Watch out for the caboose

Markets remain tentative and we continue to limit our exposure to roughly 50% of portfolio value. The danger is that you avoid the steam engine but get hit by the caboose when you step back on the tracks. It is safer to wait until the anxiety subsides.

North America

The S&P 500 encountered moderate resistance at the previous high of 2130. Retracement is mild and looks promising for the next attempt at 2130. Decline of 21-day Twiggs Money Flow is gradual, indicating light selling pressure. Breakout above 2130 would signal a fresh primary advance. Reversal below 2050 is unlikely, but would warn of another test of primary support at 1870.

S&P 500 Index

* Target calculation: 2130 + ( 2130 – 1870 ) = 2390

CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) indicates market risk is easing.

S&P 500 VIX

NYSE short sales remain subdued.

NYSE Short Sales

A long-term chart shows the Nasdaq 100 testing its March 2000 high of 4800. Bearish divergence on 13-week Twiggs Money Flow continues to indicate selling pressure but the pattern appears secondary in nature and recovery above the declining trendline would suggest a breakout.

Nasdaq 100

Canada’s TSX 60 reversed below 800, warning of another decline. Failure of 775 would strengthen the signal. A 13-week Twiggs Momentum peak at -5% is a strong bear signal.

TSX 60 Index

* Target calculation: 775 – ( 825 – 775 ) = 725

Europe

Germany’s DAX continues to test resistance at 11000. Recovery of 13-week Twiggs Money Flow above zero indicates medium-term buying pressure. Breakout above 11000 and the descending trendline would suggest another test of the previous high at 12400. Respect is less likely, but would warn of another test of primary support.

DAX

The Footsie is weakening, having respected resistance at 6500. A sharp fall on 13-week Twiggs Money Flow indicates medium-term selling pressure. Breach of 6250 would warn of another test of primary support at 6000. Breakout above 6500 is less likely, but would suggest another test of 7000.

FTSE 100

Asia

The Shanghai Composite Index broke resistance at 3500 and rising 13-week Twiggs Money Flow indicates buying pressure. It would be prudent to wait for a higher trough before interpreting this as a reversal.

Dow Jones Shanghai Index

Japan’s Nikkei 225 broke resistance at 19000. Expect retracement to test the new support level; respect would confirm another test of 21000. Rising 13-week Twiggs Money Flow indicates buying pressure.

Nikkei 225 Index

* Target calculation: 19000 + ( 19000 – 17000 ) = 21000

India’s Sensex fell through the former band of primary support at 26000/26500. 13-Week Twiggs Money Flow troughs above zero continue to indicate long-term buying pressure, but failure to recover above 26500 in the short-term would be a strong bear signal. Follow-through below 25000 would confirm a primary down-trend.

SENSEX

* Target calculation: 25000 – ( 27500 – 25000 ) = 22500

Australia

The ASX 200 broke medium-term support at 5150, warning of another test of primary support at 5000. Another 13-week Twiggs Money Flow trough above zero would indicate strong support at 5000. Breach of 5000 is unlikely at this stage, but would warn of a (long-term) decline to 4000*.

ASX 200

* Target calculation: 5000 – ( 6000 – 5000 ) = 4000

Signs of improvement

Earnings results for the second quarter of 2015 remain on track. Of the 354 stocks in the S&P 500 that have reported, 252 (71%) beat, 26 met and 76 (21%) missed their estimates.

The S&P 500 has lost momentum since March 2015, consolidating below resistance at 2130. Gradual decline of 13-week Twiggs Money Flow suggests buyers remain interested and this is a secondary formation. Breakout above 2130 would signal an advance to 2200*, but there is no indication that this is imminent. Reversal below support at 2040/2050 is unlikely, but penetration of the rising trendline would warn of a reversal — confirmed if support at 1980/2000 is breached.

S&P 500 Index

* Target calculation: 2130 + ( 2130 – 2050 ) = 2210

Dow Jones Industrial Average is weaker than the S&P 500. Breach of support at 17500 would test primary support at 17000. Reversal of 13-week Twiggs Money Flow below zero would warn of selling pressure.

Dow Jones Industrial Average

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) remains low — typical of a bull market.

S&P 500 VIX

Canada’s TSX 60 broke through the upper trend channel, suggesting the correction is over. Follow-through above 875 would indicate another test of 900. Recovery of 13-week Twiggs Momentum above zero would strengthen the signal.

TSX 60 Index

Europe improving

Germany’s DAX respected support at 11000. Follow-through above 11800 would indicate another test of 12400. Rising 13-week Twiggs Money Flow indicates medium-term buying pressure.

DAX

* Target calculation: 12500 + ( 12500 – 11000 ) = 14000

The Footsie similarly respected support at 6500. Follow-through above 6800 would complete a double bottom reversal, indicating a test of 7100. A 13-week Twiggs Money Flow trough above zero flags buying pressure.

