Bitcoin hits new all-time high to close out 2020

  (30 December 2020)  As the world says goodbye and good riddance to 2020, all is not well in financial markets.  To be sure, many stock markets are near all-time highs as the Fed's QE liquidity injections have succeeded in their goal to boost the value of risk assets.  This asset inflation has come at the expense of the US dollar as the greenback has fallen to its lowest level in almost three years.  More worryingly, bitcoin has made new all-time highs in recent days.

As a reaction to the unprecedented levels of debt and government intervention, Bitcoin has hit record highs this year and traded above $28,000 today.  On the face of it, the new highs in bitcoin are a simple reflection of the weakness of the US dollar as the Fed and the US government have borrowed and printed in an effort to prop up the economy during the pandemic.  The surge in the supply of dollars is the main reason for the decline in its value relative to most other assets, including bitcoin.  

But the rise in bitcoin may have reached a dangerous level as the chart shows a seemingly parabolic rise in price. While this exponential growth makes for exciting headlines and draws in all kinds of speculators to the casino, it is probably unsustainable in the long run.  Parabolic rallies typically end in tears, although the exact timing of the decline is often hard to predict.  Let's see if the planets offer any clues when this rally may end, or at least, take a breather.

While there are several factors that may explain the current rally, the transits are the best place to start.  We can see that bullish Jupiter (8 Capricorn) is conjunct Mercury this week, after having recently conjoined its own natal position in mid-December.  While this is a clearly positive influence, once Jupiter passes Mercury in a few days, the bullish influence will begin to wane.

The bigger concern is that Saturn (7 Capricorn) is following close behind and is due to conjoin Mercury late next week. This is a more bearish influence and suggests that the price of bitcoin is more likely to fall.  The 60-degree alignment of Jupiter with the Moon (10 Pisces) could offer some support to prices but given the simultaneous Saturn influence, it could produce a choppy, uncertain market in early January.

Planetary progressions provide another window on possible future price trends.  The tertiary progressed chart has been very bullish in recent months given the alignment of Jupiter, Neptune, Chiron, and Uranus.  That is the kind of multi-planet alignment one would expect for a parabolic move.  Tertiary progressed Mercury is also currently forming a bullish angle with natal Jupiter (5 Capricorn) so that could account for this latest December surge. 

One possible warning sign here is that the the progressed Moon will conjoin the progressed Jupiter-Neptune-Chiron alignment in early and mid-January.  This is bullish but could signal an interim top.  Mercury will also move past its alignment with Jupiter by this time and instead align with unpredictable Rahu (6 Capricorn) and Saturn (21 Leo).  Therefore, there is a rising risk of a significant pullback after this progressed Moon-Jupiter alignment on January 18. 

After some kind of correction over the next several weeks, Bitcoin could well rally again in March and April as progressed Sun is due to align with that very bullish Jupiter alignment.  Things look less positive after that after Saturn turns retrograde in late May while in alignment with the natal Sun (19 Sagittarius).  The rest of 2021 does not look very bullish for bitcoin as Saturn hangs around its 7th house cusp for much of the year.  Overall, there is some reason to think the parabolic rise may come back down to earth later this year.


Weekly Market Forecast

Stocks have generally moved sideways this week as stimulus confusion and a new virus mutation has weighed on sentiment.  The typical post-Christmas Santa Claus rally has been fairly tepid so far as stocks are very close to their all-time highs.

Some weakness is possible for the rest of this week as the Moon opposes Saturn and Jupiter tomorrow (Thursday).  The New Year next week begins with some decent bullish alignments of Mercury-Venus and Jupiter-Uranus-Chiron so markets may well move higher in the short term.   That New Year celebratory optimism seems unlikely to last, however, as Saturn is once again waiting in the wings.


For more details, check out my weekly subscriber newsletter which is published every Saturday afternoon (EST).   I outline the key technical and planetary influences for US and Indian stocks for the short and medium term, as well as currencies, gold and oil.

After Covid: the New Year's horoscope for 2021

  (23 December 2020) After enduring this plague year of 2020, most of us feel that January 1, 2021 can't come soon enough.  The dreadful Covid pandemic has the world looking ahead with eager anticipation to the New Year.  Certainly, 2021 couldn't be any worse than 2020 and indeed there is good reason for optimism as vaccine rollouts are already underway.  A return to some semblance of normal life seems within reach over the next 12 months, even if a return to the status quo ante may take a while longer.

One way to glimpse into the future is to take a look at the New Year's horoscope.  The planetary alignments at the stroke of midnight on January 1 can provide useful clues for what is to come over the next 12 months.  A mostly good year will usually feature benefic planets like Venus and Jupiter in prominent positions while more challenging years will typically see Mars or Saturn occupying significant places in the horoscope. 

The Covid pandemic was not unexpected as I noted the close conjunction of the Moon and Neptune in last year's New Year horoscope.  Neptune symbolizes health and illness while the Moon represents the people as a whole.  Moreover, the conjunction took place in the 6th house of health and received a negative aspect from Saturn.  This suggested some kind of epidemic was more likely in 2020, even if I didn't grasp the extent to which it would upset our lives.

Happily, we can see that Neptune is much less prominent in the New Year's horoscope for 2021.  It's still in the 6th house of health, of course, since Virgo always rises at midnight on January 1 throughout the world, but it is not negatively associated with any other planets.  There is, however, a close sextile (60 degree) aspect with Mercury which likely reflects the ongoing importance of the pandemic.  Since it rules the Virgo Ascendant, Mercury is the chart ruler so its aspects can indicate important trends and themes for the upcoming year.  But the sextile aspect is not a negative aspect, so it suggests the virus will likely come under control even if it still is the predominant concern for 2021.  So that's a plus.

A greater worry may be our collective mood.  The condition of the population as a whole may be seen through the Moon and here it is opposed by Jupiter and Saturn.  This suggests we could see a time of austerity (Saturn), even if it is seen as the right and sensible thing to do (Jupiter).  A year of abundance seems quite unlikely with this pattern, as the the combined impact of Jupiter and Saturn symbolize lowered expectations and pragmatic recovery. 

The square alignment of Mars and Uranus with the Moon could prove to be more unpredictable, however.  The Uranus-Moon square speaks to possible agitation and protest and a sense of unease in the world.  Clearly, we have already had a strong taste of that in 2020 with various protest movements.  The Uranus-Moon square suggests that popular protest will continue in 2021 and this time with the possibility of more violence due to the placement of Mars.  Wars and popular revolts are also more likely with this Mars-Moon-Uranus planetary alignment.   A significant war is more likely to breakout sometime in mid-year (May to July) as Ketu conjoins the Mars node at 15 Scorpio.  We should also note that the Mars-Moon square is closer in Asia at midnight on January 1 than elsewhere, so that might be the more likely place where military conflict could occur.

The economy is another area of concern.  The conjunction of Venus (value, money) with ascetic Ketu (South Lunar Node) suggests significant changes in the economy are likely.  Another recession is possible, especially in the second half of the year.  The Ketu influence is perhaps less negative than bearish Saturn, however.  This could mean that the economy doesn't merely contract but rather is transformed along somewhat different lines than it has in the past.  Since the Lunar Nodes, Rahu and Ketu, symbolize change and transformation, we should not be surprised if new types of economic growth and regulation emerge in 2021, possibly as a result of the pandemic.  To be sure, the incoming Biden administration in the US is more likely to experiment with different types of economic arrangements following the Trumpian efforts to solidify purely capitalist principles.  The New Year's horoscope suggests that the economy may well undergo some meaningful structural changes.  

