(Alchemy Markets) SP500 Elliott Wave Going into US Jobs ReportPrior to the open of the US session tomorrow, the US non-farm payrolls report is released. How will these numbers fair with a new chief labor statistician in place? We'll find out tomorrow.
Meanwhile, SPX appears to be carving a wedge. In Elliott wave terms, it would be an ending diagonal pattern.
The rally this week appears to be wave 5 of the five-wave pattern. RSI is diverging which is common on the final highs of this pattern. This implies an ending wave may be underway.
One of the rules of Elliott wave is that wave 3 cannot be the shortest between waves 1, 3, and 5. Therefore, since wave 3 is shorter than wave 1...this implies wave 5 must be shorter than 3.
Plopping that onto the chart, the current wave labeling shows a max price of 6,525. Now, of course price can go higher than 6,525, which would then require us to adopt an alternate wave count. If 6,525 is broken, then I would label the rally from Aug 19 thru today as wave 3. Still more upside, but similar outcome when the pattern does complete.
After the ending diagonal is finished, a swift retracement typically is experienced back to 6,212.
SPXM trade ideas
U.S. Macroeconomic DashboardThis is more of a cheatsheet/how-to for my own reference on my macro indicators charting layout. If the chart layout is helpful to the community, all the better! I find it useful for studying events and crises.
Indicators used: SPX, VIX, FEDFUNDS + US10Y + T10Y2Y, USIRYY + USCIR, UNRATE, USBCOI, BAMLH0A0HYM2, DXY
Row 1: Equity and volatility benchmarks
Row 2: Policy stance and inflation
Row 3: Unemployment and growth metrics
Row 4: Credit spreads and USD strength
SPX
Measuring : Equity benchmark
Relevance : Broadest market barometer
Observe : Trend direction, key levels, divergence vs other indicators
VIX
Measuring : Volatility index
Relevance : Market's implied volatility (read: "fear/greed gauge")
Observe : Spike --> risk-off, hedging demand; sustained lows --> complacency
FEDFUNDS + US10Y + T10Y2Y
Measuring : U.S. policy stance and yield curve
Relevance : Monetary tightening and loosening; yield curve recession slope
Observe : T10Y2Y curve inversion --> recession risk; bear steepening --> watch for inflation/deficit concerns; bull steepening --> Fed easing, recovery signal
USIRYY + USCIR
Measuring : Inflation
Relevance : Headline: all prices; Core: Excluding food + energy
Observe : Headline stat drives short-term moves. Core stat drives Fed policy
UNRATE
Measuring : Unemployment rate
Relevance : Labor market health (this is a lagging indicator)
Observe : Rising trend --> recession risk; very low --> possible overheating
USBCOI
Measuring : Manufacturing PMI; Business activity
Relevance : Leading growth indicator for manufacturing, services
Observe : >50 means expansion, <50 means contraction
BAMLH0A0HYM2
Measuring : U.S. High Yield Option-Adjusted Spread (the extra yield/spread investors demand to hold junk bonds vs risk-free Treasuries)
Relevance : Stress in corporate bond markets; risk sentiment
Observe : Widening --> investors demand more compensation for credit risk; narrowing --> investors are confident, low fear of defaults. 2-4 is normal, 4-6 is stressed, 6+ is distress, 10+ is crisis level
DXY
Measuring : USD strength
Relevance : Global liquidity, capital flows, financial conditions
Observe : Strong USD = tighter conditions and pressure on risk assets; inverse for weak USD
SP500 Futures Looks Reverse from support SP500 outlook On Wednesday, September 3, 2025, the S&P 500 rose by 0.5%, powered by substantial gains in Alphabet, which jumped over 9% following a favourable antitrust ruling. The Nasdaq also gained around 1%, while the Dow edged slightly lower by about 0.05%.
Analysts viewed this as a clear win for Alphabet and Apple, prompting raised price targets and renewed optimism for the broader tech sector.
S&P 500 futures climbed roughly 0.3%, and Nasdaq futures rose by about 0.7%, reflecting optimistic expectations for further upside. Fed officials signalled a possible rate cut, with investors pricing in a 96% chance of a 25 bps cut by the Fed meeting on September 17, 2025. The market now eyes Friday’s Nonfarm Payrolls report as the most critical release of the week, alongside the usual weekly data.
