Rally to All-Time Highs On CPI Relief

Wednesday was the Bulls’ Day from open with markets popping and following through on slightly better than expected CPI data.  (It was actually much better than was expected after Tuesday’s worse than expected PPI data.)  SPY gapped up 0.49%, DIA gapped up 0.42%, and QQQ gapped up 0.57%.  From there, all three major index ETFs followed through with a steady rally that lasted all day.  (DIA was a shallower rally than the other two, but steadily gained all the same.)  This action gave us gap-up, large, white-bodied candles in all three.  It is worth noting that all three printed new all-time highs and also closed at new all-time high closes.  Obviously, this means all three remain well above their T-lines (8emas).  This happened on less-than-average volume in the SPY, DIA, and QQQ.

On the day, eight of the 10 sectors were in the green with Technology (+1.99%) way out in front leading the gainers higher.  Meanwhile Energy (-0.26%) was the laggard and only appreciable losing sector.  At the same time, SPY gained 1.23%, DIA gained 0.94%, and QQQ gained 1.56%.  VXX dropped 3.92% to close at 11.52 and T2122 spiked up into the top end of its overbought territory to close at 95.44.  At the same time, 10-year bond yields fell sharply to 4.342% and Oil (WTI) gained another 1.1% to close at $78.88 per barrel.  So, Wednesday was a big win for the Bulls surging higher from the premarket release of CPI data and continuing strong all day.  (There were no even appreciable breaks in the all-day rally).  With that said, having achieved the new all-time highs, markets are extended now.

The major economic news scheduled for Wednesday included April Core CPI (month-on-month), which came in exactly as expected at +0.3% (compared to a +0.3% forecast and down from March’s +0.4% reading).  On an annual basis, April Core CPI was also down exactly as expected at +3.6% (versus a +3.6% forecast and March’s +3.8% value).  On the headline side, April CPI (month-on-month) was better than was expected at +0.3% (compared to a +0.4% forecast and +0.4% March reading).  On the annualized basis, April CPI was in line with predictions at +3.4% (versus the +3.4% forecast and down from March’s +3.5% value).  At the same time, April Core Retail Sales were just as anticipated, down at +0.2% (compared to a +0.2% forecast and far down from March’s +0.9% reading).  On the headline side, April Retail Sales were flat at +0.0% (well down from the +0.4% forecast and March’s +0.6% value).  Meanwhile, the NY Empire State Mfg. came in lower than expected at -15.60 (versus the -9.90 forecast and even from the April -14.30 reading).  Later, March Business Inventories were better (lower) than predicted at -0.1% (compared to a 0.0% forecast and well below the February +0.3% value).  At the same time, March Retail Inventories were also better (lower) than expected at -0.2% (versus the -0.1% forecast and February reading).  On the oil front, EIA Weekly Crude Oil Inventories showed a much larger than expected drawdown of 2.508 million barrels (compared to a 0.400-million-barrel drawdown forecast and even from the previous week’s 1.362-million-barrel drawdown).

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In Fed speak news, on Wednesday, Minneapolis Fed President Kashkari added his voice to the “higher for longer” FOMC chorus.  Kashkari said, “The biggest uncertainty in my mind is how much downward pressure is monetary policy putting on the economy…that’s an unknown.”  “That (uncertainty) tells me we probably need to sit here for a while longer, until we figure out where underlying inflation is headed.”  He continued, “It seems like there is more resilience in the economy than I had expected.” 

After the close Wednesday, BKKT, CSCO, and CPA all reported beats on both the revenue and earnings lines. 

In stock news, on Wednesday, NFLX announced that its ad-supported subscription tier had reached 40 million users.  (That is up from 5 million one year ago.)  NFLX also said that ad-tier subscribers account for more than 40% of all new sign-ups.  (NFLX has 270 million overall subscribers.) Elsewhere, it was made public that BRKB has been buying CB stock “secretly” over the last two quarters and now holds a $6.7 billion stake with apparent intentions of buying more of the insurer.

Overnight, Asian markets were green across the board.  New Zealand (+1.75%), Australia (+1.65%), Hong Kong (+1.59%), and Japan (+1.39%) led the region higher.  However, in Europe, markets are much more mixed with only six of 15 bourses in the green at midday.  The CAC (-0.39%), DAX (-0.17%), and FTSE (-0.23%) are leading the region lower in early afternoon trade.  In the US, as of 7:30 a.m., Futures are now pointing toward an open just on the green side of flat.  The DIA implies a +0.05% open, the SPY is implying a +0.07% open, and the QQQ implies a +0.15% open at this hour.  At the same time, 10-year bond yields are down to 4.34% and Oil (WTI) is just on the red side of flat $78.58 per barrel in early trading.

The major economic news scheduled for Thursday includes April Building Permits, April Housing Starts, April Import Price Index, April Export Price Index, Weekly Initial Jobless Claims, Weekly Continuing Jobless Claims, and Philly Fed Mfg. Index (all at 8:30 a.m.), April Industrial Production, (9:15 a.m.), and Fed Balance Sheet (4:30 p.m.). We also hear from Fed members Vice Chair Barr (10 a.m.), Harker (10:30 a.m.), Mester (11:30 a.m.), and Bostic (3:50 a.m.).  Major earnings reports scheduled for before the open include BIDU, DE, IQ, JD, NICE, UA, UAA, and WMT.  Then, after the close, AMAT, CPRT, DXC, FLO, GLOB, and TTWO report. 

In economic news later this week, on Friday, April US Leading Economic Indicators Index is reported and we hear from Fed member Waller.

In terms of earnings reports later this week, on Friday, HTHT reports.

So far this morning, WMS, BIDU, DE, DDS, JD, NICE, and WMT all reported beats on both the revenue and earnings lines.  (WMT is of note, specifically reporting gains in online sales and noting an increase of higher-income shoppers.)

In late-breaking news, the European Commission announced META is now under investigation over whether or not the Facebook and Instagram platforms are built to cause addiction related to child safety risks.  (This action specifically noted the “rabbit-hole effect” built into content feeds and algorithms.  This being the case, it is hard to believe that GOOGL is not next in line related to YouTube with TikTok and the former Twitter to follow.)  

With that background, it looks as if the market wants to follow-through on Wednesday’s blowout rally, but is just too uncertain. All three major index ETFs opened the premarket higher. However, all three have also put in flat, indecisive candles since the start of the early session. (Perhaps traders are waiting on Jobless Claims?) As mentioned above, all three are at new all-time highs and well above their T-line (8ema). So, the short-term trend remains very bullish. Meanwhile, the mid-term is also bullish. And the longer-term market remains very Bullish as all three major index ETFs have returned to “fresh air” with no overhead resistance. In terms of extension, the SPY, DIA, and QQQ are all now extended above their T-lines. The T2122 indicator has also pulled back up well into the overbought area. So, a pause or pullback (at the least) are due, just to take profits and gather a new group of Bulls (FOMO money?) for a next wave higher. With that said, we have to remember that markets can, and sometimes do, remain overextended longer than we can stay solvent betting on a turn. In short, don’t predict, follow. With regard to those 10 big dog tickers, nine of the 10 are in the green at this point this morning with only META (-0.51%) falling on its EU investigation news. Remember, there will be 4-5 Fed members speaking today. So, while they tend to follow the party line, any of them could cause a knee-jerk in the market.

As always, be deliberate and disciplined…but don’t be stubborn. If you have a loss, admit you were wrong and take that loss before it gets out of hand. And when the price does move in your direction, always move your stops in your favor and take a little profit off the table. You have to keep the “Legend of the Man in the Green Bathrobe” in mind. In a winning situation, it is NOT HOUSE MONEY you’re betting, it’s YOUR MONEY! There is no reason to keep raising your bet (risk) size just because you’ve had a win. Finally, remember that trading is not a hobby, it’s a job. The gains are real and so is the risk. So, treat it that way. Do the work and follow the process. Stick to your trading rules, trade with the trend, and take those profits when you have them. Do the work!

See you in the trading room.

Ed

LTA Scanning Software
TC2000 Discount

🎯 Mike Probst: Rick, Got CTL off the scanner today. Already up 30%. Love it.

🎯 Dick Carp: the scanner paid for the year with HES-thank you

🎯 Arnoldo Bolanos: LTA scanner really works $$, thanks Ed.

🎯 Bob S: LTA is incredible…. I use it … would not trade without it

🎯 Malcolm .: Posted in room 2, @Rick… I used the LTA Scanner to go through hundreds of stocks this weekend and picked out three to trade:  PYPL, TGT, and ZS.   Quality patterns and with my trading, up 24%, 7% and 12%…. this program is gold.

🎯 Friday 6/21/19  (10:09 am) Aaron B: Today, my account is at +190% since January. Thanks, RWO HRC Flash Malcolm Thomas Steve Ed Bob S Bob C Mike P and everyone that contributes every day. I love our job.

