Market Artistry: Making Something Hard Look Soft

As you can tell, I am a big fan of Tom Joyce’s work!

Volatility poked its head out for one day, only to return to complacency.

Yet, is that the end of volatility’s King for a Day?

Artistry, as mastered by Mr. Joyce, is when you can sculpt steel into what looks like soft cushions.

I see issues.

Or at least, I see that jumping in to some positions that look comfy, can cause a huge bruise once you realize you dove onto steel.

Clever deception.

While this month has only a few days left, the fate of a few instruments hangs in the balance.

How do you discern pillows from steel?

One key index and three sectors, all in the Modern Family, will tell us a story by the end of next Tuesday. Auspiciously, that is Halloween.

The scary story:

Big Brother Biotechnology (IBB), which already fell a lot further from the 327-level breakdown, could see 300 before it sees 327 again.

Big Brother Biotech’s job is to attract speculators into the market. No specs, no liquidity.

The Russell 2000 (IWM), under 147 is not so terrible. But under 144.25, should that occur- I will have no problem calling a top. Or at least, sell the next rally kind of top.

Transportation, (IYT) found cushion at 176. However, should a trickster supplant steel for that pillow, hence IYT breaks that level? Ouch.

Retail (XRT), so far is holding up well–make that relatively well.

No way will XRT hold up if the others tailspin. 40.25 is the 50-DMA and the fine line between recovery and bearish.

The happier story:

IBB clears back over 327. IWM clears 150. IYT clears 180 and XRT, at least, holds over 40.25

One bright spot-although not as influential for the US economy-Alphabet and Amazon-big revenue beats-.

However, until we know whether the market serves us tricks or treats, don’t go diving head first.

S&P 500 (SPY) Inside day on key support. Under 255.25 some trouble

Russell 2000 (IWM). The 147-support holding. 144.25 super important and if good, this needs to take out 150