Illusions fade, but the ground remains.

“The market, much like a mirage in the desert, can offer fleeting glimpses of respite, as seen in the recent energetic bounce of the S&P 500. However, seasoned travelers know that such illusions can often mask a more arduous journey ahead. While the US index catches its breath, our focus must also turn to the Indian landscape, where the NIFTY appears to be navigating a more definitive, downward path, its direction influenced by established technical patterns and the looming significance of upcoming time cycle junctures. Let us not be swayed by the temporary oasis but rather chart the course of the more persistent trend.”

https://ganninsides.com/2025/04/05/shockwaves-in-the-financial-world-the-week-the-market-buckled/

The S&P 500’s recent volatility has been captivating, holding investors in suspense with its dramatic price fluctuations. As I noted in my previous update last Saturday, my analysis indicated a potential support level for the index within the 4850 to 4950 range on the cash market. Indeed, on Monday, the index touched a low of 4835 before staging a remarkable recovery of nearly 13%. Yesterday’s peak reached 5481, signifying a robust upward movement. Furthermore, regarding timing, I highlighted April 9 as a significant time cycle marker, and fortunately, that day witnessed a substantial upward surge. Looking ahead, the 5481 high will be a crucial level to observe. A breakout above this point could propel the rally further, potentially targeting the 5600 to 5650 area. Conversely, if the 5481 level holds, we should anticipate a subsequent move lower for the index.

Given the significant global events and the persistently high volatility, prioritizing risk management over pure profit potential is a prudent approach in these extraordinary times. Exercising considerable caution in all financial decisions is advisable. The next nearby time cycle dates to monitor are April 14 and April 21.

Given the current market dynamics, it’s wise to resist the allure of a perceived market bottom, as the anticipated rebound could prove to be a temporary reprieve. Following the eventual dissipation of this upward movement, my analysis suggests a potential descent towards levels beneath 4200 within the coming months. A more definitive signal of stabilization and a return to typical market behavior would likely coincide with the CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) registering a sustained decrease below the 25 threshold.”

NIFTY’s Bearish Grip: Analyzing Overnight Gaps, Support Levels, and Critical Time Cycles

Regarding the NIFTY, the occurrence of significant overnight gaps appears to hold limited technical significance in discerning the underlying trend. Typically, these abrupt price movements at the market open tend to be retraced or “filled” during subsequent trading sessions. Consequently, while these gaps can inject complexity and volatility, particularly for short-term traders navigating intraday price action, they often prove to be noise rather than a clear signal of the dominant trend.

However, adopting a broader perspective and allowing the market to digest these volatile swings can provide a clearer technical picture. Once the immediate turbulence subsides, the market’s behavior should ideally revert to its pre-established trajectory. In the context of the Indian markets, this trajectory has unfortunately been characterized by a bearish sentiment prevailing over the past several months. Despite intermittent short-covering rallies that offer temporary relief, the overarching pattern since September has been one of successive declines, each establishing new lower lows on the NIFTY chart. This reinforces the notion that the medium-term trend remains firmly entrenched in bearish territory.

Nevertheless, the short-term dynamics can present opportunities, albeit with inherent risks. Should positive momentum gather, the ensuing upward movement could indeed catch many market participants off guard, as evidenced by the sharp rallies witnessed in March. This highlights the potential for swift and unexpected reversals within the broader downtrend.

Given the current environment, which I continue to emphasize as being far from typical, exercising caution in trading volumes remains paramount. Operating with reduced position sizes can help mitigate the amplified risks associated with these abnormal market conditions and the unpredictable nature of overnight gaps. It underscores the importance of capital preservation and a more selective approach to trading amidst heightened volatility.

There is still always a process that we follow, and let’s discuss that below.

https://ganninsides.com/2025/04/07/deconstructing-niftys-expected-downward-movement/

Reflecting on the recent market activity, my update on April 7th specifically highlighted the 21500 level on the NIFTY as a significant area of support, anticipating that it could instigate short-lived upward movements. True to this expectation, the subsequent day, April 8th, saw a follow-up analysis where I identified 22200 as another support zone of moderate importance.

Strategically, my plan involved capitalizing on any upward retracements by initiating further short positions as the index approached the 22800 mark. Given the anticipation of a gap up at the market open tomorrow, April 11th (adjusting for the current date), I believe this upward jolt would present a more favorable opportunity to average into our existing put option positions for the June expiry, potentially securing better entry prices.

This approach underscores a tactical maneuver within a broader bearish outlook. While recognizing the potential for temporary rallies stemming from key support levels, the overarching strategy remains aligned with the prevailing medium-term downtrend. The anticipated gap up, while potentially creating short-term volatility, is viewed as a chance to enhance the positioning of our bearish bets at more advantageous levels. The focus remains on capitalizing on these transient rallies to strengthen our short positions, anticipating a continuation of the established downward trajectory in the weeks and months ahead. This disciplined approach aims to leverage short-term market fluctuations to optimize our medium-term bearish strategy.

Considering the cyclical patterns I’ve been monitoring, the periods around April 15th and, more significantly, the week commencing April 21st, appear poised to be pivotal junctures for market direction. The latter half of April, in particular, warrants close attention, especially concerning the banking sector as a whole, which seems to be entering a critical phase. My analysis suggests a potential shift in the primary driver of downward momentum. Having observed the IT sector undergo a substantial correction from January through April, it appears that this sector’s bearish influence may be waning, with the baton of downside leadership likely to be passed to the banking index. The magnitude of the decline witnessed in IT over the past few months could foreshadow a similar trajectory for the banking sector, anticipated to unfold from late April through mid-July.

Furthermore, April 9th marked a key cycle date specifically for NIFTY Bank. The breach of the low established on that critical date would serve as a significant confirmation, potentially unleashing a sharp and decisive downward move in the banking index. This breakdown below the April 9th low would likely signal the commencement of the anticipated bearish phase for the banking sector. Therefore, the coming weeks promise to be particularly insightful. The confluence of these time cycle dates and the anticipated rotation of downside leadership from IT to banking creates a scenario ripe with potential for significant market movements. Observing whether NIFTY Bank breaks below its April 9th low will be a crucial indicator in validating this outlook and the potential for a substantial decline to materialize. The unfolding dynamics should indeed provide compelling trading and investment opportunities, albeit with the need for careful risk management in these still-abnormal market conditions.

Leave a comment