This week begins with the Moon in Taurus which almost always highlights the banking sector. The energies of the security-minded Moon express its energies well in Taurus as the Moon in the sign ruling money, tangible assets, and banking is focused on financial security and stability.
Expansive Jupiter presides over global issues. The combination of the Sun in Moon-ruled Cancer and the Moon in Taurus conjoining Jupiter in Taurus over the weekend reflected the decision by the world’s financial regulators to require 30 of the world’s biggest banks to hold between 1-2.5% additional capital as a percentage of risk-weighted assets on top of the 7% base capital requirement regulators had previously agreed to on September 12, 2010.
Neptune in Pisces knows no boundaries as everything and everyone is interconnected. Jupiter entered Taurus June 4 when Neptune’s energies were more pronounced as it has just turned retrograde from Earth’s vantage point. Jupiter and Neptune are not far away from their June 8 alignment which appropriately reflects Saturday’s decision in Basel that the percentage of additional capital required “will apply progressively, based on each bank's size, complexity, global reach and interconnectedness. The bigger and more systemically interconnected the bank, the more capital it will need to hold." The Wall Street Journal further elaborates: The rules also feature the threat of an additional 1% capital requirement on giant banks that grow bigger.”
To paraphrase what former Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan said on CNBC earlier this month, one of the reasons banks have so much money parked at the Fed is because the banks don’t have enough capital to take the money out. And since the excess reserves banks keep at the Fed carry a 0% risk weighting, anything banks invest in beyond U.S. Treasuries would carry a risk weighting greater than 0% depending on the type of asset.
Despite fierce lobbying by the banks, regulators were stubbornly against expanding the definition of common equity to include anything but banks’ common stock. Taurus energy is slow and steady, allowing the big banks until 2019 to comply.
Years from now after the global economy has successfully been rebuilt from the ground up, it is hoped the world’s regulators will see the wisdom of imposing the highest capital requirements when the economy is flourishing and the lowest requirements during economic downturns.
The second item of business coming out of the BIS was the release of its annual report aptly describing the energies of the harmonious alignment of Jupiter in Venus-ruled Taurus and Pluto in Saturn-ruled Capricorn (exact July 7) while Jupiter (growth) and Saturn (contraction/consolidation) are in a stressful alignment in signs ruled by Venus (money/banking).
Titled “Building a Lasting Foundation for Sustainable Growth,” the report notes that
“international financial imbalances (Saturn in Libra) are re-emerging.” "Addressing overindebtedness, (Pluto) private as well as public, is the key to building a solid foundation (Saturn) for high, balanced real growth and a stable financial system. That means both driving up private saving and taking substantial action now to reduce deficits in the countries that were at the core of the crisis."(Saturn and Capricorn rule government)
Here’s my favorite part from the report: “Highly accommodative monetary policies are becoming a threat to price stability.” “Dwindling economic slack and rising commodity prices have driven up the risk of inflation. In addition, "the persistence of very low interest rates in major advanced economies delays the necessary balance sheet adjustments of households and financial institutions.”
You can delay (Saturn) the debt (Pluto) and push to keep the status quo in place for only so long. The two year influence of Saturn square Pluto is almost over. As revolutionary Uranus in Aries squares Pluto over the next few years, unexpected events will instigate new reforms, reversing the extreme political elements that arose during the last two years.
The events in Basel Switzerland over the weekend reflect that beyond political lobbying which did manage to reduce efforts by U.S. regulators to impose a 3% additional capital requirement, there was no Tea Party or grass roots uprising to stop it! JThis should be a lesson (Saturn) for Republicans and bankers like JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon who tried to take a page out of the Tea Party movement by attempting to bully Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke into limiting regulation a couple weeks ago.
The Sun in harmonious alignments to Jupiter, Saturn, and Uranus when Dodd-Frank (FINREG) was signed by President Obama last year indicate that regulatory leaders have the will to move forward with financial regulatory reform. (However, Mercury in Leo opposite Neptune in Aquarius means the road ahead is not always clear with regard to writing and administering the rules. Mars in Virgo conjoining Saturn reflects the tremendous amount of work involved to ensure regulators address every detail.) Saturn at zero degrees Libra conjoining the eastern horizon at the time the bill was signed indicates the financial system will get back into balance slowly over time as part of Pluto’s transformative process.
French banks (especially Societe Generale and Credit Agricole) are the most exposed to Greek debt. On Monday French banks will meet in Rome to work on a plan based upon reinvesting half the proceeds from maturing Greek bonds into new 30 year Greek bonds.
The Sun represents self-identity, leaders, and speculation. This week the Sun in security conscious Cancer squares Uranus in Aries (Sunday), opposes Pluto in Capricorn (Tuesday), and squares Saturn in Libra on Satur(n)day. The Sun completes the square, a cross pattern involving all four of the cardinal (action) signs. Mercury (communications), Venus (money/values), and Mars (action) in Cancer follow suit over the next eight weeks.
The Sun squaring Uranus can bring dictators, leaders, and rebels with far out there views who march to the beat of a different drummer to center stage. What is new, different, and revolutionary in one way or another is in focus now. So it’s not surprising that Reuters is reporting that Greece’s deputy PM warned today that rebel lawmakers may block some of the measures contained in the austerity plan that is expected to begin being debated in the Greek Parliament Monday. The Sun/Uranus can bring unexpected developments which can help in breaking free from established ways that have outlived their usefulness.
The Sun opposing Pluto can bring about power struggles to get the opposing side to reach agreement. Each side has what the other needs but neither side is at least initially willing to compromise. Debt, M&A, taxes, insurance, financial manipulation, and nuclear issues are in focus. President Obama will take up the talks on raising the debt ceiling Monday after House Majority Leader Eric Cantor walked out of talks that he said had reached an “impasse.” The “impasse” is not about raising taxes as Republicans would like the public to believe, but their refusal to implement what President Reagan referred to as “revenue enhancements.” (Raising revenue by cutting/eliminating tax deductions, loopholes, and subsidies that “free market” Republicans should be rejecting in the first place!) There could be a new development in the talks Thursday as Mercury opposes the USA Pluto.
The Moon in Mercury-ruled Gemini Tuesday through Thursday morning completes the Gemini New Moon cycle begun June 1. People are quick to act on their ideas with Mars in Gemini as well and are easily angered when their security is threatened. A two day national strike is planned in Greece beginning on Tuesday. (Tuesdays are ruled by Mars and Wednesdays by Mercury, Gemini’s planetary ruler).
The Moon enters its home sign Cancer Thursday afternoon, followed by the third and final Partial Solar Eclipse in one month Friday morning. (The Solar Eclipse/Cancer New Moon cycle will be addressed in a separate post later this week.)
Although the influence of the Sun square Uranus in particular and the Sun opposing Pluto greatly increase the potential for reversals (at least intraday) Monday and Tuesday, it appears that the real change in direction occurs on Wednesday. However, the downside energies are still likely to be stronger than the upside energies.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Negative. However, potential for improvement could reverse conditions to mixed intraday, but any improvement could reverse back again to negative.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Negative; but conditions improve in afternoon.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Choppy/mixed to positive bias.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Positive.
Friday, July 1, 2011
Choppy/mixed conditions.
Mars Square Neptune Spurs Action Behind the Scenes to Lower Oil Prices
Published by Wallstreetweather.net
Less than 24 hours after Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke reiterated that higher energy prices were
likely to be “temporary,” crude oil prices plunged when the International Energy Agency
(IEA) announced 60 million barrels of oil would be released onto the world market during the next month. 30 million barrels of the oil being released will come from the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR).
In its FAQ, the IEA said releasing the equivalent of 2 million barrels of oil per day will
compensate for the 1.5 million barrels a day lost since the conflict erupted in Libya. The timing of the release along with the additional 500,000 barrels of oil per day into the market is to ensure there is enough supply to meet increased demand now that Summer has arrived in the northern hemisphere. The IEA did not rule out the possibility of releasing more oil in the future “if supply remains disrupted and markets remain tight.”
Mars is action and Neptune rules oil. Mars and Neptune in a frictional (square) relationship at
the time of the Summer Solstice motivated action over oil. As I wrote in the Weekly Forecast:
The Moon represents the mood of the market. The Sun entering Cancer at the Summer Solstice
elevates the energies of the Moon. The Moon transiting Neptune-ruled Pisces as Mars squared Neptune Wednesday followed by the Moon moving into Mars-ruled Aries in its “crisis in consciousness” (Last Quarter) phase of the monthly lunar cycle further energized the strength of this alignment. The Moon conjoining Uranus in Aries reflected the “surprise” shock and swift selloff in oil and other commodities, dragging the stock market down with it. It also described the “unusual” trading in oil futures just prior to the IEA’s announcement. (There is a greater tendency for “leaks” when Neptune’s energies are strong; now the CFTC is examining whether the IEA’s 9:00 AM EDT announcement in Paris was “leaked” to certain traders in advance.)
After dropping to an intraday low of $89.69 June 23, WTI Crude closed down $4.39 to $91.02, its lowest level since February 18; Brent Crude declined $6.75 to $107.26, a level not seen since February 22. Thursday’s declines also marked the largest price moves since the price spike following the February 20 conjunction of Mars and Neptune which began a new two year cycle of action in oil. WTI Crude spiked to 2.5 years highs, closing up $7.37 to $93.57 as fighting erupted throughout Libya.
Frictional relationships between Mars and Neptune can represent aggressive action that can lead to waging war over oil. As I’ve written many times before, Mars squaring Neptune when the USA was born describes the nation's penchant for going to war over oil. Mars squaring Neptune June 23 recreates this energy for the entire Summer season.
Mars/Neptune alignments can also indicate action taking place behind the scenes. Mars in Gemini the sign of the twins indicates there are multiple reasons behind such action that might not be readily apparent. Following the IEA announcement, the White House cited the twin reasons for the action were due to increased seasonal demand and OPEC’s June 8 decision not to expand oil production.
According to The Wall Street Journal (“Before Oil Move, a Secret U.S. Delegation to Saudi Arabia”), President Obama first became concerned about the price of crude oil in late January when the cost of gasoline climbed above $3 a gallon. Mercury was squaring Saturn in Libra then as Saturn turned retrograde. This increased concerns the economy was slowing down as oil prices took another climb up as uprisings began to spread through the Middle East.
On April 26 (the day before the previous FOMC meeting), President Obama met with his
advisors to discuss releasing oil reserves from the SPR. The price of WTI Crude closed at $113.93 April 29 and began to decline with the stock market. In early May the President telephoned Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah and secretly sent senior Administration officials from the Energy and Treasury departments to the kingdom to essentially obtain their blessing for releasing the reserves. (The WSJ notes Saudi Arabia had raised objections during prior occasions when the U.S. wanted to release reserves from the SPR.)
With WTI crude back below $100 as the Sun squared Neptune May 19, an IEA report described an urgent need for expanding supplies which President Obama discussed with other world leaders at the G8 summit.
OPEC met at the First Quarter Moon on June 8 as Jupiter favorably aspected Neptune. The
opportunity to expand oil production was dashed after Algeria, Angola, Venezuela, Iran, Iraq and Libya dissented. (Saudi Arabia agreed to expand their production by 1.5 million barrels a day.) The Moon in its “crisis in action” phase of the monthly lunar cycle prompted the Administration into action.
The June 15 Total Lunar Eclipse in Jupiter-ruled Sagittarius signaled that global issues and globally
coordinated efforts would be front and center during the next two weeks. (Being a total eclipse,
the issues grabbing our attention at the Full Moon will continue to linger during the next six months.)
Jupiter/Sagittarius and Neptune/Pisces are inflationary as Jupiter expands and Neptune knows no boundaries. In one way or another, oil flows through most things we consume. As predicted, higher food and energy costs have spilled into the core consumer price index which in May experienced the highest increase in almost five years. On an annual basis, current core CPI is running at 2.4% year over year, exceeding the Fed’s unofficial 2% inflation target. Sagittarius and Gemini rule travel. Airfares are a component of core inflation and airlines hedge their fuel costs using higher priced Brent Crude.
The Full Moon marked the culmination point of nearly six months of behind the scenes action by the Administration to expand global oil supplies in an effort to deflate the price of oil. After meeting with his economic advisors, President Obama agreed to start talks with the IEA to release reserves. As Mars entered Gemini hours before the Summer Solstice, the countries that had requested the IEA issue a report assessing such a move had to respond whether they agreed global action should be taken to release reserves. Mars located in the sector of the Summer Solstice chart representing foreign affairs squaring Neptune in the sector ruling speculation reflects how the action would affect the markets.
