Chart formation that shows a narrowing price range over time, where price highs in an ascending wedge decrease incrementally, or in a descending wedge, price declines are incrementally smaller. Ascending wedges typically conclude with a downside breakout and descending wedges typically terminate with upside breakouts.
Shows the market’s expectation of 30-day volatility. It is constructed using the implied volatilities of a wide range of S&P 500 index options. The VIX is a widely used measure of market risk and is often referred to as the ‘investor fear gauge.’
Measures the total workforce that is unemployed and actively seeking employment, measured as a percentage of the labour force.
An active market that is experiencing rapid price changes, that can present trade opportunities.
Polls 500 US households each month. The report is issued in a preliminary version mid-month and a final version at the end of the month. Questions revolve around individuals’ attitudes about the US economy. Consumer sentiment is viewed as a proxy for the strength of consumer spending.
Measures the changes in prices paid by retailers for finished goods. Inflationary pressures typically show earlier than the headline retail.
Also known as the maturity date, it is the date on which counterparts to a financial transaction agree to settle their respective obligations, ie exchanging payments. For spot currency transactions, the value date is normally two business days forward.
Slang for a highly volatile market where a sharp price movement is quickly followed by a sharp reversal.