FTSE 100

* Target calculation: 7000 + ( 7000 – 6500 ) = 7500

Asia

The Shanghai Composite continues to reflect selling pressure with declining 13-week Twiggs Money Flow. Withdrawal of government support is unlikely, but would cause a breach of 3400/3500.

Shanghai Composite Index

* Target calculation: 4000 – ( 5000 – 4000 ) = 3000

Japan’s Nikkei 225 is respected support at 20000, indicating another test of 21000. Breakout above 21000 would offer a target of 23000*. Decline of 13-week Twiggs Money Flow has leveled off. Reversal below support at 20000 is unlikely but would warn of another test of 19000.

Nikkei 225 Index

* Target calculation: 21000 + ( 21000 – 19000 ) = 23000

A higher trough on India’s Sensex suggests buying pressure. Rising 13-week Twiggs Money Flow confirms. Breakout above 28500 would signal another test of 30000. Decline below 27000 is unlikely.

SENSEX

Australia

The ASX 200 encountered stubborn resistance at 5700. Rising troughs on 21-day Twiggs Money Flow continue to indicate buying pressure. Respect of support at 5550 would be bullish, while breakout above 5700 would indicate another test of 6000. Failure of 5550 is less likely, but would test medium-term support at 5400.

ASX 200

I find the idea that you can introduce democracy by military force a very quaint idea. Moreover, if I wanted to choose a testing ground for doing it, Iraq would be the last nation I would choose.

~ George Soros (2004)

Fedex bounces back

Next Portfolio Update

The next update for S&P 500 and ASX200 Prime Momentum strategies will be on the weekend, so that investors can place trades on Monday, 3rd August 2015, the first trading day of the month.

North America

Bellwether transport stock Fedex respected primary support at $164, rallying strongly to form a bullish engulfing candle on the weekly chart. Recovery of 13-week Twiggs Money Flow above zero would confirm the bull signal, suggesting a target of $184. Breach of $164 is now unlikely, but a primary down-trend would warn that broad economic activity is contracting.

Fedex

The reporting season got off to a shaky start with Apple and Microsoft disappointing but the ship has steadied. Of the 187 stocks in the S&P 500 that have reported so far, 138 (74%) beat, 14 met and 35 (19%) missed their estimates.

The S&P 500 found support above 2050, the higher trough on 21-day Twiggs Money Flow indicating increased interest from buyers. Breakout above 2130 would signal an advance to 2200*, but further consolidation below the resistance level is likely. Reversal below support at 2040/2050 is unlikely.

S&P 500 Index

* Target calculation: 2130 + ( 2130 – 2050 ) = 2210

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) indicates low volatility typical of a bull market.

S&P 500 VIX

Canada’s TSX 60 rallied off the lower trend channel but is likely to encounter resistance at the upper trend channel and 855. Declining 13-week Twiggs Momentum below zero warns of a primary down-trend. Breach of support at 800 would confirm.

TSX 60 Index

Europe

Germany’s DAX is testing support at 11000. A fall-off in export sales to China may be weighing on the market. The decline in 13-week Twiggs Money Flow has leveled off and a trough above zero would signal long-term buyers are driving the market. Recovery above the (second) descending trendline would suggest another advance; confirmed if resistance at 12400 is broken. Reversal below 10700 is unlikely.

DAX

* Target calculation: 12500 + ( 12500 – 11000 ) = 14000

The Footsie found support at 6500. Recovery above 6800 would complete a double bottom reversal, indicating a test of 7100. Completion of a 13-week Twiggs Money Flow trough above zero would also flag buying pressure.

FTSE 100

* Target calculation: 7000 + ( 7000 – 6500 ) = 7500

Asia

The Shanghai Composite experienced strong buying at Wednesday’s close. Support resumed at 3800 on Thursday but efforts to restore stability are likely to undermine credibility of stock prices. The large divergence on 13-week Twiggs Money Flow continues to warn of selling pressure.

Shanghai Composite Index

* Target calculation: 4000 – ( 5000 – 4000 ) = 3000

Japan’s Nikkei 225 is testing support at 20000. Respect would indicate another test of 21000. Breakout above 21000 would offer a target of 23000*. Decline of 13-week Twiggs Money Flow has leveled off, but failure of support at 20000 would signal further selling pressure and another test of 19000.

Nikkei 225 Index

* Target calculation: 21000 + ( 21000 – 19000 ) = 23000

India’s Sensex retreated below 28000, suggesting another test of primary support. Respect of the rising trendline and support at 27000 would indicate the primary up-trend is intact, while breach of 26500 would signal a reversal. A 13-week Twiggs Money Flow trough at zero would confirm buying pressure, while decline below zero would warn of a primary down-trend.

