2025 Market Insights

Interview: Market Insights & Brian’s Outlook for 2025

Brian, how do you see the market shaping up as we head into 2025? What are some of the key trends or challenges you're watching closely?

In 2025, I see a year filled with volatility, and that’s actually a good thing for traders like us. With a new presidency, especially in agriculture, we’re going to see some major shifts in how things operate. One of the biggest challenges is going to be the ongoing tariff situation with China, which could create some tension in international trade. But volatility doesn’t just apply to politics—it’s going to be a theme across all markets, from agriculture to stocks and beyond.

Now, a lot of people are afraid of volatility, but for us in the Option Army, we’ve learned to embrace it. Volatility creates opportunity, and I’m honestly pretty optimistic about what’s coming in 2025. Sure, it’ll be challenging in some ways, but the real key takeaway is that there’s going to be a lot of opportunity. I could talk for hours about all the factors at play, but the bottom line is this: 2025 is going to be volatile, and that’s going to create a lot of chances for those who are ready to take advantage of it.

Given the current economic landscape, what strategies or approaches do you believe traders should focus on as we start the year?

As we head into 2025, I think traders need to focus on understanding and leveraging options as powerful tools for both risk management and speculation. With the economic landscape being highly volatile, options will be essential for managing risk, whether you're trading commodities like corn or stocks like Nvidia. One of the biggest advantages of options is their ability to protect and leverage your portfolio—whether you're a farmer managing production risks or someone in a completely different industry like oil.

Given the uncertainty and volatility we're facing, understanding how to use options will significantly reduce your risk exposure compared to traditional methods like futures or direct stock positions. If you want to be successful in 2025, mastering options will be key. It’s all about using the right tools to navigate the markets safely while still taking advantage of the opportunities that come with volatility.

Do you think now is a good time for new investors or traders to jump into the market? What should they keep in mind?

I don’t think January or February are the best time for new investors or traders to jump into the market. Historically, January and February tend to be slower months, often referred to as the "doldrums." These months are usually not very active or profitable for trading or investing. There’s also a big difference between investing and trading. In the past, investing was about long-term buys, like holding stocks for years, but nowadays, the markets are more focused on short-term trading—with people seeking quick returns, sometimes even daily, which is unrealistic.

Looking ahead to 2025, the first few weeks are likely to be slow, especially with the political transition and waiting for things to settle. The real opportunities will likely come between March and October, when markets typically pick up and offer much better trading potential. So, for anyone thinking of entering the market, I’d recommend waiting until the spring to get more active.

For someone just getting into options trading in 2025, what are the most common mistakes they should avoid in their first year?

For someone just getting into options trading in 2025, one of the biggest mistakes they can make is thinking they know more than the market—and speaking in absolutes about where they think the market is headed. This kind of mindset is dangerous because markets are unpredictable and can turn on you quickly. When you start out thinking you’ve figured everything out and that things are definitely going in a certain direction, you set yourself up for disappointment and, more often than not, pain. The market has a way of making you pay when you think you’ve got it all figured out.

I see this especially with younger traders, who may have only experienced a bull market where everything seems to just go up. That creates a false sense of security, where people think, "Hey, everything’s been going up, so it will just keep going up." But that’s not how the market works, and not respecting both sides of the market—the upside and the downside—is a big mistake. Right now, there’s a lot of downside risk in the market, and underestimating that can break hearts and drain bank accounts very quickly. It’s essential to approach trading with humility and an awareness that the market will test you, often when you least expect it. Always remember: you can’t control the market.

What’s your advice for traders who are feeling uncertain about the market in early 2025? Should they play it conservatively or seize opportunities with higher risk strategies?

For traders feeling uncertain about the market in 2025, especially in the early stages, my advice is simple: stay out of the markets if you're not prepared. The first step is to do your homework and understand the risks you're taking. Risk management should always be your top priority. There's so much volatility in the market right now, and people are often drawn into the herd mentality—like seeing something on Reddit and jumping in because everyone else is. This is dangerous, and it’s important to resist that urge. You have to be aware of the bigger picture.

The key to success in 2025 will be knowledge. You can't rely on luck to make consistent profits. Whether you're trading stocks, crude oil, gold, or even corn, understanding the market and the risks tied to the products you're trading is crucial. Markets can turn on a dime, and if you don’t fully grasp what you’re dealing with, you can easily get caught in a downturn. Sure, sometimes people get lucky and pick something that skyrockets, but that’s not a strategy for long-term success. Knowledge will always outperform luck over time.