SP500 support around 64.30 (though SPY is currently at 6430, the level might reflect a different index or instrument) is interesting—the upside momentum appears to be heading toward resistance near 6,505,
You may find more details in the chart.
Trade wisely best of Luck.
Ps; Support with like and comments for better analysis.
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US 500 – Preparing for the Pivotal US Non-Farm Payrolls ReleaseAfter a slow start to trading in September due to the US Labour Day bank holiday on Monday, volatility for US indices has picked up across the week as traders react to multiple drivers, including concerns about the sustainability of government debt in the US, Europe and the UK which weighed on sentiment Tuesday, big tech getting a key win in one of the biggest anti-trust cases for years which provided support off the lows, and updates on the current health of the US economy and labour market, including a slightly disappointing ISM Manufacturing PMI Survey on Tuesday, and a weaker than expected JOLTs Job Openings report on Wednesday afternoon.
Unsurprisingly, the different responses to these drivers has seen the US 500 index trade from a Monday high of 6483 to a low of 6363 on Tuesday and then move back higher again to current levels around 6450 (0700 BST), as traders cautiously initiate fresh risk positions to kick off the start of September.
However, it could be said that the two biggest data releases of the week for traders to digest may still be to come. The first is the US ISM Services PMI which is released later today at 1500 BST. This reading surprised markets last month by falling below expectations to 50.1, just above the 50 level which separates economic expansion and contraction. Traders will be looking to see whether this new print confirms a trend of weaker service activity or if the July reading was just a one-off blip.
Then on Friday, it’s the release that potentially every trader has been waiting for since Federal Reserve Chairman Powell mentioned concerns about the strength of the US labour market in his keynote speech from Jackson Hole, and noted how policymakers will be watching employment data closely to determine whether a rate cut at their meeting on September 17th would be appropriate to help support the economy. The outcome of the components of this release, including the unemployment rate and average hourly earnings could determine not only the direction of the US 500 into the weekend but how it performs across the early part of September, a month which is historically one of the worst for US 500 performance.
Technical Update: Trend Extension or Trend Reversal?
A bullish uptrend is defined by higher price highs and higher price lows, reflecting positive sentiment. Traders within this backdrop are seen to buy dips in price at a higher level each time and are able to push prices above the previous high.
As the chart above shows, the US 500 index appears a classic example of an uptrend, with a pattern of higher highs and higher lows emerging since the April 7th low.
While the US 500 index may currently be tracing out a bullish trend, further price strength isn’t guaranteed, especially with Friday’s payrolls data looming. This release has the potential to shift investor sentiment in either direction, so traders could find it useful to monitor key support and resistance levels closely.
Potential Resistance Levels to Monitor:
The recovery from the September 2nd low of 6363, which was above the prior August 20th low of 6347, suggests the uptrend remains intact, keeping the focus on the August 28th all-time high at 6512. A close above this level could signal further price strength.
While no guarantee of continued upside, a break above 6512 may open a path towards 6775, which is the 100% Fibonacci extension, and potentially higher.
Potential Support Levels to Monitor:
If the US 500 index is maintaining an uptrend in price, the potentially important support focus is the August 20th low at 6347. A close below 6347 could see a negative shift in sentiment and increase the risk of a deeper decline.
A close below 6347 might well be a trigger for renewed weakness, with potential then to test 6214, the August 1st low, and possibly further.
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Rare Earth Metals & Geopolitical ImportanceIntroduction
In the 21st century, natural resources continue to shape geopolitics, economic power, and technological advancement. Just as oil defined much of the 20th century’s geopolitical struggles, rare earth metals (REMs) are increasingly being seen as the strategic resource of the digital and green-energy era. These 17 chemically similar elements—scattered in nature yet crucial for modern technologies—have become central to industries ranging from defense systems and electronics to renewable energy and electric mobility.
The geopolitical importance of rare earth metals arises from their scarcity in economically viable concentrations, their critical role in high-tech applications, and the fact that global production is highly concentrated in a few countries, particularly China. This combination of economic necessity and strategic vulnerability makes rare earth metals one of the most contested resources of our time.
This essay explores the science, applications, production dynamics, geopolitical tensions, and future outlook of rare earth metals. By the end, it becomes clear why these “hidden metals” are at the heart of modern geopolitics.
