Best Financial Markets Analysis Article We updated our similar markets study last night. The results are similar to the first pass. As mentioned in the July 18 video (see below), the slope of the S&P 500’s 200-day moving average remains a key differentiator between markets that should have been sold and markets that warranted a more balanced approach to risk management.

The current slope of the S&P 500’s 200-day is basically flat, telling us to reduce risk, but not to throw in the towel yet. If the slope of the 200-day turns down especially for more than a few days, we will reduce risk further.

The green arrows in the charts below show the midpoint of the similar historical periods as identified by the CCM Bull Market Sustainability Index (BMSI) and CCM 80-20 Correction Index (80-20 CI). Notice in 1998 the slope of the 200-day flattened out, but did not turn over in an obvious manner. Stocks recovered in 1998 and went on to make new highs.

In 1999, we had a similar situation; the slope of the 200-day flattened out, but did not turn over in an obvious manner. Stocks recovered in 1999 and went on to make new highs.

In 2000, the bear market began in earnest after the slope of the 200-day rolled over in a convincing manner.

The 2007-2009 bear market also ramped up its bearish bias when the slope of the 200-day turned negative.

As we mentioned in the video above, we do not feel 1984 is all that good a proxy for the current technical backdrop. However, when the slope of the 200-day turned up, it was a bullish signal.

Given the recent deterioration in the market’s risk-reward profile, we have reduced our mix of risk assets and more conservative assets to roughly 50%-50% depending on the needs and risk tolerance of the client. If the market can find its footing soon, we will maintain that mix for a time. If we see further deterioration, we will raise more cash. The risk portion of our portfolio is mainly comprised of the S&P 500 Index (SPY) and mid-caps (IJK). Our conservative portion is primarily made up of cash, bonds, gold (GLD), and silver (SLV). Our gold and silver represent a hedge against the possible further debasement of paper currencies. The Fed meets next Tuesday; we believe the odds are decent they will make some precious-metal-friendly comments.

By Chris Ciovacco
Ciovacco Capital Management

Chris Ciovacco is the Chief Investment Officer for Ciovacco Capital Management, LLC. More on the web at www.ciovaccocapital.com

Ciovacco Capital Management, LLC is an independent money management firm based in Atlanta, Georgia. As a registered investment advisor, CCM helps individual investors, large & small; achieve improved investment results via independent research and globally diversified investment portfolios. Since we are a fee-based firm, our only objective is to help you protect and grow your assets. Our long-term, theme-oriented, buy-and-hold approach allows for portfolio rebalancing from time to time to adjust to new opportunities or changing market conditions. When looking at money managers in Atlanta, take a hard look at CCM.

All material presented herein is believed to be reliable but we cannot attest to its accuracy. Investment recommendations may change and readers are urged to check with their investment counselors and tax advisors before making any investment decisions. Opinions expressed in these reports may change without prior notice. This memorandum is based on information available to the public. No representation is made that it is accurate or complete. This memorandum is not an offer to buy or sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities mentioned. The investments discussed or recommended in this report may be unsuitable for investors depending on their specific investment objectives and financial position. Past performance is not necessarily a guide to future performance. The price or value of the investments to which this report relates, either directly or indirectly, may fall or rise against the interest of investors. All prices and yields contained in this report are subject to change without notice. This information is based on hypothetical assumptions and is intended for illustrative purposes only. THERE ARE NO WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AS TO ACCURACY, COMPLETENESS, OR RESULTS OBTAINED FROM ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS ARTICLE. PAST PERFORMANCE DOES NOT GUARANTEE FUTURE RESULTS.

Chris Ciovacco Archive

Only logged in users are allowed to post comments. Register/ Log in

The Market Oracle is a FREE Financial Markets Forecasting & Analysis web-site.
(c) 2005-2024 MarketOracle.co.uk (Market Oracle Ltd) - Market Oracle Ltd asserts copyright on all articles authored by our editorial team and all comments posted. Any and all information provided within the web-site, is for general information purposes only and Market Oracle Ltd do not warrant the accuracy, timeliness or suitability of any information provided on this site. nor is or shall be deemed to constitute, financial or any other advice or recommendation by us. and are also not meant to be investment advice or solicitation or recommendation to establish market positions. We do not give investment advice and our comments are an expression of opinion only and should not be construed in any manner whatsoever as recommendations to enter into a market position either stock, option, futures contract, bonds, commodity or any other financial instrument at any time. We recommend that independent professional advice is obtained before you make any investment or trading decisions. By using this site you agree to this sites Terms of Use. From time to time we promote or endorse certain products / services that we believe are worthy of your time and attention. In return for that endorsement and only in the cases where you purchase directly though us may we be compensated by the producers of those products.