Last week, the S&P 500, Nasdaq 100 and Russell 2000 respectively fell 2.3 percent, 0.7 percent and 5.5 percent. Bulls’ consolation is that the indices were down a lot more at Thursday’s lows and that they were able to defend … Continued
Consumer sentiment tumbled in March but remains elevated. The latest collapse in stocks probably played a role. Another important variable worth watching is home prices, which for years have risen faster than inflation and have been a big tailwind from … Continued
Elevated multiples have not bothered equity bulls. In recent months, the Fed too has come to their aid. Investor optimism is dangerously elevated going into the 4Q19 earnings season. The 4Q19 earnings season kicks off this week. Banks and brokers … Continued
Amidst mixed signals in the economy and divergences with the bond market and crucial metals, among others, US stocks continue to rally to new highs. US inventories are building – again. In October, manufacturing and trade inventories rose 0.2 percent … Continued
Yet another week and yet another record in the S&P 500, although the Russell 2000 is not in confirmation. Sentiment is complacent, some metrics frothy. But it can get frothier. This also means buying protection is cheap. The US economy … Continued
Amid continued signs of macro deceleration, next year’s estimates for small-caps continue higher. The Russell 2000 index, however, is not quite buying this optimism. Last week, it led its large-cap peers, but remains under crucial resistance. Should small-caps come under … Continued
Major US equity indices are a stone’s throw away from their respective highs. Daily momentum indicators are extended. Breakout retests are the path of least resistance. The FOMC meets this week. A 25-basis-point cut to a range of 175 to … Continued
The FOMC meets this week. No change in expected. But in the remaining four scheduled meetings, markets have priced in at least two cuts. The Fed has a juggling act in hand. The unemployment rate is near a six-decade low, … Continued
There is no shortage of divergences – be it in macro or other assets, including equities. Major equity indices peaked early this month but put foot down early last week. Medium term, building on it further can prove difficult. Overbought … Continued
After the October-December rout, US stocks rallied big in January and February-to-date. Several data points such as consumer and investor sentiment followed suit, but their rise has been muted. For longs, this could mean there is room for more strength, … Continued