1. Understanding Rare Earth Metals
1.1 What Are Rare Earth Metals?
Rare earth metals are a group of 17 elements on the periodic table, specifically the 15 lanthanides plus scandium and yttrium. Despite their name, they are not particularly rare in the Earth’s crust. In fact, elements such as cerium are more abundant than copper. What makes them “rare” is that they are rarely found in concentrated, economically minable deposits. Extracting them is technically challenging and environmentally damaging, making supply chains vulnerable.
1.2 Types of Rare Earth Elements
They are typically divided into two categories:
Light Rare Earth Elements (LREEs): Lanthanum, cerium, praseodymium, neodymium, promethium, and samarium.
Heavy Rare Earth Elements (HREEs): Europium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, holmium, erbium, thulium, ytterbium, lutetium, plus yttrium.
HREEs are generally scarcer and more geopolitically significant because they are harder to find and extract.
1.3 Properties That Make Them Critical
Rare earths have unique magnetic, luminescent, and electrochemical properties. For example:
Neodymium produces powerful permanent magnets.
Europium provides the red color in LED and display technologies.
Dysprosium improves magnet performance at high temperatures.
Lanthanum is used in camera lenses and batteries.
Such applications make them essential in modern life, often irreplaceable.
2. Strategic Applications of Rare Earth Metals
2.1 Consumer Electronics
Smartphones, laptops, tablets, and televisions rely heavily on rare earths. A smartphone alone may contain up to 8–10 different rare earth elements for screens, vibration motors, and microelectronics.
2.2 Renewable Energy
Wind turbines: Use large amounts of neodymium and dysprosium in permanent magnets.
Solar panels: Depend on cerium and europium for polishing glass and improving efficiency.
Electric vehicles (EVs): Motors require neodymium, praseodymium, and dysprosium.
The global push toward net-zero emissions is driving up rare earth demand exponentially.
2.3 Defense and Aerospace
Rare earths are essential in defense systems:
Jet engines (yttrium, europium)
Precision-guided munitions (neodymium magnets)
Communication systems
Radar and sonar technology
The U.S. Department of Defense considers them critical for national security.
2.4 Medical Technologies
MRI machines, X-ray intensifiers, and other diagnostic devices rely on rare earths such as gadolinium.
2.5 Industrial Uses
Catalysts in oil refining, glass polishing, and metallurgy all depend on rare earths, making them indispensable for both civilian and industrial economies.
3. Global Production and Supply Chain
3.1 China’s Dominance
China is the world’s largest producer of rare earths, accounting for 60–70% of global production and nearly 85–90% of processing capacity. This dominance emerged in the 1990s when China deliberately underpriced rare earth exports, forcing competitors in the U.S. and elsewhere to shut down due to environmental costs and unprofitability.
By controlling not just mining but also refining and manufacturing, China has become the hub of the rare earth supply chain.
3.2 Other Producers
United States: Mountain Pass mine in California is the largest rare earth mine outside China but depends on China for refining.
Australia: Lynas Corporation is a major non-Chinese producer.
India, Russia, Myanmar, and Brazil also contribute but at smaller scales.
3.3 Supply Chain Vulnerabilities
Mining rare earths is only the first step. Refining and separation are highly complex, and China’s near-monopoly over processing makes the global supply chain fragile. Disruptions in China could impact industries worldwide, from EVs to defense systems.
4. Environmental and Social Implications
4.1 Environmental Damage
Rare earth mining is associated with severe environmental impacts:
Radioactive waste (thorium and uranium traces).
Water pollution from acid leaching.
Deforestation and land degradation.
China’s Baotou region, a hub for rare earth mining, has been heavily polluted, leading to health and ecological crises.
4.2 Local Community Impact
Communities around rare earth mines face displacement, water scarcity, and long-term health risks. Balancing demand with sustainable mining practices remains a global challenge.
5. Geopolitical Importance
5.1 Rare Earths as a Strategic Resource
Like oil in the 20th century, rare earths are now “strategic resources.” Countries reliant on imports are vulnerable to supply disruptions, price manipulation, and geopolitical bargaining.
5.2 China’s Leverage
China has used rare earths as a geopolitical tool:
In 2010, China restricted exports to Japan amid territorial disputes, crippling Japan’s high-tech industry temporarily.
China has hinted at restricting supply to the U.S. during trade tensions.
Such actions demonstrate how resource control translates into geopolitical influence.