Overall, the indications suggest a very uneven return to normal may be in store for 2021.  The affliction of the Moon by Mars and Saturn suggests that a sense of unease and dissatisfaction will continue to percolate throughout the year.  While the aspects are not strongly negative, they are nonetheless more negative than positive in my view. The continuing sense of malaise may give rise to more protests and anger directed towards governments.  The economy well may be one of the main areas of complaint in this respect as Ketu's influence on Venus hints at a more austere or even spiritual turn.  It is possible that the culture of consumption (Venus) could evolve into something very different as Ketuvian principles of renunciation assert themselves.  In other words, I don't see the sudden emergence of a hedonistic Roaring Twenties scenario with this 2021 horoscope.   That may have to wait. 


Weekly Market Forecast

Stocks have weakened in recent days after a more infectious coronavirus mutation saw a spike of cases in the UK.  The uncertainty was more or less expected as Monday's Jupiter-Saturn conjunction and subsequent Mars-Pluto square hinted at possible troubles on financial markets.

Of course, we are now entering the traditionally bullish period for the Santa Claus rally from Dec 24 until about Jan 4. Stock prices typically melt up during this time as many traders are on holiday and institutions are reluctant to sell into a thin market. 

The planets here suggest a mixed market at best next week.  The early week could suffer from the lingering effects of the Mars-Pluto square.  The midweek looks somewhat better as Venus aligns with Neptune and the Lunar Nodes, however.   Overall, it could prove to be some tough sledding for Santa.


For more details, check out my weekly subscriber newsletter which is published every Saturday afternoon (EST).   I outline the key technical and planetary influences for US and Indian stocks for the short and medium term, as well as currencies, gold and oil.

Pluto in Capricorn: "The Great Reset"?

(16 December 2020) As 2020 winds down, there is a sense that we are collectively turning the page.  The vaccine rollout has begun and promises to put the pandemic behind us in 2021.  Also, the new Biden administration will mark a clear break with the Trump presidency and suggests a new direction for the US.  Throughout the world, there are some voices now calling for a "Great Reset" -- a fundamental reshaping of the economy and society in wake of the Covid experience. The Great Reset has been championed by international agencies such as the UN and the World Economic Forum to create a more equitable world that shifts the focus away from capitalism towards a more socialist vision.

It is interesting to note that all this talk of a new era coincides with two fairly rare astronomical alignments.  As many have noted, Jupiter is due to conjoin Saturn on December 21 in the sign of sidereal Capricorn.  Jupiter conjoins Saturn every twenty years and often marks a period of new beginnings in society.  The Kennedy era and the 1960s was ushered in with the Jupiter-Saturn conjunction in 1961.  The Reagan era of a less-regulated capitalism began the same year as another Jupiter-Saturn conjunction in 1981.  The Jupiter-Saturn conjunction of 2000 can also be seen as an planetary signature for the Bush era and its focus on terrorism and the rise of the national security state.

So it is not surprising that next week's Jupiter-Saturn conjunction should coincide with a major change in direction for the US and the rest of the world.  With the left-leaning Biden, it seems likely that there will be a significant shift in policy away from unrestrained capitalism towards a greater emphasis on environmental protection and social justice.  As the pandemic has opened the door to the notion of direct government support to its most vulnerable citizens, it is quite possible we could see more direct payments as a way of redressing some of the inequities in the current system.  Instead of the Fed's QE that disproportionately helps banks, corporations and the wealthy, it is possible we could see something like a "People's QE" (or Modern Monetary Theory) that seeks to stimulate the economy through direct payments to individuals. 


Pluto enters Capricorn: A time of revolution 

However, there is another important development in the sky in December: Pluto will enter sidereal Capricorn.  Using the Krishnamurti ayanamsha, Pluto will leave Sagittarius and enter Capricorn on December 28, 2020.  It will then transit through Capricorn until 2040.  Distant Pluto is a very slow-moving planet and makes its full journey around the zodiac every 250 years.  The last time it transited Capricorn was from 1773 until 1792.

The transit of Pluto into Capricorn puts the notion of government front and center.  Pluto symbolizes power, control and coercion and is the planet most associated with the exercising of human will upon the world.  In the horoscopes of individuals, a strong Pluto can represent a person who is ambitious and pursues their goals above all else.  On a mundane level in the charts of nations, Pluto is associated with dominance and hegemony. 

The entry of Pluto into Capricorn amplifies the theme of power.  As the 10th sign in the zodiac, Capricorn symbolizes government and rulers.  Therefore, the entry of Pluto into Capricorn combines these two significators of power and politics.  The 20-year transit of Pluto in Capricorn therefore highlights an era when power and politics undergo fundamental transformation. 

The previous transit of Pluto through Capricorn (1773-1792) coincided with two singular events in human history: the American Revolution (1776) and the French Revolution (1789).  In many ways, this period could be seen as the original "Great Reset" which defeated absolutist monarchic rule and ushered in the modern, rational form of government which still prevails today.  The American Revolution occurred over a period of several years during the 1770s and culminated in the Declaration of Independence in 1776. 

While it is difficult to specify one starting date for the revolution against the British, the Boston Tea Party (pictured above) is one key event that would eventually lead to the overthrow of British colonial rule.   As a revolt against unfair taxation, the Boston Tea Party took place on December 16, 1773 -- exactly 247 years ago today.  This was just two months after Pluto stationed direct in the first degree of Capricorn at 00Cp03 on October 2, 1773.  Due to its retrograde cycle, it first entered Capricorn in December 1772, but then retraced most of its initial transit before stationing on the near-exact cusp of Capricorn in October 1773. 

Although it is only a single data point, it may well be a telling one, not least because the entry of Pluto into Capricorn in 2020 will coincide with a Jupiter-Saturn conjunction.  This doubling of the significators of change may amplify the developments that are destined to come over the next twenty years.  Another period of reform and revolution may well be in store during 2020-2040 and it seems likely to have a more socialist direction. 

This is perhaps not surprising since the political pendulum usually swings one way and then the other.  The post-war period tended towards a statist Keynesian compromise, while the Reagan revolution focused on the free market which has prevailed over the past 40 years or so.  Now the pendulum may swing to the left once again.  Given the powerful Pluto in Capricorn influence, this particular swing of the pendulum could bring about many fundamental changes to government and society.  After the Great Reset of the last quarter of the 18th century, we may be on the cusp of the Great Reset of the 21st century.


Weekly Market Forecast

Stocks suffered only a very modest pullback in recent days as Mercury aligned with the Mars-Ketu aspect early this week.  I thought we might have seen more downside, but vaccine optimism and Fed largesse won out yet again as US stocks retested last week's highs after Wednesday's FOMC meeting.

Typically, stocks are bullish during late December as the Santa Claus rally often takes prices higher as we head into the New Year.  However, next week's planets do not offer strong support for Santa's usual arrival.  Monday's Jupiter-Saturn conjunction is somewhat bearish and the midweek Mars-Pluto square is definitely more negative than positive.  Perhaps Santa will be delayed this year.


For more details, check out my weekly subscriber newsletter which is published every Saturday afternoon (EST).   I outline the key technical and planetary influences for US and Indian stocks for the short and medium term, as well as currencies, gold and oil.

