The Nasdaq composite confirmed its latest rally attempt and produced a sound FTD which means the window is now open to begin buying high-ranked stocks again. Technically, it was encouraging to see the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the benchmark S&P 500 index close above their respective 200 DMA lines. However, the fact that volume receded compared to the prior session prevented the DJIA and S&P 500 from scoring a proper FTD.
At this point, the S&P 500 is down -8.5% from its 19-month high of 1,219 and managed to close above resistance (200 DMA line) of its latest trading range. Looking forward, the 200 DMA line should now act as support as this market continues advancing. Remember to remain very selective because all the major averages are still trading below their downward sloping 50 DMA lines. It was also disconcerting to see volume remain suspiciously light behind Tuesday’s move. It is important to note that approximately +75% of FTD’s lead to new sustained rallies, while +25% fail. In addition, every major rally in market history has begun with a FTD, but not every FTD leads to a new rally. Trade accordingly.