5.3 U.S. and Western Response
The U.S., EU, Japan, and Australia have launched initiatives to reduce dependency on China. These include:
Strategic stockpiling of rare earths.
New mining projects in Africa, Greenland, and Australia.
Research into recycling and substitutes for rare earths.
However, creating a parallel supply chain is costly and time-consuming.
5.4 Role in Green Energy Transition
As nations push for renewable energy and electric vehicles, rare earths are becoming central to climate policy. This adds another layer of geopolitical competition, as access to rare earths could determine leadership in green technology.
6. Emerging Geopolitical Trends
6.1 Resource Nationalism
Countries rich in rare earth deposits, such as Myanmar, Vietnam, and African nations, are increasingly asserting control. They see rare earths as a path to economic growth and geopolitical relevance.
6.2 Strategic Alliances
The Quad Alliance (U.S., India, Japan, Australia) has discussed collaboration in rare earth supply chains to counterbalance China. The EU is also exploring partnerships with African and Latin American producers.
6.3 Competition in the Arctic
Greenland has significant rare earth deposits. With melting ice making access easier, both China and Western nations are vying for influence in the Arctic region.
6.4 Technological Race
Nations are investing in R&D to find alternatives to rare earths or to improve recycling technologies. Whoever leads in this race could reduce dependence on geopolitically unstable supply chains.
7. Future Outlook
7.1 Demand Projections
The demand for rare earths is projected to triple by 2040, driven by:
Electric vehicles
Renewable energy installations
Advanced military technology
This means competition will intensify.
7.2 Recycling and Circular Economy
Recycling rare earths from e-waste and magnets offers a partial solution. However, technical and economic barriers remain significant.
7.3 Substitutes and Innovation
Some research is focused on developing magnet technologies that reduce reliance on rare earths. Success in this area could reshape the geopolitical importance of these elements.
7.4 Multipolar Supply Chains
Efforts by Australia, the U.S., and Europe to build alternative refining and mining operations could reduce China’s dominance over time, though it will take decades.
8. Case Studies
8.1 Japan’s Strategy Post-2010
After China restricted exports in 2010, Japan diversified its supply by investing in mines in Vietnam and Australia. It also accelerated recycling technologies, making Japan less vulnerable today.
8.2 U.S. Strategic Stockpiling
The U.S. Defense Production Act has been used to stockpile rare earths, particularly for defense applications, highlighting their importance in national security.
8.3 Africa as a Future Powerhouse
Countries like Malawi, Tanzania, and Madagascar hold significant deposits. China has already invested heavily in African mines, but Western nations are increasing their presence to secure supply.
9. Challenges Ahead
Balancing environmental concerns with rising demand.
Avoiding overdependence on a single producer nation.
Managing geopolitical rivalries without triggering resource wars.
Ensuring fair distribution of benefits for resource-rich but economically poor nations.
Conclusion
Rare earth metals are the invisible backbone of the digital, defense, and green revolutions. They may not dominate headlines like oil, but they are no less critical to global security and economic stability. Their importance lies not only in their industrial applications but also in the geopolitical leverage they confer upon producing nations.
As the world transitions toward renewable energy and advanced technologies, rare earths will become even more strategic. The competition over access, processing, and innovation will define geopolitical alignments in the coming decades. Nations that secure stable supply chains and invest in sustainable alternatives will gain a decisive advantage in the 21st-century global order.
In many ways, rare earths are the new oil—quietly powering economies, shaping foreign policies, and fueling the next era of great power competition.
US500 Short Term Correction
US500 Snapshot
US500 is experiencing a sharp pullback driven by heightened risk aversion, rising Treasury yields, and defensive repositioning ahead of major US macro data releases. Sentiment turned noticeably bearish, and technical patterns point to a shift towards correction after months of bullish momentum.
Fundamental
Broad sentiment was bearish today while equities declined and volatility (VIX) spiked.
Defensive sectors (utilities, healthcare, consumer staples) outperformed while tech and growth stocks led losses. Investors are responding to seasonal September risks, rising bond yields near 4.5%, Fed rate cut uncertainty, and anxiety from recent legal and policy headlines
Technical
The index is now in a short term correction, ending a strong summer rally and moving off all time highs, reflective of portfolio rebalancing and increased caution typical for September.
