03-2014 : Montréal Exchange to Introduce Futures Contracts on the FTSE Emerging Markets Index

While a stubborn clamshell container or vacuum-sealed jar lid might serve as a minor inconvenience to some, it can be a major struggle for others. 

Time keeps slipping away, but its passage allows us a glimpse at patterns that may influence the months and years ahead.

In the beverage industry, new products are fulfilling more than just offering refreshment.

Flexible packaging accounts for 19 percent of the overall packaging market and is expected to grow at a rate of 3.9 percent CAGR by 2023, according to the 2019 Flexible Packaging Marketing Assessment by PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies.

Here are is where I overstayed my assigned time and messed up my schedule.

With April 20 approaching, we invited Contempo Specialty Packaging’s Michael Markarian to discuss sustainable packaging options for the cannabis industry, which faces some unique packaging challenges.

AMERIPEN supports Minnesota’s packaging EPR law for a number of reasons, most important of which is that it provides for true shared responsibility for recycling costs instead of putting the onus entirely on producers.

While packaging undeniably offers utility in protecting and preserving products through the supply chain, the days of shrink film, oversized plastic bags, and non-recyclable plastic trays are surely over.

The future of packaging is in these five areas and trends.

Cultivating Our Future: Student Shadow Program Fuels Industry Interest jhammond@desti… Tue, 07/30/2024 - 18:28

Gold futures warning: bull flag breakdown points to further downside risk for GC traders ????

Gold futures (GC) have recently broken out of a significant bull flag formation, and after a strong rally, prices have now pulled back, raising concerns among traders and investors. Let’s dive into the details and what it means for those holding or trading gold.

Understanding the measured move: a key level for professional traders ????

After breaking out of the yellow bull flag on the 4-hour chart, gold prices made a “measured move” from the low point A to the top of the bull flag pole at B, reaching as high as C. In trading, a measured move is a projection based on the initial rally (or decline) within a pattern, allowing traders to estimate where the price might head next. This level often aligns with Fibonacci retracements, with the 50% level in this case acting as a key decision-making point for professional traders and algorithms, who tend to sell at the completion of a measured move.

In this case, the measured move fulfilled its target, and prices began to pull back, signaling that some traders are locking in gains and potentially positioning for a reversal. This is often seen as an exhaustion point, where buyers lose steam, and sellers start stepping in.

Retesting the broken bull flag: signs of weakness? ????

Now, gold is retesting the previously broken bull flag, a critical area that could either act as support or become a point of resistance. As of the latest data, GC futures are trading below the Value Area Low (VAL) of approximately 2635-2636, adding further bearish pressure to the outlook. If prices close below this level today, it may signal that support is not holding—a significant concern for gold bulls.

What traders should watch ????

• Closing price relative to VAL (2635-2636): A close below this level today would be a bearish signal, indicating that the support zone is failing to hold.
• Consecutive closes below VAL: If today and tomorrow both close below 2635-2636, it could reinforce a bearish trend, making it even harder for gold to recover in the short term.
• Bull flag as potential resistance: Now that the bull flag is broken, it may act as a new resistance point, which could further press down on prices.

Bottom line: is gold at risk of further downside? ⚠️

The recent breakdown from the bull flag, the completion of the measured move, and the failure to hold above the Value Area Low are all red flags for gold bulls. Should prices continue to close below 2635-2636, it could signal a stronger bearish trend for GC futures. As always, traders should approach with caution and assess their risk, as the market could face additional selling pressure if these support levels fail to hold. Trade at your own risk and visit ForexLive.com for additional views.

The cryptocurrency market is evolving rapidly, and with it, advanced financial instruments like futures and options have emerged as popular tools for traders seeking to maximize their investment strategies. While these derivatives allow for speculative trades and strategic risk management, they each have unique characteristics, pros and cons, and complexities that make them suitable for different types of traders. As these instruments gain popularity, especially in crypto-focused financial hubs often termed as "Crypto Cities," understanding the nuances between futures and options has become essential for modern investors.