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DISCLAIMER: Investing / Trading involves significant financial risk and is not suitable for everyone. No communication from Hit and Run Candlesticks Inc, its affiliates or representatives is not financial or trading advice. All information provided by Hit and Run Candlesticks Inc, its affiliates and representatives are intended for educational purposes only. You are advised to test any new trading approach before implementing it.  Past performance does not guarantee future results.  Terms of Service

Consumer Price Report

Consumer Price report

Ahead fo the U.S. consumer price report Asia-Pacific stock markets showed varied performances, mirroring the overnight advances on Wall Street where the Nasdaq Composite rallied, undeterred by hot inflation figures. Trading floors in South Korea and Hong Kong remained closed in observance of a holiday. Meanwhile, investors digested the details of Australia’s latest annual budget, unveiled late Tuesday. The People’s Bank of China maintained its one-year medium-term lending rate at 2.5%. The mainland’s benchmark CSI 300 index experienced a slight downturn, dropping 0.85% to end the session at 3,626.06.

European stock markets experienced a modest uptick on Wednesday, with investors’ attention turning to the forthcoming inflation data from the U.S. By mid-morning in London, the Stoxx 600, which spans across Europe, had climbed by 0.3%, with the majority of sectors showing positive momentum. The utilities sector saw a 1% gain, contrasting with a 0.8% decline in household goods.

U.S. futures trade with minimal movement as investors anticipate the release of the consumer price index for April. The Dow Jones Industrial Average futures saw a modest increase of 14 points, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq-100 futures were nearly unchanged. The much-awaited CPI data is expected at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time. According to forecasts by Dow Jones analysts, the index is likely to reflect a 0.4% rise for the month and a 0.3% uptick when excluding food and energy costs. For the annual headline CPI, a 3.4% increase is projected, slightly down from the 3.5% increase observed in March.

Economic Calendar

Earnings Calendar

Notable reports for Tuesday before the bell include ARCO, DOLE, DT, MNDY, & RSKD. After the bell include CSCO, CPA, GRAB, MAXN, & ZTO.

News & Technicals’

Jamie Dimon, the CEO of JPMorgan Chase, emphasized the importance of the United States addressing its fiscal deficit promptly in a statement on Wednesday. He highlighted the urgency following a series of swift interest rate increases, tax reductions, and substantial stimulus measures implemented to bolster the world’s predominant economy amidst the COVID-19 crisis. “It’s bound to become an issue eventually, so why delay dealing with it?” Dimon questioned during a Sky News interview.

Federal prosecutors have stated that Boeing did not adhere to a 2021 agreement which shielded the company from criminal charges related to two deadly 737 Max accidents. The aerospace giant has been given a deadline of June 13 to present its response to the U.S. Department of Justice. According to the DOJ, Boeing breached the terms of the settlement by not establishing and implementing a robust compliance and ethics framework aimed at identifying and preventing breaches of U.S. fraud statutes.

On Tuesday, Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell emphasized that the decline in inflation is progressing more sluggishly than anticipated, suggesting that high interest rates may persist for a longer duration. Speaking in Amsterdam, Powell remarked, “The path to lower inflation was never anticipated to be without challenges. However, the recent inflation figures have surpassed expectations.” He further indicated that the current situation requires perseverance and a commitment to allowing the stringent monetary policies to take effect. Compounding these concerns, the latest data revealed an unexpected uptick in the producer price index, which climbed by 0.5% in April.

For April, the CPI is anticipated to register a monthly increase of 0.4%, mirroring the rise seen in March, yet the yearly inflation rate is predicted to dip slightly to 3.4%. Excluding volatile items like food and energy, the core CPI is expected to rise by 0.3%, a notch below the 0.4% increase of the previous month, with the annual core rate forecasted to decrease to 3.6% from 3.8%. Analysts on Wall Street will scrutinize the details of Wednesday’s inflation report, seeking indicators of the potential duration of the current high inflation trend. A particular area of interest will be the housing sector’s influence on inflation.

Traders will have a lot of economic data to digest including consumer price report. Plan for considerable price volitility and watch for posible big point whipsaws. With record highs so close a gap though to blue skys is possoble but be cautious of chaising this already extended market condiion for the classsic pop and drop.

Trade Wisely,

Doug

PPI and Powell Speech Ahead

Markets gapped up modestly on Monday.  The SPY opened 0.33% higher, DIA gapped up 0.33%, and QQQ gapped up 0.44%.  From that point, the two large-cap index ETFs slowly faded the gap recrossing it by about 11:30 a.m.  Meanwhile, QQQ immediately recrossed the gap (by 9:50 a.m.). After the recross, all three ground sideways in a tight range until 1 pm.  At that point, we got a 15-minute selloff before the sideways grind in a tight range resumed.  This action gave us black body candles in all three major index ETFs.  The QQQ could be called a Black Hanging Man while the DIA printed a Bearish Engulfing candle.  All three remained well above their T-line (8ema).  This all happened on below-average volume in all three (far-below-average in the SPY and QQQ). 

On the day, five of the 10 sectors were in the green with Consumer Cyclical (+0.65%) leading the gainers higher while Industrials (-0.39%) was the laggard sector.  At the same time, SPY gained 0.01%, DIA fell 0.18%, and QQQ gained 0.23%.  VXX gained 1.08% to close at 12.19 and T2122 fell to just outside the lower edge of its overbought territory to close at 75.00.  At the same time, 10-year bond yields fell slightly to 4.487% and Oil (WTI) gained another 1.19% to close at $79.19 per barrel.  So, Monday was a gap-up, trade down, and then just grind sideways ahead of Tuesday’s PPI data.  One notable thing that happened is that “Meme stocks” trading came back in vogue.  GME gapped up 52%, was up as much as 120% at one point, traded in a 55% range, and it closed up 74 percent.  Following suit, AMC gapped up 20%, traded in an 86% range, and ended the day up 78.35%.

The major economic news scheduled for Monday was limited to the NY Fed’s 1-Year Consumer Inflation Expectations, which came in at 3.30% (compared to a April’s 3.00% reading).  

After the close, NATL reported beats on both the revenue and earnings lines.  At the same time, TLNE missed on revenue while beating on earnings.  On the other side, AHR beat on revenue while missing on earnings.  However, STNE missed on both the top and bottom lines.

Click for video

In stock news, on Monday, as expected OpenAI released a new AI model called GPT-4o.  The new model reportedly is capable of realistic voice conversation and able to interact across text and vision.  (This comes a day ahead of GOOGL’s developer Conf. where that company is expected to announce its own new AI tools.)  Giving GPT-4o a search engine-like capability to compete directly with Google Search is the next step according to Reuters reports.  Later, GM announced its Cruise autonomous vehicles have resumed testing on public roads with its robotaxis in AZ.  (GM had suspended all operations in October after one of its robotaxis dragged a pedestrian, who was already knocked down by a human-driven car, in San Francisco.)

In stock legal and governmental news, on Monday, AAL, DAL, UAL, JBLU, HA, ALK and an airline industry group files suit against the US Dept. of Transportation alleging the agency’s new rule requiring airlines to disclose their fees in addition to just airfares is beyond the department’s authority. At the same time, the 5th-Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed a Republican-led State lawsuit that had sought to block the SEC’s requiring investment funds to categorize and disclose their proxy votes on issues, including ESG matters.  (The three-judge panel concluded that none of the states had any standing to challenge the agency’s rules over listed company reporting.)  Later, META was sued by RFK Jr. and his superPAC, claiming Facebook was guilty of election interference for blocking a political ad.  (META claims the blocking, which lasted less than two days was a result of a mistake and was quickly restored as soon as the issue was found.)

Overnight, Asian markets leaned toward the green side with only five of the region’s 12 exchanges in the red.  Taiwan (+0.61%), India (+0.51%), and Japan (+0.46%) led the region higher on the day.  Meanwhile, in Europe, the bourses are more evenly split with seven green and eight in the red at midday on very modest moves.  The CAC (-0.06%), DAX (-0.18%), and FTSE (+0.06%) are typical of a region likely waiting on US data to drop.  In the US, as of 7:30 a.m., Futures are just on the green side of flat.  The DIA implies a +0.09% open, the SPY is implying a +0.05% open, and the QQQ implies a +0.02% open at this hour.  At the same time, 10-year bond yields are just on the red side of flat at 4.479% and Oil (WTI) is likewise down slightly at $78.99 per barrel in early trading. 

The major economic news scheduled for Tuesday includes April Core PPI and April PPI (both at 8:30 a.m.), and API Weekly Crude Stocks (4:30 p.m.).  We hear from Fed Governor Cook (9:10 a.m.) and Fed Chair Powell (10 a.m.).  Major earnings reports scheduled for before the open include BABA, BKKT, CGAU, HD, IGT, MNSO, ONON, SE, SONY, and TCEHY.  Then, after the close, NXT and NU report. 

In economic news later this week, on Wednesday, April Core CPI, April CPI, April Core Retail Sales, April Retail Sales, NY Empire State Mfg., March Business Inventories, March Retail Inventories, and EIA Weekly Crude Oil Inventory are reported.  We also hear from Fed member Bowman speaks.  On Thursday, we get April Building Permits, April Housing Starts, April Import Price Index, April Export Price Index, Weekly Initial Jobless Claims, Weekly Continuing Jobless Claims, Philly Fed Mfg. Index, April Industrial Production, Fed Balance Sheet and we hear from Fed members Vice Chair Barr, Mester, and Bostic.  Finally, on Friday, April US Leading Economic Indicators Index is reported and we hear from Fed member Waller.

In terms of earnings reports later this week, on Wednesday, ARCO, DOLE, CSCO, CPA, GRAB, and ZTO repot.  On Thursday, we hear from BIDU, DE, IQ, JD, NICE, UA, UAA, WMT, AMAT, CPRT, DXC, FLO, GLOB, and TTWO.  Finally, on Friday, HTHT reports.