SENSEX

Australia

The ASX 200 is testing resistance at 5650/5700. Breakout would indicate another test of 6000. 13-Week Twiggs Money Flow leveled off, suggesting that selling pressure has eased and the primary up-trend is intact. Reversal below 5400 is unlikely, but would warn of a test of primary support at 5150/5200.

ASX 200

It’s not whether you’re right or wrong, but how much money you make when you’re right and how much you lose when you’re wrong.

~ George Soros

Transports deflate

Bellwether transport stock Fedex is testing primary support at $164 on the weekly chart. Bearish divergence on 13-week Twiggs Money Flow warns of a reversal. Breach of $164 would signal a primary down-trend — a warning that economic activity is contracting.

Nasdaq 100

The LoDI National Index from University of Louisville and Oklahoma State University also declined for the last two months but remains above 50, indicating a healthy level of economic activity.

LoDI National Index

The LoDI Index uses linear regression analysis to combine cargo volume data from rail, barge, air, and truck transit, along with various economic factors. The resulting indicator is designed to predict upcoming changes in the level of logistics and distribution activity in the US and is represented by a value between 1 and 100. An index at or above 50 represents a healthy level of activity in the industry.

Breach of primary support by Fedex and reversal of the LoDI below 50 would warn of a contraction in economic activity but we are not there yet.

North America

The reporting season got off to a shaky start with Apple disappointing but the ship seems to have steadied. Of the 62 stocks in the S&P 500 that have reported, 43 beat, 5 met and 14 (or 22%) missed their estimates.

The S&P 500 met resistance at 2130 and 21-day Twiggs Money Flow peaks close to zero warn of medium-term selling pressure. Another test of support at 2040/2050 is likely. Recovery above 2130 is unlikely at present, but would offer a target of 2200*.

S&P 500 Index

* Target calculation: 2130 + ( 2130 – 2050 ) = 2210

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) remains at low levels typical of a bull market.

S&P 500 VIX

Canada’s TSX 60 respected the upper trend channel, warning of continuation of the correction. Declining 13-week Twiggs Momentum below zero warns of a primary down-trend. Breach of support at 800 would confirm.

TSX 60 Index

* Target calculation: 900 + ( 900 – 850 ) = 950

Australia

The ASX 200 respected resistance at 5650/5700, warning of another test of support at 5400. Breach would test primary support at 5150/5200, while respect would indicate that the correction is over; follow-through above 5700 would confirm. 13-Week Twiggs Money Flow oscillating above zero indicates long-term buying pressure, suggesting that the primary up-trend is intact.

ASX 200

If investing is entertaining, if you’re having fun, you’re probably not making any money. Good investing is boring.

~ George Soros

Greece and Iran party but China lurks in the shadows

From the Wall Street Journal:

Greece’s Parliament passed early Thursday a crucial set of austerity measures required for a eurozone bailout package….The measures were supported by 229 lawmakers in the nation’s 300-seat Parliament.

A Grexit has been avoided for the present, but unless the Greeks are successful in implementing structural reform, reversing many years of cronyism and corruption, we are likely to witness further re-runs in the future.

The nuclear deal with Iran has outraged the Right in Israel and the US. There are many pitfalls along the way but I believe this is a bold step forward. The outcome will be uncertain for many years but presents both sides with a chance to build a new relationship where they can peacefully co-exist. The alternative is another war in the Middle East — with no winners.

Iran

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I was surprised to see the Russians playing a constructive role in the dialogue. I am sure that Vladimir Putin would take personal delight in poking a stick through Obama’s bicycle spokes, but the interests of the state come first. “Follow the green” as one US diplomat described it. The New York Times offers a clue:

Sergey V. Lavrov, the Russian foreign minister, lost no time in talking about the accord on Iran’s nuclear program. He was on television minutes after the deal was clinched, and even before the formal news conference had begun, announcing the landmark agreement to the audience back home and emphasizing the many potential benefits, strategic and economic, that it holds for Russia…..Russia possesses some of the world’s foremost expertise in atomic energy, and has helped build and operate atomic reactors in Iran for many years. Rosatom, the Russian state nuclear energy company, helped build and expand the Bushehr nuclear plant and already has contracts to build two more reactors there.

China, on the other hand still lurks in the background. The state managed to stem the flood, suspending trading on more than 50% of stocks and forbidding large stockholders from selling. This is a public acknowledgment that Chinese stock prices are artificial and in no way to be trusted (“What’s new” some cynics would ask). They have destroyed any credibility that their stock markets had. Japan had zombie banks after their 1990 stock market crash, solvent in name only. China seems to be following a similar path with zombie stocks. Banks who have lent money against those stocks are likely to follow.

