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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 Twitter 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
    Expected index adjustments 
    Please see the expected dividend adjustment figures for a number of our major indices for the week commencing 30 Dec 2019. 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.
     


    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.
  3. 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 Beyond Meat 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: 

  4. CharlotteIG

    Dividend Adjustments 25 Jan - 1 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 25th 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
    AS51
    SAR AU
    02/02/2021
    Special Div
    54.286
    RTY
    CVLY US
    25/01/2021
    Special Div
    2
    RTY
    PFBI US
    29/01/2021
    Special Div
    100
     
    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.
     
     
  6. CharlotteIG

    GameStop shares: what you need to know

    By CharlotteIG,


    Analyst article
    The surge in GameStop has caught the market’s attention, and that of financial media. A small retail stock, in an industry in long-term decline, has seen its market value rise very rapidly, as retail traders, coordinating via the website Reddit, have bought into the stock using options, forcing the hedge funds that have taken short positions in it to close out their trades, pushing the stock yet higher.

    What is a short squeeze?
    This short squeeze is a classic market move, familiar to many traders, and is something that can occur in almost any market, if the conditions are right. In this, the conditions were that short positions had been built up in a company that had seen its stock price fall nearly 95% from its 2013 high. This ‘one-way’ trade had continued regardless of the moves in broader indices, as investors took advantage of the fall in traditional retail volumes, leaving companies like GameStop with declining businesses.
    All seemed to work well, until traders on the ‘Wall Street bets’ sub-Reddit decided to start buying the stock. When the stock rises, some shorts have to cover their position by closing out and buying back the stock. This in turn drives the price higher, forcing out others, and so on. A short squeeze develops, which can, as in this case, drive the price to dizzying highs that are arguably entirely unconnected with the actual business.
    Some might suggest this is market manipulation, but the short positions in a company are public knowledge, and it is not actually illegal for ordinary investors to club together in the same stocks. Traders who short need to be aware that such squeezes can happen and should also realise that the vast majority of trades, particularly in equities, are on the long side. Most investors, whether retail or professional, buy stocks in the hope that they will go up.
    Shorting is an important part of the market and helps the activity of ‘price discovery’ to develop. It also helps liquidity and should be viewed as an underhand activity. But while share prices can ‘only’ go to zero, giving long investors a theoretical floor, they can, in theory, go as high as they like. Thus, those with short positions, can, if they do not manage their risk properly, suffer unlimited losses.
    Continued gains are not guaranteed
    While GameStop, and others that have been heavily shorted, has enjoyed a huge rally, this does not mean that continued gains are guaranteed. The future of any trade is always uncertain, and after such a huge ride there may be many investors, of all types, who still think that the shares are overvalued, and will look to short them once again. Regardless of whether an investor trades long or short, they must make sure that they have a clear risk management plan in place, with stop levels clearly defined.
    We are currently seeing increased volatility in certain stocks, including GameStop and AMC. This increases the risk of sudden, large or rapid loss and the potential for gaps, where stocks fall dramatically when the market opens.
    Please note that IG does not offer options on GameStop or AMC Entertainment, or the ability to short these stocksIt must be stressed that IG does not offer options on GameStop, with only spread bet, CFD trades or share dealing available on our platform.
    The activity in these stocks has been confined to a small part of the market, with normal price action continuing in the vast majority of stocks. It will command plenty of attention in the media, and the excitement will undoubtedly provide an attraction for many traders, but sometimes it is better to watch from afar rather than attempt to jump in to such a volatile situation.
  7. 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.
  8. 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! 
     
  9. CharlotteIG
    Dividend Adjustments 2 Mar - 9 Mar
    Expected index adjustments 
    Please see the expected dividend adjustment figures for a number of our major indices for the week commencing 2 Mar 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.
     