With oil down about 18% since April 29, there are obviously other reasons beyond the government’s effort to lower costs for consumers so they have more money available for discretionary spending. The confusing nature of Mars square Neptune reflects it is unclear if the U.S. is swapping the 30 million barrels of oil as it done on previous occasions or is actually selling the oil. A sale instead of a swap would provide the Treasury with additional revenue thereby helping to delay when the deficit hits the debt ceiling (currently projected for August 2).
With the USA’s progressed Mars in Libra exactly conjoining Iran’s natal Pluto, a more likely scenario is that the Administration’s action serves as another form of economic sanctions on Iran for its defiance in continuing to develop its secret nuclear program. The USA progressed Mars in Libra also opposes Iran’s progressed Mercury/Mars conjunction in Aries. Mars in Gemini represents action on twin fronts. As the IEA announced the global oil reserves release, the Administration issued additional economic sanctions against Iran’s Revolutionary Guards and Ministry of Defense for providing support and weapons to Hezbollah.
The June 15 Sagittarius Lunar Eclipse squaring Iran’s Mercury/Mars conjunction in Pisces reflected coordinated global action that might have been in response to Iran voting against increasing oil production at the OPEC meeting. Saturn in Libra opposing Iran’s natal Sun can represent governments agreeing to exert economic pressure on Iran by increasing supplies to decrease the value of oil. The July 1 Solar Eclipse in Cancer squaring Iran’s natal Sun in Aries and the July 15 Full Moon squaring Iran’s progressed Mars in Aries could bring actions against Iran front and center.
I am concluding this post with an excerpt from the “all about oil edition” from the March 6, 2011 Weekly Forecast:
Last month I added to this conviction, noting:
Mars and Neptune reach opposition or their “Full Moon” phase on November 7, 2011 when Mars is in Leo and Neptune has briefly returned to Aquarius. The Moon is in Aries that day and Neptune is temporarily back in Aquarius, its energies more pronounced as Neptune switches from retrograde to direct motion November 9. This could mark the peak of oil prices largely being driven by speculation. Uranus in Aries makes its final square to the Federal Reserve’s natal Sun in Capricorn and Pluto in Cancer while conjoining the sector of the Fed’s chart representing its reputation. This could signal a reversal of the Fed’s ultra accommodative monetary policy that takes and the current cycle of speculative fervor.
Islamic Republic of Iran: April 1, 1979 3:00 PM Tehran
Less than 24 hours after Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke reiterated that higher energy prices were
likely to be “temporary,” crude oil prices plunged when the International Energy Agency
(IEA) announced 60 million barrels of oil would be released onto the world market during the next month. 30 million barrels of the oil being released will come from the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR).
In its FAQ, the IEA said releasing the equivalent of 2 million barrels of oil per day will
compensate for the 1.5 million barrels a day lost since the conflict erupted in Libya. The timing of the release along with the additional 500,000 barrels of oil per day into the market is to ensure there is enough supply to meet increased demand now that Summer has arrived in the northern hemisphere. The IEA did not rule out the possibility of releasing more oil in the future “if supply remains disrupted and markets remain tight.”
Mars is action and Neptune rules oil. Mars and Neptune in a frictional (square) relationship at
the time of the Summer Solstice motivated action over oil. As I wrote in the Weekly Forecast:
“Mars moves into Gemini Monday night until August 3, squaring Pisces’ planetary ruler Neptune early Wednesday morning. Traders have to be especially nimble with their fingers to ensure their gains don’t disappear and remateralize as staggering losses. What is reported vs. what is happening behind the scenes could be two completely different things. Although there have been occasions when challenging alignments between Mars and Neptune have been bullish, Mars squaring Neptune has a greater tendency to be bearish. Information usually leaks out that shatters illusions and causes the market to swiftly sell off.”
The Moon represents the mood of the market. The Sun entering Cancer at the Summer Solstice
elevates the energies of the Moon. The Moon transiting Neptune-ruled Pisces as Mars squared Neptune Wednesday followed by the Moon moving into Mars-ruled Aries in its “crisis in consciousness” (Last Quarter) phase of the monthly lunar cycle further energized the strength of this alignment. The Moon conjoining Uranus in Aries reflected the “surprise” shock and swift selloff in oil and other commodities, dragging the stock market down with it. It also described the “unusual” trading in oil futures just prior to the IEA’s announcement. (There is a greater tendency for “leaks” when Neptune’s energies are strong; now the CFTC is examining whether the IEA’s 9:00 AM EDT announcement in Paris was “leaked” to certain traders in advance.)
After dropping to an intraday low of $89.69 June 23, WTI Crude closed down $4.39 to $91.02, its lowest level since February 18; Brent Crude declined $6.75 to $107.26, a level not seen since February 22. Thursday’s declines also marked the largest price moves since the price spike following the February 20 conjunction of Mars and Neptune which began a new two year cycle of action in oil. WTI Crude spiked to 2.5 years highs, closing up $7.37 to $93.57 as fighting erupted throughout Libya.
Frictional relationships between Mars and Neptune can represent aggressive action that can lead to waging war over oil. As I’ve written many times before, Mars squaring Neptune when the USA was born describes the nation's penchant for going to war over oil. Mars squaring Neptune June 23 recreates this energy for the entire Summer season.
Mars/Neptune alignments can also indicate action taking place behind the scenes. Mars in Gemini the sign of the twins indicates there are multiple reasons behind such action that might not be readily apparent. Following the IEA announcement, the White House cited the twin reasons for the action were due to increased seasonal demand and OPEC’s June 8 decision not to expand oil production.
According to The Wall Street Journal (“Before Oil Move, a Secret U.S. Delegation to Saudi Arabia”), President Obama first became concerned about the price of crude oil in late January when the cost of gasoline climbed above $3 a gallon. Mercury was squaring Saturn in Libra then as Saturn turned retrograde. This increased concerns the economy was slowing down as oil prices took another climb up as uprisings began to spread through the Middle East.
On April 26 (the day before the previous FOMC meeting), President Obama met with his
advisors to discuss releasing oil reserves from the SPR. The price of WTI Crude closed at $113.93 April 29 and began to decline with the stock market. In early May the President telephoned Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah and secretly sent senior Administration officials from the Energy and Treasury departments to the kingdom to essentially obtain their blessing for releasing the reserves. (The WSJ notes Saudi Arabia had raised objections during prior occasions when the U.S. wanted to release reserves from the SPR.)
With WTI crude back below $100 as the Sun squared Neptune May 19, an IEA report described an urgent need for expanding supplies which President Obama discussed with other world leaders at the G8 summit.
OPEC met at the First Quarter Moon on June 8 as Jupiter favorably aspected Neptune. The
opportunity to expand oil production was dashed after Algeria, Angola, Venezuela, Iran, Iraq and Libya dissented. (Saudi Arabia agreed to expand their production by 1.5 million barrels a day.) The Moon in its “crisis in action” phase of the monthly lunar cycle prompted the Administration into action.
The June 15 Total Lunar Eclipse in Jupiter-ruled Sagittarius signaled that global issues and globally
coordinated efforts would be front and center during the next two weeks. (Being a total eclipse,
the issues grabbing our attention at the Full Moon will continue to linger during the next six months.)
Jupiter/Sagittarius and Neptune/Pisces are inflationary as Jupiter expands and Neptune knows no boundaries. In one way or another, oil flows through most things we consume. As predicted, higher food and energy costs have spilled into the core consumer price index which in May experienced the highest increase in almost five years. On an annual basis, current core CPI is running at 2.4% year over year, exceeding the Fed’s unofficial 2% inflation target. Sagittarius and Gemini rule travel. Airfares are a component of core inflation and airlines hedge their fuel costs using higher priced Brent Crude.
The Full Moon marked the culmination point of nearly six months of behind the scenes action by the Administration to expand global oil supplies in an effort to deflate the price of oil. After meeting with his economic advisors, President Obama agreed to start talks with the IEA to release reserves. As Mars entered Gemini hours before the Summer Solstice, the countries that had requested the IEA issue a report assessing such a move had to respond whether they agreed global action should be taken to release reserves. Mars located in the sector of the Summer Solstice chart representing foreign affairs squaring Neptune in the sector ruling speculation reflects how the action would affect the markets.
With oil down about 18% since April 29, there are obviously other reasons beyond the government’s effort to lower costs for consumers so they have more money available for discretionary spending. The confusing nature of Mars square Neptune reflects it is unclear if the U.S. is swapping the 30 million barrels of oil as it done on previous occasions or is actually selling the oil. A sale instead of a swap would provide the Treasury with additional revenue thereby helping to delay when the deficit hits the debt ceiling (currently projected for August 2).
With the USA’s progressed Mars in Libra exactly conjoining Iran’s natal Pluto, a more likely scenario is that the Administration’s action serves as another form of economic sanctions on Iran for its defiance in continuing to develop its secret nuclear program. The USA progressed Mars in Libra also opposes Iran’s progressed Mercury/Mars conjunction in Aries. Mars in Gemini represents action on twin fronts. As the IEA announced the global oil reserves release, the Administration issued additional economic sanctions against Iran’s Revolutionary Guards and Ministry of Defense for providing support and weapons to Hezbollah.
The June 15 Sagittarius Lunar Eclipse squaring Iran’s Mercury/Mars conjunction in Pisces reflected coordinated global action that might have been in response to Iran voting against increasing oil production at the OPEC meeting. Saturn in Libra opposing Iran’s natal Sun can represent governments agreeing to exert economic pressure on Iran by increasing supplies to decrease the value of oil. The July 1 Solar Eclipse in Cancer squaring Iran’s natal Sun in Aries and the July 15 Full Moon squaring Iran’s progressed Mars in Aries could bring actions against Iran front and center.
I am concluding this post with an excerpt from the “all about oil edition” from the March 6, 2011 Weekly Forecast:
“Since there are no boundaries when it comes to Neptune and Pisces, it is easy to see the connection between oil prices and monetary policy. Oil prices have been climbing since the anticipation of QE2, with only the last 16% move related to Libya. This implies that the rise in oil prices has been primarily due to monetary policy as opposed to geopolitical events. Any tightening or perceived tightening of monetary policy would likely bring down oil prices regardless of what was going on in the Middle East, along with a collapse in stock prices.”
Last month I added to this conviction, noting:
“The Federal Reserve’s progressed Pluto conjoins Neptune (oil) in the chart for when NYMEX oil trading began. The Sun (speculation) exactly conjoins the Fed’s progressed Sun, indicating the Fed’s zero interest rates (Pluto)/ultra accommodative monetary policy is contributing to this growing bubble.”
Mars and Neptune reach opposition or their “Full Moon” phase on November 7, 2011 when Mars is in Leo and Neptune has briefly returned to Aquarius. The Moon is in Aries that day and Neptune is temporarily back in Aquarius, its energies more pronounced as Neptune switches from retrograde to direct motion November 9. This could mark the peak of oil prices largely being driven by speculation. Uranus in Aries makes its final square to the Federal Reserve’s natal Sun in Capricorn and Pluto in Cancer while conjoining the sector of the Fed’s chart representing its reputation. This could signal a reversal of the Fed’s ultra accommodative monetary policy that takes and the current cycle of speculative fervor.
Islamic Republic of Iran: April 1, 1979 3:00 PM Tehran
2011 Summer Solstice Forecast
Published by WallStreetWeather.net
Summer officially begins in the northern hemisphere when the Sun enters Cancer June 21 at 1:16:30 PM EDT. At the Summer Solstice, the Sun (Sol) reaches its maximum northern position in the sky and appears to stand still (from the Latin “sistere”). It’s time to be outdoors savoring the sunlight! Many crops are planted at Midsummer for harvesting around the time of the September 23 Autumnal Equinox. After the Summer Solstice the hours of daylight will gradually decline until the Sun enters Cancer’s opposite sign Capricorn at the December 22 Winter Solstice, the time to celebrate the birth of the light returning to the northern hemisphere.