The battle for the Senate: the Jan 5 Georgia run-off elections

(9 December 2020) With the failure of President Trump's attempts to overturn the election results after Monday's safe harbor deadline, attention is now focused on the upcoming Georgia Senate run-off elections on January 5.  Both Georgia Senate seats are up for grabs and the GOP only needs to win one of them for Mitch McConnell (left) to maintain control of the Senate.  The Democrats under the leadership of Chuck Schumer (right) therefore have to win both seats in order to gain control of the upper chamber and thereby boost Joe Biden's ambitious legislative agenda on taxes and the environment.  Polls suggest both races are very close and could go either way, although the GOP appears to have a slight advantage. 

While I may attempt a chart analysis of both contests (Perdue-Ossoff; Loeffler-Warnock) in the coming weeks, I thought I would examine the charts of the Senate leadership since the outcome is more likely to show up more directly in the horoscopes of McConnell and Schumer.  If the GOP wins one or both seats, then McConnell's chart should be positive.  If the Democrats win both seats and take control of the Senate, then Schumer's horoscope should clearly show it. 

While we lack timed horoscopes here, I would say that McConnell's chart looks better than Schumer's.  McConnell's Venus (12 Capricorn) may be pivotal in this respect as Jupiter and Saturn are approaching a double conjunction while Uranus and Chiron are also in auspicious and close alignments. Moreover, if the location of the Moon (11 Aries) is approximately accurate (for a midday birth) then these aspects should provide an additional benefit to McConnell and the GOP on January 5 since all those transits would energize not only Venus but the Moon as well. 

Chuck Schumer's chart looks less positive overall.  To be sure, the Jupiter-Saturn conjunction does align with his Venus (10 Scorpio) but by sextile (60 degrees) and not by the stronger conjunction.  It's good, but it seems to be not as good as McConnell's transit set up.  The other concern for Schumer is that there is a lot of Mars energy in his chart in the first week of January.  Transiting Mars aspects his Sun by 8th house aspect (210 degrees) and the Sun conjoins his natal Mars.  In some instances, this strong Mars energy can reflect intense situations without necessarily dictating bad outcomes.  But Mercury is aligned with Ketu, the South Lunar Node, on election day which is a more difficult placement.  Given these somewhat difficult transits, I think the GOP is more likely to win at least one seat in Georgia.

I will try to revisit these Senate elections by a closer look at the charts of the candidates themselves in the coming weeks.  But for now, there is no compelling astrological evidence to expect the Democrats to take control of the Senate in January.  The default position therefore remains divided government with the Democrats controlling the White House and the GOP controlling the Senate.



Weekly Market Forecast

US stocks declined today (Wednesday) as stimulus talks broke down once again.  While stocks remain bullish here, today's decline hints at rising volatility.  This volatility may well be reflective of the bearish Mars-Ketu alignment that I have noted in previous posts.  The Mars-Ketu alignment is now within range where it is more likely to coincide with falling markets.

The Sun is due to conjoin Ketu on Friday and thus provide an added measure of energy to its alignment with Mars. While all outcomes are possible, this alignment carries added downside risk.  The slower-moving Mars and Ketu will remain in alignment next week with Mercury conjoining Ketu early in the week.  This is another potential source of volatility as Ketu symbolizes interruptions in the status quo, often in a sudden or unexpected way.  


For more details, check out my weekly subscriber newsletter which is published every Saturday afternoon (EST).   I outline the key technical and planetary influences for US and Indian stocks for the short and medium term, as well as currencies, gold and oil.

Looking ahead to the Biden presidency

  (2 December 2020) With the presidential transition now fully underway, this is a good opportunity to consider the possible contours of a Biden presidency.  No doubt, it will be a sharp contrast to the Trump presidency in terms of style, tone and policy.  Although widely seen as a moderate, Biden is expected to nonetheless move the country to the left through higher taxes on the wealthy and a renewed commitment to environmental and climate initiatives.  But how is the US likely to fare under his administration?

One useful perspective on this question is to examine the horoscope of Biden's inauguration on January 20, 2021 in Washington, DC.   While the exact timing of Biden's swearing-in is significant, the Constitution stipulates that the incoming president assumes the duties of the office at noon.  Therefore, a chart cast for noon on Inauguration Day can reveal some of the significant themes and trends that could emerge over the next four years. 

Overall, the horoscope suggest major changes lie ahead for the US.  The Jupiter-Saturn conjunction in an inauguration chart indicate significant reforms and social change.  The Jupiter-Saturn conjunction occurs every 20 years or so and has marked the inauguration chart more recently of Reagan (1981) and Kennedy (1961).  Reagan ushered in free market de-regulation and lower taxes while the Kennedy era marked the beginnings of the Civil Rights movement and other liberalizing trends of the 1960s. 

The Biden inauguration chart suggests changes are more likely to focus on government itself since the Jupiter-Saturn conjunction occurs in Capricorn which is the sign in the 10th house denoting rulers and governance.  Moreover, Jupiter and Saturn will be conjunct the Sun, the planetary significator of leaders.  While it is difficult to predict the precise nature of any changes, some possibilities include eliminating the filibuster rule, increasing the number of justices on the Supreme Court, and major immigration reform.

We can see further evidence of change through the Mars-Uranus-Moon conjunction in the 1st house.  While this also signifies change, it looks less stable and frankly, more worrying.  The Mars-Uranus conjunction is almost exact and looks disruptive and even chaotic for the country as a whole.  Mars-Uranus can represent violence, conflict, and accidents and thus there is an elevated danger of major disasters (e.g. earthquakes) during the Biden administration.  A rise in domestic political violence or US involvement in an international conflict are other possibilities here. 

The proximity of the Moon (the people) to Mars-Uranus suggests popular agitation and, sadly, some suffering or a sense of national injury.  Transiting Rahu is due to conjoin the Mars-Uranus conjunction in early 2023 so that is one possible time window when this dangerous energy may manifest.  And we should pay special attention to the sign rulerships here:  Mars rules the 1st house/Aries which rules the chart/nation as a whole.  Uranus is therefore destabilizing the entire nation through its conjunction with the 1st house ruler, Mars.  It is worth noting that there has never been a Mars-Uranus conjunction in the 1st house for any previous inauguration. 

The economy may also be a source of concern during a Biden administration.  Rahu afflicts the 2nd house of wealth, although happily the 2nd house ruler, Venus, is well-placed in the 9th house.  However, Mercury, the planet of commerce and business, is closely aspected by Rahu.  This is a negative influence for the economy.  The square with Neptune (24 Aquarius) is also unhelpful in this respect as Neptune tends to have a weakening and dissolute influence, especially when in alignment with a malefic such as Rahu. 

Generally, the stars do not look auspicious for the Biden presidency.  The inauguration horoscope suggests the Biden administration is going to be tested by some significant challenges during its tenure.  While some changes and reforms could prove beneficial for the US over the long term, the next four years may be difficult.



Weekly Market Forecast

Stocks have continued to defy gravity so far this week as investors anticipated some positive developments from Congress with the contentious stimulus package.  Jupiter's bullish influence is supporting the market here as its key alignments in the Dow and NYSE horoscopes is still within range. 

However, Jupiter's influence is more likely to gradually diminish as it approaches its conjunction with Saturn on December 21.  This could make it more difficult for the stock market to extend its rally. 

More immediately, the Mars-Ketu alignment is due to tighten in the coming days.  The alignment is exact next week (Dec 11) although its probable negative impact could be felt several days before.  The rest of this week could go either way, although the rising Mars influence suggests a growing downside risk. 


For more details, check out my weekly subscriber newsletter which is published every Saturday afternoon (EST).   I outline the key technical and planetary influences for US and Indian stocks for the short and medium term, as well as currencies, gold and oil.

