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CharlotteIG

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Blog Entries posted by CharlotteIG

  1. CharlotteIG
    We're offering weekly equity options on the platform for some stocks over earning season. Meaning you don't have to call us if you want to trade certain equity options. This week it's Baidu Inc. We're also offering Tesla but that will stay on the platform going forward whereas the weekly options will change depending on which week of earnings season we're in. 
     
    What is an Equity option?
    Equity options are a form of derivative used exclusively to trade shares as the underlying asset.
    In essence, equity options work in an extremely similar way to other options, such as forex or commodities. They offer the trader the right, but not the obligation, to purchase (or sell) a set amount of shares at a certain level (referred to as the ‘strike price’) before it expires. To buy an option, traders will pay a premium.
    When are these available to trade?
    These equity options will be available in the main session (14:30 - 21:00 UK time). 
    Where to find them?
    You can find them under 'Weekly US Equity options' on the left list on your web platform. 

     
    Earning season information for this month: 

  2. CharlotteIG
    Rolls-Royce shares (LON: RR) sunk by 10% to 83p on Friday after half-year results spooked investors over long-running problems with supply chain issues and inflation.
    The FTSE 100 engineer has struggled to gain traction after the pandemic crash in 2020 saw its shares collapse from 236p in February 2020 to just 39p by October 2020.
    And after recovering to 147p by November last year, the Ukraine war combined with tightening monetary policy has seen it surf below penny stock status since early April.

    Rolls-Royce share price: half-year results
    Despite positive momentum on its various R&D projects, earnings made for relatively bleak reading.
    Positively, the FTSE 100 operator generated revenue of £5.3 billion, a slight increase on H1 2021. However, it also made an underlying loss before tax of £111 million, primarily because of higher costs squeezing gross margin, which fell to 17.7% from 21% in the same period last year.
    In the words of CEO Warren East, Rolls is suffering from ‘post-covid indigestion.’
    By division, the picture is slightly more complicated. Its most important, civil aerospace, saw underlying revenue increase by 8% to £2.34 billion. The division makes money by manufacturing and servicing civil plane engines.
    While large engine flying hours remained at 60% of 2019 levels, they are currently up to 65%, and Rolls expects this key metric to rise to 70% by year-end and return to pre-pandemic levels around 2024. Despite the ‘theoretical risk’ posed by the expected recession, East thinks this only ‘might affect exactly which month in 2024-25 we get back to 100%.’
    Results elsewhere were mixed. The power systems division saw revenue grow by an impressive 20% to £1.37 billion. Further, order intake was £2.1 billion, up 53% compared to the prior half after enjoying record quarterly orders in Q2.
    Conversely, its defence division saw revenue fall by 9% to £1.61 billion, partly because of lower spare engine sales and delays in deal sign-offs. This performance will be especially disappointing for investors hoping for a ‘Ukraine boost’ to the bottom line.
    Source: Bloomberg Where next for Rolls-Royce shares?
    This is a complex question. Incoming CEO Tufan Erginbilic will soon be stamping his mark on the FTSE 100 stock. The reception to his appointment has been somewhat mixed; some view his accomplishments at BP as evidence of a much-needed firm hand on the tiller.
    Others question his lack of connections with Whitehall, an important consideration given Rolls’ political importance. The company has previously enjoyed the strong support of Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng, a potential candidate for Chancellor when a new cabinet is formed later this year.
    In the short term, Rolls-Royce is trading in line with expectations. Despite the airport chaos, it is still expecting the all-important civil aerospace division to continue to show improvement through 2022.
    However, supply chain issues remain a concern. It’s being affected by delays in semiconductor deliveries, which could worsen if geopolitical problems surrounding Taiwan deteriorate. It’s also struggling to find alternatives to Russian titanium.
    And with CPI inflation expected to exceed 13% year-end, combined with union-backed demands for significant pay rises, Rolls’ already slipping margins will present a key conundrum for its new CEO. Fortunately, Erginbilic has a track record of cost-cutting while improving performance.
    This will become increasingly important as interest rates rise. Rolls’ net debt stands at over £5 billion and is only going to become more expensive to service as fiscal policy tightens.
    Longer term, Rolls-Royce’s stuck-in-the-mud share price must be starting to frustrate investors.
    Its project to deliver small nuclear reactors appears to be moving at a snail’s pace. The FTSE 100 company now has a shortlist of six potential sites, but take-off will need to wait until a new PM is declared. And this ‘new markets’ division is seeing operating costs escalate, in this half to £48 million despite delivering negligible revenue.
    But there are visible tailwinds. The company recently announced a deal with Qantas to supply 12 Trent XWB-97 engines to power 12 A350s, capable of powering non-stop flights between the UK and Australia. Moreover, it’s developed a world-record beating electric plane, and power gearbox, which could both create significant new revenue streams.
    The challenge is to turn these disparate successes into concrete share price action, which sees Rolls Royce shares break out of their rut.
     
     Charles Archer | Financial Writer, London | 
  3. CharlotteIG

    Dividend Adjustments 21st June 2021 - 28th June

    By CharlotteIG,


    Dividend Adjustments
    Please see the expected dividend adjustment figures for a number of our major indices for the week commencing 21st June 2021. If you have any queries or questions on this please let us know in the comments section below. For further information regarding dividend adjustments, and how they affect  your positions, please take a look at the video.
     