The Sun is our life force and our self-identity. The Sun entering one of the four initiating (cardinal) signs not only starts a new season, but represents the key turning points of the year. The planetary energies at this time influence conditions over the next three months. The solar year began at the Vernal Equinox March 20 when the Sun entered Aries, the first sign of the zodiac which corresponds to new beginnings and sets the tone until the next Vernal Equinox on March 20, 2012 . Issues and situations that began or entered a new phase of development during the three month period since the Vernal Equinox have now reached a critical juncture requiring action be taken between now and the Autumnal Equinox.
The Sun in Cancer (June 21 – July 23) initiates action and dynamic changes connected to creating greater physical and emotional security. Cancer represents the primal need to nurture and be nurtured. Water/liquids, food, family, home, domestic security, and the general public (especially women/mothers) are represented by this sign ruled by the Moon.
Cancer is the first sign of the zodiac in the water element. The Sun in Cancer and Mercury (communication/movement/commerce) in Cancer (June 16 – July 2) at the Summer Solstice indicates people identify more with how they feel. Since Cancer is ruled by the Moon, the Moon is the planetary ruler of the Summer Solstice. (1)
The Moon reflects the emotional outlook which like the ebb and flow of the lunar cycle is constantly changing. Sentiment shifts when the Moon moves into a new zodiac sign every 2.5 days. Using our intuition and getting in touch with how we feel is a priority with the Moon in Pisces at the Summer Solstice. Focusing on what’s going on within can bring clarity to help sort through the external noise and chaos. Ruled by idealistic and visionary Neptune, the Moon in Pisces brings greater awareness and understanding of how everyone and everything are interconnected.
Harmonious alignments between the Moon in Pisces and Mercury and the Sun and Neptune in its home sign Pisces can help release outmoded beliefs, addictive behavioral patterns and self-imposed barriers, filling their void with creative pursuits that nourish the mind and offer an opportunity for greater security. Dreams that occur during sleep can seem more active and easier to recall. These energies help us to attune to signs and symbols in our lives that are more than coincidental.
Mars in Gemini challenging Neptune in Pisces can provide the motivation to stop fantasizing and start to take action to turn cherished dreams into reality. The Sun favorably aspecting Jupiter in Taurus makes it easier now to develop the means to ground dreams and visions in ways that are pragmatic and potentially profitable. Any time you feel confused or unsure about the next step to take indicates a time out for reflection to clear the mind. The Mars/Neptune alignment indicates this works best through movement. Stretching, walking, swimming, yoga, and moving to your favorite music are good vehicles to keep the creative juices flowing and moving forward. Four planets in the water element at the Summer Solstice emphasize the importance of going with the flow and acting on intuition. Drinking plenty of water, spending time by the water and soaking your feet or body in water can be particularly restorative this summer.
The Moon represents our roots and is close to reaching the Last Quarter phase of its monthly cycle. The Moon in the waning half of the lunar cycle at the Summer Solstice reflects a conscious understanding about the issues affecting our lives; now is the time to act on this awareness. Establishing a secure foundation now and for the future begins by taking action to clean up the toxic remnants of the past.
As the planetary timekeeper, Saturn rules the past which cannot be changed but how we handle the past in the present affects our future. The Solstice Sun, Moon, and Mercury are engaged in challenging alignments to Saturn in Libra. Regardless of the economic and political events happening in the world, it is up to us as individuals to secure our own foundation and enhance our reputation by treating others the way we want to be treated ourselves.
Saturn’s energies move slowly to begin with and have been particularly pronounced over the last several weeks as Saturn turned direct June 12 after being retrograde since January 26. Caution, fears of limited options and contracting conditions tend to dominate when Saturn’s energies are strong. As Saturn starts moving forward this summer it gradually pulls away from its square to Pluto. This influence has been in effect since the autumn of 2009 and has been particularly intense with Pluto being in Saturn-ruled Capricorn.
Saturn in Libra can be too good at delaying making important decisions because doing so necessitates structural transformation. And what is uncovered in the process is not going to be pretty. Libra is ruled by Venus, the planetary ruler of money. Saturn in Libra indicates that cold hard cash on Libra’s scales is totally insufficient to counterbalance the mountain of debt built up during the boom years of Pluto in Jupiter-ruled Sagittarius (1995-2008) that has busted Libra’s scales out of balance.
History tends to repeat itself, and this is the second year that the Summer Solstice Sun interacts with all the outer planet alignments that have been in play since the financial crisis erupted in 2008. The Sun in Cancer squares Saturn in Libra and Uranus in Aries and opposes Pluto in Capricorn. Saturn and Uranus have been in opposition since fall 2008. The call for structural reforms has gradually transformed into calls to delay, restrict, or rescind the reforms enacted to transform the financial structure by the companies and plutocrats who profited the most from the massive fiscal and monetary stimulus as Saturn began to square Pluto in 2009. As the square between Uranus in Aries and Pluto came into influence last summer, the most extreme individuals and groups have been feverishly active at reducing the rest of the population’s prosperity, restricting their rights to enrich their own. These actions are taken under the guise that reducing/eliminating “burdensome” regulations and making harsh budgetary cuts removes economic uncertainty and generates jobs.
The Sun rules leaders and as the Sun made challenging alignments to these planets last year, world leaders decided to do a Saturn cop out by delaying any major structural reforms to transform the global financial system and deal with deficits. The Moon and Mercury engaged in challenging alignments to Saturn reflect the public’s frustration and cautious outlook since the reality of the economic recovery is not as strong as the price of stocks and commodities would lead one to believe. These energies reflect that higher costs for consumer staples, stagnant wages/high unemployment, and receiving little to zero interest income, are crimping discretionary spending.
As summer progresses and turns to Fall, the intensity of the Saturn/Pluto influence will come to an end and the square between Uranus in Aries and Pluto will command center stage over the next five years. The current Uranus/Pluto cycle began with their conjunction in Pisces’ opposite sign Virgo in the mid-1960s, and this is the first time Uranus in Aries has squared Pluto (then in Capricorn’s opposite sign Cancer) since 1930-1935. Both periods were times of massive upheaval that in the U.S. brought revolutionary economic and societal reforms intended for the benefit of the nation’s general welfare. The last cycle of Neptune in Pisces during the mid 1800s experienced revolts and revolutions demanding greater rights for workers, women, and the push to abolish slavery. All the efforts to maintain the economic and financial structures built up since the early 1980s are unsustainable because they’re too dependent on a consumer economy that is no longer propped up by the illusion of financial alchemy.
Last year’s Summer Solstice preceded a Lunar and Solar eclipse. Eclipses are harbingers of major change, and this year’s Solstice occurs in between the June 15 Lunar Eclipse and the July 1 Cancer Solar Eclipse that were both preceded by the June 1 Gemini Solar Eclipse. The period between eclipses tends to be the most uncertain as the incoming energies will not be fully processed in the collective consciousness until the weeks following the July 1 Solar Eclipse.
Mars entering Cancer August 3 until September 18 conjoins the Summer Solstice Sun and reactivates the energies of Neptune (August 3), Uranus (August 9), Pluto (August 11), Saturn (August 25). Mars reactivates the July 1 Solar Eclipse August 16, anchoring the energies of Saturn, Uranus, and Pluto in a cross formation for the final time. The public has been largely passive about the massive power grab by the corporations and special interests that used their money and influence to help ensure the most extreme candidates came to power in last year’s midterm elections. Mars in Cancer could motivate the general public to start becoming more actively engaged in protecting their fundamental safety net from further erosion.
In the Summer Solstice chart set for Washington DC, the Sun is in the sector representing foreign relations and conjoins the sector ruling the Administration. As the planetary ruler of Aries, Mars is always the major focal point after the Sun at the Vernal Equinox. Mars was in Pisces then and was the only planet in the water element amongst many planets in fiery Aries. The U.S. became entangled in yet another military endeavor in Libya through NATO on the day of the 8th anniversary of the Iraq War and the eve of the March 20 Vernal Equinox. Mars in Pisces activated the USA’s natal Mars in Gemini which squares Neptune in Pisces’ opposite sign Virgo. Mars in Gemini squaring Neptune in Pisces at the Summer Solstice reinforces these energies that describe military endeavors that lack a clear objective because they are started over nebulous ideals that seek to camouflage their real purpose which revolves around oil or whatever is deemed to be in the national interest. (Which usually has very little to do with national security).
As this alignment becomes exact June 22, President Obama (whose natal Mars in Virgo exactly
conjoins the USA Neptune), is scheduled to announce how fast he plans to withdrawal the 33,000 surge troops out of Afghanistan. Mars squaring Neptune reflects the death of Osama bin Laden has eliminated the need to continue the twin wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Whatever is announced now could become clearer around July 21-22 when Mars in Gemini returns to its natal position in the USA chart and squares the USA Neptune. Mars in Cancer squaring Saturn in Libra around the time of the USA’s Saturn return August 28, together with Saturn conjoining the USA’s progressed Mars in Libra September 30 reflects a far more scaled back military presence in the world.(3) There’s nothing like a record deficit to help wean the nation of its addiction to idealizing war.
Venus is the planetary ruler of the Summer Solstice chart set for Washington DC, as Libra is the sign on the Ascendant in the same beginning degree of Libra as it was in the Vernal Equinox chart.(2) Money matters and reaching agreement on fiscal issues are at the forefront just as they were in the Vernal Equinox chart. Libra on the cusp of the second sector of the chart ruling net worth squares the USA’s natal Pluto in Capricorn (debt) and conjoins the April 17 Libra Full Moon. This was when S&P downgraded the long term credit rating of the U.S. to negative from stable. Other than the planets being in different signs and degree areas of the zodiac, the layout of the Summer Solstice chart is virtually identical to the Vernal Equinox chart. Decisions on domestic and international financial issues and regulations were largely delayed in the Spring which helped maintain the market’s euphoria (Venus conjunct Neptune in Aquarius in the sector ruling speculation).
Venus in Gemini in the Summer Solstice Chart is located in the sector representing foreign relations. Along with Mars in Gemini it represents rising import prices. Mercury co-ruling the sector of foreign relations exactly squaring Saturn indicates the outlook is becoming far more cautious as emerging market economies contract from their rapid rate of expansion. At the same time, additional regulations will go into effect that dampen speculation. Mars ruling the sector representing debt squaring Neptune indicates the market continues to react to news about domestic and foreign sovereign debt.
Once the market gets over the illusion the Federal Reserve will engage in additional policy easing, stocks and commodity prices are likely to deteriorate. The highs reached in late April/early May are not likely to be surpassed this year. Jupiter in the sector ruling debt and interest rates favorably aspecting the Sun, Neptune, and Pluto can begin to gradually raise bond yields and loan rates. Mars square Neptune is likely to bring a continuous stream of more lawsuits and court cases involving financial fraud. Markets have a greater potential to make more pronounced moves on the following dates:
June: 21, 22, 28-29
July: 1, 6-8, 11-12, 15, 19, 21, 25, 27, 29
August: 1-3, 5, 8-9, 11, 16, 22-23, 25, 29-30
September: 6, 8-9, 12, 16, 19, 22, 23
(To be continued at the Autumnal Equinox which will cover the time period September 23 – December 22, 2011.)
The Moon in Pisces in the sector representing the work force can describe fluctuating employment conditions as employers use more temporary workers. The number of people employed in more than one job could increase. The Moon rules the Administration and its location here can indicate the public is more in sync with the Administration’s policies on healthcare and employment than with the GOP’s.
Capricorn rules the sector representing real estate and the weather in general. Home prices will continue to decline as the number of foreclosures rise and the number of qualified buyers declines. Pluto was here in the Vernal Equinox chart and its presence at the Summer Solstice again squaring Saturn, Uranus and opposing the Sun indicates more extreme weather conditions with high winds and severe storms that cause power outages and extensive property damage. There is also increased potential for stronger earthquakes in the U.S., particularly in parts of the country not normally considered earthquaked prone. Although the combination of the Sun and Mercury to Saturn/Uranus/Pluto can bring extremes in temperature and conditions that swing from severe drought to flooding, the emphasis on the water element at the Summer Solstice can bring an increase in moisture and precipitation. The eastern seaboard especially the Northeast and New England states such as New York City/Long Island, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Vermont appears to be more vulnerable to storms and hurricanes than the southern states. Beyond the wildfires, Arizona could face more escalation of drug violence at the border.
