Our models remain bullish longer-term, but we have some concerns on a shorter-term
time horizon. The yield on a ten-year Italian bond has crept back up over 5%,
a level which was last seen just prior to recent corrections/big drops in stock
prices (see purple arrows below). Economic data has started to weaken relative
to expectations in a similar manner to what we saw in spring 2011 (blue arrow
below). These readings do not mean a correction is coming, but they tell us
to pay attention. Note the S&P 500's performance after the blue and purple
arrows below.
As we noted yesterday,
materials stocks (XLB) are still contained within a two-month consolidation
pattern. If the economic outlook is favorable, we would expect to see XLB break
to the upside. If XLB can close above 37.65 in a convincing manner, it would
alleviate some of our concerns relative to the market's short-term outlook.
A failed XLB breakout or push below 36.50 would heighten our concerns.
Higher highs in stocks remain quite possible, but a weak push toward 1,430
could be met with resistance from sellers between Wednesday and Monday. Nothing
too alarming has occurred yet, but enough to watch with a skeptical eye.
Chris Ciovacco is the Chief Investment Officer for Ciovacco
Capital Management, LLC. More on the web at www.ciovaccocapital.com.
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but we cannot attest to its accuracy. Investment recommendations may change
and readers are urged to check with their investment counselors and tax advisors
before making any investment decisions. Opinions expressed in these reports
may change without prior notice. This memorandum is based on information available
to the public. No representation is made that it is accurate or complete. This
memorandum is not an offer to buy or sell or a solicitation of an offer to
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