    NB: All dividend adjustments are forecasts and therefore speculative. A dividend adjustment is a 
    cash neutral adjustment on your account.
                                                                                               
    Special Dividends
            Special Dividends
            Index
    Bloomberg Code
    Effective Date
    Summary
    Dividend Amount
    RTY
    TLYS US
    24/06/2021
    Special Div
    1
    RTY
    ONEW US
    25/06/2021
    Special Div
    1.8
    RTY
    ACRE US
    29/06/2021
    Special Div
    0.02
    SPX
    TROW US
    24/06/2021
    Special Div
    3
    SPX
    WRB US
    24/06/2021
    Special Div
    0.5
     
                                                  How do dividend adjustments work? 
    This information has been prepared by IG, a trading name of IG Markets Limited. In addition to the disclaimer below, the material on this page does not contain a record of our trading prices, or an offer of, or solicitation for, a transaction in any financial instrument. IG accepts no responsibility for any use that may be made of these comments and for any consequences that result. No representation or warranty is given as to the accuracy or completeness of this information. Consequently any person acting on it does so entirely at their own risk. Any research provided does not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and needs of any specific person who may receive it. It has not been prepared in accordance with legal requirements designed to promote the independence of investment research and as such is considered to be a marketing communication. Although we are not specifically constrained from dealing ahead of our recommendations we do not seek to take advantage of them before they are provided to our clients. See full non-independent research disclaimer and quarterly summary.
  4. CharlotteIG
    Please see the expected dividend adjustment figures for a number of our major indices for the week commencing 31st May 2021. If you have any queries or questions on this please let us know in the comments section below. For further information regarding dividend adjustments, and how they affect  your positions, please take a look at the video.
     

    NB: All dividend adjustments are forecasts and therefore speculative. A dividend adjustment is a 
    cash neutral adjustment on your account.
                                                                                               
    Special Dividends
            Index
    Bloomberg Code
    Effective Date
    Summary
    Dividend Amount
    HSCEI
    2601 HK
    01/06/2021
    Special Div
    10
                      How do dividend adjustments work? 
    This information has been prepared by IG, a trading name of IG Markets Limited. In addition to the disclaimer below, the material on this page does not contain a record of our trading prices, or an offer of, or solicitation for, a transaction in any financial instrument. IG accepts no responsibility for any use that may be made of these comments and for any consequences that result. No representation or warranty is given as to the accuracy or completeness of this information. Consequently any person acting on it does so entirely at their own risk. Any research provided does not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and needs of any specific person who may receive it. It has not been prepared in accordance with legal requirements designed to promote the independence of investment research and as such is considered to be a marketing communication. Although we are not specifically constrained from dealing ahead of our recommendations we do not seek to take advantage of them before they are provided to our clients. See full non-independent research disclaimer and quarterly summary.
  5. CharlotteIG

    Coinbase Listing Soon!

    By CharlotteIG,


    Product updates
    Coinbase Listing Soon
    When will the Coinbase listing happen? 
    Coinbase Global Inc (COIN) will list on the Nasdaq on 14 April 2021. This will be a direct listing rather than an IPO.  
     
    What is the expected Coinbase market cap? 
    Market cap is expected to be in the region of $75 billion. 
     
     
    When will I first be able to trade Coinbase? 
    We expect trading to begin at any point from 14:30 (UK time) onwards on 14 April, but realistically probably not for the first few hours. This is due to price discovery in the underlying market. 
     
     
    Will Coinbase be available for spread betting and CFD trading ? 
    Yes, we’ll be offering spread betting and CFD trading on Coinbase to all leverage clients from day 1 (April 14th). 
     
    Will I be able to short Coinbase on my leveraged account ? 
    To begin with you will  only be able to go long on Coinbase, until there is borrow available in the market or until we have sufficient internal inventory to lend out. 
     
    Will I be able to trade Coinbase with a guaranteed stop? 
    No, guaranteed stops will not be available when trading Coinbase. 
     
    Can I buy Coinbase shares in a share dealing account? 
    Yes,  you can buy Coinbase shares in an IG share dealing account. 
     
    Can I buy Coinbase shares on my ISA account? 
    Yes, you can buy Coinbase shares on your IG ISA account 
     
    What will the trading hours be for Coinbase? 
    Coinbase will be available online during the main session (14:30-21:00 UK time) only. You can call in to access the pre- and post-market sessions. 
     
    What are the margin requirements for trades on Coinbase? 
    Margin requirements will be as follows: 
     
    Tier 
    Notional value of the position 
    Deposit factor 
    1 
    0 - £250k 
    25% 
    2 
    £250k - £1m 
    40% 
    3 
    £1m - £1.25m 
    50% 
    4 
    £1.25m + 
    75% 
     
    Will I be able to trade equity options on Coinbase? 
    There are unlikely to be equity options available on Coinbase from the outset, but we will be able to offer them once they begin trading. 
     
    For more information on Coinbase, please follow this link https://www.ig.com/uk/trading-strategies/coinbase-ipo--how-to-buy-and-short-coinbase-shares-210413
  6. CharlotteIG
    We're offering weekly equity options on the platform for some stocks over earning season. Meaning you don't have to call us if you want to trade certain equity options. This week it's Zoom Video Communications Inc. We're also offering Tesla but that will stay on the platform going forward whereas the weekly options will change depending on which week of earnings season we're in. 
     
