The nearly 400 point downturn overnight that turned into a 260 point gain during the day. We have stuck to our plan of holding longs in equities, but also holding longs in some commodities.
Interestingly, we have taken profits already in the commodities for the most part. The newer equities positions are just starting to build momentum.
Perhaps the Iranian situation has abated. And perhaps not.
Let me remind you that the macro view of a possible stagflationary environment as we get into 2020 is still very much on the table.
In the meantime, following the billionaires’ muscle and their commitment to keeping the market strong makes sense.
Until that changes, do not overthink.
And what could make that change?
I also read as per FirstSquawk that “China is picking up soybean cargoes in Brazil, dashing hopes for big American sales immediately after a deal is signed with the US next week.”
The trend of China buying raw materials from other countries has taken hold.
China’s alliance with Russia and India continues.
And the dollar at risk as the world’s reserve currency remains.
These reasons, along with the low interest rates worldwide are why we are buying commodities. The Iranian conflict goosed our positions so fast, we were compelled to take profits on the strong move up.
Even if Iran stays quiet, should the trade deal disappoint, or the Fed lower rates again, or the dollar become at risk, owning commodities in your portfolio makes sense.
And add to all of that, the seasonal calendar range, which will show itself in a week.
As far as equities, I love to track the Transportation Sector (NYSE:IYT) and small caps, the Russell 2000 (NYSE:IWM).
Last night I wrote, if IYT continues to close above 194.60 and can clear and close above 195.82 today, I would not be surprised to see IWM play catch up.
Although scary overnight, IYT handily held 195.82 today closing at 196.90, while IWM did indeed play some catch up closing about .41% higher.
To sum up, the billionaires are on steroids. Their muscle, along with corporate buybacks, has supported the bullish trend. And the Fed has provided the punch.
Is there a bubble emerging?
Quite possibly. Therefore, do not try to pick a top. Do consider risk/reward when buying stocks.
Do look at commodities and manage your existing positions with aplomb.
S&P 500 (SPY) 322.80 pivotal. 325.78 the ATH. 320 key.
Russell 2000 (IWM) Must clear 167.12 with 165.70 pivotal and 163.70 support
Dow (DIA) All-time high 288.63 with 286.21 pivotal
Nasdaq (QQQ) ATH at 218.14. 214.27 pivotal support
KRE (Regional Banks) 56.70 the 50-DMA support 58.00 resistance
SMH (Semiconductors) ATH at 144.94 with 142.43 pivotal. Below 140, could see move to 135.
IYT (Transportation) 195 pivotal area. 200 key resistance. 192.74 support
IBB (Biotechnology) 121.50 resistance and 115.50 support
XRT (Retail) 45.41 pivotal. 46-47 resistance. 44.70 the 50-DMA