Small-cap earnings are coming in much weaker than expected when these companies began reporting the fourth quarter – or even when the December quarter began. Small-business optimism remains subdued. Yet, the sell-side expects blockbuster earnings this year. The Russell 2000 … Continued
The Russell 2000 had a phenomenal Friday as rate-cut expectations were brought forward to March. Futures traders now expect five cuts next year – unlikely unless the US economy craters, in which case small-caps will take the brunt of the … Continued
Small-cap profit trend took a decisive step lower last month. This is taking place even as operating earnings estimates for both this year and next have peaked; yet, next year’s may not have fully priced in this year’s interest-rate hikes, … Continued
The Russell 2000 has been going back and forth within a rectangle for a while now. Selling the rip and buying the dip within this box has worked. Once again, the index is at/near support. Traders continue to sell the … Continued
Small-cap earnings are coming in better than expected. The economy continues to churn out strong numbers. But small-caps, which by nature have larger domestic exposure, continue to trade within a five-month range. Near term, potential lower volatility can help bulls … Continued
The S&P 500 as well as the Nasdaq 100 stalled at 61.8 percent Fibonacci retracement of their February-March decline, before rallying past the golden ratio. The Russell 2000 achieved that feat last week and immediately came under pressure. If it … Continued
Two weeks after breaking out of 1250s, the Russell 2000 (1233) is back below it. IWM shorts never bought into the breakout. They were probably driven more by the sharp deterioration in small-business profit trend. Longs will be on the … Continued
Once again, small-caps are at a crucial juncture. The Russell 2000 slightly retreated three weeks ago after rallying hard post-1600+ breakout. Wednesday, bulls rallied past that high, but barely. A convincing takeout of this level brings the index one step … Continued
Small-caps broke out last week. This comes amidst earnings deceleration and softening in several macro data. If things turn up as they did in early 2016, bulls would have been vindicated. Their conviction level will be put to test by … Continued
After a decent three-week rally, the Russell 2000 hit a ceiling just short of 1600 two weeks ago. It closed last week right on the 200-day. A convincing breach raises the odds of a test of support at 1450s. This … Continued