    What is an Equity option?
    Equity options are a form of derivative used exclusively to trade shares as the underlying asset.
    In essence, equity options work in an extremely similar way to other options, such as forex or commodities. They offer the trader the right, but not the obligation, to purchase (or sell) a set amount of shares at a certain level (referred to as the ‘strike price’) before it expires. To buy an option, traders will pay a premium.
    When are these available to trade?
    These equity options will be available in the main session (14:30 - 21:00 UK time). 
    Where to find them?
    You can find them under 'Weekly US Equity options' on the left list on your web platform. 

     
  7. CharlotteIG
    Expected index adjustments 
    Please see the expected dividend adjustment figures for a number of our major indices for the week commencing 6 April 2020. If you have any queries or questions on this please let us know in the comments section below. For further information regarding dividend adjustments, and how they affect  your positions, please take a look at the video.
     
                                                                   
     
    Please note there are no special divs.
     
    How do dividend adjustments work? 
    This information has been prepared by IG, a trading name of IG Markets Limited. In addition to the disclaimer below, the material on this page does not contain a record of our trading prices, or an offer of, or solicitation for, a transaction in any financial instrument. IG accepts no responsibility for any use that may be made of these comments and for any consequences that result. No representation or warranty is given as to the accuracy or completeness of this information. Consequently any person acting on it does so entirely at their own risk. Any research provided does not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and needs of any specific person who may receive it. It has not been prepared in accordance with legal requirements designed to promote the independence of investment research and as such is considered to be a marketing communication. Although we are not specifically constrained from dealing ahead of our recommendations we do not seek to take advantage of them before they are provided to our clients. See full non-independent research disclaimer and quarterly summary.
  8. CharlotteIG

    Dividend Adjustments 1 Feb - 8 Feb

    By CharlotteIG,


    Dividend Adjustments
    Expected index adjustments 
    Please see the expected dividend adjustment figures for a number of our major indices for the week commencing 1st Feb 2021. If you have any queries or questions on this please let us know in the comments section below. For further information regarding dividend adjustments, and how they affect  your positions, please take a look at the video.

    NB: All dividend adjustments are forecasts and therefore speculative. A dividend adjustment is a 
    cash neutral adjustment on your account.
     
    Special Dividends
            Index
    Bloomberg Code
    Effective Date
    Summary
    Dividend Amount
    AS51
    SAR AU
    02/02/2021
    Special Div
    5.4286
     
     
    How do dividend adjustments work? 
    This information has been prepared by IG, a trading name of IG Markets Limited. In addition to the disclaimer below, the material on this page does not contain a record of our trading prices, or an offer of, or solicitation for, a transaction in any financial instrument. IG accepts no responsibility for any use that may be made of these comments and for any consequences that result. No representation or warranty is given as to the accuracy or completeness of this information. Consequently any person acting on it does so entirely at their own risk. Any research provided does not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and needs of any specific person who may receive it. It has not been prepared in accordance with legal requirements designed to promote the independence of investment research and as such is considered to be a marketing communication. Although we are not specifically constrained from dealing ahead of our recommendations we do not seek to take advantage of them before they are provided to our clients. See full non-independent research disclaimer and quarterly summary.
     
  9. CharlotteIG
    We're offering weekly equity options on the platform for some stocks over earning season. Meaning you don't have to call us if you want to trade certain equity options. This week it's Netflix. We're also offering Tesla but that will stay on the platform going forward whereas the weekly options will change depending on which week of earnings season we're in. 
     
    What is an Equity option?
    Equity options are a form of derivative used exclusively to trade shares as the underlying asset.
    In essence, equity options work in an extremely similar way to other options, such as forex or commodities. They offer the trader the right, but not the obligation, to purchase (or sell) a set amount of shares at a certain level (referred to as the ‘strike price’) before it expires. To buy an option, traders will pay a premium.
    When are these available to trade?
    These equity options will be available in the main session (14:30 - 21:00 UK time). 
    Where to find them?
    You can find them under 'Weekly US Equity options' on the left list on your web platform. 

     
    Earning season information for this month: 

  10. CharlotteIG

    Dividend Adjustments 18 Jan - 25 Jan

    By CharlotteIG,


    Dividend Adjustments
    Expected index adjustments 
    Please see the expected dividend adjustment figures for a number of our major indices for the week commencing 18th Jan 2020. If you have any queries or questions on this please let us know in the comments section below. For further information regarding dividend adjustments, and how they affect  your positions, please take a look at the video.



    NB: All dividend adjustments are forecasts and therefore speculative. A dividend adjustment is a 
    cash neutral adjustment on your account.
     