    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.
  10. CharlotteIG
    Expected index adjustments 
    Please see the expected dividend adjustment figures for a number of our major indices for the week commencing 14th Sep 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
    AS51
    AMP AU
    18/09/2020
    Special Div
    14.2857
               
               
    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
    Roblox share price surges following direct listing
    Online games company Roblox has joined a long-list of companies from the last year – including the likes of Snowflake, Bumble and Unity – which have enjoyed a strong day one pop following their listing on public markets.
    Unlike those three companies however, Roblox skipped the IPO process completely, instead choosing to take the direct listing approach. Compared to an IPO, under a direct listing, a company sells its shares directly without the help of investment banks.
    Of course, that doesn’t mean there’s no oversight. On Wednesday, before trade commenced, the New York Stock Exchange set a reference point of $45.00 per share for Roblox.
    Demand for the stock went well above that reference point when its shares became tradable on the NYSE, with Roblox opening at $64.50 per share and finishing out the session at $69.50 per share.
    At Wednesday’s closing price, Roblox trades some 54% ahead of the reference price set by the NYSE.
    Putting the fun back in fundamentals: The FY21 outlook
    While it's hard to say if yesterday’s investor frenzy was justified or not, Roblox has posted and continues to expect strong growth in the coming year.
    To illustrate that point, for the year ending December 31 2020, Roblox said it had 32.6 million daily active users and boasted over 30 billion ‘hours engaged’ on the platform.
    This translated to total booking of $1.9 billion and total revenue of $924 million. As with many other companies that have listed to much fanfare, Roblox also remains loss making, recording a $253 million net loss in FY20.
    Looking ahead, Roblox’s management has forecasted continued lofty user and revenue growth for FY21.
    For the first quarter of FY21, the expectation is for daily active users (DAUs) of between 37.6-39.6 million, implying a growth rate of between 59-68% on the prior corresponding period.
    Revenue growth expectations are comparably high, with the company saying it expects Q1 revenues of between $320-335 million.
    The company does however expect daily active user growth to moderate significantly for the full-year (FY21). Here the company said it expected full-year DAUs to come in at between 34.6-36.4 million, implying a growth rate of between just 6-12%, on the prior corresponding period.
    Full-year revenue growth however is poised to remain elevated, with the company guiding for FY21 revenue of between $1,440-1,515 million, implying an impressive growth rate of between 56-64%, on the prior corresponding period.
    By comparison, non-GAAP bookings are expected to come in at between $2,000-2,125 million
    Those considered expectations are built on the assumption that a post-COVID world will hurt growth, at least to some degree. Here management said, as:
    ‘Restrictions ease, we expect the rates of growth in 2021 will be well below the rates in 2020, however, we believe we will see absolute growth in most of our core metrics for the full year.’
     
     Shane Walton | Financial Writer, Australia | Publication date: Thursday 11 March 2021 
  12. 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
  13. CharlotteIG
    Hey everyone, happy almost holidays. 
    I wanted to let you know about some changes to market trading hours over the festive period (all listed in UK time):
     
     
    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.
    Let me know if you need clarification on this. 
     
  14. CharlotteIG
    During the UK bank holiday weekend and over Labor Day weekend in the US and Canada, we’ll be making some changes to our usual opening hours. These adjustments will take place on Monday 31 August (UK bank holiday), Monday 7 and Tuesday 8 September (US and Canada Labor Day weekend), after which we’ll go back to normal trading hours.
    Monday 31 August
    UK equities, index futures, soft commodities and interest rates will be closed

    We’ll be making an out-of-hours price on the FTSE 100 until futures re-open at 1am on Tuesday

    Brent Crude and London Gas Oil will be open as normal

    New York Cocoa, Coffee and Sugar contracts will open at 12.30pm
    Monday 7 September
    US index futures close early at 6pm. We’ll make out-of-hours prices on Wall Street, US 500, Russell 2000, US Fang Index and US Tech until they re-open at 11pm

    US and Canadian equities, and soft commodities, will be closed

    The VIX will close early at 4.30pm

    London Sugar closes early at 5pm

    US rates, Euribor and the Dollar Index close early at 6pm

    US metals and energies, including Nymex Crude, Gold and Silver close early at 6pm

