We're beginning to see the first meaningful signs of market pressure extending beyond the technology sector as more stocks succumb to the stealth correction. Many of the market's strongest leaders have rapidly become its weakest performers. $SNDK is now down 43% from its high reached just 14 trading days ago, $SPCX has declined more than 45% and continues to accelerate lower this morning, $GLW has surrendered over 40%, and $NFLX has officially become a 50/80 stock, falling more than 50% from its peak. Our $CELC Short Alert on 7/13 proved to be timely.
Some of our strongest performers still holding up well with double-digit gains include: $MATX, $PACS, $CRWD, $MNST, $ADM (which we bumped up yesterday).
Despite the growing weakness beneath the surface, our Open Positions continue to show relative strength, with several names still posting double-digit gains and holding up well. New positions should be given enough room to fluctuate normally, but don't let complacency creep into profitable trades. I wouldn't indiscriminately head for the exits, but this is an environment where tightening stops, protecting gains, and managing risk become increasingly important.
Geopolitical uncertainty is adding another layer of complexity. The conflict between the United States and Iran has expanded beyond strictly military targets, fueling concerns that hostilities could escalate into a broader regional war. With no agreement reached regarding the Strait of Hormuz, the market remains sensitive to the possibility of energy supply disruptions and a renewed inflationary impulse.
One encouraging development is that, despite the recent surge, crude oil remains well below its prior highs. We've seen Middle East headlines create sharp swings in sentiment before, yet quality leadership stocks have generally continued to act well. That remains the key. As long as leading stocks continue to build constructive patterns and respect support, the market deserves the benefit of the doubt.
A meaningful deterioration in leadership or a decisive change in price and volume character would warrant a more defensive posture.
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The Nasdaq 100 has led just about every cycle since the 2022 bear market ended, but now two of its main components, software and semis, are under a lot of selling pressure.
The recent move looks like a blowoff top. Wouldn't be surprised to see some cycles of underperformance after the recent move.
Traders using Stage Analysis will be better equipped to handle what is coming next, while those stuck with growth tech stocks are going to be looking for something to trade.