    Special Dividends
            Index
    Bloomberg Code
    Effective Date
    Summary
    Dividend Amount
    RTY
    INDT US
    21/01/2021
    Special Div
    199
    RTY
    CVLY US
    25/01/2021
    Special Div
    2
    How do dividend adjustments work? 
    This information has been prepared by IG, a trading name of IG Markets Limited. In addition to the disclaimer below, the material on this page does not contain a record of our trading prices, or an offer of, or solicitation for, a transaction in any financial instrument. IG accepts no responsibility for any use that may be made of these comments and for any consequences that result. No representation or warranty is given as to the accuracy or completeness of this information. Consequently any person acting on it does so entirely at their own risk. Any research provided does not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and needs of any specific person who may receive it. It has not been prepared in accordance with legal requirements designed to promote the independence of investment research and as such is considered to be a marketing communication. Although we are not specifically constrained from dealing ahead of our recommendations we do not seek to take advantage of them before they are provided to our clients. See full non-independent research disclaimer and quarterly summary.
  11. CharlotteIG
    Brexit Update: for EEA clients - FAQs
    How do I agree to the transfer to IG Europe after Brexit?
    Due to Brexit your IG accounts with IG UK companies will be set to closings only on the 31st of December 2020.
    We’ve established a new European entity, IG Europe, to ensure you can keep using our services after Brexit. To do so you’ll need to agree to transfer your account(s) to IG Europe by 8 January 2021.
    How do I agree to the transfer?
    Simply login to your account via My IG and follow the prompts.
    Verifying your identity
    To complete the transfer process, you’ll also need to verify your identity before 8 January 2021. Simply log in to your My IG and follow the prompts to follow the verification process. Video verification can be done on any day of the week between 8am and midnight (UK time). Make sure that you have your passport on hand, and you’ll be done in just a few minutes.
    Verification can take up to 24 hours to be processed, so please get started before 8 January 2021. If you don’t verify your identity in time, we won’t be able to transfer your account(s) to IG Europe and we may need to close them.
    What does the transfer involve?
    Once you’ve agreed to the transfer and followed the steps to verify your ID, we’ll migrate your existing account(s) to IG Europe for you.
    The platform won’t be affected, so at the time of the transfer:
    Your login details, watchlists and trading experience will remain the same
    The transfer may result in a taxable profit or loss for Spread betting accounts. This shouldn’t apply if you’re a resident of the UK or Ireland, but will depend on your personal circumstances
    The money in your current accounts will be transferred to your IG Europe account(s)
    Spread betting and CFD accounts
    As part of the transfer process, we’ll need to close your open positions and then re-open them with IG Europe at the original opening levels. This will ensure that your running P&L won’t be affected
    Share dealing accounts
    Share dealing accounts won’t be transferred during this process.
    Your account will be set to closings only and you will have up until 31 March 2021 to sell your holdings (commission free) or transfer out to a different broker.
    To learn more on how to transfer out your holdings please click here.
    What will happen to my funds?
    Your funds will be transferred to IG Europe and placed in segregated bank accounts in accordance with BaFin’s client money rules, as opposed to FCA rules.
    You’re currently protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, but once your funds are transferred you’ll be covered by the EdW, which is the German equivalent.
    When will the transfer take place?
    The transfer will take place mid-January 2021. We will provide the exact date and time in advance so that you can monitor your positions.
    Please note that between the 31 December 2020 and the migration date you will not be able to open any new positions due to your account being placed on closings only.
    Where is IG Europe based?
    IG Europe is based in Germany and is authorized and regulated by BaFin and Bundesbank. IGE offers a range of financial products, including CFDs, options and turbo warrants.
    What happens if I don’t agree to the transfer?
    If no deal is agreed, we will lose our ability to service your account(s) from the UK and they will need to be closed.
    New website address
    After the transfer is complete, you should log in to your account at www.ig.com/ie
    You can continue to log in to your account via any one of IG’s websites, but you will need to use www.ig.com/ie if you want to find information about the products and services relevant to you.
  12. CharlotteIG

    Our trading hours this Christmas

    By CharlotteIG,


    Trading hour changes
    You can find changes to trading hours over the Christmas period listed below, in UK time. Please make sure that you’re familiar with the changes, as they may affect your trades. Date Changes Thursday 24 December Half day in most markets. All out-of-hours markets close at 6.15pm, forex and cryptocurrencies close at 10pm. Friday 25 December All markets closed. Saturday 26 December Normal weekend trading (8am open). Sunday 27 December Normal weekend trading. Monday 28 December UK & Irish shares closed. Most European & US shares open. Tuesday 29 December Normal trading. Wednesday 30 December Normal trading. Thursday 31 December Half day in most European markets. Forex, cryptocurrencies and out-of-hours markets close at 10pm. Friday 1 January All markets closed. Saturday 2 January Normal weekend trading (8am open). Sunday 3 January Normal weekend trading. Monday 4 January Normal trading. This information is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it's possible that these hours could change. For full information on our most popular markets' dealing hours over Christmas, visit our Christmas opening hours page.
  13. CharlotteIG
    US jobs report preview: will markets look beyond slowing NFP trend?
    Friday’s US jobs report looks unlikely to derail the vaccine-led optimism that has dominated the past month.
    The November US jobs report due out on Friday provides traders with a fresh opportunity to gauge the direction of travel as the country continues to suffer at the hands of the coronavirus.
    With the month seeing widespread optimism over the impending vaccines from Pfizer, Moderna, and AstraZeneca, we have seen havens such as the dollar come under pressure. However, this impending jobs report should provide a gauge on whether markets should continue to focus on the future growth prospects or worry about the current economic weakness at the hands of the coronavirus. That jobs report will be released at 1.30pm on Friday 4 December.
    Tune in to IGTV live announcement and analysis this Friday at 13:25 UK time on the IG platform.
    Will improved ADP helps lift sentiment
    Markets are evidently preparing for a six-month period that will likely focus on the gradual recovery spurred on by an increasing rate of vaccination in the US. With that positive outlook for the future, the question this week is whether we should be worried about current economic weakness or not.
    The November ADP payrolls release seen on Wednesday highlighted an ongoing slowdown in the economic recovery, with a disappointing figure of 307,000 coming in well short of both expectations (433,000) and the October figure (404,000). Particular weakness came from the large businesses (over 500 employees), which halves its monthly hiring rate compared with October. While the ADP release is not the greatest gauge of how things will look on Friday, it does signal a unwelcome trajectory which has been in play over recent months.
    Friday's payrolls figure is expected to highlight that same downward trajectory, with forecasts pointing towards a figure of 500,000. That would represent the slowest growth in jobs since the pandemic recovery started in May. However, thinking from a trading perspective, the lack of any major reaction to Wednesday's poor ADP figure does highlight that short-term weakness is being largely ignored in anticipation of a vaccine-led recovery in 2021. With that in mind, it feels like the market reaction to a reading above forecasts would be more significant than a weaker non-farm payrolls (NFP) figure.
    Looking elsewhere within the report, unemployment is expected to continue its downward trajectory with a reading of 6.8% (from 6.9%). This highlights the fact that whilst the payrolls growth may be slowing, things are still moving in the right direction.
    Dollar index technical analysis
    The dollar has been under pressure over the past month, with the dollar index hitting the lowest level since April 2018. That trend remains key here, with a break up through the 0.9143 required to bring about a more bullish intraday picture. A better-than-expected jobs report would likely extend this dollar weakness, with haven demand drying up in the face of an expected economic rebound next year.

