With the major indices going vertical since October 9, I am starting to see some signs of tiring. “Tiring” is a lot different than forecasting a full fledged correction or even a deep pullback. It just means that the odds favor either some sideways action to help restart the engine or some sort of mild price decline to shake out the Johnny Come Latelys.
During this rally, we saw the S&P 500, S&P 400 and Russell 2000 hit all time highs with the NASDAQ at its highest levels since 2000. The Dow has been the laggard index, but I do expect that to get in gear after this pullback and also see new highs.
Gold has cooperated nicely from the recent bullish call and I think more upside is ahead for the shiny metal. As I have discussed all year, especially of late, this is the bond market rally I have been waiting for. The train began to leave the station in late August and September and is now in full motion. Treasuries, quality corporates and government bonds all look higher, especially if they see the slightest bit of weakness first. Our clients have owned high yield bonds for some time and that rally has been the strongest so far and may be growing a bit tired itself.
The US dollar has been under pressure for almost four months and it looks like a major bottom is about to be formed this quarter. My long, long-term view remains very, very positive for the greenback. Uncharacteristically, energy has been hit hard even though we have seen dollar weakness. That indicates strong selling beneath the surface with even lower prices to come.
I am about to start working on a Canaries in the Coal Mine update and I hope to post it on Friday.