In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the mechanisms behind futures and options, their applications in cryptocurrency markets, and which scenarios favor each instrument. Whether you are looking to leverage a small investment into potentially higher returns or hedge your existing crypto holdings, this guide will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of futures and options and how they fit into the ever-expanding landscape of crypto trading.

What Are Futures in the Crypto Market?

Definition and Mechanism

Crypto futures are financial contracts obligating the buyer to purchase (or the seller to sell) a specific cryptocurrency at a predetermined price at a specified future date. Unlike spot markets, where transactions are settled instantly, futures allow traders to speculate on the future price movement of a cryptocurrency without owning the underlying asset.

Key Features of Crypto Futures

• Leverage: Futures contracts allow traders to control a larger position with a smaller amount of capital by using leverage. However, this amplifies both gains and losses.
• Settlement Date: Futures have an expiration or settlement date, which defines when the contract must be fulfilled or closed.
• Market Liquidity: Futures often have high liquidity, particularly for popular cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum.

Pros and Cons of Futures

• Pros:
• High potential for returns with leveraged positions.
• Flexibility to profit from both rising and falling markets.
• No need to own the underlying cryptocurrency.
• Cons:
• Elevated risk due to leverage, which can lead to significant losses.
• Expiry dates require positions to be managed actively.
• Complex for beginners without financial background or trading experience.

What Are Options in the Crypto Market?

Definition and Mechanism

Crypto options give traders the right, but not the obligation, to buy (call option) or sell (put option) a cryptocurrency at a specified price on or before a certain date. This characteristic provides a flexible way to speculate on price movement or hedge against potential losses.

Key Features of Crypto Options

• Premium: To acquire an option, traders pay a premium, which is the upfront cost of the contract.
• Expiration Date: Like futures, options also have an expiration date, after which the option becomes invalid.
• Limited Risk for Buyers: The maximum loss for an option buyer is limited to the premium paid, whereas sellers face potentially unlimited losses.

Pros and Cons of Options

• Pros:
• Lower initial cost since only the premium needs to be paid.
• Limited risk for option buyers.
• Flexibility to hedge against price volatility.
• Cons:
• Options pricing can be complex, involving factors like volatility and time decay.
• Potential for unlimited losses for option sellers.
• Premiums can reduce profitability if the market doesn’t move in the anticipated direction.

Futures vs. Options: Key Differences

Obligation vs. Right

• Futures: With futures, both buyer and seller are obligated to fulfill the contract at expiration.
• Options: Options buyers are not obligated to exercise the contract. They can choose to let it expire if it’s unprofitable, minimizing potential losses to the premium paid.

Risk Exposure

• Futures: Leverage can amplify profits and losses, meaning traders can lose more than their initial investment.
• Options: Options buyers face limited risk, making it an appealing choice for conservative traders.

Expiration and Liquidity

• Futures: Have higher liquidity and are generally easier to enter and exit.
• Options: Can have less liquidity, particularly in crypto markets, making them more suitable for specific trading strategies.

Use Cases: When to Use Futures vs. Options

Trading Speculation

Futures are highly suited for short-term speculation, particularly when a trader has strong expectations about the direction of the market. By leveraging positions, traders can make the most of price fluctuations in the crypto market.

Options, on the other hand, are often used for strategies that benefit from volatility. Traders might buy options when they anticipate significant movement in either direction but are uncertain of which way it will go.

Hedging and Risk Management

Options are commonly used as a hedging tool because they provide a means to protect an investment from adverse price movements while only risking the premium. For instance, a crypto investor holding Bitcoin may purchase a put option to limit potential losses.

Futures, while also used for hedging, involve more risk due to their obligatory nature and leverage. They may be preferable for institutional traders or seasoned investors with significant exposure in the crypto market.

