The markets have been on a strong bullish run higher since late March with the Standard and Poor’s 500 Index (SPX) closing today at 4185, up 15 points on the day or 0.4%. The S&P 500 is up nearly 8% since it started this run on March 25th. Trading volume for the S&P 500 companies has risen slowly this week but remains below the 50-day moving average (dma) at 2.50 billion shares.
Volatility for the S&P 500 options, quantified by the volatility index, VIX, continues to decline as the market heads higher, closing today at 16.3%.
The IWM ETF, based on the Russell 2000 group of companies, tracked steadily along its 50-day moving average (dma) this week. I would prefer to see these stocks leading the bullish charge, but they are at least solidly tracking higher. IWM rose 0.9% this week, a bit softer than the S&P 500 at +1.5% for the week.
The NASDAQ Composite index closed at 14052, up 14, and up 1.4% for the week. NASDAQ’s trading volume slowly rose this week, closing today at 4.5 billion shares. However, this level of volume remains well below the 50 dma at 6.0 billion shares.
This week’s news reports seemed to paint the picture of two distinct and opposite perspectives on the pandemic and its effects on the economy. It appears that more and more people and local authorities are rebelling against continued lockdowns and rigid mask and social distancing mandates. The governmental authorities here in Illinois are still adamant about remaining largely locked down and wearing masks everywhere. However, as my wife and I ventured out for dinner a couple of times this week, we witnessed increasing impatience with these restrictions. Businesses are scooting those table closer together and getting back to normal. But it is all being done quietly as the signage and welcoming comments remain along party lines.
I have not changed my market position very much this week. The cash basis of my trading accounts remains similar to last week at 58%. I find it hard to become very confident about this market. The run upward for the past month has been impressive. However, it is hard to ignore the closed businesses I see in my community. I don’t think it is prudent to put too much cash at risk too quickly. I have been jerked around several times this year and I don't want to take another hit.
Make Hay While the Sun Shines
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