So far this morning, HBM, IGT, and ONON reported beats on both the revenue and earnings lines.  Meanwhile, HD and MNSO missed on revenue while beating on earnings.  On the other side, BABA beat on revenue while missing on earnings.  However, CGAU and SE missed on both the top and bottom lines.

In miscellaneous news, on Sunday, Chinese April Inflation numbers (CPI up 0.1% while PPI fell 2.5%) were released which, in turn, boosted Oil on Monday.  Markets interpreted the Chinese data as a recovery in progress…albeit a slight recovery so far.  Elsewhere, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) voted to overhaul the national electrical grid system.  The new rules are expected to expand transmission (by defining how to cover the cost of transmission), encourage more renewable energy, and require regional planning and cost allocations which have been woefully absent for decades.  The changes are expected to improve the resilience of the grid by allowing more transmission between regions, as needed (reducing brow and blackouts). 

With that background, it looks as if the market is waiting on PPI data (or maybe even waiting on Wednesday’s CPI data) before committing one way or the other. All three major index ETFs are within spitting distance of flat and on either side at this moment. In addition, all three have printed very indecisive candles so far in the early session. However, all three major index ETFs do remain above their T-line (8ema). So, the short-term trend remains bullish. Meanwhile, the mid-term is modestly bullish again now. The longer-term market remains very Bullish as all three major index ETFs have returned within a percent (give or take) of all-time highs. In terms of extension, the SPY, DIA, and QQQ are all back near above their T-lines. The T2122 indicator has also pulled back to just outside the overbought area. So, both sides have room to run, if they can gain the momentum to do it. However, the Bears have more slack to play with in that regard. In terms of those 10 big dog tickers, eight of the 10 are in the red this morning with only INTC (+0.69%) appreciably in the green. Remember, regardless of what knee-jerk we may get from PPI data, Fed Chair Powell speaks at 10 a.m. and he always has the ability to reverse markets or cause volatility. Also bear in mind, CPI data comes tomorrow and traders may be waiting on that number more than PPI.

As always, be deliberate and disciplined…but don’t be stubborn. If you have a loss, admit you were wrong and take that loss before it gets out of hand. And when the price does move in your direction, always move your stops in your favor and take a little profit off the table. You have to keep the “Legend of the Man in the Green Bathrobe” in mind. In a winning situation, it is NOT HOUSE MONEY you’re betting, it’s YOUR MONEY! There is no reason to keep raising your bet (risk) size just because you’ve had a win. Finally, remember that trading is not a hobby, it’s a job. The gains are real and so is the risk. So, treat it that way. Do the work and follow the process. Stick to your trading rules, trade with the trend, and take those profits when you have them. Do the work!

See you in the trading room.

Ed

LTA Scanning Software
TC2000 Discount

🎯 Mike Probst: Rick, Got CTL off the scanner today. Already up 30%. Love it.

🎯 Dick Carp: the scanner paid for the year with HES-thank you

🎯 Arnoldo Bolanos: LTA scanner really works $$, thanks Ed.

🎯 Bob S: LTA is incredible…. I use it … would not trade without it

🎯 Malcolm .: Posted in room 2, @Rick… I used the LTA Scanner to go through hundreds of stocks this weekend and picked out three to trade:  PYPL, TGT, and ZS.   Quality patterns and with my trading, up 24%, 7% and 12%…. this program is gold.

🎯 Friday 6/21/19  (10:09 am) Aaron B: Today, my account is at +190% since January. Thanks, RWO HRC Flash Malcolm Thomas Steve Ed Bob S Bob C Mike P and everyone that contributes every day. I love our job.

Hit and Run Candlesticks / Road To Wealth Youtube videos

Disclosure: We do not act on all trades we mention, and not all mentions acted on the day of the mention. All trades we mention are for your consideration only.

Free YouTube Education  •  Subscription PlansPrivate 2-Hour Coaching

DISCLAIMER: Investing / Trading involves significant financial risk and is not suitable for everyone. No communication from Hit and Run Candlesticks Inc, its affiliates or representatives is not financial or trading advice. All information provided by Hit and Run Candlesticks Inc, its affiliates and representatives are intended for educational purposes only. You are advised to test any new trading approach before implementing it.  Past performance does not guarantee future results.  Terms of Service

Producer Price Index

Producer Price

While waiting on U.S. producer price data,  Asia-Pacific stock markets displayed finished mixed though mostly lower. Asian investors digested the latest inflation figures from India, where the consumer price index rose by 4.83% annually, aligning closely with the 4.8% forecast by Reuters-polled economists. Meanwhile, the Bank of Japan’s data indicated that corporate inflation remained unchanged in April on an annual basis, while import prices surged by 6.4% compared to the previous year, likely influenced by the significant drop in the yen’s value.

The Stoxx 600, a pan-European benchmark, experienced a slight decrease of 0.02%, reflecting a mixed performance across various sectors. The travel and leisure segment saw a decline of 1.1%, while the automotive sector gained an equivalent percentage. Early trading saw Delivery Hero’s shares soar by more than 21% following the news that Uber would acquire its Foodpanda operations in Taiwan, as part of a broader transaction valued at $1.25 billion.

U.S. stock futures hovered close to the break-even point as investors awaited crucial inflation data releases. The S&P 500 futures remained unchanged, while a slight uptick was observed in the Nasdaq 100 futures. Futures for the Dow Jones Industrial Average saw a modest increase of 12 points. According to a New York Federal Reserve report, there was an uptick in consumer inflation expectations for both the near and distant future in April, exerting downward pressure on the major stock indices and affecting overall market sentiment.

Economic Calendar

Earnings Calendar

Notable reports for Tuesday before the bell include BABA, HIS, IGT, JACK, ON, RISHA, HD, SE, SFL, & SDHC. After the bell include BOOT, CSWC, DHT, SLO, LGF.A, NXT, PBH, & SLF..

News & Technicals’

In the first quarter, Home Depot reported earnings that surpassed forecasts, despite revenues falling short of projections. The company has observed a trend of customers postponing significant home renovations, a shift attributed to the prevailing high interest rates. In response, Home Depot is intensifying its efforts to expand its professional customer base, a strategy bolstered by its recent acquisition of SRS Distribution.

Walmart is undergoing a significant restructuring, which includes the elimination of numerous corporate positions. The company is also transitioning most of its remote workforce to in-office roles, as reported by the Wall Street Journal on Monday. Additionally, employees from Walmart’s satellite offices in Dallas, Atlanta, and Toronto are being relocated to major centers, including the corporate headquarters in Bentonville, and other key locations in Hoboken and Southern California.

President Joe Biden is set to introduce a series of tariffs targeting imports from China, including a 100% tariff on electric vehicles, a 50% tariff on solar cells, and a 25% tariff on select steel and aluminum products. This move follows persistent cautions from White House officials urging Beijing to revise trade practices deemed detrimental to international supply chains. Despite the significant tariffs, administration officials anticipate that these measures will not contribute to inflation.

Following a federal agency’s probe, the Biden administration has mandated a divestment of property by a cryptocurrency mining firm with Chinese investment, situated in proximity to a U.S. nuclear missile facility. This directive is part of a broader array of stringent policies towards China, initiated by the White House to safeguard American national security interests. According to the presidential decree, the firm’s premises were found to house specialized equipment of foreign origin, which could potentially be utilized for intelligence-gathering operations.

Producer price data and comments for Jerome Powell will drive today’s market and likely create price action whipsaws and considerable volatility as traders and investors react.  The outcome is anyone’s guess so plan your risk carefully.  After the morning reaction keep in mind we have a very big day of data on Wednesday that will include the CPI report.

Trade Wisely,

Doug

Inflation Data and Fed Speakers This Week

Friday gave us another gap higher to start the day.  SPY gapped up 0.30%, DIA gapped up 0.32%, and QQQ gapped up 0.36% at the open.  Then, after about 20 minutes of follow-through to the upside, all three major index ETFs sold off.  The SPY and QQQ recrossed their opening gaps at 10:55 a.m. while DIA sold more slowly and did not recross the opening gap until 11:45 a.m.  After their recross of the gap, all three traded sideways inside the gap for the rest of the day.  This action gave us a gap-up, indecisive candles in all three major index ETFs.   The DIA and QQQ printed Black Doji type candles while the SPY printed more of a black-bodied Spinning Top candle.  All three remain well above their T-line (8ema) and the SPY and DIA are both less than 1% below their all-time high (not all-time high close). 

On the day, five of the 10 sectors were in the green with Communications Services (+0.46%) and Consumer Defensive (+0.40%) leading the gainers higher while Energy (-0.65%) was by far the laggard sector.  Meanwhile, SPY gained 0.13%, DIA gained 0.30%, and QQQ gained 0.24%.  VXX fell another 1.39% to close at 12.06 and T2122 fell but remains just inside the lower edge of its overbought territory to close at 80.47. At the same time, 10-year bond yields rose to 4.500% and Oil (WTI) fell another 1.14% to close at $78.36 per barrel. So, Friday was another bullish day where the gains again came from the opening gap and the rest of the day was meandering back inside that gap area.  This all happened on just-below average volume in the DIA and far-less-than-average volume in the SPY and QQQ.