As for conservative versus higher-risk strategies, the answer really depends on the market conditions. There are days when you look at the market and think, "Nothing here, just a flat line," and that's when it's best to stay on the sidelines or play it conservative. But then there are other times when you see patterns forming—like we saw with soybean oil recently. It was building a base, and even though no one can predict when the breakout will happen, you could sense it was coming. When those opportunities appear, that's when it might be worth taking a calculated risk.

The key is to be strategic about when you take risks. The risk-to-reward ratio matters more than anything. When the probability is in your favor, like an 80% chance of success versus 20% risk, that's when you go for it. But if it's more of a 50-50 situation, it’s better to stay conservative. That’s the kind of analysis we focus on in The Bunker—providing clarity and insight so you know when to hold back and when to be aggressive. It’s not about blind speculation; it’s about making informed decisions and executing with confidence.

Looking ahead, what are your projections for The Option Army in 2025? How do you plan to expand or evolve the brand?

We're working on an exciting new automated program aimed at helping beef ranchers, hog farmers, and other producers manage their risks more effectively. This program will combine government-set programs with options available on the CME and CBOT, giving farmers greater flexibility to hedge their production and speculate in outside markets. While the details are still under wraps, it’s something we’re really excited about.

In addition to that, we're focusing on education and outreach. We're partnering with universities and professors in agricultural economics to create educational programs that teach young farmers about risk management and how they can use options to improve profitability. We want to help these future farmers understand the value of optionality as a tool to manage their businesses.

We’re also planning to do meet-and-greet seminars, starting in Des Moines, Iowa, where we can bring together various experts in agricultural products, such as Ben Rand with the LRP program or Angie Setzer with cash sales. These events will provide farmers with the opportunity to learn and connect.

And we’re not stopping there! We’re continuing to expand our calls and partner with experts like Rick Clark and Farm Green. We’re also hoping to collaborate with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to integrate our work with his initiative for safer, cleaner food. Our goal is to show how the Option Army can support sustainable farming practices and enhance the agricultural sector.

2024 was a huge year for us in terms of growth. My team (Conor, Mike, and myself) all earned our Series 3 licenses, which allows us to recommend trades. This was a big milestone for us, and now that we’ve got the license, we’re excited to expand our reach and make a real impact. We’re not sitting still; we’re moving forward with big plans for the future.

What role do you see TOA playing in the broader trading community in the coming year? How does it stand out from other trading groups or platforms?

As The Option Army grows, I see us playing a significant role in the broader trading community by instilling knowledge in people who previously had little to no understanding of the tools available to manage risk and protect their investments. We're helping people move beyond traditional products and realize that options offer cleaner and more flexible risk management strategies, whether it’s for hedging or speculative purposes.

One of the things I’m most proud of is the way we’re making options more accessible and less intimidating. Historically, options have been seen as complex or risky, and getting people over that fear has been one of our biggest challenges. However, as we've built our community and proven the value of options, we’re starting to see word spread. People are beginning to recognize the benefits of what we’re offering.

What sets us apart from other trading groups is that we focus on education and the empowerment of our members, ensuring they understand the products they're using. By building that foundational knowledge, we're setting them up for better success in the long term, and that’s something I think makes us stand out. We’re not just providing trades—we’re creating a community that’s learning and growing together.

The Option Army has built a strong community—what makes this community different, and how do you foster such a strong sense of engagement among members?

The community we've built at The Option Army is something I'm really proud of, and it stands out for a few key reasons. First and foremost, it’s respectful. Unlike other online spaces, like Twitter, where there's a lot of negativity, sarcasm, and shaming, our community is supportive and focused on common goals. We're all here to help each other succeed, not to bring anyone down.

On Twitter and similar platforms, there’s often a sense of satisfaction when someone else fails—it boosts people’s egos to see others lose. But that’s not the vibe we have. We genuinely want everyone in The Option Army to do well, whether it’s in trading, personal growth, or any other aspect of life. We lift each other up. Whether you’re a seasoned trader or just starting out, there's always a sense of encouragement and camaraderie.