For a deeper understanding of the situation, read China’s stock market falling off a cliff: Why, and why care? by Alicia Garcia-Herrero at Bruegel.org

Europe

Germany’s DAX recovered above its descending trendline, indicating the end of the correction. Follow-through above 11600 would strengthen the signal, suggesting a fresh advance. Breakout above 12400 would confirm. Recovery of 13-week Twiggs Money Flow above its descending trendline shows that selling pressure has eased.

DAX

* Target calculation: 12500 + ( 12500 – 11000 ) = 14000

The Footsie also recovered above its descending trendline. Follow-through above 6750 would indicate another attempt at 7100. A 13-week Twiggs Money Flow trough at zero flags buying pressure.

FTSE 100

* Target calculation: 7000 + ( 7000 – 6500 ) = 7500

Asia

The Shanghai Composite is testing resistance at 4000. Government efforts to stem the crash are unlikely to restore credibility to stock prices. The large divergence on 13-week Twiggs Money Flow continues to warn of selling pressure.

Shanghai Composite Index

* Target calculation: 4000 – ( 5000 – 4000 ) = 3000

Japan’s Nikkei 225 recovered above 20000, suggesting a fresh advance. Breakout above 21000 would confirm. Recovery of 13-week Twiggs Money Flow above its descending trendline suggests the correction is over.

Nikkei 225 Index

* Target calculation: 21000 + ( 21000 – 19000 ) = 23000

India’s Sensex recovered above 28000, suggesting a fresh advance. A 13-week Twiggs Money Flow recovery above zero indicates medium-term buying pressure. Breach of primary support at 26500 is now unlikely.

SENSEX

* Target calculation: 30000 + ( 30000 – 27000 ) = 33000

North America

The S&P 500 respected medium-term support at 2040. Another 13-week Twiggs Money Flow trough above zero would confirm long-term buying pressure. Breakout above 2120 would offer a target of 2200*.

S&P 500 Index

* Target calculation: 2100 + ( 2100 – 2000 ) = 2200

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) retreated to low levels typical of a bull market.

S&P 500 VIX

The Nasdaq 100 is approaching its Dotcom-era high of 4800. Breakout above 4550 would signal a test of long-term resistance. 6-Month Twiggs Momentum oscillating above zero reflects a healthy long-term up-trend.

Nasdaq 100

Canada’s TSX 60 recovered above support at 850/855. Breakout above the upper trend channel would indicate the correction is over, suggesting another test of 900. Recovery of 13-week Twiggs Momentum above zero would strengthen the signal. Respect of the upper trend channel is unlikely, but would warn of continuation of the down-trend.

TSX 60 Index

* Target calculation: 900 + ( 900 – 850 ) = 950

Australia

The ASX 200 broke out above its descending trend channel, flagging end of the correction. A 21-day Twiggs Money Flow trough above zero indicates medium-term buying pressure. Follow through above 5700 would signal another test of 6000.

ASX 200


More….

Could a new property tax save the Australian economy?

Will Iran deal nuke crude?

Hint of Greek bailout revives rates (and the Dollar)

Bank share prices tipped to decline

Gold: Is Barrick next?

APRA considers two per cent capital adequacy increase

Greece: the musical (with thanks to Grease)

Markets are constantly in a state of uncertainty and flux and money is made by discounting the obvious and betting on the unexpected.

~ George Soros

Another week another crisis

The crisis in Greece continues, dragging down stocks across Europe.

Germany’s DAX broke support at 11000, warning of a decline to 10000. Reversal of 13-week Twiggs Money Flow below zero would warn of a primary down-trend. Recovery above 11500 is unlikely, but would signal a fresh advance.

DAX

The Footsie found short-term support at 6500. Decline of 13-week Twiggs Money Flow below zero warns of a primary down-trend. A peak below zero or breach of support at 6100 would confirm.

FTSE 100

* Target calculation: 6700 – ( 7100 – 6700 ) = 6300

Asia

Events have been overtaken by collapse of Chinese stocks. The Shanghai Composite found support at 3500, but government efforts are unlikely to stem the rout. Reversal of 13-week Twiggs Money Flow below zero would warn of further selling pressure. Expect support at the primary trendline, around the 3000 level.

Shanghai Composite Index

* Target calculation: 4000 – ( 5000 – 4000 ) = 3000

Japan’s Nikkei 225 was unsettled by events in Shanghai, breaking support at 20000 to warn of a correction. The decline on 13-week Twiggs Money Flow is gradual, suggesting a secondary correction.

Nikkei 225 Index

* Target calculation: 20000 + ( 20000 – 18000 ) = 22000

India’s Sensex retreated below 28000 warning of another test of primary support at 26500. A 13-week Twiggs Money Flow trough above zero, however, would indicate medium-term buying pressure. Breach of support at 26500 is also unlikely, but would signal a primary down-trend with support at 23000*.

