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Positioning for short Nikkei, things to get worse before they get better

Trade View
Strategic Trade / Sell
Strats-Kay-88x88
Kay Van-Petersen

Global Macro Strategist

Instrument: NK225c1
Price Target: Index level 21,660
Market Price: Index level 21,730

Background:

Trade tariffs and trade wars are just shifting into higher gear. The combination of potential auto tariffs, a stronger yen and risk-off could set the scene for a triple hit for the Nikkei, which is also struggling technically (it has broken through its 200-day moving average and is failing to hold above 22,000). 

I think its only a question of time before we see the next round of tariffs from the US, and potentially more announcement this Friday or over the weekend. 

Parameters:

Entry: 21,730
Stop:  –
Target: 21,660
Time Horizon:  Strategic

   

chart
Nikkei index.                                                                                                                                           Source: Saxo Bank
chart
Nikkei and JPY 5-year.                                                                                                                          Source: Saxo Bank
Management And Risk Description:

Position is 1x capital, so for the Macro Monday book that is circa $10m.

The potential key risk here is that trade disputes get solved sooner rather than later, leading to a relief rally in the Nikkei. A weaker yen could also complicate manners as that tends to be supportive for the Nikkei.

Trading Plan

For now its putting out a line on the short side on the Nikkei, looking to potentially add to the short at the 22,000 level – if we get there. And then to add a long S&P futures leg, so this is very much building out from a portfolio composition of the Macro Monday trading book.

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