Crypto Cities and the Future of Derivative Trading

In emerging "Crypto Cities" like Miami, Singapore, and Dubai, crypto derivatives trading has become more accessible due to regulatory advancements and sophisticated trading infrastructure. These hubs promote financial innovation, supporting platforms that offer both futures and options trading with advanced risk management features. Leveraging tools like quantum ai can enhance trading analysis in these markets, allowing traders to make data-driven decisions and better manage the complexities of futures and options.

FAQ: Futures vs. Options in Crypto Markets

What are the main differences between futures and options in crypto?

Futures require an obligation to buy or sell at a set date, while options provide the right but not the obligation to execute the trade. This distinction gives options more flexibility.

Are futures riskier than options?

Yes, futures are generally riskier due to leverage and the obligation to settle the contract, while options limit the buyer’s risk to the premium paid.

Can I use both futures and options in crypto trading?

Yes, using both allows traders to diversify their strategies, speculating with futures while hedging with options.

Which is better for short-term trading, futures or options?

Futures are often better for short-term speculation due to their high liquidity and leverage.

What is the role of quantum ai in trading futures and options?

Quantum ai assists traders by analyzing vast amounts of data to identify trends and make data-driven trading decisions, helping to navigate the complexities of derivatives.

Do all exchanges offer futures and options trading?

No, only certain exchanges offer both. It’s essential to choose a reputable exchange that supports these derivatives and offers tools for risk management.

How does leverage work in futures trading?

Leverage allows traders to control a larger position with a smaller amount of capital. However, it also increases the potential for losses.

What factors affect options pricing?

Options pricing is influenced by the underlying asset’s price, volatility, time to expiration, and the strike price.

Can options expire worthless?

Yes, if an option is out of the money at expiration, it becomes worthless, and the buyer loses the premium.

Is it possible to hedge with both futures and options?

Yes, futures can be used for directional hedging, while options provide flexibility to hedge against volatility and risk.

Conclusion

In the dynamic landscape of cryptocurrency trading, understanding the differences between futures and options is vital for traders looking to maximize their strategies and manage risk. While futures offer a straightforward, leveraged approach to capitalize on price movements, options provide flexibility and limited risk exposure, making them suitable for cautious investors and complex trading strategies.

By integrating advanced tools like quantum ai into trading strategies, investors can gain insights into market trends and optimize their decision-making process. Whether operating in a traditional market or an emerging Crypto City, being informed about futures and options can enhance trading outcomes and provide a competitive edge in the crypto market.

• German DAX futures -0.2%
• French CAC 40 futures -0.4%
• UK FTSE futures -0.1%

The CAC 40 index is now down to its lowest since mid-August while the DAX is eyeing its October lows of 18,911. This comes with US futures also marked down so far on the day. S&P 500 futures are lower by 0.3% as we look to the session ahead.

Washington, D.C. – The National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation (NABLF) today launched The Future Leaders Fund, a new fundraising campaign in support of the foundation’s mission to create a more diverse, innovative and vibrant workforce. NABLF board member and broadcast ambassador Tamron Hall kicked off the campaign with a video message encouraging broadcasters to donate to The Future Leaders Fund this holiday season.

Washington, D.C./New York - NAB Show and Future Media Conferences (FMC), producer of Post|Production World (P|PW), are adding three unique and comprehensive training conferences for creative professional at NAB Show, April 15 – 19 in Las Vegas. In addition to the legacy P|PW conference for production and post-production specialists, the 2023 NAB Show will feature:

Washington, D.C. -- The 2023 NAB Show will lead a collaborative, immersive and interactive exploration of the transformative impact Web3 and other internet advances are having on the media and entertainment industry on April 15-19 at the Last Vegas Convention Center. Educational programming, hands-on demonstrations, special events, networking sessions and dozens of exhibitors on the show floor will explore the next generation of the internet and its potential to unlock new opportunities in the content lifecycle.

LAS VEGAS, Nev. -- The Opening Session of the 77th NAB Broadcast Engineering and Information Technology (BEIT) Conference began at NAB Show 2023 today, celebrating new advancements in broadcasting technology and services.