Another big difference is the real, reliable information that flows through our community. For example, we have boots on the ground in South America providing us with real-time, accurate weather forecasts. In contrast to some communities where people rely on questionable sources, here, we trust the information we get because it’s based on real people with firsthand knowledge. It’s not just about trading strategies; it’s about building relationships and sharing valuable insights to help everyone stay informed and ahead of the curve.

Ultimately, what makes us unique is the genuine desire for everyone to succeed, and that’s what sets us apart from other groups. It’s not about just making a quick buck or gaining followers—it’s about growing together and building a strong, supportive network.

As we close out 2024, what are some of your personal and professional highlights? What achievements are you most proud of?

In 2024, one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of scaling our educational efforts while still maintaining the personal touch with our community. We’ve seen great success with our courses and live interactions, but it’s become clear that in order to grow, we need to make learning more accessible through online resources. That means recording our lessons and making them available for download, so members can learn at their own pace.

However, I still value the live interaction aspect—where I can present in real-time and answer questions on the spot. That’s what I love about the way we’ve been running things; it feels like we’re all in this together, in the bunker, learning as a team. Direct feedback is key for me, and being able to gauge where people are struggling and adapt the content accordingly has always been an important part of our process.

So, moving into 2025, we’re going to keep scaling up the educational side—but also make sure that we don’t lose the sense of community and personal engagement that makes the Option Army unique. It’s about growth, but staying connected with our members.

What key lessons did you learn in 2024 that you’re carrying into 2025, both in terms of trading and business development?

Getting our Series 3 licenses was a huge milestone. It took a lot of hard work and dedication, but now we’re in a position to recommend trades and really expand what we can offer to our members.

I'm also incredibly proud of building out the Option Range program. It’s something that my brother-in-law helped me develop, and seeing it automated and live online has been a game changer for the business.

Another big achievement has been the retention of our community. From the very beginning, we’ve been able to keep people engaged and invested in what we’re doing, and that speaks volumes about the value we’re providing.

Collaborating with other brokers and setting up the give-up agreement program was a challenge, but it’s something I’m really proud of. We’re not about stealing clients—we’re about working with other brokers and offering additional value through our hedging and speculative programs.

I’m also proud of the team approach we’ve developed. I’m a huge advocate of teamwork and collaboration, and seeing us build a stronger team to expand our reach has been really fulfilling. It’s not just about individual success—it’s about the success of the whole team and the clients we serve.

Overall, 2024 has been a year of growth and solidifying our foundation, and I’m excited about where we’re headed in 2025.

For those who are new to TOA, why should they listen to The Bunker? What makes your live calls unique compared to others in the trading space?

For those new to The Option Army, the reason you should tune into The Bunker is that we offer something far more dynamic and engaging than what you’ll find with other trading platforms. Unlike subscription services that send out quick email updates or general market outlooks, we provide live, real-time analysis of the markets as they unfold. Every day, we’re walking through the charts together, explaining the changes and structures in the market as they happen. This gives you a much clearer and more immediate understanding of how the market is moving.

A key differentiator is how we dive deep into the intricacies of market movement. For example, when soybeans are at $11.32, we don’t just throw out the number and move on. We break down what’s happening at lower levels—like potential resistance at $9.97 or $10.29—and show how these obstacles could impact the price action. It’s not just about the end result; we help you understand the why and how behind each move. This level of detail is what sets us apart. You’re not getting just a broad, big-picture view—we’re in the trenches, looking at the specifics that will ultimately determine where the market heads.

Another reason to listen is that we’re all about being predictive. We often discuss market moves before they happen, so when things play out as we predicted, it’s very rewarding. It gives you a real sense of confidence in our approach. When other traders are caught off guard by market moves, we’ve often already discussed what’s coming, so it doesn’t shock us.

The Bunker is also focused on practical application. It’s not just about theories or abstract concepts; we want to show you how to actually use options, risk management strategies, and trading tools in real market conditions. If you’re looking for an approach that’s hands-on and immersive, where we’re really in the trenches with you as the market evolves, then The Bunker is the place to be.

What types of guests or topics can listeners expect in upcoming Bunker calls? Are there any exciting interviews or themes planned for The Bunker this year?

In upcoming Bunker calls, our community can expect a variety of exciting and insightful guests. One of our key goals for the year is to bring in more traders' perspectives. We’ll be having traders like Mike Fairman on as a guest speaker, as well as other experienced traders from my pit days. Getting different viewpoints on the markets will offer listeners a broader understanding of trading dynamics, beyond just my own insights.