Foreign Hot Spots with the potential for elevated geophysical and/or geopolitical activity: northwestern Mexico and Baja CA, Haiti, Dominican Republic, Bahamas, Cuba, western South America (especially Colombia). Ireland, Sweden, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Greece, Poland and eastern Europe, Turkey, Algeria, Libya (Gaddafi gets defeated), Egypt, Chad, Central African Republic, Congo, and nations in southwestern Africa, Afghanistan (Kabul), Pakistan, India, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, Vietnam, central China, northeastern Japan, western Australia, and New Zealand.
(1)The Moon is not a planet but the term is used for simplicity.
(2) The Ascendant is the sign rising over the eastern horizon at the time of the Sun entered Cancer and Aries.
(3) Progressed: A mathematical calculation that progresses the natal planets forward in time as a means of prediction.
WallStreetWeather.net Forecast For Week Of June 19, 2011
Summary Of Last Week’s Influences:
Despite fears about Greece and economic indications that suggest the economy is not growing as fast or as strong as expected, the Dow and the S&P managed to break their six week losing streak.
As indicated in last week’s Forecast, the Moon in Scorpio saw the return of “merger Monday.” The Total Eclipse in Sagittarius brought large market moves in both directions and reflected that consumer price inflation is running slightly higher than analyst projections. Core inflation in May experienced the highest increase in almost five years! Based on this rate, core inflation is running at 2.4% year over year which is above the Fed’s unofficial 2% rate of inflation.
The markets turned bearish Wednesday and the Euro fell against the dollar, primarily due to EU officials failing to reach agreement on additional aid for Greece. Fears of how a Greek default would hurt European banks combined with concerns about $32.7 billion of credit guarantees estimated by the Bank for International Settlements written by U.S. banks and brokers.
The Lehman and AIG contagion effect was primarily due to counterparty uncertainty. This led
to a liquidity crisis when financial institutions were too scared to lend to each other. One of the factors in this uncertainty was CDS exposure. This factor is being repeated in Greek crisis. Having all derivatives trade on exchanges would create the transparency needed to prevent another liquidity crisis. Counterparty risk would be eliminated as each side of the transaction would have to post margin to the exchange. Fear of the unknown trumps the fear of knowing the amount each financial institution is exposed to.
Summary Of This Week’s Influences:
Mercury in Cancer opposing Pluto in Capricorn Sunday appropriately reflects the difficulty in getting multiple parties to reach agreement on the best way to deal with Greece’s sovereign debt crisis. Eurozone finance ministers meeting in Luxembourg Sunday and Monday must decide on the conditions of releasing a 12 billion euro tranche of aid to Greece to prevent the country defaulting on its debt by mid-July. Dualistic Mercury reflects talk among some ministers involved in the discussions to withhold paying half of the next tranche. Mercury squaring Saturn Tuesday reflects the additional pressure to impose more rigid austerity measures on Greece as a condition of receiving a second bailout to keep the country funded through 2014. The combination of Mercury squaring Saturn and opposing Pluto reflects the numerous delays to kick the debt can down the road.
As Eurozone finance ministers discuss Greece’s financial fate, the Greek parliament will decide on whether to give a vote of confidence to PM Papandreou’s reshuffled cabinet and proposal to implement further spending cuts. The prime minister celebrated his 59th birthday Thursday, as the Lunar Eclipse opposed his natal Sun and Venus in Gemini. This time in a person’s life corresponds to when Jupiter and Saturn return to where they were at birth. Papandreou experienced his Saturn return last October; his Jupiter return will occur in mid-August, a time when Jupiter and Saturn will be in engaged in a stressful alignment to each other in the sky.
Mastering Saturn’s lessons since the prior Saturn return around 29.5 years ago can bestow rich rewards at a time that traditionally corresponded to reaching the pinnacle of one’s career and earning capacity. Saturn is the embodiment of the law of cause and effect (especially Saturn in Libra). What you put out, you get back. And Jupiter simply expands upon that.
Jupiter in Taurus and Saturn in Libra are in signs ruled by Venus. Uranus in Aries squaring Greece’s natal Venus in Cancer and opposing Greece’s natal Moon/Pluto conjunction indicates that Greece must reform its tax system and revenue collection. Large scale structural changes need to be implemented to
significantly increase tax revenue, while at the same time finding significant equitable spending cuts. This is also indicated by PM Papandreou’s progressed Sun conjoining Pluto in Leo squaring progressed Mars in Scorpio.
The June 15 Lunar Eclipse opposing his Sun/Venus conjunction in Gemini, the July 1 Solar Eclipse in Cancer squaring his Saturn in Libra, Saturn squaring his natal Uranus in Cancer in August and conjoining natal Neptune in Libra in October, together with more minor transits to these planets in Papandreou’s natal chart could weaken his ability to remain in power.
The Moon in Uranus-ruled Aquarius Sunday and Monday can bring unexpected and surprise events that can reverse the current trend. Volatility tends to rise and with it the potential for the market to make sharp up or down moves that break through support and resistance levels. Uranus and Aquarius rule technology and innovative trends which can put the tech sector in focus.
The Moon enters Pisces at 4:45 PM EDT Monday until early Thursday morning. Intuitive abilities tend to be stronger when the Moon is in Pisces which helps to sort out what is rumor or fraudulent vs. what is true. Sentiment can run from being hopeful and euphoric to catching a contagion.
Mars moves into Gemini Monday night until August 3, squaring Pisces’ planetary ruler Neptune early Wednesday morning. Traders have to be especially nimble with their fingers to ensure their gains don’t disappear and remateralize as staggering losses. What is reported vs. what is happening behind the scenes could be two completely different things.
Summer begins in the northern hemisphere at 1:17 PM EDT Tuesday when the Sun enters Cancer. The Sun represents self-identity and speculation, and Moon-ruled Cancer represents what we need to feel emotionally and physically secure. Cancer is symbolized by the crab that carries its home on its back. (More on the Summer Solstice in a separate post.) The worst asset bubble you can ever create is a housing bubble since housing is the collateral basis for most consumer and small business lending. Small businesses have not expanded because they lack equity in their homes to borrow from, not because of “uncertainty.”
The home the crab carries around that was once a shelter and a place of comfort has now become a tremendous burden. If small business is said to be the engine that drives the 70% consumer-based economy, then a housing bust is the best way to ensure the economy will take the longest amount of time to recover. Mercury in Cancer squaring Saturn in Libra at the Summer Solstice tells the sobering facts of what happens when financial conditions become unbalanced. The transition from a consumer based to a manufacturing based economy is a slow one whose progress is made even slower by fiscal and monetary policies that only prolong the necessary cleansing process that must take place following the bust. Mercury squaring Saturn and Mars squaring Neptune reflects that lack of mobility is a major impediment to lowering unemployment as people are stuck in homes they cannot sell.
Although there have been occasions when challenging alignments between Mars and Neptune have been bullish, Mars squaring Neptune has a greater tendency to be bearish. Information usually leaks out that shatters illusions and causes the market to swiftly sell off. This influence can bring suicide bombings involving multiple motor vehicles or public transport. Transportation accidents can be caused by foggy driving conditions, chemical spills, or distracted drivers. Drug border violence could be particularly intense now.
As I described in Part II of the Gemini New Moon cycle post, the USA is particularly affected by
this influence since Mars in Gemini squared Neptune (in Pisces’ opposite sign Virgo) when the USA was born. The USA’s idealization of the military and engagement in multiple wars without any thought to their cost, together with the mythology of the American dream of homeownership that became more elusive than ever once the housing bubble burst. Challenging alignments between Mars and Neptune eventually shatter the mythology built around them.
The Federal Reserve will be the central focus on Wednesday as the Sun in Cancer conjoins the
Federal Reserve’s natal Pluto, opposes its Capricorn Sun, and squares its Aries Midheaven (its reputation). Combined with the general influences of Mars squaring Neptune and Mercury squaring Saturn, Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke could reveal information during his news conference following the FOMC announcement that starts a selloff. To quote former Fed Chairman Alan Greenspan in an interview with Charlie Rose last week, “there’s nothing more for Fed policy makers to do.”
Strong aspects involving Neptune tend to be inflationary and create confusion which is further supported by the Moon being in Pisces.
Similar to last week, the Moon in its last quarter phase moving into Aries Thursday through Friday evening reverses sentiment and can bring back enthusiasm for risk taking.
The first three days this week could experience the most pronounced market moves.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Negative.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Mixed to moderately positive conditions weaken and turn negative in the afternoon.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Negative.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Market reverses; positive.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Negative conditions improve to close mixed.
Greece: July 24, 1974 4:00 AM EET Athens
George Papandreou: June 16, 1952 time unknown St. Paul, Minnesota
Despite fears about Greece and economic indications that suggest the economy is not growing as fast or as strong as expected, the Dow and the S&P managed to break their six week losing streak.
As indicated in last week’s Forecast, the Moon in Scorpio saw the return of “merger Monday.” The Total Eclipse in Sagittarius brought large market moves in both directions and reflected that consumer price inflation is running slightly higher than analyst projections. Core inflation in May experienced the highest increase in almost five years! Based on this rate, core inflation is running at 2.4% year over year which is above the Fed’s unofficial 2% rate of inflation.
The markets turned bearish Wednesday and the Euro fell against the dollar, primarily due to EU officials failing to reach agreement on additional aid for Greece. Fears of how a Greek default would hurt European banks combined with concerns about $32.7 billion of credit guarantees estimated by the Bank for International Settlements written by U.S. banks and brokers.
The Lehman and AIG contagion effect was primarily due to counterparty uncertainty. This led
to a liquidity crisis when financial institutions were too scared to lend to each other. One of the factors in this uncertainty was CDS exposure. This factor is being repeated in Greek crisis. Having all derivatives trade on exchanges would create the transparency needed to prevent another liquidity crisis. Counterparty risk would be eliminated as each side of the transaction would have to post margin to the exchange. Fear of the unknown trumps the fear of knowing the amount each financial institution is exposed to.
Summary Of This Week’s Influences:
Mercury in Cancer opposing Pluto in Capricorn Sunday appropriately reflects the difficulty in getting multiple parties to reach agreement on the best way to deal with Greece’s sovereign debt crisis. Eurozone finance ministers meeting in Luxembourg Sunday and Monday must decide on the conditions of releasing a 12 billion euro tranche of aid to Greece to prevent the country defaulting on its debt by mid-July. Dualistic Mercury reflects talk among some ministers involved in the discussions to withhold paying half of the next tranche. Mercury squaring Saturn Tuesday reflects the additional pressure to impose more rigid austerity measures on Greece as a condition of receiving a second bailout to keep the country funded through 2014. The combination of Mercury squaring Saturn and opposing Pluto reflects the numerous delays to kick the debt can down the road.
As Eurozone finance ministers discuss Greece’s financial fate, the Greek parliament will decide on whether to give a vote of confidence to PM Papandreou’s reshuffled cabinet and proposal to implement further spending cuts. The prime minister celebrated his 59th birthday Thursday, as the Lunar Eclipse opposed his natal Sun and Venus in Gemini. This time in a person’s life corresponds to when Jupiter and Saturn return to where they were at birth. Papandreou experienced his Saturn return last October; his Jupiter return will occur in mid-August, a time when Jupiter and Saturn will be in engaged in a stressful alignment to each other in the sky.
Mastering Saturn’s lessons since the prior Saturn return around 29.5 years ago can bestow rich rewards at a time that traditionally corresponded to reaching the pinnacle of one’s career and earning capacity. Saturn is the embodiment of the law of cause and effect (especially Saturn in Libra). What you put out, you get back. And Jupiter simply expands upon that.
Jupiter in Taurus and Saturn in Libra are in signs ruled by Venus. Uranus in Aries squaring Greece’s natal Venus in Cancer and opposing Greece’s natal Moon/Pluto conjunction indicates that Greece must reform its tax system and revenue collection. Large scale structural changes need to be implemented to
significantly increase tax revenue, while at the same time finding significant equitable spending cuts. This is also indicated by PM Papandreou’s progressed Sun conjoining Pluto in Leo squaring progressed Mars in Scorpio.
The June 15 Lunar Eclipse opposing his Sun/Venus conjunction in Gemini, the July 1 Solar Eclipse in Cancer squaring his Saturn in Libra, Saturn squaring his natal Uranus in Cancer in August and conjoining natal Neptune in Libra in October, together with more minor transits to these planets in Papandreou’s natal chart could weaken his ability to remain in power.