SENSEX

* Target calculation: 26500 – ( 30000 – 26500 ) = 23000

North America

The S&P 500 is testing medium-term support at 2040. Declining 13-week Twiggs Money Flow suggests a test of primary support (1980/2000) but today’s rally in China may alleviate this. The index is likely to range below 2120 until the situations in both China and Greece reach a conclusion.

S&P 500 Index

* Target calculation: 2120 + ( 2120 – 2040 ) = 2200

The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) is fairly subdued but likely to break 20, indicating moderate risk.

S&P 500 VIX

Dow Jones Industrial Average broke support at 17600. Follow-through below 17500 would warn of a test of primary support at 17000. Decline of 13-week Twiggs Money Flow below zero indicates strong selling pressure but this was aggravated by yesterday’s technical trading halt on the NYSE and recovery above zero is likely.

Dow Jones Industrial Average

Canada’s TSX 60 broke support at 850, warning of a test of primary support at 800. Decline of 13-week Twiggs Momentum below zero suggests a primary down-trend. Recovery above the descending trendline is unlikely, but would indicate the correction is over.

TSX 60 Index

* Target calculation: 850 – ( 900 – 850 ) = 800

Australia

The ASX 200 found support at 5400, highlighted by the long tail on today’s candle. Breakout above the trend channel is still unlikely, but would indicate the correction is over. It would be prudent, in the current climate, to wait for a higher trough or some other confirmation. Rising 21-day Twiggs Money Flow indicates moderate buying pressure.

ASX 200


More….

Gold Bugs warn of a bear market

Dollar calm while prospect of rate rises fades

Silver tests primary support at $15

Australia: Rising foreign debt

RBA strategy: Fight fire with gasoline

Crude breaks $54

Australian stocks: Buy in July?

Never let a serious crisis go to waste.

~ Rahm Emanuel

Signs of recovery

A strong blue candle on the S&P 500 daily chart suggests that the latest correction is over. Penetration of the descending trendline would confirm. 21-Day Twiggs Money Flow recovery above zero would strengthen the signal. Recovery above 2120 would signal an advance to 2200*. Look for confirmation from the Dow Jones Industrial Average and Transport sector.

S&P 500 Index

* Target calculation: 2120 + ( 2120 – 2040 ) = 2200

CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) at 13 indicates low risk typical of a bull market.

S&P 500 VIX

Dow Jones Industrial Average also shows signs of a recovery. Reversal above 18000 would confirm the correction is over. Breakout above 18300 would offer a target of 19000*. 13-Week Twiggs Money Flow holding above zero continues to signal a healthy primary up-trend. Breach of support at 17500 is unlikely, but would warn of a correction to test primary support (and trendline) at 17000.

Dow Jones Industrial Average

* Target calculation: 18300 + ( 18300 – 17600 ) = 19000

Bellwether transport stock, Fedex surged to test primary resistance at $184. Rising 13-week Twiggs Money Flow indicates buying pressure. Breakout would offer a target of 204* — a positive sign for the economy.

Fedex

* Target calculation: 184 + ( 184 – 164 ) = 204

A long tail on Canada’s TSX 60 suggests strong support at 855. Recovery above the descending trendline would indicate the correction is over. A 13-week Twiggs Momentum trough above zero would signal continuation of the primary up-trend, while breakout above 900 would offer a long-term target of 1000*.

TSX 60 Index

* Target calculation: 900 + ( 900 – 800 ) = 1000

Europe

Germany’s DAX is testing support at 11000. Recovery above the descending trendline would indicate the correction is over. Declining 13-week Twiggs Money Flow continues to warn of selling pressure, but penetration of the descending trendline would also suggest that buyers are back in control. Reversal below 11000 is unlikely, but would offer a target of 10000*.

DAX

* Target calculation: 11000 – ( 12000 – 11000 ) = 10000

The Footsie is testing support at 6700/6750. Declining 13-week Twiggs Money Flow continues to warn of selling pressure, but penetration of the descending trendline would suggest the return of buyers. Breakout above 7100 would confirm a primary advance with a long-term target of 8000*. Reversal below 6700 is unlikely, but would warn of a primary down-trend.

FTSE 100

* Target calculation: 7000 + ( 7000 – 6000 ) = 8000

Asia

The Shanghai Composite broke 5000. The situation appears artificial, considering current economic data, and I believe the accelerating up-trend will lead to a blow-off.

Shanghai Composite Index

* Target calculation: 3500 + ( 3500 – 2500 ) = 4500

Retracement on Japan’s Nikkei 225 Index respected support at 20000, suggesting an advance to 22000*. Oscillation high above zero on 13-week Twiggs Momentum signals a strong primary up-trend.