We’re also very focused on expanding into specific areas like Risk Management and Agriculture, and we have some great guests lined up for these topics. One person I'm particularly excited to have on is Ben Rand, who is the largest seller of LRP (Livestock Risk Protection) insurance through the government’s program. His expertise on this will be invaluable, especially as more farmers look to hedge their production in volatile times.

In addition, we’re planning to feature Angie Setzer, a cash marketing expert, and Jason Linn from the Linn & Assoicates, who brings a wealth of experience in both the cash marketing and futures side of agriculture. It’ll be great to hear their take on how farmers can navigate these markets effectively.

Another unique area we’re exploring is sustainable and organic farming, particularly how practices like using cover crops can improve soil health. We’re excited to have Rick Clark from Farm Green join us for this discussion. Rick is a leading authority on regenerative farming and has been featured in films like Kiss the Ground and Common Ground alongside Woody Harrelson and Christie Brinkley. His perspective on how farming can move away from chemical-heavy practices and embrace more natural solutions is something we want to highlight.

Lastly, we’re working on some big potential opportunities for The Bunker. We’re hopeful that we will have the opportunity to have an insightful individual with huge impact join us for an interview. It would be an exciting conversation, especially given his focus on environmental sustainability and safer, cleaner food systems.

With all these guests and topics planned, it's shaping up to be a year full of valuable insights and diverse perspectives on trading, agriculture, and sustainability. Stay tuned!

What are your personal goals for 2025, both in your trading career and in growing The Option Army?

Looking ahead to 2025, my personal goals are focused on expanding the reach of TOA and continuing to empower people with knowledge. The real reward for me is seeing how the information and tools we provide help people change their lives—whether that’s improving their profitability or simply giving them a better understanding of the markets. This is what fuels me, and it's why I coach swimming without any compensation. I coach swimming because I get real fulfillment from seeing someone reach their potential, whether it’s a kid hitting a personal best time or a trader who never thought they could succeed but does, with hard work and dedication.

In terms of growing the Option Army, I want to reach more people in 2025 and make sure they’re gaining value from our community. The feedback we get from members—hearing how our program has impacted their financial knowledge or helped them become more confident in trading—is incredibly motivating. This is a success for me. It’s not about just making money or growing numbers—it’s about making a lasting difference in people’s lives.

Another key aspect of our growth is building strong, long-term relationships. Unlike many broker relationships where you get abandoned once the money’s gone, we strive to create a tight-knit family. This isn't just about making a trade; it’s about supporting each other through the highs and lows, building trust and mutual growth. I want to make TOA even closer and more connected in 2025, because I believe that’s where true suchan it does.

What’s the best way for someone to get started with TOA if they’re new to the community or options trading?

The best way to get started with The Option Army, especially if you’re new to the community or options trading, is to start with our website—theoptionarmy.com. You can explore the site, get a feel for what we offer, and sign up for a free trial to experience the Bunker firsthand. That way, you’ll see how we interact, what content we provide, and whether it aligns with what you're looking for.

Once you're comfortable, I highly recommend signing up for a course that matches your skill level. We offer a range of options—from beginner to advanced courses. I’ve personally traded some of the most complex, sophisticated strategies out there, from over-the-counter options to hedging, and even intercommodity spreads. So, whatever level you’re at, there’s something for you to learn. Education is key in this game, and we can help guide you through it.

Next, consider opening a trading account, whether with us or another broker. But start small—you’ll learn a lot through baptism by fire. It's one thing to trade on paper, but it’s a completely different experience when real money is on the line, and you see your account swing by thousands of dollars in a day. Emotional decision-making can cloud your judgment, so that’s why getting support from a community like ours is crucial. You’ll have access to our private Discord and The Bunker, where we provide guidance and discuss the markets in real-time.

The most important thing is to arm yourself with as much knowledge and support as possible before jumping into the markets.

I'm pretty excited about 2025. It doesn't matter what market you're in, whether you're in the debt market with bonds or you're in the equity market with stocks or whether you're in the commodity market with corn and soybeans and oil. I think there's going to be opportunity to be patient with markets and be patient with yourself. I think It is going to be a very, very, good characteristic to have in 2025.

Two phrases I will use a lot in 2025:
be patient and look for volatility.

Have questions? Need support? Curious about a Trade Account? Email us today at support@theoptionarmy.com