The Moon in Uranus-ruled Aquarius Sunday and Monday can bring unexpected and surprise events that can reverse the current trend. Volatility tends to rise and with it the potential for the market to make sharp up or down moves that break through support and resistance levels. Uranus and Aquarius rule technology and innovative trends which can put the tech sector in focus.
The Moon enters Pisces at 4:45 PM EDT Monday until early Thursday morning. Intuitive abilities tend to be stronger when the Moon is in Pisces which helps to sort out what is rumor or fraudulent vs. what is true. Sentiment can run from being hopeful and euphoric to catching a contagion.
Mars moves into Gemini Monday night until August 3, squaring Pisces’ planetary ruler Neptune early Wednesday morning. Traders have to be especially nimble with their fingers to ensure their gains don’t disappear and remateralize as staggering losses. What is reported vs. what is happening behind the scenes could be two completely different things.
Summer begins in the northern hemisphere at 1:17 PM EDT Tuesday when the Sun enters Cancer. The Sun represents self-identity and speculation, and Moon-ruled Cancer represents what we need to feel emotionally and physically secure. Cancer is symbolized by the crab that carries its home on its back. (More on the Summer Solstice in a separate post.) The worst asset bubble you can ever create is a housing bubble since housing is the collateral basis for most consumer and small business lending. Small businesses have not expanded because they lack equity in their homes to borrow from, not because of “uncertainty.”
The home the crab carries around that was once a shelter and a place of comfort has now become a tremendous burden. If small business is said to be the engine that drives the 70% consumer-based economy, then a housing bust is the best way to ensure the economy will take the longest amount of time to recover. Mercury in Cancer squaring Saturn in Libra at the Summer Solstice tells the sobering facts of what happens when financial conditions become unbalanced. The transition from a consumer based to a manufacturing based economy is a slow one whose progress is made even slower by fiscal and monetary policies that only prolong the necessary cleansing process that must take place following the bust. Mercury squaring Saturn and Mars squaring Neptune reflects that lack of mobility is a major impediment to lowering unemployment as people are stuck in homes they cannot sell.
Although there have been occasions when challenging alignments between Mars and Neptune have been bullish, Mars squaring Neptune has a greater tendency to be bearish. Information usually leaks out that shatters illusions and causes the market to swiftly sell off. This influence can bring suicide bombings involving multiple motor vehicles or public transport. Transportation accidents can be caused by foggy driving conditions, chemical spills, or distracted drivers. Drug border violence could be particularly intense now.
As I described in Part II of the Gemini New Moon cycle post, the USA is particularly affected by
this influence since Mars in Gemini squared Neptune (in Pisces’ opposite sign Virgo) when the USA was born. The USA’s idealization of the military and engagement in multiple wars without any thought to their cost, together with the mythology of the American dream of homeownership that became more elusive than ever once the housing bubble burst. Challenging alignments between Mars and Neptune eventually shatter the mythology built around them.
The Federal Reserve will be the central focus on Wednesday as the Sun in Cancer conjoins the
Federal Reserve’s natal Pluto, opposes its Capricorn Sun, and squares its Aries Midheaven (its reputation). Combined with the general influences of Mars squaring Neptune and Mercury squaring Saturn, Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke could reveal information during his news conference following the FOMC announcement that starts a selloff. To quote former Fed Chairman Alan Greenspan in an interview with Charlie Rose last week, “there’s nothing more for Fed policy makers to do.”
Strong aspects involving Neptune tend to be inflationary and create confusion which is further supported by the Moon being in Pisces.
Similar to last week, the Moon in its last quarter phase moving into Aries Thursday through Friday evening reverses sentiment and can bring back enthusiasm for risk taking.
The first three days this week could experience the most pronounced market moves.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Negative.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Mixed to moderately positive conditions weaken and turn negative in the afternoon.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Negative.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Market reverses; positive.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Negative conditions improve to close mixed.
Greece: July 24, 1974 4:00 AM EET Athens
George Papandreou: June 16, 1952 time unknown St. Paul, Minnesota
WallStreetWeather.net Forecast For Week Of June 12, 2011
Summary Of Last Week’s Influences:
The “risk reduction trade” certainly reflected the pronounced energies of Saturn appearing motionless in the sky as it turned direct June 12 after being retrograde since January 26. Tuesday’s gains reversed going into the close after Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke remarked in a speech that “U.S. economic growth so far this year looks to have been somewhat slower than expected.” Fears of a global economic slowdown have increased risk aversion and a “flight to quality” as investors sold corporate and junk bonds to purchase safe haven U.S. Treasuries.
Although the Dow and S&P500 closed lower for the sixth consecutive week, the two indices are only about 6.8% below their April 29 closing highs and remain slightly positive for the year. (The Nasdaq is fractionally lower for 2011.) The Dow’s close Friday below the 12,000 level for the first time since mid March is only 6.7% below its April 29 closing high of 12,810.54. The market is not even in a correction, yet the cries for the Fed to embark on QE3 have already started even though QE2 is not over until the end of June!
Financials were one of the worst performing sectors as Jupiter transited Taurus for the first time since 2000, proving that Jupiter’s expansive energies can showcase what has been overdone. The banks were the first stocks to recover from the crisis but now the market has become more concerned that fears of a stalled recovery could make it more difficult for banks to reduce the enormous amount of troubled loans on their books. Saturn represents rules and regulations. The Fed is proposing that the nation’s biggest banks be required to hold additional capital beyond the 7% required in the Basel III agreement which takes effect in 2019. Although Saturn signifies delays, banks weren’t able to delay a decrease in the amount of “swipe fees” fees banks collect from merchants each time a customer uses their debit card to make a transaction. (Currently the fee is 44 cents which the Fed had initially proposed to reduce to 12 cents; now the Fed is working on finalizing an amount that will likely be a bit higher than 12 cents.)
Summary Of This Week’s Influences:
The Sun conjoining Mercury in Gemini and Saturn turning direct Sunday evening can increase the chance of news coming from a leader or government regulator that could reverse market sentiment. Additionally, the Moon in Scorpio could bring news of an actual or potential merger announcement.
The Moon in Jupiter-ruled Sagittarius Tuesday and Wednesday reflects that inflation has expanded beyond food and energy costs which could show up in Tuesday’s Producer Price Index and Wednesday’s CPI. Wednesday’s Full Moon in Sagittarius is a Total Lunar Eclipse which can correspond to large moves and an increase in volatility as Sagittarius relates to anything that is overdone in either direction.
The Moon in Saturn-ruled Capricorn Thursday and Friday is not necessarily dour, but upward moves tend to be more more moderate. Mercury enters Capricorn’s opposite sign Cancer Thursday afternoon until July 2 which could strengthen the U.S. dollar.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Positive bias as market could be mixed to down intraday.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Negative.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Negative conditions improve as day progresses; reverses to positive.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Positive.
Friday, June 17, 2011 (Quadruple Options Expiration)
Positive but could weaken going into the close.
The “risk reduction trade” certainly reflected the pronounced energies of Saturn appearing motionless in the sky as it turned direct June 12 after being retrograde since January 26. Tuesday’s gains reversed going into the close after Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke remarked in a speech that “U.S. economic growth so far this year looks to have been somewhat slower than expected.” Fears of a global economic slowdown have increased risk aversion and a “flight to quality” as investors sold corporate and junk bonds to purchase safe haven U.S. Treasuries.
Although the Dow and S&P500 closed lower for the sixth consecutive week, the two indices are only about 6.8% below their April 29 closing highs and remain slightly positive for the year. (The Nasdaq is fractionally lower for 2011.) The Dow’s close Friday below the 12,000 level for the first time since mid March is only 6.7% below its April 29 closing high of 12,810.54. The market is not even in a correction, yet the cries for the Fed to embark on QE3 have already started even though QE2 is not over until the end of June!
Financials were one of the worst performing sectors as Jupiter transited Taurus for the first time since 2000, proving that Jupiter’s expansive energies can showcase what has been overdone. The banks were the first stocks to recover from the crisis but now the market has become more concerned that fears of a stalled recovery could make it more difficult for banks to reduce the enormous amount of troubled loans on their books. Saturn represents rules and regulations. The Fed is proposing that the nation’s biggest banks be required to hold additional capital beyond the 7% required in the Basel III agreement which takes effect in 2019. Although Saturn signifies delays, banks weren’t able to delay a decrease in the amount of “swipe fees” fees banks collect from merchants each time a customer uses their debit card to make a transaction. (Currently the fee is 44 cents which the Fed had initially proposed to reduce to 12 cents; now the Fed is working on finalizing an amount that will likely be a bit higher than 12 cents.)
Summary Of This Week’s Influences:
The Sun conjoining Mercury in Gemini and Saturn turning direct Sunday evening can increase the chance of news coming from a leader or government regulator that could reverse market sentiment. Additionally, the Moon in Scorpio could bring news of an actual or potential merger announcement.
The Moon in Jupiter-ruled Sagittarius Tuesday and Wednesday reflects that inflation has expanded beyond food and energy costs which could show up in Tuesday’s Producer Price Index and Wednesday’s CPI. Wednesday’s Full Moon in Sagittarius is a Total Lunar Eclipse which can correspond to large moves and an increase in volatility as Sagittarius relates to anything that is overdone in either direction.
The Moon in Saturn-ruled Capricorn Thursday and Friday is not necessarily dour, but upward moves tend to be more more moderate. Mercury enters Capricorn’s opposite sign Cancer Thursday afternoon until July 2 which could strengthen the U.S. dollar.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Positive bias as market could be mixed to down intraday.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Negative.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Negative conditions improve as day progresses; reverses to positive.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Positive.
Friday, June 17, 2011 (Quadruple Options Expiration)
Positive but could weaken going into the close.
June 15, 2011 Sagittarius Total Lunar Eclipse/Part II of Gemini New Moon Cycle
Published by WallStreetWeather.net
In Part I of the Gemini Solar Eclipse/New Moon cycle, I described in detail the overall energies
surrounding the June 1 Solar Eclipse which influences the entire month. Part II highlights the Total Lunar Eclipse occurring on June 15 at 4:14 PM EDT in Sagittarius.
The Full Moon represents the peak of the lunar month which corresponds to a peak in emotions. The Moon acts like a spotlight, illuminating issues and situations that either originated or experienced new developments at the New Moon two weeks ago. Since the June 15 Full Moon is also a Lunar Eclipse, the normal pattern will be distorted as the Earth totally blocks the energies of the Moon’s reflective light from reaching us.(1)
Mercury is the planetary ruler of the Gemini New Moon/SE cycle, and is strong in its home sign Gemini. As the eclipse weakens the normally dominant energies of the Moon, the Sun’s energies become more prominent, especially as the Sun in Gemini conjoins Mercury at the Lunar Eclipse. This alignment became exact June 12, the same day that Saturn in Libra turned direct after being
retrograde since January 26.
The Sun, Mercury, and Saturn strong at the time of the Full Moon in expansive Sagittarius indicates that what people communicate now can have far reaching effects that either enhance or detract one’s career and public reputation, since the internet has enabled anyone’s message to be heard around the world. (Of course these energies particularly affect world leaders, regulators, and those in government positions.)
Mercury and Gemini represent all types of information, primary education, short distance travel/local environment, and exports. Gemini’s opposite sign Sagittarius is on a perpetual quest to discover the truth amongst all of Gemini’s information, trivia, and gossip. This quest for higher knowledge usually involves travel to distant lands. Foreign affairs, imports, higher education, the Courts, religion, philosophy, and politics are emphasized at the Sagittarius Full Moon. Because the eclipse alters the incoming energies of the Full Moon, the “covering” of the Moon's light means the information leading us to the answers we seek can be found within, far away from all the excess rhetoric and dogma. Mercury was at the end of Taurus at the New Moon and at the Full Moon it is at the end of Gemini. All the information exists; now it is time to formulate legislation.
Geopolitical events particularly dominate the next two weeks. Sagittarius is ruled by Jupiter and with Jupiter now in Taurus, it all comes down to money and net worth. Economic conditions and lack of political freedoms have become so great that the uprisings in the Middle East and northern Africa reflect people are no longer buying into the ideologies espoused by their political and religious leaders. The Lunar Eclipse exactly opposes Tunisia’s natal Sun in Gemini. The events leading to the overthrow of Tunisian president Ben Ali began around the time of the Gemini Lunar Eclipse. Six months later, the public is restless the transformation has not been extensive enough.