Nikkei 225 Index

* Target calculation: 20000 + ( 20000 – 18000 ) = 22000

India’s Sensex is testing primary support at 26500. Rising 13-week Twiggs Money Flow indicates medium-term buying pressure, however, and recovery above zero would strengthen the signal. Respect of support and penetration of the descending trendline would suggest another primary advance. Breach of primary support is less likely, but would warn of a primary down-trend with support at 23000*.

SENSEX

* Target calculation: 26500 – ( 30000 – 26500 ) = 23000

Australia

“Unemployment has fallen to a one-year low of 6 per cent in May as an estimated 42,000 jobs were added to the economy last month.” ~ ABC News

The ASX 200 found support at 5500 after solid employment numbers and a rally in US markets. Recovery above 5650 and the descending trendline would indicate the correction is over, suggesting a fresh advance. Breakout above 6000 is still some way off but would offer a target of 6500*. Reversal below 5450 remains as likely, however, and would warn of a test of primary support at 5120/5150.

ASX 200

* Target calculation: 6000 + ( 6000 – 5500 ) = 6500

Moderate decline of 13-week Twiggs Money Flow indicates medium-term selling pressure, typical of a secondary correction not a reversal.

The Banking sector [XBAK] dragged the index lower over the last two months, but now faces solid support at its two-year low of 83. Twiggs Momentum (13-week) bearish divergence warns of a down-trend, but recovery above zero would suggest otherwise.

ASX 300 Banks


More….

The Impunity Trap by Jeffrey D. Sachs | Project Syndicate

RIP ZIRP | PIMCO

How much longer can the global trading system last? | Michael Pettis

Crude retraces

Gold breaks $1180 support

Australian exports hammered

Itzhak Perlman: Schindler’s List

Mike Batt: Caravans (on the move)

The law locks up the man or woman
Who steals the goose off the common
But leaves the greater villain loose
Who steals the common from the goose.

~ Medieval English ditty from Jeffrey Sachs The Impunity Trap

ASX breaks support

Australia

The ASX 200 broke through the band of support between 5650 and 5550, warning of a test of primary support at 5120. Declining 13-week Twiggs Money Flow indicates medium-term selling pressure, typical of a secondary correction not a reversal.

ASX 200

If we look at the two biggest sectors on a monthly chart, Metals & Mining has been in a down-trend since 2011 and is testing the lows of 2008. The Australian economy withstood the decline primarily because of low employment in the mining sector relative to its size.

ASX 300 Metals & Mining

Banks held up surprisingly well on the back of a resilient real estate market — I would call it a housing bubble because of the high average price to household income ratio. Pressure is mounting to improve bank capital ratios (especially after the Murray Inquiry) and curb aggressive lending. The long-awaited correction is under way and likely to find support between 82 and 84. The weight of the sector means the ASX 200 index is likely to follow.

ASX 300 Banks

Twiggs Momentum, however, shows a bearish divergence and has crossed below zero, warning of a (sector) reversal. Breach of primary support would strengthen the signal.

North America

The S&P 500 is ranging in a bullish narrow band between 2100 and 2120 on the daily chart. 21-Day Twiggs Money Flow holding above zero suggests moderate buying pressure. Upward breakout would signal an advance to 2200*, while reversal below 2100 would warn of a correction to 2040/2050. Look for confirmation from the Dow Jones Industrial Average.

S&P 500 Index

* Target calculation: 2120 + ( 2120 – 2040 ) = 2200

CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) indicates low risk typical of a bull market. The 63-day moving average holding below 20 reinforces the signal.

S&P 500 VIX

Dow Jones Industrial Average found support at 18000. Expect another test of resistance at 18300. Breakout would offer a target of 19000*. Reversal below 18000 is unlikely, but would warn of a correction to test the primary trendline and support at 17000.

Dow Jones Industrial Average

* Target calculation: 18300 + ( 18300 – 17600 ) = 19000

Canada’s TSX 60 continues to test resistance at 890. Breakout would confirm the end of the correction and indicate another test of long-term resistance at 900. 13-Week Twiggs Momentum holding above zero suggests a primary up-trend. Breakout above 900 would offer a long-term target of 1000*.

TSX 60 Index

* Target calculation: 900 + ( 900 – 800 ) = 1000

Europe

Germany’s DAX retreated from resistance at 12000. Declining 13-week Twiggs Money Flow warns of further selling pressure. Reversal below 11000 is unlikely, but would offer a target of 10000*.

DAX

* Target calculation: 11000 – ( 12000 – 11000 ) = 10000

The Footsie is ranging in a bullish narrow band on the weekly chart. Gradual decline of 13-week Twiggs Money Flow is typical of a secondary correction or consolidation. Breakout above 7100 would confirm a primary advance, offering a long-term target of 8000*. Reversal below 6900 is unlikely, but would warn of a correction to 6700.