    S&P 500 technical analysis
    The S&P 500 has similarly been reacting to the recent upgrade in sentiment thanks to a wealth of vaccine announcements last month.
    While the price has been struggle to overcome the 3674 resistance level, it is likely we will soon break through to create a fresh record high. That outlook comes given the bullish entry into the current ascending triangle formation. With that in mind, further gains seem likely unless the price breaks back below the 3594 swing low.

    Joshua Mahony | Senior Market Analyst
  14. CharlotteIG
    US presidential election: what does it mean for markets?
    United States presidential election United States Donald Trump Joe Biden Brexit 2016 United Kingdom European Union membership referendum
    Election a key moment for markets
    The US presidential election is one of the most closely watched events in the calendar. Although it only occurs every four years, most of the preceding year is taken up with choosing candidates and deciding policy platforms, while the immediate aftermath is always a period of interest as pundits speculate about what the new (or not so new) occupant of the most important office in the world will do.
    This time around, the election takes place in a febrile atmosphere. US politics were already sharply divided at the beginning of 2020, as US President Donald Trump’s ‘Keep America Great’ approach contrasted with Joe Biden’s more conventional policy platform, as the former vice president campaigned in a vein similar to that of his predecessors. But the Covid-19 pandemic provided another, entirely unexpected, element to contend with.
    Global pandemic transforms the race
    The economic shock and market dislocation prompted by the pandemic upended expectations for the election. Donald Trump’s most powerful card, the economy, suddenly suffered a severe blow, and only quick Federal Reserve (Fed) and government fiscal stimulus helped to stave off disaster. While a recovery is arguably under way, there is still a long way to go, and more government support will be needed. Whoever wins the election will need to embark on more support programmes for workers and affected industries, in a bid to steer the US economy through to a safe harbour when a vaccine is introduced.
    From a relatively tight race earlier in the year, Joe Biden has managed to establish a noticeable lead over the incumbent, Donald Trump. Despite some recovery in his polling, Mr Trump continues to trail his opponent, with a bigger mountain to climb in terms of winning sufficient votes in the Electoral College. It is still not certain who will win, but Mr Biden appears to be doing better in key battleground states compared to Hilary Clinton in 2016.
    Will this be a re-run of 2016?
    The last presidential election was one of the most surprising in recent memory. Coming in a year that saw an oil price slump and then the Brexit referendum, the victory of Donald Trump over a Democrat opponent that had seemed a dead cert to win came as a shock to global markets.
    On the night of the result, markets saw substantial volatility, with Dow futures and the dollar index both dropping sharply in the wake of the news that Donald Trump was victorious. Markets and investors had been caught napping by the result, in a similar way to the Brexit referendum. But contrary to expectations, the election of Mr Trump did not provoke a new bear market in stocks. Indeed, the reverse was true. Investors piled back into US equities, sending them to record highs, a fact trumpeted at repeated intervals by the administration.
    This time around, investors are more prepared, at least psychologically, for volatility. Arguably, Mr Biden would represent a return to the Obama years, with a greater focus on social welfare and potentially higher taxes, in order to help pay for the recovery programmes that are badly needed. In this sense he may be considered the ‘main street’ candidate. Conversely, Mr Trump is still seen as the business choice, representing reduced regulation and tax cuts designed to spur the US economy forward.
    International outlook key
    A Biden win would likely see a more conciliatory approach towards America’s foreign partners and opponents. Mr Trump was keen to use American economic leverage to extract concessions from trading partners, regardless of how close these were to the US in strategic terms. Of course, there was the trade war with China, which rumbles on despite expectations of a deal, and a second Trump term would likely see the president push forward with a more combative approach with regard to trading partners like China, the European Union (EU), Canada and Mexico.
    By contrast, Mr Biden would likely seek accommodation, aiming to rebuild relationships in order to provide a more congenial outlook for a global economic recovery. Businesses and markets may ultimately prefer a Democratic administration that repairs the global free trade outlook and thus provides a boost for the US economy.
    What about Brexit?
    As the UK looks to exit its Brexit transition period at the end of the year, the occupant of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue will be key. Trump is a fan of Brexit, a fact exploited by Boris Johnson and in some ways bemoaned by Theresa May. Meanwhile, Joe Biden has already signalled that the UK must look to preserve peace in Northern Ireland as a prerequisite for any US deal.
    While London might hope in some ways for a Trump win, the current president is not shy about strong-arming allies into deals favourable to the US. A trade deal could be more likely under a Republican administration, but if the Democrats do well in Congress a deal may struggle to make much headway.
    Market impact
    US elections always produce much heat, but little light, around the key question of ‘what markets will do’. In a sense, the person who occupies the Oval Office probably only has a marginal impact on overall market direction, a fact that the current incumbent would probably disagree with in his usual vehement fashion. We can be certain about one thing – a Republican win would mean more market tweets, while Mr Biden might be tempted to take a calmer course, keeping his views to himself.
    Much was made of the ‘Trump bounce’ in stocks following the election. Perhaps it contained a grain of truth. But overall what we saw was a US rally built on strong fundamentals, and inflows into key sectors that had been unpopular for the months preceding the election. Compared to a UK besieged by Brexit and a eurozone with sluggish growth, the US economy was going strongly, and investors could not resist the prospect of higher returns from this economy.
    This time around, perhaps, the picture is less clear. The US has, in some ways, fumbled its response to Covid-19, and the impending vote has essentially torpedoed any chance of a big new fiscal response to support the economy. But the UK, Europe and Asia are also suffering. The US has the potential to grow, and do so strongly, supported by an activist Fed and by the prospect of government stimulus regardless of who wins the election.
    Be prepared
    I round off with my usual comment – whatever happens, investors and traders need to be prepared. Have a plan in place, using stop losses and defined risk levels. If the lead up to the election, or the night itself, or the weeks afterwards, are volatile, then remember to either widen out stops and reduce position sizes, or step aside entirely to allow things to settle down.
    2020 has been a rollercoaster ride already. The prospect of a tightly contested election, one that may lead to an uncertain result that is fought out in the courts in a manner reminiscent of, but worse than, 2000, may make markets more volatile for longer. Make sure you have a plan, and that you follow it. This is going to be an exciting time, but a volatile one.
    We also have a Podcast with our own Jeremy Naylor along with Michael Gayed, The Lead-Lag Report, and Jonathan Wood, Control Risks. Listen to the podcast my clicking here.
    How to trade the US Presidential election
     Chris Beauchamp | Chief Market Analyst 
    Photo by Bloomberg. 
  15. CharlotteIG
    We are honoured to be nominated for The Good Money Guide Awards, which aim to champion financial services firms that excel in innovation, product, and customer service. Voting helps others make smart decisions about who to invest with and provide valuable feedback to improve online investing, trading, and currency transfer providers.
     