The Moon in Sagittarius in a stressful alignment with Mars in Taurus indicates a worldwide restlessness amongst people all over the globe that action is not being that adequately addresses their economic needs. The planetary energy of war in the sign of money indicates that war has become too expensive to wage. The Lunar Eclipse and Mercury in Gemini impacting the USA’s natal Mars in Gemini squaring Neptune in Virgo reflects that nowhere has the cost of war become unaffordable than for the USA.
As I have previously described, the USA Mars/Neptune square indicates the nation and its
military are involved in fighting Neptune-ruled issues. Neptune issues are virtually impossible to
win simply because they are virtually impossible to define. The first step to win a war is to have a clear and concise objective. Going to war to fight Neptune-ruled things such as communism, keeping the oil flowing from the Middle East, or waging war on drugs, are idealistic beliefs that reflect the nebulous nature of Neptune. Mars in Gemini describes the USA’s penchant for military engagements on multiple fronts. From the twin wars in Afghanistan and Iraq to supporting NATO’s operation in Libya to our multiple bases around the world, the USA’s Mars in Gemini has its arms stretched too thin in too many directions. Mars squaring Neptune in Virgo represents the idealization of military service.
The Sun conjoining Mercury on the USA Mars/Neptune at the Lunar Eclipse indicates attention is focused on the Commander-in-Chief. Since President Obama’s natal Mars in Virgo exactly conjoins the USA Neptune, he will likely be taking action in response to the latest incoming information about the wars now. Virgo is the other sign ruled by Mercury whose job it is to dissect information to formulate solutions which are efficient and cost effective. Mars in Virgo is about having the courage to act on the analysis and conquer the mythology. Having killed Osama bin Laden who supposedly was the reason for starting the two wars in the first place, provides the President with the “excuse” to institute an immediate pullout on both fronts.(2)
These energies represent financial adjustments being made as the excesses continue to be wrung out of the system. Jupiter is optimistic with high expectations for growth, but Jupiter in Taurus symbolizes growth that is slow but steady. Jupiter and Saturn transiting signs ruled by Venus indicate the economy must grow organically as fiscal and monetary policies to stimulate economic expansion have ended.
The Sun/Mercury conjunction conjoins Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke’s Jupiter in Gemini and the Lunar Eclipse conjoins his natal Sun in Sagittarius. Jupiter is inflationary which is why the Fed Chairman clings to his academic dogma that inflating asset prices is the key to stimulating economic growth. His ultra accommodative policies have kept interest rates at record low levels. After two rounds of quantitative easing, the Fed has now surpassed China as the largest holder of U.S. government debt.
With his Sun opposing Jupiter, Bernanke takes great pride in his efforts to make the Fed more
transparent. The Sagittarius Lunar Eclipse indicates the Fed will have to be far more forthcoming in the coming weeks in more ways than one.
In the USA, the June 15 Lunar Eclipse occurs at 4:14 PM EDT. In the chart for set for Washington DC, the energies are similar to the Solar Eclipse chart. Scorpio on the Ascendant and Pluto in Capricorn in the sector naturally ruled by Gemini once again indicates that debt and other “heavy” Pluto-ruled issues are on the nation’s mind. Once again the Sun is in the sector of the chart representing debt/deficits, entitlements, taxes, subsidies, and insurance opposing the Moon in the sector representing the economy. Jupiter ruling this sector indicates that the economy is growing at a slow but steady pace. Incoming revenues to the government could be higher than expected.
The Sun rules the sector representing the Administration and Mercury rules the sector representing Congress as well as the sector ruling the deficit. The Sun and Mercury conjunct now increases the potential that an agreement on raising the debt ceiling is in the works and could be narrowed down to two credible proposals. Venus in Gemini located in this sector harmonizing with Saturn in Libra indicates that financial discussions to raise the debt ceiling are making progress behind the scenes.
For the stock market, it appears that the overall trend for the market continues to trend downward interspersed with brief but sharp upside surprises. Any illusions the market has now about the Fed implementing a third round of quantitative easing could be dissolved after Fed Chairman Bernanke’s June 22 news conference following the FOMC meeting. Even though the Fed Chairman publicly denies it, more evidence is likely to surface that the Fed's induced inflation is actually impeding the economy’s ability to grow.
The ancients believed that geographic areas where the eclipse was visible would be adversely impacted over the next several months. A map of the path of the eclipse shows that except for
North and Central America, Greenland, Iceland, and the most northern latitudes of the world, most of the world is within the eclipse path. Notice that the Middle East, central to eastern Africa, along with Afghanistan and Pakistan are included in the areas fully experiencing the Total Lunar Eclipse, ensuring that these countries will continue to be the preeminent geopolitical “hot spots.” Additional countries prominently in the spotlight include Sweden, Denmark, southeastern England, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Spain, Portugal, northeastern China, North and South Korea, Japan, Australia. There could be earthquake potential for New Zealand.
As indicated in Part I, atmospheric conditions and air quality is in focus since Mercury/Gemini rules breathing and the lungs. The wildfires in Arizona have forced thousands of people to flee their homes. Mercury’s winds have affected the neighboring states and forced air travel to be diverted. (Neptune rules clouds; Mercury squaring Neptune at the Solar Eclipse reflects the wildfires in Arizona became so intense they created their own clouds.
A recreation of last summer’s planetary pattern (Saturn opposite Uranus and squaring Pluto) has created extreme weather conditions that are likely to continue as the pattern in the New Moon chart is repeated at the Full Moon. In the USA, the West Coast continues to be highlighted. The most extreme weather conditions continue to be in Arizona and the neighboring western states. Sagittarius is part of the fire element, indicating the wildfires could expand over larger distances. Mercury moving into Cancer June 16 could begin creating more moisture in the air.
Mars enters Gemini June 20 until August 3 which can create border disputes. Mars squaring Neptune June 22 duplicates the USA’s Mars/Neptune pattern previously described. This alignment is a major influence over the next three months since it occurs the day after the Summer Solstice. (The Summer Solstice will be covered in a separate post.)
The June 23 Last Quarter Moon occurs at 7:48 AM EDT, marking the midpoint between the Full Moon and the July 1 New Moon which will be another partial Solar Eclipse. The Last Quarter Moon in Aries pushes for swift action to be taken on the issues highlighted at the Full Moon. Unexpected shocks abroad together with the public and members of Congress on both sides of the aisle could push the Administration to make abrupt changes to current military strategies.
(1)Although the Full Moon will appear as normal in parts of the world such as North America where the eclipse will not be visible, it will still affect the emotional atmosphere.
(2)With his Mars in Virgo harmonizing with natal Saturn in Capricorn, President Obama has the potential to go down in the history books as the President who had the courage to conquer America’s most destructive illusions related to the USA Mars/Neptune square. He could choose to insure his healthcare initiative survives all challenges, end the military engagements in Iraq and Afghanistan, find a successful conclusion to Libya, and conquer unemployment.
USA: July 4, 1776 5:10 PM LMT Philadelphia, PA
WallStreetWeather.net Forecast For Week Of June 5, 2011
I’m going to keep this short and to the point after my epic post of Part I of the Gemini New Moon cycle, especially with it taking so long to post on Blogger now.*
As indicated in my post on the Vernal Equinox, the major indices could be making big moves
most of the week strongly in one direction or the other. Notice the potential pattern of down/up/down/up/down.
Adding to the influences described in the New Moon post is that although the week begins with the Moon (sentiment) in Leo, the market does not appear to have the desire gamble today.
Venus conjoining the Taurus Sun of the founding of the NYSE together with other influences could instill more confidence on Tuesday. (In general, Mercury harmonizing with Saturn facilitates communication with those in authority.)
Wednesday’s First Quarter Moon in Virgo dissects and determines the numbers just aren’t adding up today. The influence of Jupiter in Taurus favorably aspecting Neptune in Pisces can increase feelings of hope and optimism which could kick in on Thursday.
Although Fridays are ruled by Venus together with the Moon in Venus-ruled Libra, Venus in Gemini squaring Neptune in Pisces tends to be a downer. I have observed that planets squaring Neptune tend to be a negative influence on the market. In any case the reaction is usually strong in one direction or the other. (The Sun in Gemini squared Neptune May 22. Mercury squaring Neptune June 3 reflected news (Mercury) about employment (Mercury again) that spooked the market.
Venus squaring Neptune is likely to put banks and financials in focus. This influence can bring cases of financial fraud, rumors, insider trading, and currency manipulation. Neptune rules credit; caution should be taken in all financial transactions, especially those involving credit and debit cards.
On June 22, Mars in Gemini will be the last planet to square Neptune this month. Although this influence has been occasionally bullish (it tends to be strong one way or the other), it is mostly bearish. (June 22 is the day of the next FOMC meeting followed by Chairman Bernanke’s news conference.)
Adding to Friday’s negative influences is that while Mars square Pluto tends to be a bullish influence in general in the market, Mars in Taurus conjoining the NYSE’s natal Mercury in Taurus and squaring the NYSE’s natal Pluto in Aquarius is usually bearish.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Negative (Market could improve going in the close from where it was earlier).
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Positive. (Market could weaken going into the close compared to where it was earlier.)
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Negative.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Positive.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Negative.
*Until a couple of months ago it was very easy to post to Blogger. Previously I could copy my Word document over with the links embedded. Now I’ve had to learn some basic HTML to code into my Word documents to get the layout to post properly. I also have to manually insert the links after the document is copied into Blogger. Late last week the Google search box stopped working on the blog. (Looking on Google’s Blogger troubleshooting page, it appears GOOG is aware of the problem but isn’t saying when it’s expected to be fixed.)
If readers or anyone at GOOG happens to be reading this who could tell me how to more efficiently transfer my Word document into Blogger, please email me at Deborah@WallStreetWeather.net Thanks!
As indicated in my post on the Vernal Equinox, the major indices could be making big moves
most of the week strongly in one direction or the other. Notice the potential pattern of down/up/down/up/down.
Adding to the influences described in the New Moon post is that although the week begins with the Moon (sentiment) in Leo, the market does not appear to have the desire gamble today.
Venus conjoining the Taurus Sun of the founding of the NYSE together with other influences could instill more confidence on Tuesday. (In general, Mercury harmonizing with Saturn facilitates communication with those in authority.)
Wednesday’s First Quarter Moon in Virgo dissects and determines the numbers just aren’t adding up today. The influence of Jupiter in Taurus favorably aspecting Neptune in Pisces can increase feelings of hope and optimism which could kick in on Thursday.
Although Fridays are ruled by Venus together with the Moon in Venus-ruled Libra, Venus in Gemini squaring Neptune in Pisces tends to be a downer. I have observed that planets squaring Neptune tend to be a negative influence on the market. In any case the reaction is usually strong in one direction or the other. (The Sun in Gemini squared Neptune May 22. Mercury squaring Neptune June 3 reflected news (Mercury) about employment (Mercury again) that spooked the market.
Venus squaring Neptune is likely to put banks and financials in focus. This influence can bring cases of financial fraud, rumors, insider trading, and currency manipulation. Neptune rules credit; caution should be taken in all financial transactions, especially those involving credit and debit cards.
On June 22, Mars in Gemini will be the last planet to square Neptune this month. Although this influence has been occasionally bullish (it tends to be strong one way or the other), it is mostly bearish. (June 22 is the day of the next FOMC meeting followed by Chairman Bernanke’s news conference.)
Adding to Friday’s negative influences is that while Mars square Pluto tends to be a bullish influence in general in the market, Mars in Taurus conjoining the NYSE’s natal Mercury in Taurus and squaring the NYSE’s natal Pluto in Aquarius is usually bearish.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Negative (Market could improve going in the close from where it was earlier).
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Positive. (Market could weaken going into the close compared to where it was earlier.)
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Negative.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Positive.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Negative.
*Until a couple of months ago it was very easy to post to Blogger. Previously I could copy my Word document over with the links embedded. Now I’ve had to learn some basic HTML to code into my Word documents to get the layout to post properly. I also have to manually insert the links after the document is copied into Blogger. Late last week the Google search box stopped working on the blog. (Looking on Google’s Blogger troubleshooting page, it appears GOOG is aware of the problem but isn’t saying when it’s expected to be fixed.)