Today the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) launched the Future of Television Initiative, as announced by Federal Communications (FCC) Commission Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel. The Future of Television Initiative is a public-private partnership to ensure a smooth transition to ATSC 3.0 for broadcasters, other associated industries and, most importantly, the American public. NAB will establish and lead this effort with industry, government and public interest stakeholders to establish a comprehensive roadmap for an orderly and expeditious transition to this exciting new viewer experience.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Broadcasters from around the country will gather in Washington, D.C. on June 13-14 for a two-day event focused on two important issues affecting the future of radio and television broadcasting. Hosted by the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) and the National Alliance of State Broadcasters Associations (NASBA), the conference will focus on broadcasters' response to certain automakers removing AM radio from their newer model vehicles and a regulatory proceeding examining carriage of broadcast television programming on streaming platforms.

Washington, D.C. – PILOT, NAB's innovation initiative, is now accepting submissions for the 2024 PILOT Innovation Challenge through January 19. The program provides mentorship and promotion for winning proposals, along with an opportunity to exhibit at NAB Show in Las Vegas, April 13-17, 2024.

Washington, D.C.— The future of the film industry is more democratic. That’s the idea behind a Main Stage panel discussion at the 2024 NAB Show in Las Vegas. The team behind “Holy Smokes,” the winner of the Decentralized Pictures Kevin Smith Comedy Short Film Screenplay Award, will dive into the challenges aspiring filmmakers face and explore the groundbreaking shift towards audience-driven filmmaking. The panel features Decentralized Pictures (DCP) Co-founder Roman Coppola (“Moonrise Kingdom,” “The French Dispatch,” and “Darjeeling Limited”), and Actor Mena Suvari (“American Beauty,” “American Pie,” HBO’s “Six Feet Under”), followed by a screening of “Holy Smokes.”

Washington, D.C. – From content creation to delivery to revenue, artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the broadcast, media and entertainment industry. NAB Show is the epicenter for exploring the latest advancements, impacts, opportunities and challenges AI is making throughout the production pipeline. Sessions will delve into tools and efficiencies, disinformation and deep fakes, content security and cyber security issues.

Washington, D.C.— From creative collaboration to game-changing AI technology in sports, media and entertainment and sustainability to delivering premium experiences on the smallest to largest screens, thought leaders in the broadcast, media and entertainment industries will lead deep-dive conversations into the future of content, connection and monetization strategies.

Washington, D.C.— With 160 countries represented, NAB Show April 13 - 17 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, is solidly the global destination for all things broadcast, media and entertainment. Dignitaries and delegations from six continents will convene to discover cutting-edge technologies, forge strategic partnerships and shape the future of content creation.

Washington, D.C. – Today, the National Association of Broadcasters Leadership Foundation (NABLF) proudly announces a groundbreaking partnership with the Foundation For A Bright Future (FABF), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting underprivileged and underrepresented children. This collaboration, rooted in shared values and objectives, aims to provide students with unparalleled educational opportunities and sustainable employment prospects in the media industry.

Future-Proofing: As powerful forces reshape enterprise IT, will your IT and software development skills be enough?

Re-tooling one's skill set to reflect changes in enterprise IT, including the knowledge to steer stakeholders around the hype to what's truly valuable.

Writing on the Wall: Does the future need your code? The answer will define whether changes in enterprise IT represent threats or opportunities.

A discussion of the factors affecting decisions around the selection of a strategy for modernizing Oracle Forms applications.

The panel discusses mobile and other factors driving the need for the modernization of Oracle Forms applications.

A panel of experts discusses use cases illustrating modernization strategies for Oracle Forms applications.

Many mission-critical applications built on Oracle Forms are badly in need of modernization. What are the options?

Oracle JET product team members John Brock and Geertjan Wielenga join Fishbowl Solutions senior principal cloud consultant John Sim and Ecovue Solutions technology director Pani Gummaraju to discuss Oracle JET -- what it is, how it's used in the real world, and what the future holds. Recorded live at Oracle Code One 2019 in San Francisco.