    In 2019, IG won Best Forex Broker and Best Overall Broker and we would love your help again in 2020.
     
    Vote for IG here: https://goodmoneyguide.com/awards/trading/
     
    Get your votes in by Friday. 
     
    As well as this, if you think we're missing anything for your trading needs please let us know here: 
     
    Thank you so much for trading with us. 
  16. CharlotteIG
    Improve trading performance with our new tool
    Discover our new trade analytics tool, designed to help you evaluate and improve your trading performance. Accessed directly in the platform, it enables you to:
    ·        Gain deeper insight into your winning and losing trades
    ·        Identify and eliminate expensive trading mistakes
    ·        See your total returns, including all fees and adjustments
    ·        Monitor how much you pay in costs and charges
    We want you to keep building on your trading successes. To do that, you need data that lets you see exactly what worked well, and what didn’t. That’s why we’ll soon be adding extra features to make your trades even more transparent, as we continue to enhance the tool.
     
    Where can I find the tool?
    The new feature can be found in the  ‘live accounts’ tab in My IG and select ‘trade analytics’ on the left-hand menu.

     
     
    Where can I discuss this tool in the community
    We did test this tool with some traders late last year meaning some clients would have seen the tool before others. If you want to chat with other traders about this feature, click on the forum below: 
     
     
  17. CharlotteIG

    Shape IG's future

    By CharlotteIG,


    Product updates
    We've added this blog so community members can have their say on projects we're looking to add in the future. Your vote will help us determine what our project teams work on to shape the future of IG.  
    Please have a look at all of the ideas below before voting. If you have time we would also appreciate you leaving any feedback positive or negative about the ideas, in the comment section. 
    1. Live Streamed Calendar Events
    • Access to live streams of important economic and market announcements – accessed via the economic calendar
    • IG will provide streams from major central bank announcements, major company earnings calls and other important company events (e.g. product announcements)
    • You’ll be able to set reminders and alerts from these from the economic calendar, and then watch them in a window while interacting with the rest of the platform


     
    2. Personalised Notifications
    • A service that provides you with personalised push notifications based on your trading activity and interaction with IG. These will cover:
    • Trade analytics insights
    • Recommendations for IG Academy courses based on your recent activity
    • What other notifications would you like here?
    • This feature builds on current automatic personalised notifications about major movements in the markets you’re most interested in
    • How would you like these to be delivered?