FTSE 100

* Target calculation: 7000 + ( 7000 – 6000 ) = 8000

Asia

The Shanghai Composite is testing 5000 after a brief retracement to 4500. Bearish divergence on 13-week Twiggs Money Flow warns of selling pressure. I am wary of long-term prospects for the Chinese economy and believe the current accelerating up-trend is likely to end in a blow-off.

Shanghai Composite Index

* Target calculation: 3500 + ( 3500 – 2500 ) = 4500

Japan’s Nikkei 225 Index is headed for a target of 22000*, but bearish divergence on 13-week Twiggs Money Flow warns of selling pressure.

Nikkei 225 Index

* Target calculation: 20000 + ( 20000 – 18000 ) = 22000

India’s Sensex is headed for a test of primary support at 26500. Succesive peaks below zero on 13-week Twiggs Money Flow warn of reversal to a primary down-trend. Breach of primary support would confirm. Recovery above 28000 is unlikely, but would signal another test of 30000.

SENSEX


More….

Treasury yields surge but Dollar falls

Gold tests support at $1180

U2 busking in NYC subway

Yann Tiersen: The Fall

Life is a school of probability.

~ Walter Bagehot

Stocks find support

Breakouts on the S&P 500 and in China and Japan, together with buying support across Europe and Asia, indicate a broad resurgence.

North American Stocks

The S&P 500 is retracing to test the new support level at 2120 after its recent breakout. Respect of support would confirm a further advance to 2200*. 21-Day Twiggs Money Flow is oscillating in a narrow range above the zero line, suggesting mild buying pressure. Upward breakout would signal another advance, while reversal below zero would warn of a correction.

S&P 500 Index

* Target calculation: 2120 + ( 2120 – 2040 ) = 2200

CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) at 12 continues to indicate low risk typical of a bull market.

S&P 500 VIX

St Louis Fed Financial Stress index below -1.0 likewise displays low levels of stress in financial markets.

St Louis Fed Financial Stress Index

Dow Jones Industrial Average continues to test resistance at 18300. Buying pressure remains positive and breakout would offer a target of 19000*, confirming the S&P 500 signal. Reversal below 18000 is unlikely, but would warn of a correction to test the primary trendline and support at 17000.

Dow Jones Industrial Average

* Target calculation: 18300 + ( 18300 – 17600 ) = 19000

Canada’s TSX 60 is testing resitance at 890. Breakout would signal the end of the correction and another test of long-term resistance at 900. 13-Week Twiggs Momentum holding above zero continues to indicate a primary up-trend. Breakout above 900 would offer a long-term target of 1000*.

TSX 60 Index

* Target calculation: 900 + ( 900 – 800 ) = 1000

Europe

Germany’s DAX broke its descending trendline, indicating another attempt at 12500. A 13-week Twiggs Money Flow trough above zero would confirm long-term buying pressure. Reversal below 11000 is unlikely.

DAX

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* Target calculation: 12500 + ( 12500 – 12000 ) = 13000

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Shallow retracement on the Footsie suggests buying pressure. Recovery of 13-week Twiggs Money Flow above its descending trendline strengthens the signal. Breakout above 7100 would confirm a primary advance. The long-term target is 8000*.

FTSE 100

* Target calculation: 7000 + ( 7000 – 6000 ) = 8000

Asia

The Shanghai Composite broke resistance at 4500, indicating continuation of its strong advance. 13-Week Twiggs Money Flow troughs high above zero reflect long-term buying pressure.

Shanghai Composite Index

* Target calculation: 3500 + ( 3500 – 2500 ) = 4500

Economic data, however, continues to warn of a slow-down.

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Japan’s Nikkei 225 Index broke resistance at 20000, suggesting an advance to 22000*. Recovery of 13-week Twiggs Money Flow above the descending trendline would strengthen the signal.

Nikkei 225 Index

* Target calculation: 20000 + ( 20000 – 18000 ) = 22000

India’s Sensex respected support at 26500 and is now testing resistance at 28000. Breakout above 28000 and the descending trendline would signal another attempt at 30000. Recovery of 13-week Twiggs Money Flow above zero would strengthen the signal. Another (TMF) peak below zero is unlikely, but would warn of a primary down-trend.

SENSEX

Australia

The ASX 200 found support between 5650 and 5550, highlighted by the latest long-tailed candle. Recovery above 5750 would signal the correction is over and another test of 6000 is likely. Mild decline on 13-week Twiggs Money Flow indicates medium-term selling pressure — not a reversal. Breach of 5550 is unlikely, but would warn of a test of primary support at 5120.

ASX 200

* Target calculation: 6000 + ( 6000 – 5750 ) = 6250


More….