Dow hits record high 30,000 on vaccine optimism and Biden transition

(25 November 2020) Stocks extended their November rally this week as the latest vaccine announcement reassured investors that the end of the pandemic is now within reach.  Markets also cheered the start of the formal transition process of the incoming Biden administration as President Trump finally backed off from his previous objections.  The Dow Jones Industrial Average hit a new all-time record high on Tuesday as it closed above 30,000 for the first time.  

Despite the lockdowns and widespread economic hardship, stocks have rallied off the March low on unprecedented intervention by the Federal Reserve and other central banks around the world.  Markets are now anticipating a return to normal growth in 2021 post-Covid, albeit with continuing support from the Fed.

From an astrological view, the ongoing strength in stocks in recent days is not all that surprising.  As I noted in last week's post, the once-a-year entry of Jupiter into sidereal Capricorn late last week is often accompanied by optimism which can take prices higher, if only briefly.  What is less certain is how long this positive Jupiter influence can last. 

Previously, I suggested that Jupiter's entry into Capricorn meant that it was also approaching its conjunction with Saturn on December 21.  This is likely to be a less favourable influence on market sentiment since Saturn is associated with caution and disappointment.  But since both planets move quite slowly, the specific time window when declines can occur is more difficult to predict. 

For another perspective, let's take a look at the natal chart of the Dow Jones Industrial Average, launched May 26, 1896 after the close of trading.  Quickly, we can see why November has been a good month for US stocks.  Transiting Jupiter (1 Capricorn) aligns very closely with Venus (1 Taurus) and Mercury (1 Gemini).  Usually, this sort of Jupiter alignment is bullish and we can see that the Dow has hit a record this week just as the alignments are exact.  In addition to the bullish Jupiter aspects, there is an absence of any strong malefic influences at this time.

But we should note that optimism usually begins to diminish in the days following an exact Jupiter aspect so it is unclear how much higher stocks could go in the short term.  The fading influence of Jupiter here suggests the market rally may be due for a breather, especially as Jupiter conjoins Saturn in December.  Any negative effects of the Jupiter-Saturn conjunction could well be compounded by the approaching Mars-Ketu alignment which will be exact in the second week of December. 

However, one saving grace is that the Jupiter-Saturn conjunction and the Mars-Ketu alignment will not form close aspects with any key planets in the natal chart.  Rahu is conjunct with Neptune, of course, but this is not an especially strong influence in my view.  This suggests that any pullback we may see in the days ahead is unlikely to cause much lasting damage to the market rally. 


For more details, check out my weekly subscriber newsletter which is published every Saturday afternoon (EST).   I outline the key technical and planetary influences for US and Indian stocks for the short and medium term, as well as currencies, gold and oil.

Markets weigh vaccine hopes against new lockdowns

  (18 November 2020) Stock markets have been fairly positive in recent days as the Moderna vaccine news gave investors more reason to hope for a return to normal in 2021.  Some of that optimism had faded by Wednesday's session, however, as new lockdowns were announced in various cities and states across the US and Europe.  So while markets tend to look 6-12 months into the future, the prospect of fresh lockdowns challenges the bullish view of a slow but steady improvement in the economy. 

Stocks have been mostly bullish in November, in part due to the conjunction of Jupiter with Pluto which was exact on Nov 12.  Jupiter is a bullish planet, of course, and its conjunctions with outer planets (Uranus, Neptune, Chiron and Pluto) usually coincide with up trends in the market.  The bullish effects of the Jupiter-Pluto conjunction are usually felt 5-10 days before the date of the exact conjunction and a lesser number of days afterwards, perhaps 2-5 days.  In last week's post, I thought we would see some lingering positive effects of the Jupiter-Pluto conjunction carry over into this week and Monday was positive.  It also coincided with the typically bullish entry of Venus into Libra. 

But sentiment has soured somewhat over the past two days, most likely due to the simultaneous alignment of the Sun and Venus with Saturn.  Alignments involving bearish Saturn tend to coincide with declines, especially when the aspects are close.  The Sun and Venus made a near-exact alignment with Saturn today so that negative influence could diminish as soon as tomorrow.


Jupiter in Capricorn

Tomorrow is also potentially significant since it is the day that Jupiter enters the sign of Capricorn, according the sidereal/Indian zodiac.  This sets up a sort of good news/bad news scenario.   The good news is that Jupiter changes signs about once a year and it often marks positive market developments, if only briefly.  Just as the Venus sign change on Monday coincided with some upside, there is some reason to think that we could see some upside Thursday and/or Friday from this Jupiter effect.  Tomorrow is a tougher call, however, since the bearish Sun-Venus-Saturn alignment will still be quite close, especially in the morning when the Moon will conjoin Saturn.  Nonetheless, the prospect of a Jupiter sign change suggests that some gains are possible late this week.

However, the bad news is Jupiter's entry into Capricorn means it will eventually conjoin Saturn, with the exact conjunction taking place on December 21.   All other things being equal, Jupiter-Saturn alignments carry an elevated downside risk.  Jupiter-Saturn conjunctions occur every 20 years are associated with bear markets or at least bull market tops.  The previous Jupiter-Saturn conjunction occurred in May 2000, just as stocks were beginning to retreat from their tech bubble peak earlier that year.

Before that, Jupiter conjoined Saturn in July 1981 during a recession when the market in the middle of a down trend.  Of course, there are always exceptions.  The preceding conjunction of February 1961 coincided with a rising market so it is important to think of these alignments probabilistically.  Nonetheless, the upcoming Jupiter-Saturn conjunction is another reason to be skeptical about the current rally, especially given the range of headwinds the market now faces.


Jupiter could benefit Trump

The entry of Jupiter into Capricorn could also provide a lift to President Trump's fortunes.  As I have noted previously, over the next week or two Jupiter will aspect Trump's 10th house which symbolizes status and power.  While it could represent some positive developments on other fronts, I do wonder if some of his legal challenges will gain traction.  So far, they have gone nowhere.  And yet given Trump's rising fortunes and the likely simultaneous falling fortunes of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris (due to Saturn's placement at 4 Capricorn (square to Harris' Sun and Moon), it is possible this election intrigue could last a bit longer.  I still think Biden will win, but we could take a strange detour to get there.  Let's see how it plays out.


For more details, check out my weekly subscriber newsletter which is published every Saturday afternoon (EST).   I outline the key technical and planetary influences for US and Indian stocks for the short and medium term, as well as currencies, gold and oil.

Trump challenges US election results

  (11 Nov 2020)  Despite Joe Biden's widening lead in the vote count, President Donald Trump has yet to concede to his Democratic opponent in the US election.  Instead, Trump has claimed that Biden has benefited from voter fraud in several hotly contested states.  To this end, the Department of Justice this week launched investigations into apparent irregularities in the vote which could form the basis of a formal legal challenge to the results.  Since Biden's lead is less than 1% in several states, it is possible that state outcomes could be reversed if significant fraud is uncovered and illegal votes are removed from the tally.

Trump's refusal to concede isn't surprising, since he already stated that he would not accept a loss in the election.  While the media and many world leaders have already recognized Joe Biden as the winner and President-Elect, there has not yet been a formal announcement by the overseeing office of the GSA.  Given the recounts now underway and possible legal challenges, formal announcement of the winner and certification of the results may take several more days at least.

Trump's shift to offense this week following last week's apparent defeat was in keeping with my expectations.  In last week's post, I thought that Trump was likely to enjoy some kind of boost from the Venus transit to his natal Jupiter (24 Virgo).  Not only did Attorney-General William Barr announce the electoral fraud investigation, but Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell also spoke in support of Trump's right to verify the results before committing to any transition process with the incoming Biden administration.  As a reflection of Trump's shift to offense, the political betting market Predictit.org saw a small, but marked, move towards his re-election from a low a 8% last week to 18% today. 