The major economic news scheduled for Friday included May Preliminary Michigan Consumer Sentiment, which came in lower than expected at 67.4 (compared to a forecast of 76.0 and an April reading of 77.2).  At the same time, May Preliminary Michigan Consumer Expectations were also lower than predicted at 66.5 (versus a 75.0 forecast and the April value of 76.0).  Meanwhile, the May Preliminary Michigan 1-Year Inflation Expectations were higher that anticipated at +3.5% (compared to a +3.2% forecast and a previous reading of +3.2%).  At the same time, May Preliminary Michigan 5-Year Inflation Expectations also rose a tick to +3.1% (versus a forecast and previous value of +3.0%).  Finally, the April Federal Budget Balance came in positive but weaker than expected at a surplus of $210.0 billion (compared to a forecast of +$244.5 billion but far better than the prior month’s -$236.0 billion).

In Fed speak news, there were a raft of FOMC speakers Friday.  Atlanta Fed President Bostic said the FOMC is likely to cut rates this year as the economy slows.  Bostic said, “I still have that belief” (that interest rates can be lowered this year).  He continued, “There is an expectation for most of the employers I talk to that they will get back to pre-pandemic wage growth, and we’re hearing from pretty much everyone that their pricing power is pretty much at its limit.”   In terms of timing, Bostic only said, “I don’t think we’re going to know that for at least a couple of months.”  Later, Dallas Fed President Logan was less optimistic about a rate cut.  In fact, Logan said it was not clear to her that monetary policy was tight enough to bring inflation down to 2%.  Logan commented, “There are also important upside risks to inflation that are on my mind, and also uncertainties about how restrictive policy is and whether it’s sufficiently restrictive to keep us on this path.”  She continued, “As I think about appropriate policy, I think it’s just too early to think about cutting rates.” 

Meanwhile, Chicago Fed President Goolsbee said he thinks US monetary policy is “relatively restrictive” (meaning that borrowing costs are putting downward pressure on inflation).  He continued, “There isn’t at this time much evidence in my view that inflation is stalling out at 3%.”  However, he continues to worry about housing inflation, saying “We’ve been saying for some significant time now, ‘oh, housing inflation is about to come down.’ If that happens at the rate at which we think, I think we will start to see overall improvement, and it will be fairly clear that there’s an optimistic lane that we could ride overall inflation back toward 2%…If it doesn’t happen, then we’ve got problems.”  Elsewhere, Minneapolis Fed President Kashkari told CNBC that there is “a high bar” for any consideration of another rate hike.  He continued, saying there was no hurry, saying “I’m in a wait and see mode.”

Click for video

In stock news, on Friday, DELL reported its customer portal was hacked and the data of 49 million customers (including name, address dell equipment, and order information had been stolen).  Later, AAPL apologized for its latest ad, showing a hydraulic press crushing many different types of electronics saying that its new AI-enabled iPad Pro would crush all other forms of content creation.  (This apparently upset content creator customers.)  At the same time, TSLA CEO Musk said that after the recent layoffs and elimination of its “Supercharger” group, the company will spend well over $500 million on expanding its fast-charging network in 2024.  (This comes 1 day after media reports that BP is interested in acquiring the TSLA charging network.)  Later, Reuters reported that sources in MCD said the company is considering launching a cheaper “meal deal” to draw in more “inflation-hit” customers. 

Elsewhere, Reuters reported Friday that OpenAI will announce its own Google search engine competitor (based on its AI models) today.  After the news broke, OpenAI CEO Altman tweeted that this will not be a “gpt-5 (a new version of its AI model), not a search engine, but something that ‘feels like magic’.”  Then, on Saturday, unionized workers at an AAPL store in MD voted to authorize a strike.  However, no date for the work stoppage has been announced yet.  On Sunday, PFE and AZN announced new investments in France that combined will be worth $1 billion.  Then AMZN rounded out the nice Sunday for France by announcing its own new $1.3 billion investment in facilities in that country.

In stock legal and governmental news, on Friday, the NHTSA officially announced it has opened a investigation into 211k F trucks with fuel leaks from a secondary fuel filter that has been shown to have caused 12 fires among 27 complaints.  (This was separate from F’s recent recall of 42k SUVs with fuel leaks from injectors.)  At the same time, MRNA said it had been informed by the FDA that a decision on approval of its RSV vaccine has been delayed but a decision should be reached by the end of the month.  Later, Reuters reported that sources tell it the Biden Administration would implement new tariffs on Chinese-made electric vehicles, solar products, and medical devices (such as syringes and protective equipment) this week.  At the same time, the CFTC proposed a rule Friday that would ban derivatives used to bet on US elections, natural disasters, and other major real-world events.  Later, a federal appeals (two GOP-appointed and one Dem-appointed judge) court panel dismissed a lawsuit brought by Republican-led states that sought to block the SEC rule requiring investment funds to categorize and disclose proxy votes on ESG matters.  (The panel ruled the states had no standing to sue the SEC.) 

Elsewhere, MSFT was hit with a $242 million ruling by a federal jury in DE in a patent infringement case brought by IPA Technologies.  The case was related to MSFT’s Cortana virtual assistant software.  At the same time, the Treasury Dept. announced Friday that it will hold an auction the week of June 3, to sell the stock warrants the government was given by airlines (AAL, DAL, UAL, and LUV) in exchange for $54 billion in financial assistance during the COVID pandemic.  Later, the USPS said it will seek a 25% rate increase for high-volume package shippers wanting last-mile regional delivery as of July 14.  At the same time, a federal judge in Texas blocked the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s new rule that capped credit card late fees at $8.  (US consumers pay $800 million per month in card late fees.)  This ruling was expected since the American Banker’s Assn. and Chamber of Commerce chose that district to file the suit based on the business-friendliness of judges there.  The next step is likely appeal to the New Orleans-based 5th Circuit Court of Appeals (also very conservative).

Overnight, Asian markets were mixed but leaned toward the green side in modest trading.  Hong Kong (+0.80%) and Taiwan (+0.72%) led the seven gaining exchanges higher.  Meanwhile, New Zealand (-0.88%) and Shenzhen (-0.60%) led the five losers lower.  In Europe, things are more on the red side of flat at midday with only five of the 15 bourses in the green so far.  The CAC (-0.23%), DAX (-0.20%), and FTSE (-0.17%) lead the region lower in early afternoon trade.  In the US, as of 7:30 a.m., Futures are pointing toward a modestly green start to the day.  DIA implies a +0.09% open, the SPY is implying a +0.19% open, and the QQQ implies a +0.30% open at this hour.  At the same time, 10-year bond yields are down to 4.485% and Oil (WTI) is up another half percent to $78.70 per barrel in early trading.

The major economic news scheduled for Monday is limited to NY Fed 1-Year Consumer Inflation Expectations (11 a.m.).  We also hear from Fed member Mester at 9 a.m.  The major earnings reports scheduled for before the open include CEPU, DDL, FTRE, HUYA, TME, and VTRU.  Then, after the close, AHR, PBR, STNE, and TLNE report. 

In economic news later this week, on Tuesday we get April Core PPI, April PPI, API Weekly Crude Stocks and we hear from Fed Chair Powell.  Then, on Wednesday, April Core CPI, April CPI, April Core Retail Sales, April Retail Sales, NY Empire State Mfg., March Business Inventories, March Retail Inventories, and EIA Weekly Crude Oil Inventory are reported.  We also hear from Fed member Bowman speaks.  On Thursday, we get April Building Permits, April Housing Starts, April Import Price Index, April Export Price Index, Weekly Initial Jobless Claims, Weekly Continuing Jobless Claims, Philly Fed Mfg. Index, April Industrial Production, Fed Balance Sheet and we hear from Fed members Vice Chair Barr, Mester, and Bostic.  Finally, on Friday, April US Leading Economic Indicators Index is reported and we hear from Fed member Waller.

In terms of earnings reports later this week, on Tuesday we hear from BABA, BKKT, CGAU, HD, IGT, ONON, SE, SONY, NXT, and NU.  Then on Wednesday, ARCO, DOLE, CSCO, CPA, GRAB, and ZTO repot.  On Thursday, we hear from BIDU, DE, IQ, JD, NICE, UA, UAA, WMT, AMAT, CPRT, DXC, FLO, GLOB, and TTWO.  Finally, on Friday, HTHT reports.

So far this morning, TME reported a beat on both the revenue and earnings lines.  At the same time, HUYA missed on revenue (huge miss) while beating on earnings.  However, DDL and FTRE missed on both the top and bottom lines. 

In miscellaneous news, Israel began the next phase of its ground offensive in Rafah with tanks after intense artillery and air attacks.  US Sec. of State Blinken reiterated Sunday that Israel has no credible plan to protect civilians during their invasion of the city where Israel has driven millions of refugees.  This comes after Friday afternoon’s vote where 143 UN-member nations voted to recognize Palestine as a member state.  (25 countries abstained and only 9 voted against, including Israel and the US.)  In other news, China is gearing up for the first of its $139 billion ultra-long bond sale on Friday.  (That will be only the fourth offering of 30-year bonds by China in the last 26 years.)  Finally, Meme Stocks are back in the news as the Reddit poster who started that craze under the pseudonym “Roaring Kitty” posted again for the first time in nearly three years.  GME (+32.70%) stock is soaring in premarket on that news.

