ve been tracking a double top on the daily for a while now, and today the H2 chart is starting to show the same structure. That kind of multi-timeframe alignment doesn’t happen often.
📊 Trade Plan:
I’ve entered a starter short on the daily structure. If the H2 confirms, I’ll scale in with a second position.
Risk/Reward:
Entry:
Stop Loss:
Take Profit 1 (50%):
Take Profit 2 (50%):
💡 GTradingMethod Tip:
Double tops work best when paired with other signals. In my system, I look for:
- RSI negative divergence
- Lower volume on the second top
- A confirmation candle close within my entry range
This reduces false signals and adds conviction.
🙏 Thanks for reading! Do you trade double tops?
📌 Disclaimer:
This is not financial advice. This content is to track my trading journey and for educational purposes only.
NSDQ100 volatility, triple-witching could exaggerate swings.Nasdaq 100 Trading Drivers
Macro backdrop:
US data came in strong:
Jobless claims fell to 231k (vs. 240k exp; prior 264k).
Continuing claims declined to 1.92m (vs. 1.95m exp).
Philly Fed survey surged to 23.2 (vs. 1.7 exp), an 8-month high.
This eased US slowdown fears and reinforced risk-on sentiment.
Equities:
Nasdaq +0.94% → new record high.
Tech/semis led: Intel (+22.8%) strongest S&P performer after Nvidia’s $5bn investment and US gov’t stake news. Philadelphia Semiconductor Index +3.6%.
Momentum broadened → Russell 2000 +2.5%, first record high since 2021.
Rates:
Treasuries sold off on strong data → 10yr yield +1.7bps to 4.11%, 30yr +3.4bps. Higher yields a potential headwind if sustained.
Event risk:
Trump–Xi call (9 a.m. ET): key for TikTok’s US future & broader trade tone. Risk of mixed headlines given tensions (China soybeans skip, Gaza criticism, Taiwan aid freeze).
BoJ surprise: announced unwind of $4.2bn/year ETF holdings → dampened global risk tone.
US triple-witching: options/futures expiries today → elevated intraday volatility likely.
Nasdaq 100 Trading Takeaway
Bullish momentum intact: record highs fueled by tech & semiconductor leadership.
Short-term watchpoints: Trump–Xi headlines and BoJ shift may inject volatility; triple-witching could exaggerate swings.
Key risk: rising US yields may cap upside if bond sell-off deepens.
Bias: Still risk-on / buy dips near-term, but position sizing should account for headline-driven volatility today.
Key Support and Resistance Levels
Resistance Level 1: 24600
Resistance Level 2: 24710
Resistance Level 3: 24800
Support Level 1: 24210
Support Level 2: 24085
Support Level 3: 24940
This communication is for informational purposes only and should not be viewed as any form of recommendation as to a particular course of action or as investment advice. It is not intended as an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument or as an official confirmation of any transaction. Opinions, estimates and assumptions expressed herein are made as of the date of this communication and are subject to change without notice. This communication has been prepared based upon information, including market prices, data and other information, believed to be reliable; however, Trade Nation does not warrant its completeness or accuracy. All market prices and market data contained in or attached to this communication are indicative and subject to change without notice.
Key risk: rising US yields may cap upside if bond sell-off deepens.
Bias: Still risk-on / buy dips near-term, but position sizing should account for headline-driven volatility today.
Key Support and Resistance Levels
Resistance Level 1: 24600
Resistance Level 2: 24710
Resistance Level 3: 24800
Support Level 1: 24210
Support Level 2: 24085
Support Level 3: 24940
This communication is for informational purposes only and should not be viewed as any form of recommendation as to a particular course of action or as investment advice. It is not intended as an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument or as an official confirmation of any transaction. Opinions, estimates and assumptions expressed herein are made as of the date of this communication and are subject to change without notice. This communication has been prepared based upon information, including market prices, data and other information, believed to be reliable; however, Trade Nation does not warrant its completeness or accuracy. All market prices and market data contained in or attached to this communication are indicative and subject to change without notice.
NAS100Nasdaq-100 (NAS100) Performance on September Options Expiration Days (2015–2024)
Based on historical data for the Invesco QQQ ETF (which tracks the Nasdaq-100), below is the daily performance on the third Friday of September each year—the standard options expiration day. The result is "Rise" if the closing price increased from the previous trading day's close, or "Fall" if it decreased. Data is sourced from reliable financial records, including adjusted closing prices.
- 2015: Fall (-0.45%)
- 2016: Rise (+0.32%)
- 2017: Rise (+0.62%)
- 2018: Fall (-0.20%)
- 2019: Rise (+0.11%)
- 2020: Fall (-1.18%)
- 2021: Fall (-1.25%)
- 2022: Fall (-1.69%)
- 2023: Fall (-1.13%)
- 2024: Fall (-0.19%)
Futures steady ahead of Fed cutFutures steady ahead of Fed cut
U.S. stock futures held flat on August 15 ahead of the Sept. 17–18 Fed meeting, where a 25-bps cut is widely expected. Markets price about 70 bps of easing by year-end, though Powell may highlight inflation risks to temper dovish bets. Retail sales Tuesday will be the last key data before the decision.
Global markets were subdued: oil ticked higher on Ukraine-Russia tensions, the dollar eased, and Asian stocks firmed with South Korea’s Kospi hitting records. The Bank of Canada may also cut this week, while the BoE and BoJ are likely to stay on hold.
Traders are watching today’s Empire State manufacturing survey (8:30 AM EDT), the Senate vote on Fed nominee Stephen Miran, speeches from ECB’s Lagarde and Schnabel, and EU Council President Costa’s visit to Cyprus ahead of its 2026 presidency.
NAS100 Sideways Market | Key Resistance Rejection Ahead?The NAS100 index is currently trading within a sideways market structure, holding between 23,000 support and 24,000 resistance.
Recent rejection at resistance shows sellers defending the upper range.
CHoCH and BOS patterns confirm short-term structure shifts.
If price fails to break and sustain above 24,000, a move back towards the 23,400–23,200 demand zone is possible.
Only a clear breakout above 24,000 would shift bias to bullish continuation.
This setup highlights a range-bound market where patience is key—watch for confirmation before positioning.
This analysis is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Trade at your own risk.
Downtrend Analysisafter we get a retest back to the new all time highs this is one of the set ups I can see setting up on nas. In order for us to confirm the sells I am interested in looking for lower high entries only as we start to make the retest back to the main higher low from last week which is at 23986. im expecting a full retest here due to the federal fund rates
NASDAQ | Daily Double Top | GTradingMethodHello Traders 👋
🧐 Market Overview:
I’ve opened a short on the NASDAQ based on a clear double top setup that formed yesterday. Several of my key variables aligned, giving this trade a high-probability edge:
Negative RSI divergence → showing weakening buying momentum
Lower volume on the second top → indicating exhaustion
Daily candle closure within threshold → confirming structure validity
📊 Trade Plan:
RR: 9.1
Entry: 23 931
Stop Loss: 23 178
Take Profit 1 (50%): 22 453
Take Profit 2 (50%): 21 969
💡 GTradingMethod Tip:
When trading reversal patterns like double tops, I always wait for confirmation across multiple variables (momentum, volume, candle structure). This increases probability and reduces false entries.
🙏 Thanks for checking out my post!
Follow me for more setups and let me know — do you see this double top holding, or is there more upside left in the NASDAQ?
📌 Disclaimer:
This is not financial advice. This content is to track my trading journey and for educational purposes only.