I still think Joe Biden is likely to be the next president, but the planets suggests that Trump will not go quietly.  Previously, I suggested that Trump's fortunes would rise further next week as Jupiter entered Capricorn (Nov 19-20) and would align with his 10th house cusp representing status and success.  And as if to offer confirmation, Joe Biden's chart showed an affliction to his 12th house Mars towards the end of next week. 

Just to round out the analysis this week, we can take a look at the natal chart of the US and the chart of the would-be vice-president, Kamala Harris. As I outlined in a previous post, this year's post-election planetary alignments have a similarity to the post-election patterns of the contested 2000 election between George W. Bush and Al Gore.  One of the main similarities was the placement of Saturn.  In 2000, Saturn was closely aspecting the USA's natal Mercury at 3 Cancer by 3rd house aspect.  This year, Saturn (3 Capricorn) will exactly oppose Mercury over the next two weeks or so.  Saturn's affliction to Mercury here symbolizes frustration, disruption and distortion, especially as they pertain to the election.  Elections are associated with Mercury,as it is the planet that rules matters of rational calculation. 

The Saturn-Mercury alignment will be in special focus late next week, perhaps around the time that Venus and the Sun also align at 3 degrees of their respective signs.  This could represent a significant development related to the election results and Trump's attempt to overturn the results.  As an added layer of affliction in the chart, transiting Mars will align with the natal Sun and Saturn which suggests conflict and strife.  Interestingly, this is also the day that Jupiter enters Capricorn which could give Trump a boost. 

 

Another perspective on this disputed election result is seen in the chart of Kamala Harris, the Democratic VP nominee.  Saturn is also front and center in her chart at this time as it aligns exactly with her Sun (4 Libra) and Moon (4 Aries).  The Saturn influence is usually negative and suggests some kind of burden or setback, especially when in hard aspect as it is here. 

Sometimes, the Saturn influence can translate into a greater sense of responsibility which may not be unwanted or even difficult.  Therefore, it is not impossible that this alignment could formally give her and Biden the election victory.   But this more benign Saturn scenario seems less probable.  While Harris' chart is still quite strong overall at this time, a temporary setback of some kind is quite possible.  In the zero-sum game of politics, it would seem that negatives for Harris (and Biden) could turn into positives for Trump, and vice-versa.  Let's see how Trump's legal challenges unfold.


Weekly Market Forecast

Stocks have continued to their post-election rally this week, especially after Monday's Pfizer vaccine news.  While I thought we might have seen more volatility in this post-election period, I nonetheless expected some upside around Thursday's Jupiter-Pluto conjunction.  This bullish pairing takes place once a year and is usually positive for sentiment in the days leading up to its conjunction.  The days following the conjunction is usually less reliably bullish, however, although the bullish effects can sometimes linger.

This year the Jupiter-Pluto conjunction could have a lingering bullish influence since it will also form an alignment with the Sun and Venus that lasts into early next week.  Monday is also noteworthy as Venus leaves Virgo and enters the sign of Libra.  Venus sign changes are often bullish so there is some prospect for further upside, at least into early next week. 


For more details, check out my weekly subscriber newsletter which is published every Saturday afternoon (EST).   I outline the key technical and planetary influences for US and Indian stocks for the short and medium term, as well as currencies, gold and oil.

US election aftermath: Biden closes in on the presidency

  (4 November 2020) Democrat nominee Joe Biden seems to be on the verge of winning the presidency tonight as the former vice president only needs to win one more state to reach the threshold of 270 Electoral Votes.  The several remaining undeclared states are still too close to call as mail-in ballots will decide the final outcome. Not surprisingly, President Donald Trump is already contesting the results and has requested a recount in Wisconsin and an investigation into Arizona's mail-in ballots.  

Biden's current lead in the voting is not unexpected as I had previously suggested that the planets on Election Day favoured him over Trump.  The current Jupiter-Pluto conjunction at 27-28 Sagittarius aligned very closely with his unequal 10th house cusp (26 Leo) of status and career.  Also the Sun conjoined his natal Mercury (19 Libra) today which provided an additional infusion of energy.  Since the Sun rules his 10th house of status while Mars rules his 1st house, this 1-10 combination is a powerful signature for public profile and success. 

As we know, President Trump's chart is quite afflicted this week as the Mercury-Saturn square aligns closely with his Venus-Saturn conjunction in the 12th house of loss.  The difference in transits between Trump and Biden is stark.   Trump's Saturn and 12th house influences are clear negatives while Biden's Jupiter and 10th house influences are positive. 

So is this the end of the US election?  Knowing Trump has stated that he will not accept a losing result, it does seem likely that he will try to fight on.  First, the counts have not yet been finalized so he could still conceivably win Nevada, Arizona, and Pennsylvania.  And even if he loses, he is likely to pursue full recounts and legal challenges. 

In last week's post, I thought that Trump's fortunes might begin to improve next week.  Venus will conjoins his dasha lord Jupiter (24 Virgo) on Tuesday and Wednesday.  Both planets are benefics and generally denote favourable outcomes.  Moreover, Venus will align with his natal Uranus (24 Taurus) and with Rahu (26 Taurus) and thus we could see a significant development which boosts Trump's chances.  And by this time, transiting Saturn will have moved off its opposition alignment to his natal Venus.  This will further reduce his level of chart affliction. 

However, I would not say this Venus transit can completely alter the post-election dynamic since Biden's chart does not seem clearly afflicted.  Biden may see a small setback next week as Mercury aligns with his Moon and Ketu and then conjoins his equal 12th house cusp.  This is only a brief transit, however, so I would not expect a reversal of his fortunes.  But it could be something that keeps Trump's hopes alive.

More important is the entry of Jupiter into sidereal Capricorn in the following week on November 20.  This could be more positive for Trump since it will align closely with his unequal 10th house cusp (MC).  This is likely to give him a significant boost. 

As it happens, Biden will see Mercury conjoin his Mars on Nov 20.  Coincidentally, this is also Biden's 78th birthday.  Mercury-Mars is usually a stressful combination that coincides with frustrations and small setbacks.  I don't think Biden will lose the election at this time, but it could keep the final outcome in doubt for a while longer.  I will post further updates as the post-election period continues to unfold.


Weekly Market Forecast

Stocks have rallied this week as investors shrugged off the election uncertainty.  Markets appear to be pricing in a Biden win and Republican-controlled Senate.  Typically, the stock market prefers the gridlock of a divided government where the presidency and Congress are controlled by different parties.  This would likely limit the more radical parts of the Democrats agenda (tax increases, green infrastructure) while keeping stimulus packages more modest. 

I thought we might have seen more volatility this week around the election given the ongoing Mercury-Saturn square.  One possible reason for the gains is the Jupiter-Pluto conjunction which will become exact next week.  This bullish pairing is within one degree of exact this week and may have outweighed any negative effects of the Mercury-Saturn thus far. 

Nonetheless, the Mercury-Saturn square is exact tomorrow and Friday so there is a reasonable chance we could see a rise in volatility later this week and perhaps into early next week.


For more details, check out my weekly subscriber newsletter which is published every Saturday afternoon (EST).   I outline the key technical and planetary influences for US and Indian stocks for the short and medium term, as well as currencies, gold and oil.