With that background, it looks as if the Bulls are pushing to follow through on last week’s gains. All three major index ETFs opened not far from flat, but have printed white-body candles with almost no wick since that start to the early session. All three major index ETFs remain well above their T-line (8ema). So, the short-term trend remains bullish. Meanwhile, the mid-term is modestly bullish again now. The longer-term market remains very Bullish as all three major index ETFs have returned within a percent (give or take) of all-time highs. In terms of extension, the SPY, DIA, and QQQ are all getting a bit stretched above their T-lines. The T2122 indicator is also just at the edge of the overbought area. So, we should expect a pullback or at least a pause soon, to relieve the overextension if nothing else. (Just remember the market can remain extended longer than we can remain solvent predicting a turn that hasn’t come yet.) In terms of those 10 big dog tickers, eight of the 10 are in the green this morning with only GOOGL (-1.71%) really providing any drag on the market. Remember, we get more inflation data this week and have a number of Fed speakers. Any of that could potentially turn markets in at least he short-term.

As always, be deliberate and disciplined…but don’t be stubborn. If you have a loss, admit you were wrong and take that loss before it gets out of hand. And when the price does move in your direction, always move your stops in your favor and take a little profit off the table. You have to keep the “Legend of the Man in the Green Bathrobe” in mind. In a winning situation, it is NOT HOUSE MONEY you’re betting, it’s YOUR MONEY! There is no reason to keep raising your bet (risk) size just because you’ve had a win. Finally, remember that trading is not a hobby, it’s a job. The gains are real and so is the risk. So, treat it that way. Do the work and follow the process. Stick to your trading rules, trade with the trend, and take those profits when you have them. Do the work!

See you in the trading room.

Ed

LTA Scanning Software
TC2000 Discount

🎯 Mike Probst: Rick, Got CTL off the scanner today. Already up 30%. Love it.

🎯 Dick Carp: the scanner paid for the year with HES-thank you

🎯 Arnoldo Bolanos: LTA scanner really works $$, thanks Ed.

🎯 Bob S: LTA is incredible…. I use it … would not trade without it

🎯 Malcolm .: Posted in room 2, @Rick… I used the LTA Scanner to go through hundreds of stocks this weekend and picked out three to trade:  PYPL, TGT, and ZS.   Quality patterns and with my trading, up 24%, 7% and 12%…. this program is gold.

🎯 Friday 6/21/19  (10:09 am) Aaron B: Today, my account is at +190% since January. Thanks, RWO HRC Flash Malcolm Thomas Steve Ed Bob S Bob C Mike P and everyone that contributes every day. I love our job.

Hit and Run Candlesticks / Road To Wealth Youtube videos

Disclosure: We do not act on all trades we mention, and not all mentions acted on the day of the mention. All trades we mention are for your consideration only.

Free YouTube Education  •  Subscription PlansPrivate 2-Hour Coaching

DISCLAIMER: Investing / Trading involves significant financial risk and is not suitable for everyone. No communication from Hit and Run Candlesticks Inc, its affiliates or representatives is not financial or trading advice. All information provided by Hit and Run Candlesticks Inc, its affiliates and representatives are intended for educational purposes only. You are advised to test any new trading approach before implementing it.  Past performance does not guarantee future results.  Terms of Service

Pending Inflation Data

Pending Inflation Data

As the world waits on the pending inflation data from the U.S., the majority of Asia-Pacific stock markets experienced declines, reacting to the unexpectedly robust inflation figures from China for the month of April. The consumer price index in China saw a year-over-year increase of 0.3%, surpassing the 0.2% increment projected by Reuters. Conversely, the producer price index witnessed a year-over-year decrease of 2.5%, which exceeded the forecasted decline of 2.3%.

European markets displayed a varied performance. Investors are attentively monitoring the forthcoming inflation data from the U.S. As of 11:15 a.m. London time, the pan-European Stoxx 600 index had marginally dipped, registering a slight increase of 0.05%, with sectoral performance showing a diverse range. The automotive sector experienced a rise of 0.9%, in contrast to the construction and materials sector, which saw a decline of 0.8%.

Recovering from an overnight lows, futures see a modest uptick in stock futures as investors on Wall Street set their sights on the upcoming inflation figures. S&P 500 futures saw a slight increase of 0.1%, and Nasdaq 100 futures ascended by 0.2%. Futures for the Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced by 30 points, equivalent to 0.1%. This movement comes as the Dow, with its 30 stocks, is emerging from its eighth consecutive session of gains last Friday, marking its most successful week of the year.

Economic Calendar

Earnings Calendar

Notable reports for Monday before the bell include AS, HUYA, PSFE, TME, & MDRX. After the bell include AGYS, ALLO, AHR, KYTX, & STNE.

News & Technicals’

“Firstly, a transparent and believable strategy for civilian protection is essential, which is currently lacking. Additionally, there’s a need for a post-conflict plan for Gaza, which remains unseen,” stated U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken. These remarks are made amidst escalating tensions between Israel and its principal ally. The Biden administration is against an Israeli incursion into Rafah, which is presently providing refuge to over 1.2 million displaced Palestinians.

Elon Musk’s platform X received a judicial respite on Monday when an Australian federal court declined to prolong a provisional mandate aimed at obstructing the dissemination of footage depicting a stabbing incident at a Sydney church. The court rejected the eSafety Commissioner’s request to maintain an injunction that would mandate the removal of content on X related to the violent assault on a priest that occurred in April, as reported by local news outlets. This event has sparked a heated dispute involving Musk and the Australian authorities, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

On Monday, U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is set to announce that the nation stands at a pivotal juncture. He aims to bolster the diminishing allegiance to his Conservative Party as the general election looms. During a forthcoming address in central London, Sunak will articulate that the forthcoming years will pose some of the sternest challenges in the annals of British history, and he will position himself as the most capable leader to steer through them. The fate of Sunak’s political career is uncertain after the Conservatives’ lackluster performance in the recent local elections and the subsequent defections of several Tory MPs to the Labour Party.

Approximately 1,500 homebuyers are expressing frustration over not having received their apartments they purchased nearly eight years prior, amidst ongoing difficulties within China’s real estate market. They were assured that their homes would be completed by 2019, yet the bulk of these properties remain incomplete, shared by five buyers under the condition of anonymity due to concerns of backlash. “It feels as though I’ve been deceived all along,” lamented a purchaser on Monday, with their sentiments conveyed in Mandarin and interpreted by CNBC.

Although the Dow had a good day on Wednesday all the indexes were lacking in momentum, as volume was noticeably weak.  Perhaps the huge number of earnings or the weekly jobs numbers can provide some inspiration to the bulls or bears today. Plan your risk carefully and continue to watch for substantial point moves.

Anything is possible with pending inflation data combined with corporate buyback numbers of more than 550 billion.  Expect uncertainty to rule today as we wait for the Tuesday PPI with choppy price action unless the buybacks energize markets seeking all-time highs. Plan carefully, it could be wild.

Trade Wisely,

Doug

Bulls Hope To Gap Up and End Week Strongly

Markets opened basically flat on Thursday.  SPY opened 0.03% higher, DIA opened down 0.12%, and QQQ opened 0.05% higher.  At that point, all three major index ETFs just bobbed around for 30 minutes, but then all rallied higher for an hour.  From about 11 a.m., all three meandered sideways until 1 p.m.  Then the two large-cap index ETFs began a modest rally that lasted the rest of the day while QQQ continued to meander sideways into the close.  This gave us large, white-bodied candles in the SPY and DIA as well as a white-bodied Spinning Top candle in the QQQ.  All three remained well above their T-lines (8emas).  This all happened on average volume in the DIA and far-less-than-average volume in the SPY and QQQ.

On the day, all 10 sectors were in the green with Basic Materials (+1.47%) led the rest of the groups higher while Technology (+0.01%) was by far the laggard sector.  VXX fell a little again to close at 12.23 and T2122 climbed back up well into its overbought territory to close at 88.98.  At the same time, 10-year bond yields fell to 4.455% and Oil (WTI) gained 0.76% to close at $79.59 per barrel.  Meanwhile, SPY gained 0.58%, DIA gained 0.91%, and QQQ gained 0.22%.  So, Thursday was another bullish day for the market, especially in the DIA and SPY.  (Both of those index ETFs are now within 1.25% of their all-time high, let alone all-time high close.)  However, QQQ continues its 3-day consolidation after Monday’s pop higher.

The major economic news scheduled for Thursday was limited to the Weekly Initial Jobless Claims, which came in significantly higher than expected at 231k (compared to a forecast of 212k and the prior week’s 209k value).  That 231k was the highest level in more than eight months.  At the same time, the Weekly Continuing Jobless Claims slightly lower than predicted at 1,785k (versus the 1,790k forecast but up from the 1,768k previous weekly value).  Then, after the close, the Fed Balance Sheet was down $9 billion versus the prior week at $7.353 trillion (compared to the prior week’s $7.362 trillion).

In Fed speak news, San Francisco Fed President Daly said Thursday that there was “considerable uncertainty” about where inflation will head in the next few months.  (She added that she still believes price pressures will continue to ease.)  Daly said, “What the last three months of data have done is widen the confidence bands back out. (So,) “We’ve had three stubborn months of data, but I still see monetary policy is working.  I do think that we’re seeing, in a really positive way, disinflation.”  Daly did not express when she felt rate cuts might begin or exactly what she would need to see to support them.  Daly said, “I’m in a wait-and-see mode.” However, Daly also noted she is seeing “different signals” coming from various companies that say they are losing their pricing power as consumers become more selective.