     
    3. Personalised workspace 
    What is it?
    The personalised workspace will give you the option for IG to pre-populate your workspace and watchlists depending on your interests. We’ll base this on the assets and products you’re interested in
    What kind of things can I use it for?
    • The personalised workspace will help you to:
    • Stay on top of the markets you’ve interacted most with
    • Reduce workspace clutter by deprioritising things you haven’t looked at for a while
    What else would you like from a personalised workspace?

     
    4. IG Academy walkthroughs
    What is it?
    • Currently IG Academy courses are self contained – and use text and diagrams to explain theoretical trading concepts
    • IG Academy Walkthroughs will demonstrate how practical concepts work using our platform

     
    5. Ask IG ... 
    What is it?
    • A range of IG services, accessible through voice channels. You’ll be able to access Ask IG through your preferred smart speaker (e.g. Google Home, Alexa), through the voice function or your phone (e.g. Siri) or through the IG app
    What kind of things can I use it for?
    • You’ll be able to use IG to:
    • Answer questions about your account and open positions
    • Ask questions about the wider markets
    What else would you like to use Ask IG for?

     
    As mentioned earlier in the post, if you have any feedback on any of these or if you want to tell us answers to any of the bolded questions please do so in the comment sections. This post will be open until 28th February 2020, 23:59, and the information we get from it is being incorporated when deciding on our next project. 
    Thanks everyone for getting involved! 
     
  18. CharlotteIG
    Changes to trading hours over the US Thanksgiving period
    There will be some changes to our normal opening hours over the US Thanksgiving period. Check the table below to find out how these could impact your trading.
    Thursday 26 November:
    US equity markets are closed. US index futures close early at 6pm. We’ll make an out-of-hours price on Wall Street, US 500 and NASDAQ from 6pm until the futures reopen at 11pm. The VIX closes early at 4.30pm. US Crude closes early at 6pm and Brent Crude closes at 6.30pm. US rates and the Dollar Index close at 6pm. Metals, including gold and silver, close at 6.45pm. US soft commodities are closed. London Sugar closes early at 5pm. Friday 27 November:
    US equity markets close early at 6pm – with no pre or post-market trading. US index futures and the VIX close early at 6.15pm. We’ll make an out-of-hours price on Wall Street, US 500 and NASDAQ from 6.15pm until 9pm. NYMEX Crude closes at 6.45pm and Brent Crude closes at 7pm.   US rates and the Dollar Index close at 6.15pm.   Metals, including gold and silver, close at 6.45pm.   New York Cotton opens late at 1pm. US grain futures open late at 2.30pm. US soft commodities (except US Sugar) will close early at 6.05pm.  Livestock trades from 2.30pm to 6.05pm. Lumber trades from 3pm to 6.05pm. The futures desk and all 24-hour indices close at 9pm. FX closes at 10pm.  All times listed here are UK time. These hours are accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it’s possible that they could change.
     
  19. CharlotteIG
    Please see the expected dividend adjustment figures for a number of our major indices for the week commencing 26th April 2021. If you have any queries or questions on this please let us know in the comments section below. For further information regarding dividend adjustments, and how they affect  your positions, please take a look at the video.

    NB: All dividend adjustments are forecasts and therefore speculative. A dividend adjustment is a 
    cash neutral adjustment on your account.
    Special Dividends
            Index
    Bloomberg Code
    Effective Date
    Summary
    Dividend Amount
    SAF
    EXX SJ
    28/04/2021
    Special Div
    5.43
    OMX
    SAND SS
    28/04/2021
    Special Div
    0.02
    IBEX
    ITX SM
    29/04/2021
    Special Div
    0.13
    STOXX
    ITX SM
    29/04/2021
    Special Div
    0.13
     
                      How do dividend adjustments work? 
    This information has been prepared by IG, a trading name of IG Markets Limited. In addition to the disclaimer below, the material on this page does not contain a record of our trading prices, or an offer of, or solicitation for, a transaction in any financial instrument. IG accepts no responsibility for any use that may be made of these comments and for any consequences that result. No representation or warranty is given as to the accuracy or completeness of this information. Consequently any person acting on it does so entirely at their own risk. Any research provided does not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and needs of any specific person who may receive it. It has not been prepared in accordance with legal requirements designed to promote the independence of investment research and as such is considered to be a marketing communication. Although we are not specifically constrained from dealing ahead of our recommendations we do not seek to take advantage of them before they are provided to our clients. See full non-independent research disclaimer and quarterly summary.
  20. CharlotteIG
    Amazon and Twitter to report earnings shortly after 9pm (UK time)
    The multinational tech giant and the popular social media platform will release earnings tonight. Keep an eye on these stocks to see how the market reacts.
     
    Twitter earnings – What to expect
    Advertising services account for close to 90% of Twitter’s revenue, which saw a dip in 1H 2020 as businesses cut back on marketing spend in times of Covid-19. However, investors may note that on the back of improving economic conditions, advertising revenue had bounced back strongly in the later part of the year to the point of surpassing pre-Covid levels. This momentum may potentially continue into 2021, as global advertising spend are projected to increase further with improved business sentiments from ongoing vaccination and economic recovery.

    Full article here
  22. CharlotteIG
    Please see the expected dividend adjustment figures for a number of our major indices for the week commencing 31st May 2021. If you have any queries or questions on this please let us know in the comments section below. For further information regarding dividend adjustments, and how they affect  your positions, please take a look at the video.
     

