US STOCKMARKET update - THE CALM BEFORE THE STORM...

originally published Wednesday, March 07, 2018

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With the market moving against our short positions a couple of days ago after moving in our favor, many of you are doubtless wondering if our bearish stance is still valid, and also at what point market action would warrant closing out our shorts (bear ETFs, Puts). This update intends to address this issue.

When we examine the latest 3-month chart for the S&P500 index, we find that the index is spiraling in to a state of temporary calm within a Symmetrical Triangle that could be either a top or a consolidation pattern. Fundamentally this reflects the tug of war between the bullish influence of the tax cuts, and the bearish influence of the imbecilic tariffs (amongst other factors of course). Because of what came before this Triangle, we have bet on its breaking to the downside, and that is still the expectation. So at this point there is no reason for us to close out our shorts (bear ETFs, Puts). If it does break down from the Triangle, the state of balance will be over and a violent decline is likely to ensue. If it breaks out upside from the Triangle, considered less likely, then the market can be expected to challenge its January highs. Therefore, if it breaks out upside from the Triangle, all bear positions should be closed out immediately.


It is worth reminding ourselves on the 1-year chart why an upside breakout by the market leading to new highs is viewed as highly unlikely. The current Triangle, which reflects the state of indecision, was preceded by a parabolic blowoff top, and it is almost unheard of for such a blowoff move to be followed soon after by new highs. The current Triangle is thus viewed as a continuation pattern that will be followed by renewed decline, and probably another steep drop.


End of update.


Posted at 10.00 am EST on 7th March 18.

The above represents the opinion and analysis of Mr Maund, based on data available to him, at the time of writing. Mr. Maund's opinions are his own, and are not a recommendation or an offer to buy or sell securities. Mr. Maund is an independent analyst who receives no compensation of any kind from any groups, individuals or corporations mentioned in his reports. As trading and investing in any financial markets may involve serious risk of loss, Mr. Maund recommends that you consult with a qualified investment or securities advisor, one licensed by appropriate regulatory agencies in your legal jurisdiction and do your own due diligence and research when making any kind of a transaction with financial ramifications. Although a qualified and experienced stock market technical analyst, Clive Maund is not a Registered Investment Advisor or Registered Securities Advisor. Therefore Mr. Maund's opinions on the market and stocks cannot be construed as a recommendation or solicitation to buy and sell securities.