After the close, COLD, AMN, DBX, EVH, GEN, G, HRB, MTD, RXT, RBA, and VHI all reported beats on both the revenue and earnings lines.  Meanwhile, AKAM, IAG, PBA, and IOSP missed on revenue while beating on earnings. On the other side, SLF and SSP beat on revenue while missing on earnings.  However, FIHL missed on both the top and bottom lines.

Click for video

In stock news, on Thursday, Bloomberg reported that AAPL will power some of its upcoming AI service servers with chips it designed itself.  (The chips will be produced by TSM.)  At the same time, Reuters reported that F is now considering offering gas-powered vehicles (as well as hybrids and electric vehicles) in Europe after 2030.  This is a departure from the company’s 2021-announced plans to sell only electric and hybrid vehicles in Europe beyond 2030.  Later, Bloomberg reported that BP is looking to buy TSLA’s supercharger sites in the US after TSLA killed its supercharger group a few days ago.  No bid was reported, but BP previously said it intended to invest $1 billion in new US locations by 2030.  At the same time, the Wall Street Journal reported that both TMUS and VZ are in talks and close to acquiring parts of USM for more than $2 billion.  Later, BA locked out 130 unionized firefighters from its WA plant campus.  This came after the union representing the firefighters rejected a second contract offer.  (During the lockout, the BA campus fire protection is being covered by mutual aid contracts with civil firefighters from surrounding cities, further away.) 

In stock legal and governmental news, on Thursday, the FAA bowed to industry and political pressure by saying it would delay implementing the recently announced “rest requirement” for air traffic controllers.  (The rule will require controllers to have at least 10 hours between shifts and 12 hours off prior to a midnight shift in the interest of safety.)  The new rules were scheduled to go into effect in mid-July but will not be put off indefinitely while a 3,000-headcount air traffic controller shortage is addressed.  The major airlines welcomed the news, which allows them to fly full schedules.  Meanwhile, CNBC reported that SBGI is looking to sell more than 30% of its broadcast TV stations and has hired MC as the investment banker for the sale.  SBGI received $1.56 billion in average revenue from the stations in question as a group.  Later, the US Supreme Court ruled against WMG by a 6-3 vote in a copyright infringement case brought by a singer.  At the same time, the NRLB issued a complaint Thursday claiming TSLA violated labor laws at its NY assembly plant when it banned personal electronics, records, storing, or sharing content as well as other acts that were part of the company campaign to discourage workers from organizing a union. 

Elsewhere, 27 Republican Attorney’s General filed suit against the EPA, hoping to block landmark carbon emission reduction rules for coal-fired power plants and new natural gas plants. (The rule requires power plants to reduce carbon emissions by 90% by the end of 2032, which those states say this is setting up coal-fired plants to fail and would threaten both the national electric grid and coal industry.)  Meanwhile, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and Dept. of Transportation held a joint hearing, investigating claims of “bait and switch” schemes (on fees and points) by airline-affiliated credit cards.  No specific bank or airline was identified at Thursday’s hearing, but an ongoing investigation was announced.  At the same time, the SEC began an investigation into BA for statements the company made about its safety practices and risks after the January ALK loss of a 737 MAX 9 door plug mid-flight. (Inquiries found numerous and wide-spread safety problems and resulting business impacts at BA since that event.) 

Overnight, Asian markets leaned heavily to the green side.  Only Shenzhen (-0.58%) was appreciably in the red while Hong Kong (+2.30%) was by far the biggest mover and led 10 of the region’s 12 exchanges higher.  In Europe, we see green across the board at midday.  The CAC (+0.67%), DAX (+0.51%), and FTSE (+0.71%) lead the 15 bourses in the region higher on volume in early afternoon trade.  In the US, as of 7:30 a.m., Futures are pointing toward a green start to the day.  The DIA implies a +0.24% open, the SPY is implying a +0.31% open, and the QQQ implies a +0.38% open at this hour.  At the same time, 10-year bond yields are at 4.463% and Oil (WTI) is up 0.72% to $79.83 per barrel in early trading.

The major economic news scheduled for Friday includes Michigan Consumer Sentiment, Michigan Consumer Expectations, Michigan 1-Year Inflation Expectations, and Michigan 5-Year Inflation Expectations (all at 10 a.m.), the WASDE report (noon), and April Federal Budget Balance (2 p.m.).  In addition, Fed members Bowman (9 a.m.) and Vice Chair Barr (1:30 p.m.) speak.  The major earnings reports scheduled for before the open include AQN, AMCX, CLMT, CPG, CRH, ENB, HMC, and DNOW.  There are no reports scheduled for after the close. 

So far this morning, CMRE, ENB, HMC, and SLVM have reported beats on both the revenue and earnings lines.  Meanwhile, CPG and CRH missed on the revenue line while beating on earnings.  However, AQN, AMCX, and DNOW missed on both the top and bottom lines.

In miscellaneous news, the President-elect of Panama vowed to “fix” the Panama Canal water shortage, by building large water reservoirs.  (This which would help the situation now where ship capacities and number of ships have been greatly reduced because of a lack of water for the locks.  The lack of water has been caused by years of drought in the region depleting the lakes used for lock water now.)  Elsewhere, ADBE Analytics reported that US online retail spending was up 7% during January through April, versus the same period in 2023.  In oil news, China’s access to Niger oil was blocked Thursday due to a border dispute.  (Niger is a landlocked nation.)  China had built a 1,200-mile pipeline to move 90,000 barrels per day of Niger oil to a port in Benin for shipping to China.  However, a dispute between Niger and Benin caused the latter to block oil flow across their land before it even began.  Lastly, real estate data firm ATTOM reported that one in 38 homes in the US are “seriously underwater.”  (They define that as a home having a loan balance at least 25% more than the property value.)  ATTOM reports this is more prevalent in the Southern US than in the other areas, but is clearly a national issue.

In property rights news that could impact companies, on Thursday, the US Supreme Court (by its Conservative super-majority) ruled 6-3 that police agencies do not have to provide timely hearings on property they seize.  This is true regardless of whether any crime is actually charged related to the property or to the legal owners, or to the possessors of the property at time of seizure. The underlying case involved cars seized by AL police where a drug crime was said to be suspected but no charges were ever filed.  The cars had not been returned or even a disposition hearing held related to the cars for more than a year.  In two of the cases, the owners of the cars were not involved in potential cases at all, were not present at time of seizure, and the suspected criminals (who were never charged anyway) were other people. Yet, the Supreme Court has ruled the agencies have the right to seize the property and there is no property right to a timely hearing to get property back.

With that background, it looks as if the Bulls are pushing to close out the week strong. All three major index ETFs gapped up to start the premarket with QQQ giving the most follow-through after that start. The two large-cap ETFs are more indecisive (although white-bodied) after the gap to start the early session. All three major index ETFs remain above their T-line (8ema). So, the short-term trend remains bullish. Meanwhile, the mid-term remains sideways but is leaning toward the bullish again now. The longer-term market remains Bullish as all three major index ETFs have returned within a couple percent of all-time highs. Overall, the character of the market is bullish but gappy. In terms of extension, the SPY, DIA, and QQQ are all getting a bit stretched above their T-lines. The T2122 indicator is also back well into its overbought area. So, we should expect a pause or pullback soon, to relieve overextension if nothing else. (Just remember the market can remain extended longer than we can remain solvent predicting a turn that hasn’t come yet.) In terms of those 10 big dog tickers, nine of the 10 are in the green this morning with only GOOGL dragging behind (perhaps on the reports of employee unrest related to blow-out quarters, job cuts, and moving jobs overseas to reduce payroll). Finally, remember that it’s Friday, Pay Day, and time to prepare your account for the weekend news cycle.

As always, be deliberate and disciplined…but don’t be stubborn. If you have a loss, admit you were wrong and take that loss before it gets out of hand. And when the price does move in your direction, always move your stops in your favor and take a little profit off the table. You have to keep the “Legend of the Man in the Green Bathrobe” in mind. In a winning situation, it is NOT HOUSE MONEY you’re betting, it’s YOUR MONEY! There is no reason to keep raising your bet (risk) size just because you’ve had a win. Finally, remember that trading is not a hobby, it’s a job. The gains are real and so is the risk. So, treat it that way. Do the work and follow the process. Stick to your trading rules, trade with the trend, and take those profits when you have them. Do the work!

See you in the trading room.

Ed

LTA Scanning Software
TC2000 Discount

🎯 Mike Probst: Rick, Got CTL off the scanner today. Already up 30%. Love it.

🎯 Dick Carp: the scanner paid for the year with HES-thank you

🎯 Arnoldo Bolanos: LTA scanner really works $$, thanks Ed.

🎯 Bob S: LTA is incredible…. I use it … would not trade without it

🎯 Malcolm .: Posted in room 2, @Rick… I used the LTA Scanner to go through hundreds of stocks this weekend and picked out three to trade:  PYPL, TGT, and ZS.   Quality patterns and with my trading, up 24%, 7% and 12%…. this program is gold.

