Equity Rally Masks Uncertainty

10-20-2025
From The Trading Desk at Stipelis:
The Macro View
Markets are starting the week on a stronger note, but beneath the surface, there’s hesitation. Equities are rallying, yet the “fear trade” remains alive—gold is firming, and bonds are climbing as yields decline. This mix suggests a market searching for direction rather than conviction.
At Stipelis Global Trading, we’re approaching this setup with what we call aggressive caution. Energy markets remain under pressure, with crude down nearly 2% and gasoline off more than 4%. Natural gas stands out with a 7% gain, but that strength looks isolated rather than thematic. The dollar index is steady, while the VIX drifts lower—signaling short-term calm but not necessarily long-term confidence.
This is precisely the type of environment where research matters most. At Stipelis, we follow more than thirty individual markets—agriculture, energy, metals, equity indices, foreign exchange, and interest rates. Our structure isn’t about collecting data for its own sake; it’s about understanding how capital flows through the global system.
Each market is studied in layers. Technically, we track prices, moving averages, pivots, volatility, and momentum indicators like RSI and stochastics. Fundamentally, we examine production, demand, trade flows, and seasonality—integrating both to distinguish noise from signal.
Beyond single markets, our proprietary sector indices help us visualize capital rotation across assets. Is money flowing toward risk or away from it? Are bond rallies signaling stress that equities haven’t priced in? These questions shape how we position portfolios.
For investors, this is where Commodity Trading Advisors add value. Our role isn’t about making bold calls—it’s about maintaining clarity when headlines create confusion. Managed futures strategies can adapt to shifting conditions, exploiting both rising and falling markets.
In a world saturated with information, Stipelis delivers structured insight. The goal isn’t prediction—it’s preparation. That’s the essence of disciplined trading.
Stephen Coleman
founder of Stipelis global trading LLC
The opinions expressed are those of Stipelis Global Trading LLC and are considered market commentary. They are not intended to act as investment recommendations. Individuals should make investment decisions based on their own analysis and with direct consultation with a financial advisor.
Stipelis Global Trading LLC is registered with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and is a member of the National Futures Association. Member ID Number 0474441
THE RISK OF LOSS IN TRADING COMMODITY INTERESTS CAN BE SUBSTANTIAL. YOU SHOULD THEREFORE CAREFULLY CONSIDER WHETHER SUCH TRADING IS SUITABLE FOR YOU IN LIGHT OF YOUR FINANCIAL CONDITION.