A confirmed daily close below 6,336 would increase the likelihood of a deeper retracement wave targeting 6,000
Current momentum favors near term downside until macro trends, notably labor data and Fed signals, clarify the outlook.
Momentum has shifted towards testing the downside with 6,345 – 6,336 as critical areas to monitor for increased volatility and potential accelerated selling
Key Levels
Resistance 6,500 –6,545, Recent all-time high region, upside cap
Support 6,428 First key support,
Strong Support 6,345 Lower floor, downside target if selling persists
Analysis by Terence Hove, Senior Financial Markets Strategist at Exness
SPX – Fed Model vs Liquidity: Hawkish Hold Meets Negative FlowThe S&P 500 holds near 6,435, but the backdrop is shifting. Fed tone, liquidity, and sentiment are no longer aligned, leaving SPX caught between support and resistance.
1. Fed Model (AFDFM)
Index = –2.78 → weak hawkish bias.
Policy regime = easing, but signal shows a falling trend.
Probabilities: Hold = 60%, Cut = 40%, Hike = 0%.
Inflation easing (Core PCE 0.34%), unemployment stable (4.2%), but Fed Funds still elevated at 4.33%. Policy remains restrictive compared to the Taylor Rule (~1.8%).
2. Liquidity (BML)
Net liquidity variation = –2.14% → negative.
TGA high + RRP large = drain on market cash.
Until liquidity turns up, upside momentum in equities stays capped.
3. Macro Risk Sentiment
Risk On/Off index slipped back below 0 (–0.45).
Summer highs near +1.5 showed strong appetite, but enthusiasm is fading.
Without liquidity improvement, sentiment is unlikely to push higher.
4. SPX Levels
Support: 6,350 → a break below risks 6,200.
Resistance: 6,500–6,550 → needs liquidity improvement to sustain.
Conclusion:
Fed tone = dovish to neutral, but liquidity = negative. That divergence is why SPX is stuck near the highs. A liquidity flip (TGA drawdown, RRP decline) is the trigger for the next breakout. Until then, expect range trading between 6,350 and 6,500.
Disclaimer: This is educational analysis, not financial advice.
SPX – Dovish Fed, Negative Liquidity, and the Next TriggerThe S&P 500 sits near 6,435, holding steady at highs while the liquidity backdrop remains negative. This divergence between price and plumbing sets up the next major move.
Macro backdrop:
The Advanced Fed Model (AFDFM) signals a dovish/easing regime, with moderate strength.
Liquidity, however, is still draining. Treasury’s cash account (TGA) remains elevated, while the Fed’s RRP facility continues to park trillions. Together, these offset easing policy tone.
Net liquidity (BML variation) = –2.14%, a headwind for equities.
Implication for SPX:
Liquidity and SPX correlation has weakened. Historically, that does not last long. Either liquidity improves, or price resets lower.
Key support sits at 6,350. A sustained break below would open 6,200.
On the upside, a liquidity turn (TGA drawdown + RRP decline) would support a breakout toward 6,500–6,550.
Conclusion / Trade View:
The market is balanced between a dovish Fed tone and restrictive liquidity mechanics. As long as SPX holds above 6,400, the structure favors upside, but liquidity needs to flip to sustain momentum. Watch for the next liquidity shift as the trigger.
Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. This is not financial advice.
SPX500 Index – Ready for the Next Pullback Heist Move?🚨 SPX500 / US500 Index – The Money Heist Swing Plan 🎭💰
📊 Plan Overview
Bias: Bullish 200-SMA Pullback Plan @ 6380.00
Entry Strategy (Layering Style):
Thief strategy = multiple buy limit orders stacked like layers 🎯
6400.00 ✅
6410.00 ✅
6420.00 ✅
6440.00 ✅
(You can increase or adjust the layering based on your own style and risk tolerance.)
🛡️ Stop Loss (Thief SL)
SL: 6360.00 ⚠️
Dear Ladies & Gentlemen (Thief OG’s), adjust your SL to fit your risk style. This is just the plan’s guardrail.
🎯 Target / Exit
Target Zone: 6580.00 🚀
Note: This is the “Police Resistance” 🛑 – an overbought + trap zone. Escape with the stolen money 🎭💰 before getting caught.
Reminder: Not financial advice. You decide where to take profits.
🤔 Why This Plan?
🔹 200 SMA Pullback Logic: Price retraced into moving average = classic thief-style entry.
