ONE-TWENTY TWO: Trading Financial Markets
Exploring the poetry in financial markets for students of money and economy since the year 2000.
Housing Market Intro and Summary The U.S. housing market ended 2025 with mixed signals. Builder stocks are stuck in trading ranges, builder confidence has stalled, and affordability remains strained. Pockets of strength in sales activity is likely coming from a softening price environment and higher inventory levels. The data points do not tell a single, … Read more
The Market Breadth Summary Stock Market Commentary I am risk off in the coming week because market breadth failed twice at the overbought level. One failure is enough to make me cautious, but two tells me that the market is fighting too hard just to go higher. Moreover, earnings season is in full swing. For … Read more
The Market Breadth Summary Small cap stocks led a market breadth breakout, then faded just short of overbought, leaving me encouraged by momentum but wary of a near-term pullback. The S&P 500 ground to fresh highs, while the NASDAQ lagged by stalling at prior peaks. A clean breakout still awaits for the NASDAQ. CES-driven leadership … Read more
Stock Market Analysis Summary Major U.S. equity indices extended gains after a strong end to November, supported by expectations of a December Fed rate cut. Market breadth indicators (AT50, AT200) improved but failed at primary downtrend resistance, signaling lingering internal weakness. Small caps (IWM) outperformed with a breakout to all-time highs, while several major tech … Read more
Stock Market Analysis Summary Market liquidity fears intensified across equities and crypto as market breadth continued to deteriorate. The major stock market indices confirmed bearish technical breakdowns. Major AI and tech stocks confirmed weakening momentum. The week ended with a relief rally after rate-cut expectations surged with Fed Governor Williams teasing a possible December easing. … Read more