Posts by Adam Baratta

July 24, 2018 |

Opportunity Knocks

sign of strength

The gold market has been on the defensive in recent weeks, and the selling pressure has remained fairly constant. In another recent post, the idea of a “bearish extreme” was discussed, as it is oftentimes a good time to buy when the rest of the world is selling. Eventually, that selling becomes exhausted, as there may simply be no one left to sell after long periods of declines. A very good potential clue that the market may be reaching- or perhaps has already reached-such a... Continue Reading

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July 20, 2018 |

Take Advantage Now

Gold Coins Sold

The gold market continues to remain on the defensive, as prices have not been able to distance themselves from 12-month lows. Weaker crude oil, a stronger dollar, rising yields and higher stocks have all taken a decidedly bearish toll in recent weeks. Selling pressure has seen the metal drop to 12-month lows, while also potentially threatening to take it down even further. Sentiment in the sector is bearish, and could arguably be seeing an extreme level that may not be sustainable. In other words, right... Continue Reading

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July 16, 2018 |

Now is the Time to Buy

More Trouble Ahead

Gold prices have slumped to a 12-month low, as investors remain hungry for risk and as stock markets continue their ascent back towards previous highs. Although gold has been lacking any significant, bullish catalyst in the short-term, the long-term outlook for the metal looks as bright as ever. Some of the most successful investors seem able to recognize value, while also having a knack for identifying market turning points. These investors understand the notion of market cycles and understand the importance of going against the... Continue Reading

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July 10, 2018 |

Not So Fast

rapid inflation

The U.S. Dollar has been on a tear in recent months, and is currently trading around a 12 month high. The strength seen in the currency in recent months has almost certainly been a major factor in gold’s recent lack of upside, and further gains in the greenback could keep the pressure on. The significant impact the dollar has had on the gold market is not likely to continue indefinitely, however, and once this trade reverses course the outlook for the metal could be extremely... Continue Reading

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July 4, 2018 |

A Buying Opportunity

Gold Stone

The gold market has continued to see selling pressure as a combination of bearish factors take a toll on market sentiment. While the recent slide in gold prices may be viewed as “bearish” or a negative by short-term traders, smart long-term investors will likely welcome lower prices. The notion of rising interest rates, a strong appetite for risk and a stronger dollar have all affected gold and hard assets. Sentiment is currently very poor, and the market’s technical posture is also lacking. Key moving averages... Continue Reading

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June 27, 2018 |

Rates May Go Up Only to Come Right Back Down

Interest Rate Block

With the U.S. and global economies on more solid footing, the Fed has been raising interest rates as it attempts to normalize monetary policy. Other central banks, such as the ECB, are also looking to end stimulus measures and begin the process of removing monetary stimulus through low rates, QE or both. As central banks remove the punchbowl, however, markets will be left to stand on their own two feet. This could be compared to stock markets continuing to play the game, but now without... Continue Reading

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June 25, 2018 |

Is the Economy Running on Borrowed Time?

Without question, the U.S. economy is currently on more solid footing than it was a few short years ago. The labor market is strong, with unemployment levels at the lowest levels in years, and recent growth figures have in some cases exceeded expectations. The Fed has even begun the process of monetary tightening, lifting interest rates off the ultra-low levels seen over most of the last decade. Recent tax cuts and massive government spending are certainly playing a role in the current economic expansion. Stocks... Continue Reading

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June 21, 2018 |

One Step Closer to an All out Trade War

Trade Talks

Stocks are taking it on the chin in early action Tuesday, with the Dow Jones at one point in early action trading lower by over 400 points. The ongoing escalation in trade relations between the U.S. and China has set the tone for the day, and investors appear to be increasingly aware of the risks that a full-blown trade war could pose. In the latest salvo, U.S. President Donald Trump has said he would consider additional tariffs on another $200 billion worth of Chinese goods... Continue Reading

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June 15, 2018 |

An Expanding Danger

Gray Capital Building

As was anticipated, the Federal Reserve raised the key benchmark rate 25 bps to 1.75-2.00%. The central bank appeared to have a slightly more hawkish tone in its statement, and has made clear that it will hike rates twice more in 2018. The central bank did, however, stick with its previous forecast for three rate hikes next year. Although rates are not likely to get anywhere near levels seen in previous tightening cycles, they are expected to continue to rise gradually. The idea of higher... Continue Reading

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June 12, 2018 |

Things Could Get Dicey

Economic Indicators

Global markets have exhibited a large degree of calm in recent weeks. That prevailing sense of calm, however, could potentially be hit by some tidal waves in the week ahead. Over the next several days, there are several major issues that have the potential to be market-moving. Over the weekend, the G7 meeting in Canada could make a splash as tensions are running high over global trade. The issue of global trade and the potential for a significant trade war have been a major source... Continue Reading

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