If readers or anyone at GOOG happens to be reading this who could tell me how to more efficiently transfer my Word document into Blogger, please email me at Deborah@WallStreetWeather.net Thanks!
Gemini Solar Eclipse/New Moon Cycle: June 1 – 30, 2011: Part I
Published by WallStreetWeather.netNOTE TO READERS: The influences during the Gemini Solar Eclipse extend well beyond this month’s cycle and are interpreted with a particular emphasis on the economy, markets, and the Federal Reserve. With the energies of Gemini/Mercury, Neptune, and Saturn prominent this month, it has proved to be too tall an order to keep the information overload contained within Saturn’s timeframe and boundaries, necessitating two separate posts. This post covers the first half of the cycle (June 1-14) and Part II will cover the second half of the cycle (June 15-30).
The word month is derived from the Moon. The new month actually begins when the Sun and Moon conjoin at the New Moon, a time of new beginnings. Communication and movement is the key focus this month with the New Moon in Gemini. This month’s lunar cycle exactly correlates to the calendar month, making it easier to keep up with all the mental activity and changes underway.
This is a “supercharged” month as the June 1 New Moon is a Partial Solar Eclipse and the June 15 Full Moon is a Total Lunar Eclipse. Eclipses are harbingers of major changes as they temporarily disrupt the flow of Earth receiving the light of the Sun (our life force) or the reflective light from the Moon (our emotional barometer).
As the Sun and Moon conjoin in a Partial Solar Eclipse on June 1, the Moon partially blocks the Sun’s light from reaching Earth. We already possess a partial understanding of many of the issues and situations unfolding during this cycle since they have existed for some time now. By the time of the July 8 First Quarter Moon, things could start to be seen in an entirely new light.
Eclipses alter atmospheric conditions, especially occurring in the air element.(1) Gemini energy needs variety and constant motion to prevent the atmosphere from becoming stagnant. Ruled by Mercury the planetary energy of communication, movement, and commerce, Gemini circulates ideas and information. (The San Jose Mercury News and its website mercurynews.com appropriately pay homage to Mercury. And so does FTD with its gold “Mercury Man” running the “Mercury Network”)(2)
It’s appropriate that the Gemini New Moon cycle begins on a Wednesday, the day of the week ruled by Mercury. Gemini is symbolized by the twins, reflecting the sign’s dualistic nature where issues and events tend to occur in multiples. (Gemini rules some of the “dualistic” parts of the body such as the hands, arms, shoulders, and lungs.)(3) Gemini rules all forms of communication as well as its delivery, all forms of transportation, primary education, merchants, traders, and exports. Expect Gemini/Mercury themes in the news such as the World Health Organization’s announcement that mobile phone use is a carcinogenic hazard.
Mercury the mythological winged messenger is moving fast, transiting three signs (Taurus, Gemini, Cancer) during a time of three eclipses in 31 days.(4) With so much mental activity and movement happening this month, a flexible outlook and schedule is essential. The New Moon in a harmonious alignment with Saturn in Libra can enhance relationships with partners and people in positions of authority providing you take the initiative.
But from the perspective of the economy and the markets, Saturn’s strong influence now is not so beneficial. Saturn represents economic contraction, limitations, boundaries, structures, and government. Saturn has been moving retrograde since January 26 and its energies are more pronounced June 9 – 16 as it turns direct June 12. People and the markets tend to be more fearful and pessimistic when Saturn’s energies are strong as these times tend to coincide with periods of slower growth which incites fears the economy is retrenching.
In addition to Saturn barely moving until July 8, Saturn is once again opposing Uranus (shocks; rebellion/reform) and squaring Pluto (debt; taxes; nuclear issues) in Capricorn. These planetary energies became activated in fall 2008 and 2009 respectively, converging with one another during July/August 2010.(5) Although these alignments will not become exact as they did last summer, they are close enough to be reactivated. This is why the major indices are currently experiencing their worst declines since then as the same macroeconomic issues repeat since they have not been resolved. The USA was born with Saturn in Libra and is currently experiencing its Saturn return (exact August 28), a time when you reap what you have sowed since the last Saturn return (1981).
Saturn opposite Uranus represents the status quo vs. change. Shocks to government and societal structures demand our full attention. The Saturn/Pluto influence that began in 2009 gave rise to plutocrats and corporations being able to influence the far right fanatics to create a political base to do their bidding. However, the ideology they have sold to this faux grass roots movement has little to do with their secret agenda. “Slay the beast” is the phrase used to describe the true far right ideology. The real objective of the slay the beast crowd is NOT to reduce the deficit, but to INCREASE it. Running up a large deficit, reducing tax rates and increasing tax credits and subsidies for these special interests reduces government revenue which forces government to shrink.
Up until this point, no Democratic or Republican president has cooperated with the slay the beast crowd. But Pluto entering Capricorn in 2008 reflects the government deficit has become large
enough to finally meet its objective. Saturn is the planetary ruler of Capricorn; its square to Pluto set off a movement to enforce the rhetoric that ALL forms of government and regulation must be reduced and/or eliminated. In essence, the crisis they created finally came into fruition.
As this influence starts to wane after the July 8 First Quarter Moon, Uranus in Aries for the first time will be at its closest approach to squaring Pluto in Capricorn during July and August. Uranus will exactly square Pluto seven times between June 2012 and March 2015, their first major planetary relationship since the mid-1960s conjunction of Uranus and Pluto in Virgo. The last time that Uranus in Aries squared off with Pluto was during the Great Depression when Pluto was in Capricorn’s opposite sign Cancer.
While freedom has been a much abused concept in the United States during the 2010 midterm elections, it has begun to show its true meaning in the nations of the Middle East and North Africa. The predominantly senior aged (Saturn) Tea Party in the U.S. called for freedom (Uranus) from the government (Saturn) while protesting any reduction in the benefits THEY receive from the government. In contrast, the predominantly youthful (Uranus) protesters in the Middle East and northern Africa (which became a major movement as Saturn turned retrograde January 26), are not asking for handouts from their dictatorial governments but instead seek the outright removal of their dictatorial governments.
The definition of freedom in these two cases cannot be more extreme. One is selfish and the other is selfless. There are no martyrs in the Tea Party and there are certainly no sacrifices being volunteered by Tea Party members and the corporate interests who sponsor them. The Tea Party will die (Pluto) because a movement solely based upon anger, negativity, and personal self-interest is not sustainable.
Saturn symbolizes lack and limitation. Saturn in Libra reflects a lack of civility as the anger and aggression of the radical right has overtaken what was once the party of Reagan. Saturn square Pluto describes the plutocrats push to impose austerity for everyone while further enriching themselves.
Like the other two alignments, Uranus/Pluto represents political extremes. It is precisely because of the extreme actions taken to enrich the special interests and the politicians they paid to elect that start getting people’s attention, inciting action to bring government and societal structures back into balance. The incoming energy of Uranus square Pluto reflects the spirit of the Great Depression and the 1960s when the general welfare of the nation superseded the benefit of individuals and special interests.
While austerity measures will continue, government will focus more on the health and welfare of society as a whole and less on the tinkle down benefits from increasing the wealth of the plutocrats. The public is likely to become more active after Saturn moves beyond its orb to Uranus and Pluto, demanding transformation of government and societal structures that support the general welfare of the nation.
The harsh and brazen tactics of some of the newly elected state governors and legislatures will begin to give momentum to a backlash movement. The “Marlboro Man” archetype exemplified by the governors of such states as Wisconsin, New Jersey, Ohio, and Florida will come to be seen as extremely evil rather than promoting the idealistic rugged self-sustaining American mythology. Revolutionary Uranus squaring Pluto has the potential to transform the entire structure of government back to its foundation of being a government by the people for ALL the people.
Money matters are on everyone’s mind during the Gemini New Moon Cycle with Mercury in Taurus at the Gemini Solar Eclipse. Mercury about to end its transit of Taurus that began on May 15 indicates these are existing issues that will either begin to be resolved in some manner and/or move into a new phase after this cycle ends.
As described in my post on Neptune in Pisces, Saturn exactly conjoined Neptune when Neptune
was discovered in 1846. Both planets changing direction and involved in key planetary alignments now creates an energy similar to when the two planets conjoin about every 36 years.(6) (The midpoint or “Full Moon” part of their cycle occurred between mid-2006 to mid-2007 when Saturn in Leo opposed Neptune in Aquarius, corresponding to the cracks in the foundation becoming fully visible in the housing bubble.)
Clarity could be hard to come by as the energies of Neptune in Pisces are more pronounced through June 8 as the planetary energy of illusion and dissolution turns retrograde June 3 until November 9. After entering its home sign Gemini the day before, Mercury squares Neptune as Neptune turns retrograde. While these energies can harness visionary ideas and be inspirational for artistic and creative pursuits, there can be an abundance of rumors and confusing/misleading information.
Just as this influence can bring overcast and foggy weather conditions, it’s hard to distinguish between what’s real and imaginary since Neptune dissolves boundaries. Neptune is that murky gray area between what is legal and what is fraudulent. With both planets strengthened in their home signs, the frictional relationship between Mercury and Neptune can raise our consciousness about addictive behavioral patterns and issues/situations where we’ve been in denial.
The Mercury/Neptune square is about harnessing the power of mental alchemy. A magician performing sleight of hand tricks is entertainment that masks magic’s true meaning. The tools on the Magician’s table are props, representing the four elements brought together to manifest earthly “magic.” Mercury/Neptune energies represent the mental alchemy of the infinite power of the mind when it is fully attuned to working in concert with the infinite energies of the universe. There is no separation between the world above and the world below from the world within.
“As above, so below” is the popular axiom to describe how planetary energies influence earthly affairs. But this neither reflects Mercury’s dualism or Neptune’s unity and oneness since what happens below in turn influences what occurs above. (“As above, so below; as below, so above.”) Mercury and Neptune communicate through symbols. The symbol of the ascending pyramid joining with the descending pyramid so they become one is far more ancient than Judaism’s Shield of David appearing on Israel’s flag.
Mental alchemy occurs in the market when enough investors believe (Neptune) the price of a stock, bond, or commodity is worth far more than its fundamental value (Saturn). At the height of the housing bubble, Wall Street’s magicians furiously transmuted subprime mortgages into triple A-rated securities. And when there weren’t enough of them, they conjured up synthetic ones to sell to eager investors. Now that the effects from the fiscal and monetary stimulus drugs are beginning to wear off, the market has begun to awaken to the fact that it’s going to be difficult to wean itself off of its addiction as the easiest profits have already been made.
The power of the placebo effect proves that our beliefs and imagination (Neptune) can be more powerful and potent than any drug. From Wall Street to Hollywood, from politicians to preachers, these leaders understand the power of mental magic on the populace. Mercury’s dualism indicates we can choose whether to watch and believe in the sleight of hand or make our own magic. Mercury favorably aspecting Uranus in Aries is an opportunity to begin activating new ideas.
Eclipses are significant in their own right and become even more newsworthy when they activate planets in a person or entity’s chart. Planets in the natal charts of the USA and the Federal Reserve are impacted by the two eclipses in the current New Moon cycle as well as the Cancer
Solar Eclipse/New Moon cycle (July 1-29). The June 1 Solar Eclipse conjoins the Fed’s natal Saturn in Gemini and opposes its natal Mercury in Sagittarius. The June 15 Lunar Eclipse opposes the Fed’s natal Pluto in Gemini, and the July 1 Solar Eclipse exactly squares the Fed’s progressed Sun in Aries.(7)
In short, the Fed has finally hit the wall. Its ability to purchase U.S. government debt as a way to help contain the interest rate on the federal deficit has hit a logistical and political wall. The Fed’s twin track of virtually zero interest rates and Treasury purchases has generated so much excess liquidity that going forward from here its reputation will depend on if the central bank has the courage to slowly begin to prepare to steer monetary policy in the other direction as easy money has further spurred speculation in oil (Neptune) and other key commodities to levels that are constraining economic growth.