🔹 Layering Strategy Advantage: Building positions gradually improves average entry price & reduces risk.
🔹 Momentum & Sentiment: Neutral Fear & Greed Index (53/100) 😐 and low volatility (VIX 16.9) = stable environment for pullback entries.
🔹 Market Strength: US500 is up +16.81% YTD 🚀 with strong sector support (Alphabet +8.57%, Macy’s +19%).
🔹 Risk Factor: Economic data shows weakness (job openings & factory orders ↓), but bulls remain in control = reason for cautious layering.
🔹 Overall Outlook: Bullish score 65/100 ✅ → Mildly bullish bias fits perfectly with a buy-the-dip pullback strategy.
🔹 Trap Zone Awareness: Plan exits near resistance at 6580.00 to avoid overbought trap — thieves always escape before alarms go off 🚨.
📊 US500 INDEX CFD Real-Time Data (September 03)
Daily Change: +0.51% ↗️
Monthly Performance: +1.87% ↗️
Yearly Performance: +16.81% 🚀
All-Time High: 6,510.93 (August 2025)
😰😊 Investor Sentiment: Fear & Greed Index
Current Reading: 53/100 (Neutral) 😐
Trend: Balanced sentiment with no extreme fear or greed.
Key Indicators:
Market Momentum: S&P 500 above 125-day moving average (positive momentum) ↗️
Volatility (VIX): Low volatility (16.90), indicating stability 🟢
Options Activity: Put/Call ratio stable (no significant fear)
Junk Bond Demand: Moderate risk appetite
Safe Haven Demand: Bonds underperforming stocks (greed signal)
📈 Fundamental & Macro Score
Market Breadth: Moderate (balanced volume) ⚖️
Economic Data:
Job openings lowest since Sept (weakness) 🔻
Factory orders down -1.3% 🔻
Friday’s jobs report = critical ⚠️
Sector Performance:
Communication services (Alphabet +8.57%) 🟢
Consumer discretionary (Macy’s +19%) 🟢
Energy sector weak (Exxon Mobil -2.08%) 🔻
🐂🐻 Overall Market Outlook
Bullish Score: 65/100 (Mildly Bullish) ✅
Reasons:
Strong yearly gains (+16.81%)
Low volatility & neutral sentiment support stability
Tech & communication sectors leading momentum
Risks:
Weakening job & factory data
High valuations near ATH
💡 Key Takeaways
US500 trending upward with neutral short-term sentiment.
Friday’s jobs report = key catalyst.
Sector rotation in play: tech strong, energy weak.
Balanced fear/greed supports controlled bullish setups.
📌 Related Pairs to Watch
FOREXCOM:SPX500
CAPITALCOM:US500
TVC:DJI
NASDAQ:NDX
TVC:VIX (for risk gauge)
✨ “If you find value in my analysis, a 👍 and 🚀 boost is much appreciated — it helps me share more setups with the community!”
#SPX500 #US500 #IndexTrading #SwingTrade #LayeredEntry #SMAPullback #TradingPlan #StockMarket #SP500 #InvestorSentiment #FearGreed
Food Security & Global Market PricesIntroduction
Food is the most fundamental human need, yet in the 21st century, billions of people still struggle with hunger, malnutrition, and unstable food access. At the same time, global markets heavily influence the price and availability of food commodities such as wheat, rice, corn, soybeans, and edible oils. The link between food security and global market prices has become one of the defining challenges of our era.
Food security, as defined by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), exists when all people, at all times, have physical, social, and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food to meet their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life. Achieving this requires stability in production, affordability of prices, resilience against shocks, and equitable distribution.
Global market prices, meanwhile, are shaped by international trade, supply-demand balances, speculation in commodity markets, climate events, geopolitical conflicts, and policy decisions such as subsidies or export bans. When prices spike, food insecurity rises—especially in poorer countries where households spend a large share of their income on food.
This essay explores the intricate relationship between food security and global market prices, examining causes, consequences, and policy responses.
Section 1: Understanding Food Security
Food security rests on four pillars:
Availability – Adequate supply of food from domestic production or imports.
Access – Economic and physical access, meaning people can afford and obtain food.
Utilization – Proper nutrition, safety, and absorption of food in the body.
Stability – Reliable supply and access over time, without major disruptions.