🎯 Friday 6/21/19  (10:09 am) Aaron B: Today, my account is at +190% since January. Thanks, RWO HRC Flash Malcolm Thomas Steve Ed Bob S Bob C Mike P and everyone that contributes every day. I love our job.

Hit and Run Candlesticks / Road To Wealth Youtube videos

Disclosure: We do not act on all trades we mention, and not all mentions acted on the day of the mention. All trades we mention are for your consideration only.

Free YouTube Education  •  Subscription PlansPrivate 2-Hour Coaching

DISCLAIMER: Investing / Trading involves significant financial risk and is not suitable for everyone. No communication from Hit and Run Candlesticks Inc, its affiliates or representatives is not financial or trading advice. All information provided by Hit and Run Candlesticks Inc, its affiliates and representatives are intended for educational purposes only. You are advised to test any new trading approach before implementing it.  Past performance does not guarantee future results.  Terms of Service

Trouble at GOOGL and Jobless Claims Ahead

Wednesday gave us a gap lower at the open.  SPY gapped down 0.37%, DIA opened just 0.10% lower, and QQQ gapped down 0.58%.  However, this was a Bear trap with all three major index ETFs immediately rallying.  SPY and QQQ recrossed its morning gap and reached their highs at 10:50 a.m.  From there, both of those ETFs ground sideways the rest of the day.  However, DIA rallied slower but continuously until the last 10 minutes where it took profits.  This action gave us a bullish engulfing signal in the DIA and gap-down, large-body white candles with an upper wick in QQQ and to a smaller-wick extent the SPY.  All three remain well above their T-lines (8emas).  This all happened on far lower than average volume in all three of those major index ETFs.

On the day, five of the 10 sectors were in the green and the other five in the red.  The Utilities (+0.78%) led the green sectors higher while Healthcare (-0.63%) led the red side lower.  VXX fell a little more than a percent to close at 12.28 and T2122 dropped back out of its overbought territory to the top of the mid-range to close at 72.81.  At the same time, 10-year bond yields rose to 4.498% and Oil (WTI) gained 1.05% to close at $79.20 per barrel.  Meanwhile, SPY gained 0.01%, DIA gained 0.45%, and QQQ lost 0.06%.  So, Wednesday, was largely a nothing day in the broader SPY and QQQ index ETFs, but was another modestly bullish day for DIA. 

The major economic news scheduled for Wednesday was limited to EIA Weekly Crude Oil Inventories, which had a slightly smaller-than-expected inventory drawdown that was expected at -1.362 million barrels (compared to a forecasted drawdown of 1.430 million barrels and far below the prior week’s 7.265-million-barrel inventory build.

In Fed speak news, Boston Fed President Collins repeated the obvious, saying that the economy needs to cool for us to get back to the FOMC’s 2% inflation target.  Collins said, “A slowdown in activity will be needed to ensure that demand is better aligned with supply for inflation to return (to target) durably.”  She went on to explain that this means the Fed’s ‘higher for longer’ mantra will, in fact, need to come to pass…just as the Fed has been saying since last year.  She said, “the recent upward surprises to activity and inflation suggest the likely need to keep policy at its current level until we have greater confidence that inflation is moving sustainably toward 2%.”  Finally, Collins reiterated the “data driven” view of the Fed, saying “there is no pre-set path for policy – it requires decisions based on a methodical, holistic assessment of wide-ranging information.”  Meanwhile, Fed Governor Cook said US households, banks, and companies are all largely in solid shape financially.  Cook said even the commercial real estate sector isn’t in bad shape, saying it poses “sizable but manageable” risks and even then only to certain regional banks with high concentrations of commercial real estate loans.  She said, Fed supervisors were also “working closely” with those banks that either suffered losses in the book value of some assets or who hold large amounts of loans secured by commercial real estate that may have lost value.

After the close, ABNB, AMC, APP, ARM, CART, CENTA, CENT, CAKE, CXW, EXAS, FLNC, HUBS, JXN, LNW, MFC, MMS, MKSI, MRC, HLI, HOOD, NTR, PAAS, SBGI, SNEX, STN, TKO, TSE, TTD, VSTO, WTS, and WES all reported beats on both the revenue and earnings lines.  Meanwhile, ATO, CE, CPAY, CTLT, NWSA, SSRM, STE, RUN, and MODG missed on revenue while beating on earnings.  On the other side, COMP, ET, FG, FNF, MATV, RGLD, and TTEC all beat on revenue while missing on earnings.  However, CAPL, DOX, and QDEL missed on both the top and bottom lines.

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In stock news, on Wednesday, Bloomberg reported that WBD is planning a cost-cutting program that will include an undetermined number of job cuts as well as a price hike for its MAX streaming platform.  Later, GM announced it will end the production of its gasoline-powered Chevrolet Malibu model later this year in order to produce more electric vehicles.  (More than 10 million Malibus have been sold since its introduction in 1964.)  At the same time, BA announced that a crewed flight of its Starliner space capsule had been pushed back at least 10 more days.  (The first crewed flight had been scheduled for Tuesday, but pushed back to Wednesday.  Now it will be delayed at least another 10 days.)  Meanwhile, TSLA announced it has told all employees at its Berline plant to stay home Friday, due to expected protests against the expansion of the company’s plant. Later, MSFT said it will close its software development operations in Nigeria.  (That operation was opened in 2022 and was the company’s largest operation in Africa.)  After the close, WBD and DIS announced they had agreed to bundle their Disney+, Hulu, and Max streaming services starting this summer. (No pricing or exact date was announced, only the agreement that had previously been reported as under discussion.) Also after the close, there was bad blood in the air as GOOGL employees grilled top executives over the poor morale as the company has reported another blowout quarter…but also laid off a bunch of employees, blew up entire groups, and openly stated they plan to let higher-cost US employees go to move development to lower-priced labor countries.

In stock legal and governmental news, on Wednesday, three insurance companies rejected CVX’s $57 million claim related to an Iranian-seized oil cargo.  The three companies filed suit in US federal court asking that the court uphold their determination that the Iranian seizure did not constitute a “war risk” loss.  At the same time, Reuters reported that US Dept. of Justice prosecutors are evaluating whether to file securities and wire fraud charges against TSLA for misleading investors about their car’s “self-driving” capabilities.  (Many times, CEO Musk told conferences that TSLA cars could drive themselves from CA to NY with no human help within the year.) Later, Bloomberg reported that PFE has agreed to settle more than 10,000 Zantac cancer-risk lawsuits for an undisclosed sum.  At the same time, GOOGL announced it will fight the UK’s $17 billion lawsuit alleging the company abused its market dominance in the online advertising market. 

Elsewhere, US House and Senate negotiators agreed to a deal that will codify the recent Dept. of Transportation rules requiring airlines to ensure quick and automatic refunds for canceled flights and fees for services not available.  (US airlines had opposed both the bill and DOT rules.)  At the same time, Turkey’s competition board fined META $37.2 million related to two data-sharing probes.  Later, a group representing SPOT and other music streaming platforms urged the European Commission to reject AAPL’s proposal for complying with the antitrust case ruling against the company in March.  At the same time, HYMTF (Hyundai) and Kia agreed to pay $335k to settle charges it had illegally repossessed 26 vehicles belonging to US military members on active duty.  After the close, a federal judge grilled the head of AAPL’s App Store about whether the company is violating the judge’s order to allow alternative payment options.  The judge said AAPL has set up what seemed to be a series of exasperating hurdles meant to discourage consumers from buying Apps by any way other than through its app store (where AAPL gets a 30% cut).  The tone of the questioning showed frustration and skepticism about AAPL’s complying with the court’s orders.

Overnight, Asian markets were mixed but leaned toward the red side.  India (-1.55%), South Korea (-1.20%), and Australia (-1.06%) led the region lower.  In Europe, we see the opposite picture taking shape at midday with mixed bourses that lean toward the green side.  Belgium (-1.08%) is the biggest mover, but the CAC (+0.15%), DAX (+0.47%), and FTSE (+0.43%) lead the region higher on volume in early afternoon trade.  In the US, as of 7:30 a.m., Futures are pointing toward a modestly down start to the morning.  The DIA implies a -0.22% open, the SPY is implying a -0.21% open, and the QQQ implies a -0.29% open at this hour.  At the same time, 10-year bond yields are up to 4.512% and Oil (WTI) is up 0.78% to $79.60 per barrel in early trading.

The major economic news scheduled for Thursday is limited to Weekly Initial Jobless Claims and Weekly Continuing Jobless Claims (both at 8:30 a.m.), and Fed Balance Sheet (4:30 p.m.).  In addition, Fed member Daly speaks at 2 p.m.  The major earnings reports scheduled for before the open on ADV, ALE, AZUL, BERY, CSIQ, CRL, COMM, CEG, EDR, EPAM, EVRG, HBI, HGV, H, ICL, IHRT, IBP, KELYA, NXST, NOMD, PZZA, PLTK, ACDC, RPRX, RBLX, SBH, SN, SOLV, SPB, TPR, TEF, TIXT, VTNR, VTRS, WBD, and WMG. Then, after the close, AKAM, COLD, AMN, BAP, DBX, SSP, EVH, FIHL, GEN, G, HRB, IAG, IOSP, MTD, PBA, RXT, RBA, and SLF report. 