    Brent Crude and London Gas Oil close early at 6.30pm
    Tuesday 8 September
    US grain futures open at 1am

    Lumber futures open at 3pm, livestock at 2.30pm

    All other markets open as normal
    All times listed here are UK time. This information is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it is possible that these hours could change.
  15. CharlotteIG
    Expected index adjustments 
    Please see the expected dividend adjustment figures for a number of our major indices for the week commencing 19th Oct 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
    XIN9I
    600028 CH
    23/10/2020
    Special Div
    7
    SHSN300
    600028 CH
    23/10/2020
    Special Div
    7
               
               
    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.
  16. CharlotteIG
    Expected index adjustments 
    Please see the expected dividend adjustment figures for a number of our major indices for the week commencing 26th Oct 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
    NIFTY
    TECHM IM
    29/10/2020
    Special Div
    1500
    SPX
    AIV US
    03/11/2020
    Special Div
    820
    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.
  17. CharlotteIG
    We're happy to announce that both Bollinger %B and  Bollinger Bandwidth are now available to use on the web platform and mobile app. 
    Bollinger %B
    Bollinger %B indicator helps you work out where price is in relation to the upper and lower Bollinger Bands.
    This shows a reading of 1 if the price is trading at the upper band, or 0 if it's at the lower band. 
    Bollinger %B allows you to take readings of divergences that often precede market reversals:
    A bearish divergence occurs when there are lower highs in %B during an uptrend in price (higher highs) A bullish divergence occurs when there are higher lows in %B during a downtrend in price (lower lows)
     
    Bollinger Bandwidth
    The Bollinger Bandwidth gives a reading on the distance between the upper and lower Bollinger Bands:
    A low reading could be a sign that volatility is about to rise. Low volatility is often seen as a precursor to a spike in price. You can use the tool in a highly trending market. A fall in volatility is often seen when markets are consolidating, or momentum is building for the next move. A reversal in the direction of the bandwidth can be a sign of a market reversal, as it could mean a recent surge or slump in price is losing momentum
  18. 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. 
  19. CharlotteIG
    Expected index adjustments 
    Please see the expected dividend adjustment figures for a number of our major indices for the week commencing 8th June 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.

     
    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
    Will Synairgen shares keep soaring on new Covid-19 treatment?
    Synairgen shares are up 30% on Friday following positive trial data, with its new Covid-19 drug containing a protein that reduces the odds of developing severe symptoms and accelerates recovery.
    Synairgen shares soar 30% on new Covid-19 treatment The Southampton-based biotech company’s drug accelerates patients Covid-19 recovery Synairgen stock is up 2150% year-to-date. Shares in Synairgen are rallying sharply in today’s trade following positive trial data, with its new drug, known as SNG001, containing a protein that reduces the odds of developing severe symptoms of Covid-19.
    The small scale trial results were published in the peer-reviewed Lancet journal, showing positive results in hospitalised patients.
    Synairgen shares are up 30% to 130p at the time of publication, with the stock up 2150% year-to-date.
    Synairgen’s new drug could accelerate Covid-19 recovery
    The Southampton-based biotech company developed a naturally produced protein which helps the body fight viral infections. Synairgen, which was spun out of Southampton University said the drug ‘may have the potential as an inhaled drug to restore the lung's immune response and accelerate recovery from Covid-19’
    ‘The results confirm our belief that interferon beta, a widely known drug approved for use in its injectable form for other indications, may have the potential as an inhaled drug to restore the lung’s immune response and accelerate recovery from COVID-19,’ Professor Tom Wilkinson, Professor of Respiratory Medicine at the University of Southampton and Lead Author, said.
    ‘This pH neutral, inhaled interferon beta-1a formulation (SNG001) provides high, local concentrations of the immune protein which boosts lung defences rather than targeting specific viral mechanisms,’ he said.
    ‘This might carry additional advantages of treating COVID19 when it occurs alongside infection by another respiratory virus such as influenza or Respiratory Syncytial Virus that may well be encountered in the winter months,’ Wilkinson added.
    Synairgen: technical analysis
    Taking a look at the chart of Synairgen, the stock is down 50% from the summer peak, according to Victoria Scholar, presenter and market analyst at IG.
    ‘The stock was under pressure earlier this week on the back of Pfizer’s vaccine hopes,’ she said. ‘But today shares are bouncing back, with a gap higher combined with a buy signal from the RSI.’
    ‘Nonetheless, the stock still remains some way below its descending trendline that’s been in place since October,’ Scholar added. ‘Having broken back up above the 38.2% Fibonacci level, it is now on track to test the 50% fib level at 165.77.

