Waiting for Someone to Take the Ball
by Tony Rago
Another consolidation day with neither side willing to take control. Today, I’m looking for that to change. On ES, bulls need to defend the 7,488–7,500 zone and build toward 7,550–7,562. On NQ, the 29,000 level remains the key line in the sand, with buyers needing to hold it and reclaim 29,250 to start shifting momentum back in their favor. If sellers step in, they need to turn 7,488 and 29,000 into resistance and open the door toward 7,450 on ES and 28,633 on NQ. The levels are clear—the question is which side can actually follow through.
With big earnings on deck tomorrow and no major economic news scheduled today, another range-bound session wouldn’t surprise me. That means we need to stay flexible and avoid forcing a directional bias just because the market feels quiet. If buyers show up, we’ll trade with them. If sellers take control, we’ll adjust and go with price. The goal isn’t to predict the move—it’s to recognize it early enough to manage risk and participate. Let’s see who takes the ball and run with it.
👉 Full breakdown is inside today’s Pre-Market Playbook.
Check it out here and trade it smart.
Until next time,
Tony
