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2/8/24
#Stocks – $AAPL, $NVDA, $TSLA
#Macro – $SPX, $DXY, #RATES
Mike’s Reading The Markets Macro Subscription Service on Seeking Alpha
- RTM: Are We There Yet?
- RTM: Tech Down, Rates Down, Dollar Down. Go Figure
- Rates And The Dollar Move Higher Following ISM Report
- Hot Jobs Means Nothing?
- RTM: Falling Into Place?
- RTM: Better Luck Next Time
YouTube Video –
Michael Kramer and the clients of Mott Capital Own AAPL
So, it was another rather boring day, with the S&P 500 finishing flat, rates up, the dollar up, and implied volatility somewhat higher. This has been a very odd earnings season.
Last night, I noted a rising wedge in the S&P 500, and as of today’s close, the index is pretty much out of room. There might be a little bit more time it could buy, but not much. As I mentioned yesterday, these patterns are bearish by definition. However, just because something is bearish doesn’t mean it has to break lower. Normally, I would have much more confidence in this pattern, but given how difficult the last four months have been for my S&P 500 views, I am quite hesitant about it. If the pattern breaks lower, then it could retrace back to its origin at 4850. Where it goes from there, I would have to see.
If it reaches 4,850, a lot can start to happen because I have numerous trend lines converging in that region. If these trend lines begin to break, things could start to happen.
I noted earlier that implied volatility somewhat increased today, and that’s because the VIX was essentially flat, but the VVIX rose by 3% to 83, marking an increase for two consecutive days. Sometimes, when the VVIX starts to rise, the VIX isn’t too far behind. The VVIX measures the implied volatility of the VIX, and when the implied volatility of the VIX starts to rise, it suggests to me that something is happening beneath the surface to cause this.
Part of the reason why we see the VIX remain below 13 to 14 is due to the significant gamma buildup around the options expiration next Wednesday, yes, February 14th. It’s unusual to see the VIX options expiration (OPEX) occur on the second Wednesday of the month, but that’s what the calendar indicates. I bring this up because it’s interesting to observe implied volatility levels rising from beneath, while options flows are helping to keep the VIX contained.
Meanwhile, the 30-year bond auction today went fine, yet we still saw the 30-year and the 10-year rates move higher. The 10-year is very close to breaking out and rising above the 4.20% region. If that happens, I think we could see it rise to around 4.35% to start with.
I’m also keeping an eye on the Mexican Peso, of all things, because it looks like a double bottom is in the process of forming, mixed in with a diamond reversal pattern. There’s solid momentum forming on the RSI, which has been pushing higher since June.
When you invert the peso, it becomes easier to see the relationship between the Peso and the S&P 500. These relationships between the S&P 500 and currencies seem to exist widely and are really more a function of the dollar weakening and strengthening. This emphasizes how much of the market movements have to do with changes in financial conditions. It is also evident that the S&P 500 and the peso are diverging.
Apple is also diverging from the S&P 500 and appears to be in a more bearish formation than the S&P 500. A close below $186 likely sets up a drop back to around $167.
It almost looks like Tesla has broken the neckline of a head and shoulders pattern. It’s not clear at this point, but I can easily get the impression that if this is indeed the confirmation of the pattern, then the losses in the stock aren’t over yet.
Nvidia exhibited a notable reversal candle today, after moving above yesterday’s high and then closing below yesterday’s close. However, given how overbought it is, and the fact that the call wall for the stock for this week and next week is at $700, there’s probably a good reason why the stock has struggled in this region over the last four days.
Anyway…
-Mike
Charts used with the permission of Bloomberg Finance L.P. This report contains independent commentary to be used for informational and educational purposes only. Michael Kramer is a member and investment adviser representative with Mott Capital Management. Mr. Kramer is not affiliated with this company and does not serve on the board of any related company that issued this stock. All opinions and analyses presented by Michael Kramer in this analysis or market report are solely Michael Kramer’s views. Readers should not treat any opinion, viewpoint, or prediction expressed by Michael Kramer as a specific solicitation or recommendation to buy or sell a particular security or follow a particular strategy. Michael Kramer’s analyses are based upon information and independent research that he considers reliable, but neither Michael Kramer nor Mott Capital Management guarantees its completeness or accuracy, and it should not be relied upon as such. Michael Kramer is not under any obligation to update or correct any information presented in his analyses. Mr. Kramer’s statements, guidance, and opinions are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Neither Michael Kramer nor Mott Capital Management guarantees any specific outcome or profit. You should be aware of the real risk of loss in following any strategy or investment commentary presented in this analysis. Strategies or investments discussed may fluctuate in price or value. Investments or strategies mentioned in this analysis may not be suitable for you. This material does not consider your particular investment objectives, financial situation, or needs and is not intended as a recommendation appropriate for you. You must make an independent decision regarding investments or strategies in this analysis. Upon request, the advisor will provide a list of all recommendations made during the past twelve months. Before acting on information in this analysis, you should consider whether it is suitable for your circumstances and strongly consider seeking advice from your own financial or investment adviser to determine the suitability of any investment.