Food insecurity emerges when any of these pillars is weak. For instance:
A drought may reduce availability.
Rising global prices can weaken access.
Poor sanitation or lack of dietary diversity can affect utilization.
Wars, conflicts, or pandemics disrupt stability.
Section 2: The Role of Global Market Prices in Food Security
Global markets set benchmarks for staple foods. Prices in Chicago, Paris, or Singapore often determine what wheat, rice, or soybeans cost in Africa, South Asia, or Latin America.
Why Prices Matter for Food Security
High Prices = More Hunger
When global food prices rise, poorer households reduce consumption or switch to less nutritious diets.
FAO estimates that the 2007–08 food price crisis pushed more than 100 million people into hunger.
Low Prices = Farmer Distress
While high prices hurt consumers, very low prices can harm small farmers, reducing their incomes and discouraging future production.
This creates a cycle of poverty, migration, and reduced agricultural investment.
Price Volatility
Unpredictable swings are as harmful as high prices. Farmers cannot plan their crops, governments struggle with food subsidy budgets, and traders hoard supplies, worsening instability.
Section 3: Historical Food Price Crises
1. The 1970s Oil Shock & Food Prices
Oil price hikes raised fertilizer, transport, and irrigation costs, driving global food inflation.
2. 2007–2008 Global Food Price Crisis
Wheat, rice, and maize prices doubled or tripled due to biofuel demand, export bans, and speculation.
Riots broke out in more than 30 countries, including Haiti, Egypt, and Bangladesh.
3. 2010–2011 Price Surge (Arab Spring Trigger)
Poor harvests in Russia and Ukraine, coupled with droughts, drove wheat prices higher.
Food inflation was a key factor fueling protests in Tunisia, Egypt, and across the Arab world.
4. COVID-19 Pandemic (2020–2022)
Supply chain disruptions, export restrictions, and labor shortages pushed food prices up.
Millions of urban poor in developing countries were hit hardest.
5. Russia–Ukraine War (2022–present)
Ukraine and Russia supply 30% of global wheat exports, 20% of maize, and 75% of sunflower oil.
The war disrupted Black Sea trade routes, triggering a surge in global grain prices.
Section 4: Key Drivers of Global Market Prices
Supply & Demand Imbalances
Rising demand for meat (China, India) increases feed grain demand.
Population growth (expected to reach 10 billion by 2050) pressures supplies.
Climate Change & Extreme Weather
Droughts in Africa, floods in South Asia, and wildfires in North America reduce output.
El Niño and La Niña cycles influence rainfall and crop yields globally.
Energy Prices
Oil prices affect fertilizer, irrigation, and transport costs.
Biofuel policies (e.g., ethanol in the US, biodiesel in Europe) divert grains from food to fuel.
Trade Policies
Export bans (India on rice, Russia on wheat) reduce global supply and spike prices.
Import tariffs and quotas distort markets further.
Speculation & Financialization of Commodities
Hedge funds and institutional investors increasingly trade food futures.
While providing liquidity, speculation can amplify price swings.
Geopolitical Conflicts & Wars
War zones reduce production (Ukraine) or block exports.
Sanctions can disrupt fertilizer supplies (Russia-Belarus potash).
Section 5: Food Security Challenges in Different Regions
Africa
Heavy reliance on imported wheat and rice.
Vulnerable to global price shocks due to weak currencies.
Climate shocks (drought in Horn of Africa) worsen hunger.
Asia
India: major producer but also restricts exports during inflation.
China: massive food demand, maintains large reserves.
Southeast Asia: rice-dependent economies vulnerable to export bans.
Middle East & North Africa (MENA)
Highly import-dependent (over 50% of food).
Price shocks linked to political unrest (Arab Spring).
Latin America
A food-exporting region (Brazil, Argentina) but faces domestic food inflation.
Export crops often prioritized over local food needs.
Developed Countries
More resilient due to subsidies and safety nets.
Still vulnerable to rising food inflation, affecting lower-income households.
Section 6: Consequences of Rising Food Prices
Hunger & Malnutrition
Poor families spend 50–70% of income on food.
Rising prices mean reduced meals, more stunting in children.
Social Unrest & Political Instability
Food riots, protests, and revolutions often follow price spikes.
Economic Strain on Governments
Higher subsidy bills (India’s food subsidy crosses billions annually).
Pressure on foreign reserves for food-importing countries.