Liquidity Mismatch Helps Predict Bank Failure and Distress

T-Bonds Burn

Philip Glass: Glassworks

Elodie Sablier: Vertigo

B.B. King: The Thrill Is Gone

Teach us that wealth is not elegance; that profusion is not magnificence; and that splendour is not beauty. Teach us that taste is a talisman which can do greater wonders than the millions of the loanmonger. Teach us that to vie is not to rival, and to imitate not to invent. Teach us that pretension is a bore. Teach us that wit is excessively good-natured, and, like champagne, not only sparkles, but is sweet. Teach us the vulgarity of malignity. Teach us that envy spoils our complexions, and that anxiety destroys our figure.

~ Benjamin Disraeli, The Young Duke (1831)

Long-tailed candles

Stocks are recovering from their recent soft patch and breakout above resistance is likely, signaling further gains.

North American Stocks

The S&P 500 is testing medium-term resistance at 2120. Breakout would signal an advance to 2200*. Three weekly candles with long tails reflect medium-term buying pressure, while a 13-week Twiggs Money Flow trough high above zero indicates long-term pressure. Retracement that respects the new support level at 2100 would further strengthen the bull signal.

S&P 500 Index

* Target calculation: 2120 + ( 2120 – 2040 ) = 2200

CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) at 12 indicates low risk typical of a bull market.

S&P 500 VIX

Dow Jones Industrial Average is testing resistance at 18300. Buying pressure appears similar to the S&P 500 and breakout would offer a target of 19000*.

Dow Jones Industrial Average

* Target calculation: 18300 + ( 18300 – 17600 ) = 19000

Canada’s TSX 60 found support at 870. 13-Week Twiggs Momentum holding above zero continues to indicate a primary up-trend. Breakout above 900 would offer a long-term target of 1000*.

TSX 60 Index

* Target calculation: 900 + ( 900 – 800 ) = 1000

Europe

Germany’s DAX encountered support above 11000. Penetration of the descending trendline would indicate the correction is over and follow-through above 12000 would suggest a primary advance. Declining 13-week Twiggs Money Flow warns of continued selling pressure and a further test of 11000, but respect of support remains likely and would provide a solid base for further advances.

DAX

The Footsie also displays long tails, suggesting medium-term buying support, but declining 13-week Twiggs Money Flow indicates continued selling pressure. Breach of 6900 would warn of a correction to 6700, but further losses are unlikely at present. Recovery above 7100 would confirm the long-term breakout, offering a target of 8000*.

FTSE 100

* Target calculation: 7000 + ( 7000 – 6000 ) = 8000

Asia

The Shanghai Composite is consolidating between 4000 and 4500. Breach of either of these levels would signal future direction. Declining 13-week Twiggs Money Flow warns of medium-term selling pressure, favoring the downside.

Shanghai Composite Index

* Target calculation: 3500 + ( 3500 – 2500 ) = 4500

Short retracement on Japan’s Nikkei 225 Index is a bullish sign. Breakout above 20000 would offer a target of 22000*. Declining 13-week Twiggs Money Flow reflects medium-term selling pressure; recovery above the descending trendline would be a bullish sign.

Nikkei 225 Index

* Target calculation: 20000 + ( 20000 – 18000 ) = 22000

India’s Sensex found support between 26500 and 27000. Long tails suggest medium-term buying pressure. Recovery above 28000 and the descending trendline would suggest another attempt at 30000. But 13-week Twiggs Money Flow remains below zero, warning of (long-term) selling pressure. Another peak below zero would warn of breach of primary support and a reversal.

SENSEX

Australia

ASX 200 support at 5750, 5650 or 5550: which is most relevant? Judging by some of the questions received, I succeeded in confusing a number of readers. Here is a brief summary:

  • 5750 acted as medium-term support until the beginning of May, when breach of 5750 and the rising trendline warned of a correction.
  • 5750 transformed into medium-term resistance and penetration would suggest the correction is over.
  • There is a strong band of support between the two recent (2014) highs of 5650 and 5550.
  • Breach of this band (i.e. below 5550) would indicate a test of primary support at 5120.
  • Respect (i.e. 5550 intact) would provide a solid base for a rally and a further (primary) advance if resistance at 6000 is broken.

Mild decline of 13-week Twiggs Money Flow suggests medium-term selling pressure — not a reversal. Recovery above 5750 remains more likely than breach of 5550.

ASX 200

* Target calculation: 6000 + ( 6000 – 5750 ) = 6250


More….

Gold: Ichimoku Cloud

Benjamin Disraeli: Success

China: Cement Production

US GDP: Where is it headed?

Peter Drucker: Last deadly sin

B.B. King: The Thrill Is Gone

B.B. King: Lucille

I think I’ve done the best I could have done. But I keep wanting to play better, go further. There are so many sounds I still want to make, so many things I haven’t yet done. When I was younger I thought maybe I’d reached that peak. But I’m 86 now, and if I make it through to next month, I’ll be 87. And now I know it can never be perfect, it can never be exactly what it should be, so you got to keep going further, getting better.

~ Riley (B.B.) King