Biden Photo: C-Span.org

Trump still lagging in polls; stocks plunge on European lockdowns

  (28 October 2020) The campaign has now entered its final week ahead of next Tuesday's election.  The national polls suggest President Donald Trump is trailing Democrat nominee Joe Biden by about 7 points.  However, some key swing states such as Pennsylvania and Florida are much closer races and keep open the possibility of a 2016-style come from behind win by Trump.  Therefore, if he can eke out narrow wins in these states as he did in 2016, he could still end up losing the popular vote by 3 or 4 points and remain president.   That scenario still seems unlikely since Biden's lead is larger than Hillary Clinton's was, but as we know, polls are not always right.

From an astrological perspective, the planets still don't favour Trump next week.  As I have noted previously, the election night transits look worse for Trump than for Biden.  Mercury will station direct on Election Day while in an exact square aspect with Saturn.  This is a very difficult combination that suggests a range of negative situations including disappointment, confusion, deception, disruption and frustration.  At a general level, it suggests the election will not go smoothly.  This isn't a very bold prediction, given all of the controversy about mailed ballots and Trump's public declaration to contest the results if he doesn't like the outcome. 

Trump's problem is that the Mercury-Saturn square occurs at a pivotal point in his horoscope.  It forms another square alignment with his Venus-Saturn conjunction in early Cancer.  Square aspects are often difficult and coincide with unwanted situations.  And Saturn's double involvement here indicates a stressful and unfavourable period for Trump next week.  To put it plainly: this is not an alignment one usually sees in a winning candidate's chart.

Other transits are also unhelpful for Trump's re-election.  Rahu (North Lunar Node) is conjunct its natal position and suggests major changes afoot.  Mars (21 Pisces) forms an exact 135 degree alignment with Trump's Ascendant (6 Leo).  This is indicative of conflict and anger.  Mars is due to station direct at 21 Pisces in mid-November and is one reason why Trump is more likely to have fewer votes than Biden on Nov 3 and why is likely to contest the results.  Mars is the planet of war, of course, and Trump will likely go to war with the Democrats over this election. 

But as I have also noted before, Trump's chart does improve somewhat later in November and in December as Jupiter aligns with his Midheaven (unequal 10th house cusp) at 1 Taurus.  This suggests that post-election developments may be more positive for him, perhaps reflecting legal successes if he contests the outcome.  I would think he gets some good news on the week following the election (Nov 9-13) as Venus conjoins his Jupiter. 

As I've said before, I still think Biden's chart is better in early January when Congress meets to count the Electoral College votes.  For this reason, I think he is more likely to become president on January 20, 2021.  But I admit I don't feel too strongly about it, partially because it is now unclear exactly when the election will be decided.  


Weekly Market Forecast

US stocks fell more than 3% today as Germany and France announced Covid lockdowns to deal with the second wave of the pandemic.  The recent decline seems to reflect the bearish influence of the Venus transit of Virgo, its sign of debilitation.  Venus entered sidereal Virgo on October 23 and will leave that sign of November 16.  This suggests that stocks are more likely to struggle during that four-week period.  That said, it does not mean that the market will fall throughout the transit, but rather it will be marked by declines at different points during the transit. 

With market uncertainty likely to rise with next week's election, it seems quite possible that stocks could fall further.  The Mercury-Saturn alignment on Election Day is a bearish combination in any event so no matter who ends up winning, market sentiment is likely to suffer.  While Mercury-Saturn squares are bearish, this particular one may be especially bearish since Mercury will end its retrograde cycle on November 3 and return to direct motion.  This direct station means that Mercury will remain within Saturn's bearish influence for several days, instead of the usual one. 


For more details, check out my weekly subscriber newsletter which is published every Saturday afternoon (EST).   I outline the key technical and planetary influences for US and Indian stocks for the short and medium term, as well as currencies, gold and oil. 

The Covid second wave takes hold

(21 October 2020)  It would seem the second wave of Covid-19 is now underway.  The number of infections and hospitalizations are spiking across the world as the coronavirus makes its much-anticipated return with the arrival of cooler weather in the northern hemisphere.   As an indicator of the spread of the virus, positivity test rates are now as high as 10% in the US, UK, France and India while most East Asian countries continue to keep the pandemic under control. 

Certainly, the experts had predicted a second wave since people tend to congregate indoors more with the fall season.  Nonetheless, this autumn second wave also validates my previous astrological assessment using the chart of US president Donald Trump as a proxy for the United States.  In a previous post from May 5, I suggested that the ongoing afflictions to Trump's horoscope indicated the likelihood of a second wave in late September, with a possible third wave in December. 

The nation's health is seen through the condition of the 1st house (the national 'body') and the 6th house (health), as well as their house rulers.   The Sun rules Trump's 1st house so the recent transit of Rahu (North Lunar Node) to his Sun in September would manifest as an affliction to the nation's vitality.  The more important transit would be Saturn and its opposition to Trump's Venus-Saturn conjunction in his 12th house.  With Leo rising in his chart, Trump's 6th house of health contains the sign of Capricorn, which is ruled by Saturn.  Therefore, any aspects involving his Saturn (at 0 Cancer) would likely coincide with troubles relating to this pandemic.  Saturn stationed at 1 Capricorn on September 29 -- just one degree from exactly opposing its natal position -- and we have seen the outbreak worsen considerably over the past few weeks.

And with Saturn transiting Trump's 6th house of health for several more months, it seems unlikely that Covid will be brought under control soon.  Transiting Saturn is due to conjoin his 6th house cusp (6 Capricorn) in December.  This could well see another peak of infections and concerns about the virus, although we should note that Jupiter will also be there at 6 Capricorn so that could indicate a mitigation or some kind of 'light at the end of the tunnel' effect, either through infection controls or a vaccine. 


UK Covid second wave

We can also see this Covid second wave in other national charts.  The horoscope of the UK (January 1, 1801) shows the pandemic manifesting as afflictions to key natal planets by malefic planets.  With Virgo rising, the national well-being is seen through the ruler of the 1st house, Mercury.  Mercury has been conjoined by Ketu (South Lunar Node) in recent weeks at the time when infections were rising sharply.  The UK has entered a second lockdown this week in order to arrest the spread of the virus. 

The other key factor here is the role of the transit of Neptune.  In Western astrology, Neptune is associated with illness and weakness, especially when it is in hard aspect (0,90,180 degrees) with a key natal planet.  It is not surprising then that we find Neptune (24 Aquarius) placed in the 6th house of health and forming a close 90-degree square aspect with Mercury, the ruler of the 1st house.  Moreover, the Neptune-Mercury square has been in effect throughout 2020 and is one central astrological reason why the pandemic has hit the UK so hard.

Looking ahead, I would expect this second wave to abate somewhat by late November and early December as Ketu will slip past the UK's natal Mercury.   Moreover, I would expect further improvement as Jupiter transits into Capricorn by January.  Jupiter will cast its helpful aspect upon the Virgo Ascendant and should provide a substantial boost to national health and national confidence. This may be the result of better control of the virus or an effective vaccine becoming available.  Despite the likely improvement, the virus will remain an area of ongoing concern as long as Neptune is square to natal Mercury. This alignment will remain within range until spring 2021, with a possible return in the fall of 2021 when Neptune turns retrograde.


Weekly Market Forecast

Stocks have generally moved lower over the past week on fading hopes for a US stimulus bill.  This negative bias was in keeping with expectations given last week's tense Sun-Mars-Ketu-Saturn alignment.  This week hasn't seen much improvement with the Mars alignment with Jupiter and Neptune. 

