Volatility, Tariffs, and Trade Setups — Joel Elconin on Navigating Today’s Whipsaw Markets
Why traders need cash, charts, and caution: Joel Elconin breaks down the wild price swings and what they signal for earnings season and beyond.
In one of the most volatile weeks since the Covid era, Joel Elconin, co-host of the PreMarket Prep show and founder of the Stock Trader Network, returns to the KE Report to break down what’s really driving market turbulence. From tariff-driven fear to key setups for traders, Joel offers clarity amid the chaos - and lays out the strategies seasoned traders are using right now.
🔹 Tariff-Induced Turbulence Is Distorting Market Signals
The recent surge in volatility isn’t just a technical story - it’s politically driven, with steep tariffs sending shockwaves across sectors.
“The reason for the volatility was self-inflicted… it’s bad for markets, bad for inflation, and recessionary.”
Joel notes this level of volatility hasn’t been seen since Covid, pointing out sharp moves like the second-largest Nasdaq rally ever, even in a downward trend.
Investor takeaway: Keep your macro radar on. Volatility spikes tied to policy shifts can’t be ignored.
🔹 Earnings Season Begins, but the Market Cares More About Guidance
Despite decent reports from names like Delta and JPMorgan, the street is looking ahead, not back.
Joel flags a growing trend: “If there’s ever an excuse for companies to withdraw guidance, this is it.”
Names with China exposure (like Apple and Nike) are particularly vulnerable.
Investor takeaway: Focus on forward-looking commentary and sector-specific risks like China dependencies.
🔹 This Is a Trader’s Market - But Discipline is Key
Wild daily swings have punished traders who don’t respect risk: “If you can’t control your risk, you shouldn’t be in the trade.”
Joel advises scaling in carefully, using technical levels and sticking to stop-losses and profit targets.
“The golden rule: don’t add to losing positions - I broke that this week and paid the price.”
Investor takeaway: Manage size, know your timeframe, and keep a close eye on breaking headlines.
🔹 Bottom Fishing? Use Monthly Charts and Be Selective
Stocks like Nike may look like bargains - but if they’re still in long-term downtrends, patience pays.
Joel’s favorite setup? “Monthly levels, 50% retracements, and confluence with prior breakouts.”
Investor takeaway: Don’t just buy the dip - know where the real support is.
🎧 Click here to listen to the full interview for Joel’s take on trader psychology, earnings setups, and his favorite technical tools.
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