High commodity costs are eating into corporate profits as many companies do not have the ability to pass along part or all of their increased costs of doing business to consumers heavily impacted by higher food and energy costs, high debt burdens, and unemployment/underemployment. Companies are reluctant to hire additional workers, creating a vicious cycle that further weakens the economy. Market participants as the Fed likes to call them would be happy if the economic situation never improved so they could continue playing their “risk on, risk off” trade ad infinitum. (8)
Other than the market’s foggy thinking under the influence of the Mercury/Neptune square, it’s amazing there are analysts and market pundits out there dreaming of a QE3 when the Fed couldn’t logistically do it even if it wanted to. Treasury buying tends to increase when Saturn is prominent and/or Saturn/Pluto energies are strong anyway. Washington’s failure to increase the debt (Pluto) ceiling (Saturn) has investors hoarding Treasuries, fearing a supply squeeze. (See my post describing the planetary influences and the debt ceiling for more info.)
Treasuries are commonly used to provide collateral for financial transactions. Therefore, they provide the “grease” for the gears of the financial infrastructure. Even without additional QE, the Fed should stop purchasing Treasuries to replace maturing securities as it could end up contributing to a supply shortage that could spark another financial crisis. The Fed is going to slowly start tightening measures sooner than the market currently anticipates.
The June 1 Solar Eclipse squares the federal government’s natal Saturn in Pisces while the June
15 Lunar Eclipse squares Mercury in Pisces. Like the government hitting the debt ceiling, government subsidizing the “American Dream” (home ownership) has reached its limit. The Gemini Solar Eclipse conjoins the USA’s natal Uranus, indicating that the nation is likely to face unexpected shocks and surprises particularly in its relationships with allies and enemies. Nuclear issues could be one of those shocks that affect the U.S. and the entire world during this cycle.
Mercury and Jupiter are at the end of their transits of Taurus and Aries respectively and both influence this sector of the New Moon chart ruling for Washington DC. Together with the eclipse in the sector of the chart ruling debt, these influences indicate the federal deficit is the central focus now which can bring about the transition to end certain expenditures. Mercury reflects the twin wars in Afghanistan and Iraq (a third if you factor in the USA’s unclear role in helping opposition forces overthrow Colonel Gaddafi). Jupiter in Aries represents our bloated military expenditures abroad to support the wars. Mercury-ruled Virgo ruling the sector of the chart representing Congress reflects multiple pieces of legislation and calls to end the wars.
Pluto-ruled Scorpio rules the eclipse chart and is located in the sector ruling the media, indicating they will ensure that the debt ceiling and the fear of economic contraction stays on everyone’s mind. Neptune ruling the sector of the chart representing the stock market indicates a market overly news driven. Overall market conditions will likely to continue to erode. Uranus in Aries is located within this sector, reflecting increased market shocks that break through key technical support and resistance levels. Some of the losses this month might be attributed to rumors and false information/data, as well as nervousness that prosecution of insider trading cases will spread. However, there is still apt to be brief periods of euphoria that move the market sharply up. As I’ve previously written, the market’s top this year has probably already occurred before even my original projection of early summer.
The influence of the Gemini Solar Eclipse this month can bring atmospheric disturbances and breezy to windy conditions. The ancients believed that the geographic locations in the path of the eclipse would be adversely impacted for the next several months. These areas include northern Alaska and Canada, Greenland, Iceland, northern Scandinavia, and east Asia.
Further expanding the focus on money matters is Jupiter moving into Taurus June 4 until June 11, 2012. Jupiter in Taurus does not favor get rich quick schemes. This energy decreases the level of enthusiasm for speculating in assets far detached from their fundamental value. Jupiter in Taurus is more comfortable with slow and steady asset accumulation that comes from companies with the cash to support increasing dividend payouts. Jupiter in Taurus can be an extremely stubborn energy; profits and selling opportunities can be diminished or lost entirely by holding out for every last penny. (Jupiter in Taurus is the first time optimistic Jupiter has been in the less enthusiastic and optimistic earth element since Jupiter was in Capricorn during 2008.)
Jupiter last transited Taurus June 28, 1999 – October 23, 1999; February 14, 2000 – June 30, 2000. The Nasdaq hit a record high then before crashing in the excitement over eyeballs. Now as Jupiter once again enters Taurus, social networking and coupons have created a craze that could crash once again. While Jupiter’s energy was weakened the last time around by its May 28, 2000 conjunction to Saturn that gave birth to a new 20 year economic cycle.
Jupiter and Saturn share a conjunction of sorts now with both planets being in signs ruled by Venus (money/banking/values/attraction). And over the next year Jupiter and Saturn will form a stressful aspect to one another (an inconjunct). Although this aspect will not be exact until May 16, 2012 (at the same time Venus stations retrograde in Gemini), the two planets will be closest to one another during July and August. Adjustments will have to be made to both fiscal and monetary policy to keep the economy growing. (April 28, 1952 – May 9, 1953 was the last time Jupiter was in Taurus at the same time Saturn was in Libra.)
The combination of Jupiter in Taurus and Saturn Libra indicates that net worth expands by working in harmony with the law of attraction. What we mentally and physically project is attracted back to us. Saturn’s “as you sow, so shall you reap” is epitomized in Libra which represents the scales of (karmic) justice. Hopefully having Jupiter and Saturn in Venus’ sign (especially after Saturn starts to move past its orb to Uranus and Pluto as outlined earlier), will begin to expand people’s desire to cultivate greater beauty and civility. Taurus and the earth element are represented by the coin depicting a pentacle on the Magician’s table. (The 5-pointed star depicts the movement of Venus over an eight year period as Venus turns retrograde in the same zodiac sign every eight years.)
All work to create products or services sold for money or other compensation emanates with a mental vision that must be accompanied by working with the appropriate tools to bring the idea into form. The first major aspect Jupiter makes after entering Taurus is to Neptune in Pisces (exact June 8). This is a favorable time to begin working on bringing your most valued visions and dreams down to earth. Creative pursuits that do not necessarily correlate to what you do to earn income could be inspirational or develop into income generating opportunities.
Venus first appeared in the morning sky at the time the Federal Reserve announced it was embarking on QE2. Just as Mercury’s twins express themselves in two different ways through Gemini and Virgo, Venus ruling Taurus and Libra also reflects this energy has two forms of expression as a morning star and an evening star.(9) Venus conjoined the Sun (central bank) when it was retrograde in Scorpio (Treasuries; interest rates) in late October, beginning its cycle as a morning star. Depending on the presence of major planetary alignments, the period each year when Venus appears in the morning sky tends to correspond to the time of the year when stock prices are highest. Venus will disappear from the morning sky July 11, reappearing in the evening sky September 22 just before the Autumnal Equinox.
The June 8 First Quarter Moon at 10:11 PM EDT marks the midpoint between eclipses. This is the “crisis in action” (10) phase of the cycle as there’s a sense of urgency to act before events culminate at the Full Moon/Total Solar Eclipse. It’s a triple Mercury energy with the First Quarter Moon occurring on Wednesday as the Moon in Virgo squares the Sun in Gemini, and Mercury in Gemini conjoins the degree of the June 1 Solar Eclipse. The Moon in Virgo is in the mood to analyze the information Gemini collects, sorting through what’s important and tossing what’s irrelevant.
In the chart for the USA set for the First Quarter Moon, the Sun and Mercury co-rules the sector of the chart representing Pluto/Scorpio issues (debt/deficits, the deficit, taxes, subsidies, nuclear issues, death, sex and other taboo issues). Pluto in Capricorn conjoins the Saturn-ruled Ascendant, presiding over the sectors representing the Administration and Congress. Pluto rules insurance and Virgo rules health and the labor force. Healthcare issues continue to remain an obstacle to raising the debt ceiling.
Financials, healthcare, and transportation could be the biggest moving sectors over the next week. Taurus ruling the sector of the stock market as Venus in Taurus spends its last full trading day in Taurus, together with the Sun and Mercury in Gemini here can bring large moves as the market reverses from bearish to bullish and back again. Venus squaring Neptune (exact June 10) indicates the trend continues to be down. There could be more news about financial fraud and insider trading involving more than one prominent leader in the financial industry. (This reinforces the ancients belief that the period of a Solar Eclipse can represent the downfall of a leader.) Jupiter aspecting Neptune today as OPEC meets indicates that it is likely the cartel will announce it will expand (Jupiter) oil (Neptune) production.
The Solar eclipsed squared China’s natal Saturn in Virgo, indicating a slowdown in worker output and the government enacting further censorship. The Sun conjoins Mercury in Gemini as Saturn stations direct June 12. This could correspond to reversals in currencies and yields on government securities. Saturn turning direct conjoins China’s natal Sun, reflects the government is trying to cool down inflation without slowing down growth by tightening lending standards and raising bank’s capital requirements. The July 1 Solar Eclipse squaring China’s natal Sun and Uranus turning retrograde as it squares China’s natal Uranus can represent increased social unrest against China’s leadership.
The western states are in focus during this half of the cycle, especially California, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico. In addition to the countries already mentioned in this post, other countries affected by both the Solar Eclipse and First Quarter Moon include Turkey, Syria, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, U.A.E, Oman, Yemen, Iraq, Iran. Violence is likely to sharply escalate in Afghanistan and especially Pakistan. This could cross the border into the “stan” countries surrounding them.
(1)Libra and Aquarius are the other zodiac signs comprising the air element.
(2)In the spirit of Gemini/Mercury’s insatiable appetite for information, here’s an interesting tidbit: FTD was founded on August 18, 1910 when Mercury was in Virgo, the other sign ruled by Mercury. Mercury in Virgo is about doing business more efficiently. Mercury harmonizes with Uranus (technology) in the business sign Capricorn, reflecting FTD as the world’s first flowers-by-wire delivery service which the internet has helped to expand further. (Flowers are ruled by Venus.)
(3) Gemini and Mercury represent siblings, and the twins represent brothers and sisters. This also represents dualism: light/dark, yin/yang, and the male/female energies contained within everyone.
(4)Gemini is the third sign of the zodiac, and Mercury is known by three names: Mercury (Roman), Hermes (Greek), and Thoth (Egyptian). “Hermes Trismegistus” (“thrice great Hermes”) encompasses the triple aspects of Mercury as the ancient patron of alchemy, astrology, and wisdom.
(5)As these alignments were exact for their final time last summer, Jupiter conjoined Uranus in Aries and opposed Saturn in Libra.
(6)The last conjunction of Saturn and Neptune occurred in 1989 in Saturn-ruled Capricorn at the time the Berlin Wall fell, a literal example of Neptune’s ability to dissolve Saturn’s boundaries which led to the reunification of East and West Germany. The conjunction in Saturn-ruled Capricorn indicates the dissolution of government – and a communist (Neptune) one at that! The prior Saturn/Neptune conjunction occurred during 1952-3 when Saturn was in Libra as it is now. Border disputes and communism was once again an issue in the war between North and South Korea. Saturn conjunct Neptune in Libra the sign of peace reflects that the Armistice brought about a cease fire, but did not actually the war.
Keep in mind that major planetary conjunctions become reactivated when impacted by planets and eclipses. These energies deserve an entire post or two of their own, but briefly the July 1 Solar Eclipse opposes and Saturn in Libra is squaring the 1989 Capricorn conjunction during July. Whether geographic boundaries or political barriers and structures, this reinforces the themes of governments trying to cling to their outworn structures and restrictions while the barriers are being eroded by the public. Pluto in Capricorn conjoining the 1989 Saturn/Neptune conjunction in 2013 will bring major transformative changes to global governments and societal structures. Saturn and Neptune will next conjoin at the beginning of Aries on February 20, 2026.
(7)Progressed: a mathematical calculation that moves the planets forward in time as a method of prediction.
(8)Risk On: Euro Up/U.S. Dollar Down = oil and stocks rise. Risk Off: U.S. Dollar Up/Euro Down = oil and stocks fall.
(9) These factors along with the mythology of the goddess Venus and the fact that Venus is known as Earth’s twin reflect that Venus rules Gemini from an esoteric perspective.
(10) As described by Dane Rudhyar in “The Lunation Cycle.”
Gemini Partial Solar Eclipse: June 1, 2011 5:03 PM EDT Washington, DC
USA: July 4, 1776 5:10 PM LMT Philadelphia, PA
Federal Reserve: December 23, 1913 6:02 PM EST Washington, DC
China: October 1, 1949 3:15 PM AWST Peking
MORE GOOGLE ISSUES: In addition to the numerous problems getting my posts up on Blogger in the last couple of months, now Google’s search bar on the blog is not working. I have put in the most important links to previous posts relating to this post, but not all of them as it is too time consuming searching on Google itself even using advanced search.
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