Near Term
An event that is already occurring or is expected to occur in the near future
What is “Near Term”?
The phrase “near term” is used to describe and/or refer to a period that is not too far into the future. In essence, “near term” describes events that are likely to occur soon. The phrase is commonly used to depict the time frame during which a change or event is anticipated to happen.
Summary
- The phrase “near term” is used to describe and/or refer to a period that is not too far into the future. It describes events that are likely to occur soon. The phrase is commonly used to depict the time frame during which a change or event is anticipated to happen.
- Near term trades and/or investments are typically held for short periods, such as a few hours (day/swing traders), a few weeks, or few months.
- No set time frame describes “near term,” as the time being referred to as being “near term” will vary according to the individual or entity using the term. Near term can be a few months, weeks, days, hours, or minutes, depending on the context or scenario in which it is being used.
Understanding “Near Term”
For persons and businesses involved in the financial markets and institutions, and economic analysts, the phrase “near term” is likely to be used to refer to events that are set to occur shortly. Examples of such events can include stock price movements expected shortly. In terms of active trading, day traders (also known as swing traders) tend to take on “near term” trades. Such trades tend to be short in duration, contrasting long-term trades executed by long-term traders. Long-term traders tend to hold their trade positions for longer periods.
Near term trades and/or investments are typically held for short periods, such as a few hours (day/swing traders), a few weeks, or few months. Traders can purchase instruments, such as futures or options contracts with a short or near term expiry (expiring within a shorter time), hence qualifying as a short term trade. In the bond market, purchasing a bond on a date that is close to its maturity date can also be referred to as a “near term purchase.”
Unfortunately, no set time frame describes “near term,” as the period being referred to as being “near term” will vary according to the individual or entity using the term. Near term can be a few months, weeks, days, hours, or minutes, depending on the context or scenario in which it is being used.
Applications and Examples
“Near Term” in Financial Market Trading
When looking at traders and investors in financial markets, their trades and/or holding periods are likely to be within a range of days or a few weeks. Hence, their trading strategies are formulated concerning their holding periods and trading styles.
For example, a day trader is likely to enter and exit trading positions on the same day. Swing traders are likely to hold a tradable asset for one or a few days. Trend traders are likely to enter trades in conjunction with the existing predominant trend visible for the financial instrument, i.e., entering a buying or long position when there is an upward trend in the price of the asset or entering into a sell or short position when there is a downward trend in the price of the asset.
“Near Term” in the Business Environment
Concerning the business environment, “near term” can be used to refer to an active period or an upcoming active period. One example can be the current financial quarter; therefore, any event that is likely to occur within the quarter (three months) can be seen as being “near term.”
Other examples of “near term” applicability in business ventures can be the upcoming launch of a new business division or product line that is expected to occur within the subsequent months.
“Near Term” in Finance and Economics
When it comes to the field of economics, “near term” can be used to describe common economic indicators, such as interest rates, inflation rates, gross domestic product (GDP), Consumer Price Index (CPI), consumer spending, etc.
Economic analysts, for example, could monitor the “near term:” economic data (such as short-term changes in employment numbers, overall consumer spending, etc.) to get an overview of how the economy is moving. Central banks can monitor the same short term changes in economic indicators to determine whether a not a revision in short term monetary or fiscal policies is necessary.
Near term includes more applications than mentioned above; however, in essence, the phrase is used to describe an event that is already occurring or is expected to occur in the near future.
Additional Resources
CFI is the official provider of the Capital Markets & Securities Analyst (CMSA)® certification program, designed to transform anyone into a world-class financial analyst.
In order to help you become a world-class financial analyst and advance your career to your fullest potential, these additional resources will be very helpful:
