As we wrap up Q2 and the first half of 2025, it’s hard not to marvel at the resilience and power this market has shown.
Despite a nearly 20% downside swing earlier this year, the indices have not only clawed back but are now printing fresh highs day after day. The ES and NQ have remained in persistent trend-up mode—grinding, consolidating, and then pushing higher, a pattern that’s held firm through pullbacks, geopolitical noise, and even macro volatility.
🔹 A Look Back to Power Forward
After opening on Sunday at 6 PM EST, the market wasted no time. The Asian session saw a continuation of bullish behavior, marking new highs in both ES and NQ. The daily charts on both show clean, parabolic moves following well-respected EMA ladders—each higher low and breakout reinforcing the uptrend.
We’re in a textbook “grind-up mode” — where the best trades have come from waiting for tight intraday flags and engaging after the dips get bought.
But today’s session is special…
🧭 Key Context for Today – June 30
Qua rter-End + Half-Year Close: Expect positioning, window dressing, and potentially strange volume patterns — particularly in the final hour.
Momentum is Strong: The bulls have clear control, but chasing strength at these highs may not reward undisciplined entries. Use precision and caution.
Geopolitical risk remains, but hasn’t translated into significant volatility yet. The market is climbing this wall of worry with ease.
Strategy Scenarios
1. Bullish Continuation (Preferred Setup)
If price holds above VWAP and breaks through the highs cleanly, we ride momentum. Best entries will come from tight consolidations or VWAP retests that hold.
2. Range Trap / False Breakout
Watch for a break above pre-market high that fails and traps longs. This can offer an early reversal trade back toward VWAP and possibly 6220 (ES) or 22850 (NQ).
3. Profit Taking / Quarter-End Chop
Volume ramps without direction—especially after noon ET—can create noise. Avoid being chopped; protect profits and reduce size.
🧭 Final Thoughts
The strength is undeniable, but that’s where traders must be even more selective.
Quarter-end dynamics can mask true direction — don’t confuse window dressing with fresh trend commitment.
Stick to your levels. Wait for the market to earn your trade. And remember—when in doubt, sit it out.
📺 Quick Note – No Live Stream Today
I’m traveling today and won’t be streaming or trading live with the group — but the structure, levels, and setups remain active. Use the game plan, trade with discipline, and I’ll be back tomorrow.
If you're new, June is still free to join — the Live Bookmap feed and trading sessions resume on the next open day.
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