The outlook doesn't look especially bullish for the coming days.  While some short term upside is still quite possible, the entry of Venus into sidereal Virgo on Friday, October 23 introduces a new bearish influence upon collective sentiment in the near term.  As it happens, the US election on November 3 will take place while this bearish transit is still in effect.  This suggests that any gains are likely to be modest and unsustainable. 


For more details, check out my weekly subscriber newsletter which is published every Saturday afternoon (EST).   I outline the key technical and planetary influences for US and Indian stocks for the short and medium term, as well as currencies, gold and oil.

Mercury turns retrograde as hopes fade for a US stimulus bill

  (14 October 2020) This week US markets began to consider the possibility that there would be no stimulus bill before the election as hopes faded for an agreement between the White House and the Nancy Pelosi's House Democrats.  After Monday's gains almost matched the early September highs, stocks moved lower this week, as Mercury turned retrograde on Tuesday after the close.  Mercury's retrograde stations are often bearish for stocks as the backward movement of the planet of commerce often correlates with pullbacks.       

This political situation feeds into the larger question is whether this week's pullback may be a preview of a larger decline given the ongoing uncertainty about the outcome of the US election on November 3.  While Democrat Joe Biden is well ahead in the polls, investors remain concerned about a possible contested election where President Donald Trump finds a way to appeal the result to the Supreme Court.  A contested election result would be bad news for markets.

One window on the state of the markets is seen through the horoscope of the New York Stock Exchange, founded on May 17, 1792.  The various transit influences on the horoscopes of stock exchanges and stock indexes often provide clues which can help to predict the future movement in share prices.   According to the principles of financial astrology, transit alignments involving benefic planets like Jupiter, Venus and Mercury often coincide with gains while transits of malefic planets like Saturn, Mars, and the Lunar Nodes, Rahu and Ketu, are common in declines. 

Today's transits are an apt reflection of current sentiment.  On the positive side of the ledger, we can see that the 60-degree aspect between Jupiter-Neptune (bullish) is closely aligned with Uranus and Chiron in the natal NYSE chart.  This is one reason why stocks have been bullish so far in October.  We can also say that the Jupiter-Neptune transit alignment itself is a bullish influence which likely had a hand in creating a more optimistic trading environment. 

It is worth noting that the Jupiter-Neptune alignment was exact on Sunday and Monday, right at the time of Monday's strong rally.  While the positive effects of this alignment can sometimes linger, its bullish influence starts to wane on the day it is exact.  Thus, the two down days we have seen so far suggests that the Jupiter-Neptune alignment is indeed weakening.  Interestingly, there was a similar Jupiter-Neptune alignment on February 20 just before the big Covid sell-off.  This is not to suggest that another huge decline is imminent, but rather that there is an underlying shift in sentiment towards a more pessimistic bias in the wake of these Jupiter-Neptune aspects.

On the negative side of the ledger, we can see that Mercury turned retrograde yesterday after the close of trading in the US.  Mercury stationing retrograde is often a negative influence on sentiment and the downside on Tuesday and Wednesday would appear to be a neat reflection of this tendency.  While Mercury Rx is bearish, its effects do not usually last beyond a few days, even though it continues its retrograde cycle for three weeks and will return to apparent direct motion on Election Day, November 3. 

But the chart suggests other sources of tension.  We can see that the current alignment of retrograde Mars (26 Pisces), the Sun (27 Virgo), Pluto (28 Sagittarius) and Ketu (27 Scorpio) is likely to have a significant impact on this chart.  Mars is conjunct the natal Moon (28 Pisces), while all three planets align with the natal Mars at 27 Leo.  This bearish alignment is closest this week and suggests more downside is quite possible.

Looking further ahead, we can see another mix of influences in play.  Bullish Jupiter is approaching its conjunction with Pluto over the next several weeks and could provide a floor beneath stocks in the event of further volatility.  And yet Saturn (2 Capricorn) is due to aspect Jupiter and the Sun over the next two or three weeks.  This is likely to have a depressing effect on sentiment.  The simultaneous bullish and bearish influences leading up to the election suggests a somewhat mixed market, as opposed to a strong rise or sharp fall.  That said, I might hold on to a modest bearish bias here in any event given the upcoming transit of Venus in Virgo from October 23 until November 16.  Venus is debilitated in sidereal Virgo, as notions of value and wealth come under greater scrutiny. 

For more details, check out my weekly subscriber newsletter which is published every Saturday afternoon (EST).   I outline the key technical and planetary influences for US and Indian stocks for the short and medium term, as well as currencies, gold and oil.

VP debate preview; Trump treated for Covid

 (6 October 2020) The roller coaster of 2020 never stops it seems.  President Donald Trump was diagnosed with the coronavirus last Friday but has returned to the White House after a short hospital stay. Trump's condition has improved since the weekend although doctors are watching him carefully in the event of further symptoms.  In some patients, the second week can be worse than the first week. 

Trump's diagnosis is reflected in a difficult planetary alignment.  As noted last week, the month of October was likely going to bring bad news for the president since he was experiencing an unusual multi-planet alignment of malefic planets.  The Lunar Nodes, Rahu and Ketu, have returned to their natal position where they also conjoin Trump's Sun and Moon, since he was born on a lunar eclipse when the Sun is conjunct Rahu and the Moon is conjunct Ketu. 

Trump's problems are compounded by the fact that Pluto and Mars are also in a degreewise alignment with the Lunar Nodes and thus deeply afflict both his Sun and Moon.  He is in a very tough spot indeed.  This week would appear to be a possible nadir in his fortunes.  As I noted in last week's update, the time around the VP debate would seem to carry an added burden for him.  This could reflect a poor performance by his VP Mike Pence, or it is possible it could also relate to other concerns, such his ongoing medical condition.  


Vice presidential debate

The VP debate takes place tomorrow, October 7, at 7.00 pm in Salt Lake City when Republican vice president Mike Pence will debate Democratic Senator Kamala Harris.  The debate promises to be highly confrontational given the strong Mars alignment with Ketu and Pluto.  In addition, the Moon will conjoin Rahu at the start of the debate and will likely amplify the emotional impact of the proceedings.  Intense feelings and unpredictable developments are more likely with this Moon-Rahu conjunction, particularly when the Mars and Pluto influence is factored into the equation. 

Predicting the possible performances of Pence and Harris is made more difficult because we only have the birth time of Kamala Harris.  Mike Pence's horoscope is therefore only estimated for noon and may not offer as much useful data on how the debate will unfold. Pence's chart shows the Rahu-Ketu-Mars-Pluto alignment highlighting his natal Mercury at 28 Taurus.  This suggests some disruptive news or developments are possible in the debate.  It also can greatly intensify his speech patterns and aims of communication. 

But all three of these planets are natural malefics and do not set up a positive outcome for the debate at all.  Rahu can sometimes coincide with situations of creativity and thinking 'outside the box' but the Mars and Pluto influence here seems unhelpful in a debate setting.  The emphasis is on tension and conflict rather than success or rationality.  Of course, we don't know his exact horoscope so it's possible that he could have other more favorable patterns.  But that cannot be known.

Kamala Harris' chart also looks troublesome.  The theme of conflict is also front and center since her Mars (28 Cancer) will feel the full effect of this nasty Mars-Rahu-Ketu-Pluto alignment.  It seems likely that antagonism and conflict will be prominent in her debate experience.  For example, Pence may try to paint her as a radical leftist who is fomenting racial divisions in the US.  By standard Vedic aspecting, her Mars is in an exact 120-degree/5th house aspect from Ketu, the South Lunar Node.  This is associated with intense and stressful attacks that demand quick responses.  By itself, it cannot be considered a favorable influence for a debate win.  However, I would also note that the Mercury-Uranus opposition does form a close 135-degree alignment with her Ascendant and should give her the ability to deliver effective and intelligent answers. 

