EU and US futures are down again. NASDAQ 100 Futures - 1.00%, S&P 500 Futures -1.00%, DAX -1.80%, FTSE MIB -1.90%, at writing.
The stock exchanges are in free fall. In addition to the serious war situation, there is the threat of a nuclear disaster. The Russians bombed the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, the largest in Europe. Ukrainian authorities confirm: 'essential structures are not compromised'.
We are therefore faced with the war, with the economic consequences of the sanctions that Russia and the world are applying to each other, and with a possible nuclear emergency.
The third round of talks between Russia and Ukraine will occur next week. In the People's Daily, the English publication of the Chinese Communist Party, it is emphasized that in yesterday's meeting, in which only an agreement was reached on humanitarian corridors for civilians, 'the two sides discussed military issues, humanitarian issues, and a future political solution to the conflict '.
During a lengthy telephone conversation, Russian President Vladimir Putin told Emmanuel Macron that the objectives of the Russian operation in Ukraine (demilitarization and neutrality of the country) would be achieved in any case. Putin said any attempt to slow down the negotiations by Kyiv would lead Moscow to add new demands to its list.
Canada has decided to impose tariffs of 35% on all products from Russia and Belarus. This was announced by the Ottawa government. The United States plans to impose economic sanctions against a wide range of Russian oligarchs and their families in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. A source familiar with the situation told Reuters, speaking anonymously.
These days it matters little to analyze the Macro data, as all the movements are decided by the news flow of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Conclusions
According to the latest news, the situation is not improving. On the contrary, it is getting worse.
After yesterday's meeting, I expected a positive climate. Still, the attack on the nuclear power plant last night seems to lead to a worsening of the scenario with a possible increase in tensions. My portfolio is suffering, as it is set up for stabilization of the situation and not a worsening.
As traders who invest in stocks, futures, and other derivative instruments, assets with high risks that allow us to make excellent returns, we know that unexpected events are part of the game and must be considered.
Given the endless twists and turns, making a forecast on upcoming events becomes very difficult. Even if there will be pain in the short term, I remain confident in a resolution soon, with a political agreement that will end the conflict.
Never as in these days, those with the psychological wherewithal to withstand the present outcomes and those who have chosen the right securities, with the proper timing, will eventually come out on top of the situation, with excellent returns.