In this conversation Oracle Community Manager Javed Mohammed speaks with three AI-ML experts.

Autonomous technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are on the tip of every tongue in tech. But what is the difference between AI and ML? What are interesting use cases? What is “under the hood” of AI/ML and the algorithms that power ML models?

We have three Subject Matter Experts who share their insights into a fascinating and at times humorous conversation.

• Charlie Berger, Sr. Director of Product Management for Machine Learning, AI and Cognitive Analytics at Oracle.
• Heli Helskyaho, CEO Miracle Finland  Oracle ACE Director, Groundbreaker Ambassador. Author. Doctoral student, University of Helsinki. Also known as HeliFromFinland.
• Katharine Jarmul, Head of Product at Cape Privacy, she is a Privacy activist, AI dissenter, machine learning engineer. Author and teacher for O'Reilly.

Listen to learn about what makes AI and ML solutions powerful as well as the challenges we face from them. Charlie, Heli and Katharine explain some of the fundamentals about this revolutionary technology but also share personal stories which make for a memorable Podcast.

Read the complete show notes here.

VIENNA, 16 June 2016 – Accountability is crucial to preventing future crimes against humanity, war crimes and genocide, said President of the Hague-based International Criminal Court (ICC), Judge Silvia Fernandez de Gurmendi as she addressed the 823d meeting of the Forum for Security Co-operation (FSC) on Wednesday in Vienna.

Fernandez emphasized that the current security challenges are staggering in their numbers and complexity.

“The world is facing destabilizing conflicts around the globe which include not only deliberate acts of violence against the physical security and well-being of civilians, but also deliberate attacks against their cultures and identities,” she said. “This demands a multi-faceted response from the international community to stop violence in the short-term, but also sustainable conflict resolution in the long-term.”

Fernandez stressed the importance of justice in preventing future crimes and the necessity of building the capacity of national jurisdictions. The ICC can exercise jurisdiction over crimes against humanity, war crimes and genocide but it is complementary and not intended to replace national systems, she noted.

“Capacity building of national jurisdictions is essential. The OSCE has played a role - especially in the former Yugoslavia - and can also make contributions through supporting the rule of law and democratic institutions,” Fernandez said.

Ambassador Adam Bugajski of Poland, the OSCE participating State currently chairing the FSC, said: “In paragraph 30 of the Code of Conduct we committed ourselves, inter alia, to ensure that armed forces personnel are aware they are individually accountable under national and international law for their actions."

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The future looked quite bleak even before the events of last week, but now Asif Kapadia’s speculative hybrid feature 2073 feels all the more relevant following the disastrous American election. Following its Venice Film Festival premiere, the Samatha Morton-led project will arrive on December 27 and now the new trailer has been unveiled from NEON. […]

The post Asif Kapadia and Samantha Morton Imagine the Future in Trailer for La Jetée-Inspired 2073 first appeared on The Film Stage.

Theme park experts say advanced robotics technologies help bring popular film and TV characters to life in convincing ways.

Disney’s lowest-paid full-time workers will earn at least $18 an hour this year under a contract union members overwhelmingly approved Wednesday.

Listen to Greg Paulsen of Xometry speak about his view of the future of 3D Printing! What is in store for us 3D Printing enthusiasts?

The Future Of 3D Printing By Xometry’s Own Greg Paulsen Listen to Greg Paulsen of Xometry speak about his view of the future of 3D Printing! What is in store for us 3D Printing enthusiasts? CLICK HERE!   How 3D Printing Can Change The World The future of manufacturing is

Resolution 76 - (Rev. Geneva, 2022) - Studies related to conformance and interoperability testing, assistance to developing countries, and a possible future ITU Mark programme

Framework for data handling to enable machine learning in future networks including IMT-2020

Framework for evaluating intelligence levels of future networks including IMT-2020