 

But the larger problem for her is that Saturn is sitting on her 8th house cusp at 1 Capricorn.  While this placement is dependent on an accurate birth time (which is from a birth certificate at least), this Saturn placement is not good at all for making progress towards one's goals.  It suggests obstacles and setbacks and even scandal.  Saturn is finally moving forward again since its direct station on September 29, but as I see it, it is too close for comfort there.  This is another reason why I can't get too optimistic about Harris's chances in the debate.  It may refer to other ongoing negative situations unrelated to the debate, but it nonetheless casts a long shadow over her progress.

Harris' chart gets a bit better if we relocate her chart to Salt Lake City, there is a very nice placement of transiting Venus there on her 3rd house cusp. The 3rd house is associated with communication and Venus symbolizes beauty and harmony.  Therefore, there is at least some reason to expect Kamala Harris could do well in the debate, at least on the level of presentation.  Given these highly volatile aspects, I am reluctant to predict a clear winner in the VP debate.  And yet, Harris could have an edge here given the role of Venus in her relocated chart. 


Weekly Market Forecast

Stocks suffered a major reversal lower today after President Trump abruptly broke off stimulus negotiations with the Democrats.  With Trump postponing any hope of a stimulus until after the election, markets are more vulnerable here since much of the recent up trend had been based on stimulus hopes.   The sell-off appeared to confirm my forecast from last week of some turbulence on the alignment of Mars with stationary Pluto and Ketu, the South Lunar Node. 

I suspect we could see more turbulence this week as the Mars alignment will remain within range until Friday.  At the same time, it is important to note the potentially offsetting bullish influence of the Jupiter-Neptune alignment over the coming days.  This suggests that the market may see significant moves in both directions as the tense pessimism of Mars alternates with the optimism of Jupiter.  Nonetheless, caution is warranted.

For more details, check out my weekly subscriber newsletter which is published every Saturday afternoon (EST).   I outline the key technical and planetary influences for US and Indian stocks for the short and medium term, as well as currencies, gold and oil. 

The passing of RBG reshapes the race ahead of next week's debate

  (23 September 2020) Last week's passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has introduced a new dynamic into the US election campaign.  The loss of the left-leaning RBG could mark a significant rightward shift in the Supreme Court if Trump and the GOP carry through on their promise to appoint her successor.  As of now, Trump and the GOP-controlled Senate have the 50 votes necessary to confirm a new justice over the coming weeks, regardless of who wins the election on November 3.  The administration's term concludes on January 20, 2021 so even if Trump should lose the November election, the confirmation of a conservative justice such as Amy Coney Barrett or Barbara Lagoa could still take place sometime in November or December.

This development is likely a political boost for Trump.  The prospect of another conservative member of SCOTUS will likely increase the enthusiasm and turnout of his voting base.  Whatever his many shortcomings and failures, Trump has delivered on his campaign promise of appointing two and now, possibly three conservative judges.  In the US system of government, the judicial branch has a greater and more direct political importance than in, say, the British Parliamentary system.  Also, the focus on the campaign can now shift away from his administration's bungled handling of the Covid crisis and onto the more politically beneficial confirmation of a conservative justice. 

As I suggested three weeks ago, I thought that Trump's standing could improve in September due to the Mars retrograde cycle and the transit of Mercury to his natal Jupiter.  Interestingly, I highlighted the day of Mercury's conjunction to Trump's Jupiter on September 17 as the time of a possible favorable development.  As it happened, Justice Ginsburg passed away the following day, on September 18.  To be sure, Trump's polls numbers and betting odds haven't moved much in September, but there is some sense that the battleground states are very much in contention as we approach the first presidential debate next Tuesday, September 29. 

And the debates could be very important.  For Joe Biden, they are an opportunity to decisively put to rest the widely-held view that he may no longer be mentally sharp enough to be president.  The 77-year old Biden has at times seemed confused and incoherent on the campaign trail so a strong debate showing against Trump could help to solidify his support.  Trump therefore needs to make Biden look like he is incapable of leading the country in order to build more momentum towards his failing campaign.  

The planets for the first debate suggest a mixed picture for both candidates.  In Trump's chart, the transiting Mars-Saturn square will be closely aligned with his Venus-Saturn conjunction.  This is a difficult pattern that suggests frustration, tension and generally negative social interactions. Jupiter isn't helping him much here, although I do note that it forms an exact 120 degree aspect with his relocated Midheaven (10th house cusp) for Cleveland where the debate will be held.  That could indicate some favorable outcomes at least.  Transiting Venus will be conjunct his Mars in his 1st house.  This can be good for public perceptions (1st house) although the Mars influence on Venus is usually a sign of disagreements and conflict.  Well, it is a debate, after all. 

Mercury in Libra will transit Trump's 3rd house which should enhance his ability to communicate.  Of course, the slow-moving Rahu-Sun conjunction and Ketu-Moon conjunction is a huge wild card although its effects are not specific to the night of the debate.  This heavy nodal influence often marks situations of disruption and instability and may make Trump's behavior even more unpredictable than usual.  We may charitably say that he could succeed in keeping Biden off balance in the debate, but he also may not do himself any favors in the process.

Biden's chart is also afflicted by that Mars-Saturn square as it sets up against his Jupiter in the 9th house.  This could symbolize an inability to communicate his philosophy and campaign platform.   The Venus in Leo transit looks generally positive for him in the 10th house, although that may simply be a reflection of the greater social exposure he will enjoy as a result of the debate.  More worrying is the Moon-Neptune conjunction that is conjunct his 4th house cusp (IC) opposite his 10th house cusp (MC).  Moon-Neptune aspects can indicate situations of confusion or loss of self, especially when they are located around one of the chart angles as is the case here. 

Mercury in Libra will transit his 12th house opposite his Moon.  This suggests that Biden may have some difficulty getting the specifics of his message across to the debate audience. Moon-Mercury oppositions can indicate creative thinking but it is less well-suited for logical and orderly presentations. 

Overall, both charts have significant problems on September 29. Trump's may be a bit better, however, in terms of communication (Mercury in 3rd house, vs in the 12th in Biden's chart) and the Venus in the Ascendant with his Mars could actually boost his personal appeal, albeit through conflict.  I would not expect a clear win by either candidate, although I think that Trump could do better than Biden. 


Weekly Market Forecast

Stocks have retreated in recent days as the reality of the Covid second wave has begun to sink in.  US stocks fell sharply again today just as Mercury and Mars aligned with Saturn and Ketu (the South Lunar Node).  Since three of these four planets were natural malefics (i.e planets that tend to produce negative outcomes), it was no surprise that the market moved lower.  The downdraft was in keeping with expectations as I have previously noted both here and in my newsletter the likelihood of some significant declines in late August and throughout September, with a special focus on late September and this rare four-planet alignment.

Further declines are possible this week as Mercury and Mars remain in fairly close alignment with Saturn and Ketu.  Mercury will begin to separate tomorrow (Thursday) so that could indicate some lessening of the negative sentiment, however.  But Mars will stay in a tense square with Saturn well into next week so I would not expect much upside over the next few days.  It seems more likely that markets will trend lower going into next week. 


For more details, check out my weekly subscriber newsletter which is published every Saturday afternoon (EST).   I outline the key technical and planetary influences for US and Indian stocks for the short and medium term, as well as currencies, gold and oil.