The Materials sector (18.5% of the ASX 200 index) continues its advance, buoyed by a temporary iron ore shortage and positive spin on US-China trade talks. The higher trough on Twiggs Money Flow below confirms buying pressure.
ASX 200 Financials (31.4% of the main index) are testing resistance at 5900/6000 but remain in a primary down-trend. Declining house prices are a significant headwind. Respect of resistance would strengthen the bear signal, while breakout would warn that a base is forming.
The ASX 200 is likely to test the 2018 high at 6350 but remains in a bear market. Another test of the former primary support level, at 5650, is likely. A higher trough, at that level, would reverse the down-trend.
I am cautious on Australian banks and hold more than 40% in cash and fixed interest investments in the Australian Growth portfolio.