    NB: All dividend adjustments are forecasts and therefore speculative. A dividend adjustment is a 
    cash neutral adjustment on your account.
                                                                                               
    Special Dividends
            Index
    Bloomberg Code
    Effective Date
    Summary
    Dividend Amount
    FBMKLCI
    SUCB MK
    24/05/2021
    Special Div
    13
    NIFTY
    BRIT IN
    25/05/2021
    Special Div
    1250
    NKY
    CSR AU
    28/05/2021
    Special Div
    20.7143
    RTY
    GBL US
    28/05/2021
    Special Div
    200
    RTY
    ANCB US
    28/05/2021
    Special Div
    20
    HSCEI
    2601 HK
    01/06/2021
    Special Div
    10
                      How do dividend adjustments work? 
    This information has been prepared by IG, a trading name of IG Markets Limited. In addition to the disclaimer below, the material on this page does not contain a record of our trading prices, or an offer of, or solicitation for, a transaction in any financial instrument. IG accepts no responsibility for any use that may be made of these comments and for any consequences that result. No representation or warranty is given as to the accuracy or completeness of this information. Consequently any person acting on it does so entirely at their own risk. Any research provided does not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and needs of any specific person who may receive it. It has not been prepared in accordance with legal requirements designed to promote the independence of investment research and as such is considered to be a marketing communication. Although we are not specifically constrained from dealing ahead of our recommendations we do not seek to take advantage of them before they are provided to our clients. See full non-independent research disclaimer and quarterly summary.
  23. CharlotteIG
    Although the GSK share price has underperformed against its close competitors in the past year, signs are starting to improve following positive moves from an activist investor and the release of highly anticipated new products.
      GSK shares down 2% year to date Shares reached £13.48 this morning but slumped afterwards GSK retains operations in the UK and not sell off vaccine operations What is going on with GSK shares right now?
    GlaxoSmithKline shares saw a brief rally after the price dropped as markets opened in London on 27 May. This was following news that the US activist investment firm Elliott Management, which recently acquired a significant stake in GSK will not be forcing the company to sell off its vaccine and pharma departments. However, the share price slumped shortly after, indicating that the beleaguered pharma giant is not out of the woods yet.
    Speculation had been rife that the US company would also slash GSK's R&D budget and divide it up into UK-based and overseas operations. However, Elliott Management said all such plans would be scrapped following discussions with the GSK leadership and the UK Government, which reportedly sees GSK as a 'national champion'.
    The GSK share price rose to a peak of £13.48 after markets opened, before trending downwards in the morning. Markets may consider this a sign that Elliott has faith in the £68 billion company to produce better returns for shareholders in the future, following the success of recently-announced Covid-19 treatments produced by GlaxoSmithKline. Nonetheless, issues related to its under-performance this past year remain outstanding.
    Does the longer-term future look positive for the GSK share price?
    GSK's reprieve has also come as a relief to figures in government who strongly wished to see a strong GSK remain in the UK. This does not indicate how the GSK share price will perform in the longer term, though. GSK has consistently underperformed the FTSE this year, with shares falling 18% over the past 12 months, while the FTSE has grown 16% in that time.
    Meanwhile, competitors such as AstraZeneca have seen notable growth in their share price, partly due to its success with its Covid-19 vaccine. However, signs are on the horizon that GSK might be catching up.
    On Wednesday, the US FDA approved for nationwide use of GSK's new Covid-19 antibody drug, in a move that could represent billions of pounds in revenue for the company. GSK also is set to begin the phase III trial of its very own Covid-19 vaccine, something that may benefit GSK share price if things go well.
     
     Daniel Smyth | Financial Writer, London | Publication date: Thursday 27 May 2021 15:49
  24. CharlotteIG
    Please see the expected dividend adjustment figures for a number of our major indices for the week commencing 5th July 2021. If you have any queries or questions on this please let us know in the comments section below. For further information regarding dividend adjustments, and how they affect  your positions, please take a look at the video.
     

    NB: All dividend adjustments are forecasts and therefore speculative. A dividend adjustment is a 
    cash neutral adjustment on your account.
                                                                                               
    Special Dividends
            Index
    Bloomberg Code
    Effective Date
    Summary
    Dividend Amount
    RTY
    OAS
    08/07/2021
    Special Div
    4
    RTY
    SHEN
    12/07/2021
    Special Div
    18.75
     
                      How do dividend adjustments work? 
    This information has been prepared by IG, a trading name of IG Markets Limited. In addition to the disclaimer below, the material on this page does not contain a record of our trading prices, or an offer of, or solicitation for, a transaction in any financial instrument. IG accepts no responsibility for any use that may be made of these comments and for any consequences that result. No representation or warranty is given as to the accuracy or completeness of this information. Consequently any person acting on it does so entirely at their own risk. Any research provided does not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and needs of any specific person who may receive it. It has not been prepared in accordance with legal requirements designed to promote the independence of investment research and as such is considered to be a marketing communication. Although we are not specifically constrained from dealing ahead of our recommendations we do not seek to take advantage of them before they are provided to our clients. See full non-independent research disclaimer and quarterly summary.
  25. CharlotteIG
    Trading hours over the US Thanksgiving period

    There’ll be some changes to our normal opening hours over the US Thanksgiving period. Check the table below to find out how they could impact your trading. Note that all times listed below are UK time.



    These hours are accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it’s possible that they could change.


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