In economic news later this week, on Friday, Michigan Consumer Sentiment, Michigan Consumer Expectations, Michigan 1-Year Inflation Expectations, Michigan 5-Year Inflation Expectations, the WASDE report, and April Federal Budget Balance as well as Fed members Bowman and Vice Chair Barr speak.

In terms of earnings reports later this week, on Friday, AQN, AMCX, CLMT, CPG, CRH, ENB, HMC, and DNOW report.

In miscellaneous news, a cyberattack disrupted “clinical operations” at major non-profit healthcare provider Ascension Wednesday.  (Ascension operates 140 hospitals and 40 “senior living” facilities across 19 states.)  In politics, MAGA extremist MTG made a surprise motion to vacate the Speaker again.  However, the House voted resoundingly to kill her motion (table it) by a 359-43 vote.  (Only 11 MAGA Republicans, including MTG, voted for the motion along with 32 Democrats.  Meanwhile, 196 Republicans and 163 Democrats voted to table her proposal.)  Meanwhile, a UK-based think tank (Ember) reported Wednesday that 30% of global electricity was generated by renewable sources in 2023.  (This included Hydropower, which fell as a percentage but was still by far the largest renewable source, Wind, and Solar.)  Interestingly, China was the leader, generating nearly 10 times more renewable energy (279.6 Terawatt Hours) than the second-largest producer (Brazil at 35.7 TWh).  The US was in the fourth spot at 24 TWh of renewable electric produced in 2023. 

So far this morning, AVAH, CSIQ, CRL, CCO, COMM, EPAM, ICL, IBP, KELYA, SN, SOLV, SPB, VTNR, and WMG all reported beats on both the revenue and earnings lines.  Meanwhile, BERY, CEG, HBI, HGV, NXST, PZZA, RPRX, TAK, TPR, and TIXT missed on revenue while beating on earnings.  On the other side, EVRG, FOUR, and USFD reported beats on revenue while missing on earnings.  However, ADV, ALE, H, NOMD, SBH, VTRS, and WBD missed on both the top and bottom lines.

With that background, it looks as if markets are heading toward an indecisive, if slightly bearish open. All three major index ETFs started the premarket with a modest gap down. However, all three have also put in white-bodied candles in the early session as the Bulls push back toward even. The SPY, DIA, and QQQ all remain above their T-line (8ema). So, the short-term trend is now bullish again. Meanwhile, the mid-term remains sideways but is leaning toward the bullish again now. The longer-term market remains Bullish as all three major index ETFs have returned within a few percent of all-time highs. Overall, the character of the market is gappy and more than a bit volatile. In terms of extension, none of the three major index ETFs are “too far” extended above their T-line. The T2122 indicator has pulled back a bit, outside of its overbought area. So, while both sides still have room to run if they can gain the momentum to do so. In terms of those 10 big dog tickers, nine of the 10 are in the red this morning putting a considerable drag on the QQQ and SPY. Again, keep in mind that this is not a heavy news week but we do have a lot of earnings reports. Perhaps more importantly, there are several Fed speakers and undoubtedly a few others will also pop off. Any of those statements could swing markets, especially as Bulls are now dreaming of Fed rate cuts again.

As always, be deliberate and disciplined…but don’t be stubborn. If you have a loss, admit you were wrong and take that loss before it gets out of hand. And when the price does move in your direction, always move your stops in your favor and take a little profit off the table. You have to keep the “Legend of the Man in the Green Bathrobe” in mind. In a winning situation, it is NOT HOUSE MONEY you’re betting, it’s YOUR MONEY! There is no reason to keep raising your bet (risk) size just because you’ve had a win. Finally, remember that trading is not a hobby, it’s a job. The gains are real and so is the risk. So, treat it that way. Do the work and follow the process. Stick to your trading rules, trade with the trend, and take those profits when you have them. Do the work!

See you in the trading room.

Ed

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DISCLAIMER: Investing / Trading involves significant financial risk and is not suitable for everyone. No communication from Hit and Run Candlesticks Inc, its affiliates or representatives is not financial or trading advice. All information provided by Hit and Run Candlesticks Inc, its affiliates and representatives are intended for educational purposes only. You are advised to test any new trading approach before implementing it.  Past performance does not guarantee future results.  Terms of Service

Lacking Momentum

Lacking Momentum

Although U.S. finished mixed lacking momentum, on Thursday, China’s import numbers saw a significant 8.4% increase in April, surpassing the 4.8% year-on-year growth predicted by a Reuters survey. Export figures also showed a positive trend, with a 1.5% year-on-year increase in April, measured in U.S. dollar terms, which was in line with market anticipations. Following the release of this data, the CSI 300 index of Mainland China witnessed a 0.95% rise, building on an earlier 0.2% increase at market opening, and ultimately closing at a value of 3,664.56. Meanwhile, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index observed a 1.16% climb. In a separate economic indicator, Japan’s real wages recorded a 2.5% year-on-year decrease in March, continuing a downward trend for the 24th consecutive month.

European markets started the day mixed on Thursday morning amidst a week filled with earnings reports, causing a dip in the recent upward trend. The Stoxx 600 index saw a marginal decrease of 0.16% at 10:30 a.m. London time, breaking a streak of four sessions of gains. Industry performance was varied, with the automotive sector dropping by 1.3%, while oil and gas equities edged up by 0.5%.

U.S. stock futures start the day modestly lower as the upward drive on Wall Street diminished with interest rates slightly higher. The futures associated with the Dow Jones Industrial Average decreased by 69 points, equivalent to a 0.2% drop. Futures of the S&P 500 also fell by 0.2%, and those of the Nasdaq 100 retracted roughly 0.3%. Concurrently, yields on the benchmark 10-year Treasury note surged past the pivotal 4.5% threshold. Yields on the 2-year note witnessed a rise as well.

Economic Calendar

Earnings Calendar

Notable reports for Thursday before the bell include ALGM, ALE, FOLD, BERY, BIGC, BN, CSIQ, CARS, CRNC, CEVA, CRL, CWEN, CCOI, CEG, EDR, EVRG, RACE, FA, FVRR, GDRX, HAE, HBI, HGV, HIMX, H, IBP, NTLA, IRWD, JBI, DUNT, lSPD, MSGE, MPW, NABL, NTCT, NXST, NOMD, PZZA, PAR, PLNT, PLTK, PRVA, RBLX, SBH, SN, SIX, SPB, STVN, TPR, TSEM, USFD, VTRS, WRBY, WBD, WMG, & YETI. After the bell include AKAM, ALRM, COLD, AMN, AMPL, AAOI, ARLO, ARRY, ARWR, BW, BLNK, BE, CARG, CHUY, COLL, DIOD, DBX, EVCM, EVH, EXFY, FNKO, GEN, G, GDOT, GH, HRB, HCAT, INDI, FROG, LGF.A, MARA, MERC, MTD, NVTS, PACB, PGNY, RXT, SVV, SSP, SOUN, SG, SYNA, TTGT, SKIN, TREX, U, VCTR, WEST, XENE, YELP, & ZIP..

News & Technicals’

Arm Holdings unveiled its fourth-quarter earnings on Wednesday, reporting a robust 47% increase in revenue year-over-year, reaching $928 million. Despite this impressive growth, the company’s financial outlook for the fiscal year 2025 did not meet investor expectations. Arm projected its annual revenue to be in the range of $3.8 billion to $4.1 billion, which fell short of the $3.99 billion forecasted by analysts, as per LSEG data. This conservative guidance has led to a lukewarm response from the investment community.

The Bank of England is anticipated to maintain the current interest rates at its upcoming Thursday meeting. Market traders are poised to scrutinize Governor Andrew Bailey’s statement for any nuanced insights. With U.K. headline inflation predicted to decline sharply in April, there is mounting pressure on the BOE to initiate rate reductions to bolster the faltering economy. This development is in contrast to the trajectory of Europe’s central banks, which are diverging from the Federal Reserve’s policy. Market expectations are leaning towards rate cuts post-summer, while some economists speculate that there may be no rate cuts at all.

In the European Union, a strategic period of decision-making is underway as diplomats deliberate over future leadership for its three principal institutions: the European Commission, the European Council, and the European Parliament. From June 6 to 9, citizens from the 27 EU member states will cast their votes to elect new representatives for the European Parliament. Following the elections, the most influential EU positions, which are appointed rather than directly elected, will be allocated. These roles are pivotal in shaping central policies, with the decisions made in Brussels affecting the lives of approximately 450 million individuals throughout the union.

Country Garden Holdings Co., a Chinese property developer, has announced that it will not be able to fulfill the initial payment deadlines for the interest on two of its domestic bonds. In response, a state-backed guarantor is set to intervene, marking a significant moment for a governmental initiative aimed at supporting the real estate sector’s financial stability. According to recent filings, the company’s domestic division is unable to complete the interest payments for its bonds with 3.95% and 3.8% coupon rates by the May 9 deadline. These bonds are underwritten by the China Bond Insurance Co., a state enterprise that plays a central role in a 2022-launched scheme designed to prevent cash flow difficulties for private developers.

Although the Dow had a good day on Wednesday all the indexes were lacking in momentum, as volume was noticeably weak.  Perhaps the huge number of earnings or the weekly jobs numbers can provide some inspiration to the bulls or bears today. Plan your risk carefully and continue to watch for substantial point moves.

Trade Wisely,

Doug