Research archive

Author: VikingTradingGroup

  • How these notes work

    Notes are short. Two paragraphs, sometimes three. They show up when something on the screen warrants a sentence — a print that doesn’t match the narrative, a structure that’s been holding for longer than it should, a level that the order book keeps defending. Not a thesis. Not a recommendation. Just the observation, with enough…

  • Decoding the Fear Gauge: Contango vs. Backwardation

    The Veteran’s Desk: VIX Term Structure Analysis Quantitative Analysis Desk Welcome to the desk. I’ve spent the better part of 2 decades looking at derivatives, flows, and volatility. Let’s break down backwardation and contango in the volatility instruments. The Term Structure Viewer The VIX itself is an index, not a tradable asset. To trade volatility,…

  • The Affects of Warren Buffett Departing Berkshire Hathaway: A New Era Begins

    In a significant turning point for one of the world’s most renowned conglomerates, Warren Buffett, the legendary 94-year-old “Oracle of Omaha,” announced during Berkshire Hathaway’s annual meeting on May 3, 2025, that he will step down as CEO at the end of the year. While this news marks the end of an extraordinary 60-year leadership…

  • The Ultimate Guide to Alternative Asset Investing with Self-Directed Retirement Accounts

    In an era of market volatility and inflation concerns, savvy investors are increasingly looking beyond the stock market to build wealth. Alternative assets – from real estate and precious metals to private equity and cryptocurrency – offer powerful diversification opportunities that can enhance returns while potentially reducing overall portfolio risk. And there’s no better vehicle…

  • Self-Directed 401(k) Plans: The Ultimate Retirement Solution for Self-Employed Professionals

    For entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small business owners, retirement planning presents unique challenges and opportunities. While traditional employment often comes with built-in 401(k) plans, self-employed professionals need to forge their own path. Enter the self-directed 401(k) – a powerful retirement vehicle that combines exceptional contribution limits with remarkable investment flexibility. Understanding Self-Directed 401(k) Plans A self-directed…

  • Unlocking Financial Freedom with Self-Directed IRAs: Your Guide to Alternative Investments

    In today’s evolving investment landscape, savvy investors are looking beyond traditional stocks and bonds to diversify their retirement portfolios. Self-directed IRAs have emerged as powerful vehicles that offer unprecedented control over your retirement investments, allowing you to tap into markets and opportunities that conventional retirement accounts simply don’t provide access to. What Exactly is a…

  • Gold, Silver, and Platinum Market Outlook

    2025 Precious Metals Market Outlook 2025 Precious Metals Market Outlook Gold, Silver, and Palladium: Trends, Forecasts, and Investment Implications Executive Summary Au Gold Supported by central bank purchases and safe-haven demand. ↗$2,450–$2,950/oz Outlook: Bullish Ag Silver Driven by industrial applications and monetary demand. ↗$28–$40/oz Outlook: Bullish Pd Palladium Threatened by oversupply and declining automotive demand.…

  • How to Trade Volatility in 2024

    To trade volatility effectively in 2024, focus on quality sectors like technology and healthcare. Monitor key economic indicators, such as the ISM manufacturing index and VIX, which signal market uncertainty. Consider incorporating buffered strategies to minimize losses while maintaining exposure to market returns. Diversifying your portfolio is essential; including gold for stability amidst geopolitical risks.…

  • Understanding the Volume Profile in Trading

    When it comes to trading, understanding market dynamics is key to success. The volume profile is one tool that can help traders get a sense of the market’s underlying strengths and weaknesses. In this post, we’ll explore what the volume profile is and how it can be used to make better trading decisions. What is…

  • How To Read And Analyze An Options Chain: Master Options Trading

    In the world of options trading, understanding and being able to interpret an options chain is crucial for successful trading. An options chain provides valuable data on a security’s potential future movements, allowing investors to make informed decisions and implement effective option strategies. In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of reading…