On the evening of January 7th, the US market will present a data feast. Between 9:15 PM and 11:00 PM, multiple major economic indicators will be released in quick succession. The market fluctuations during this time window could be more intense than you expect.

First up is the US December ADP employment data at 21:15 — although the name includes "small," this indicator is a key predictor of non-farm employment. Immediately after, at 23:00, durable goods orders, JOLTS job openings, ISM Non-Manufacturing PMI, and factory orders will all be released together, creating a level of intensity that can make any trader's nerves tense.

The market's reaction direction is actually predictable: strong data means increased pressure for the US dollar to appreciate, which puts gold under pressure; conversely, weak data will attract safe-haven funds, and gold is likely to break through previous highs with increased volume, accelerating the trend. The key is that during this period, it’s very easy to fall into traps of quick fake-outs — rapid breakouts followed by quick pulls, or seemingly falling but then reversing sharply — which can mislead traders.

A few harsh lessons: never rush to enter the market five minutes before data releases. Chasing in at that moment is like giving money to the big players. Wait for a confirmed breakout and then look for a pullback for confirmation. Avoid chasing those rapid surges or drops. Also, stay alert to the "秒破秒拉" (quick break and quick pull) tricks — don’t be fooled by short-term fake volatility. Small profits aren’t worth increasing your risk for. Lastly, I want to emphasize again: controlling your position size tonight is more important than any profit expectation. Heavy betting in such data-dense market conditions is basically self-destructive.