Migration & Refugee Crises
Hunger drives rural-to-urban migration and cross-border displacement.
Section 7: Policy Responses to Balance Food Security & Prices
Global Cooperation
WTO rules to prevent arbitrary export bans.
FAO-led initiatives for transparency in food markets.
National Policies
Price stabilization funds and buffer stocks.
Social safety nets: food stamps, cash transfers, subsidized food.
Investment in Agriculture
Modern farming, irrigation, storage, and logistics.
Encouraging climate-resilient crops.
Sustainable Practices
Reduce food waste (1/3 of global food is wasted).
Diversify crops to reduce reliance on wheat/rice/maize.
Regional Food Reserves
ASEAN rice reserve mechanism.
African Union initiatives for emergency grain stocks.
Private Sector & Technology
Precision farming, AI-driven yield forecasts.
E-commerce platforms improving farmer-market linkages.
Section 8: The Future – Can We Ensure Food Security Amid Price Volatility?
By 2050, food demand will rise by 60–70%.
Climate change could reduce yields by 10–25% in some regions.
Global interdependence means local crises (Ukraine war, Indian export bans) ripple worldwide.
The challenge is balancing farmer incomes, consumer affordability, and global stability.
Promising solutions include:
Climate-smart agriculture.
International grain reserves.
Digital platforms for real-time price transparency.
Stronger trade cooperation and less protectionism.
Conclusion
Food security is deeply tied to global market prices. When markets are stable and predictable, people eat well, farmers earn fair incomes, and societies remain peaceful. But when prices spike due to conflict, climate change, or speculation, millions are pushed into hunger and political instability rises.
The future demands a balanced approach—ensuring affordable food for consumers, fair returns for farmers, and resilience in supply chains. Global cooperation, sustainable practices, and smart technology will be central to ensuring that food security is not left hostage to market volatility.
In short: food is not just a commodity—it is a foundation of human survival, dignity, and global stability.
Yields front and center: Fundamental analysis Following 'labour day' the first trading day proper of September has kicked off with a bang. 'Rising yields' being a concern during the European session. A UK cabinet reshuffle caused UK GILTS to rapidly rise as the market grows increasingly concerned about the government's ability to guide the UK economy. The GBP weakened considerably.
Bonds in particular can be difficult to interpret, why would the GBP weaken so much with rising yields, but the USD strengthen when the US10 year is rising at the same time? I would suggest today's movement highlights the precarious situation the UK economy is currently in compared to the US economy. Meaning the market thinks the US consumer can withstand higher interest rates better than the UK consumer. There is also the case to say the USD was bought as a 'safe haven' in what amounted to a yields up / stocks down = risk off European session.
During the North American session, 'soft ISM data' put the breaks on the rising yield narrative, creating a 'bad news is good news' scenario. Meaning 'soft US data' still keeps rate cuts on the table. And overall, my underlying 'risk on' bias remains in tact. The market has (not yet) reacted to the tariff supreme court ruling, which is something to keep an eye on.
I also think the door has been open for potential GBP short 'relative fundamental' trade. Something like an AUD GBP short (depending on the outcome of upcoming AUD GDP data).
Early alert on SPX🚨 Early alert on SP:SPX
The S&P 500 just broke down from a rising wedge , a pattern that has historically marked the end of several bull legs in this index.
📊 In the image below you can see:
In one case, the wedge resolved with only a -4% pullback before the uptrend resumed.
In the second one, the correction went much deeper at around -17% before stabilizing.
👉 A rising wedge is not automatically a BIG crash signal , but it is REAL a warning flag . Losing key supports could open the door to a larger correction, while a quick recovery would keep the broader bull structure intact.
⚠️ Stay vigilant, SPX has a history of respecting this pattern. This is just an early alert for you all!
I'll be sharing in my newsletter more about rising wedges soon , I'm seeing many of them and that could mean that the bull trend, at least, needs a pause.
Consolidation before ATHThe S&P 500 will likely consolidate and correct slightly before the next leg up. A rally will probably start a day or two before the upcoming Fed meeting.
The correction could reach the 0.38 Fibonacci level maybe 0.5, meaning a maximum drop of around 10%.
The RSI indicates that the market needs to cool off, and the MACD shows a similar pattern.
However, the advance-decline line remains extremely bullish, with no signs of a major drop ahead.