Sentiment – 5-Day Put/Call Volume Ratio The 5-day moving average of the put/call volume ratio has hit its lowest point since late 2021’s bull market peak. Sustained low readings in this ratio often indicate market tops and excessive optimism. Image: Deutsche Bank Asset Allocation
Small-Caps: Upper End of Long-Term Range The combination of historical patterns, attractive valuations, and positive earnings growth forecasts suggests that U.S. small-caps may be well-positioned for a period of outperformance in the near future. Image: Fundstrat Global Advisors, LLC
Gold Consecutives Weekly Gains A perfect storm of factors—including inflation worries, robust central bank purchases, geopolitical uncertainties, and favorable monetary policies—has propelled gold prices upward for eight consecutive weeks. Image: The Daily Shot
Fed Balance Sheet Goldman Sachs predicts the Fed will slow its balance sheet reduction in June 2025 and end quantitative tightening by September, which could influence market liquidity and interest rates. Image: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research
U.S. Household Equity Ownership vs. S&P 500 Valuations Despite positive economic indicators and strong investor sentiment supporting the current market, the high levels of household equity allocation present risks that could trigger corrections and impact long-term returns. Image: Real Investment Advice
S&P 500 Performance When Higher in January and February When the S&P 500 finishes higher in both January and February, the rest of the year tends to be positive 93.1% of the time, with an average gain of 12.3%, which would likely frustrate those with persistently bearish market views. Image: Carson Investment Research
Magnificent Seven Stocks – Change in Number of Hedge Fund Owners During the fourth quarter of 2024, hedge funds reduced their exposure to the “Magnificent Seven” stocks as the weight of these stocks in portfolios reached record levels. Image: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research
ISABELNET Cartoon of the Day Bears hate a strong February, as it is often viewed as a bullish indicator for U.S. stocks. Historically, when the S&P 500 rises in both January and February, it has been a reliable predictor of positive returns for the entire year! Happy Friday, Everyone! 😎
Cumulative Effect of AI Adoption on Productivity Growth The global adoption of AI is expected to significantly boost labor productivity and drive economic growth, potentially leading to substantial increases in GDP. Image: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research
U.S. GDP Consensus Forecast The U.S. exceptionalism narrative appears fragile. With expectations already high, there’s little room for positive surprises, and weaker economic data could hurt the dollar due to investors’ skewed positioning. Image: TS Lombard
U.S. Stock Market – Margin Debt and Free Cash Balances The record surge in margin debt reflects heightened risk-taking among investors. If retail enthusiasm persists, this trend may continue, but elevated margin debt levels could amplify market volatility. Image: Real Investment Advice