    Aaran Fronda | Financial writer, London | 
  21. 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. 

     
  22. 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. 
  23. CharlotteIG
    Memorial Day & UK Late May Bank Holiday
    There will be some changes to our normal opening hours over the UK spring bank holiday and US Memorial Day period. Check the table below, and find out how the changes could impact your trading.
    Monday 25 May
    UK equities, UK index futures, interest rate and commodity markets (except Brent Crude & Gas Oil) are closed. We’ll make an out-of-hours price on the FTSE 100. Brent Crude and Gas Oil futures close early at 6.30pm. US index futures closes early at 6pm. We’ll make an out-of-hours price on Wall Street, US 500, US Russell 2000, FANG Index and US Tech 100 from 6pm until the futures reopen at 11pm. US equities and soft commodities are closed. US energies, interest rates and metals close early at 6pm. The VIX closes early at 4.30pm.  
    Tuesday 26 May
    Livestock opens at 2.30pm and lumber at 3pm. 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.
  24. CharlotteIG
    UK and European clocks go back one hour when Daylight Saving Time (DST) ends on Sunday 25th October. From this date until Sunday 1st November, the end of US DST, there will be a number of changes to our opening hours:
     
    •                 US and Canadian markets will open one hour earlier in UK time. For example, US and Canadian shares will be quoted between 1.30pm and 8pm
    •                 Leveraged trading on US shares (all sessions) will run from 8am to midnight Monday to Thursday, and from 8am to 9pm on Friday 30th October
    •                 Share dealing (non -leveraged) on US shares (all sessions) will run from 11am to 9pm Monday to Thursday, and from 11am to 9pm on Friday 30th October
    •                 All forex markets will open at 9pm on Sunday 27th October and close at 9pm on Friday 30th October
    •                 24-hour dealing on indices will open at 10pm on Sunday 27 October and close at 9pm on Friday 30th October
    •                 Expiring US markets will settle an hour earlier than usual
    •                 New York Cocoa, Sugar and Coffee, and London Sugar all close an hour earlier than normal
    •                 Weekend trading will open at the same time (8am Saturday), but will close one hour earlier (FX 8.40pm, Indices 9.40pm) on Sunday.
     
     
    All markets will close at 9pm on Friday 30th October (one hour earlier than the normal 10pm close).
    Overnight funding (tomnext) adjustments for FX pairs will apply to positions held through 9pm.
    From Sunday 1st November, the above will revert to their usual hours.
     
    Please also bear the following in mind:
    Asian markets, which do not observe DST, will operate one hour earlier in UK time. For example:
    HKEX shares will close at 8am,
    SGX shares will close at 9am.
     
    In-hours trading on Eurex futures (including the Germany 30) will be available one hour earlier at 12:10pm
     
    Digital 100s - Please pay particular attention to the expiry times of US and Asian digital 100s, as the proximity to expiry has a large bearing on the price quoted. You can check these in-platform via the 'information' section in the deal ticket.
  25. 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

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Spread bets and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 69% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading spread bets and CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how spread bets and CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money. Professional clients can lose more than they deposit. All trading involves risk.

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