SPX Trade Plan — January 13, 2026

The main event of the week is behind us. This morning’s CPI print delivered exactly what the bulls needed—no nasty surprises. The market reaction was immediate: a volatility crush that has sent the VIX diving toward the 15 handle while SPX pushes right back to the highs.

As discussed in yesterday’s note, we are now entering the “pinning” window for VIX Expiration (VIXPO) tomorrow morning. Market Makers have a strong incentive to keep volatility pinned near 15 or 18 to burn premium. With VIX currently trading at 15.06, that “magnet” is in full effect.

We are trading at 6977, sandwiched between immediate support at 6971 and the breakout level at 6980.

Execution Levels

Long Plan

• Continuation: A push through 6980 attacks the recent high at 6985. Clearing 6985 is the blue-sky breakout targeting the massive GEX wall at 7000.
• Reclaim/Hold: We need to see 6971 hold as immediate support. As long as we stay above this shelf, the setup remains bullish for a retest of highs.
• Dip Buy: The first major support zone is 6950–6954. If that fails, look for the “backtest” zone at 6920–6924.

Short Plan

• Breakdown: A loss of 6971 opens the door for a quick move down to 6964, followed by the 6950–6954 pocket.
• Flush: A clean break below 6947 triggers a deeper slide to 6940, 6937, and 6932. Below that, the air pocket opens up down to 6920.
• Short Pops: Fade a failure at 6985 (double top risk) or a rejection at the 7000 psychological level.

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