Sven Henrich: Technical Analysis Says "Remain Bullish, But Be Careful"
Nov 3, 2024
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Sven Henrich, a seasoned market analyst at NorthmanTrader.com, shares his insights on current market conditions and technical analysis. He reflects on the recent sell-off and subsequent bull market, emphasizing the importance of cautious optimism. Discussions delve into geopolitical tensions, rising yields, and their socio-economic repercussions, including the widening wealth gap. Henrich warns of potential market overvaluation and advocates for flexibility in investment strategies to navigate the complexities ahead.
Current market valuations are concerning, suggesting potential overvaluation similar to the 2000 tech bubble, which may precede a correction.
Government fiscal policies and high annual deficits contribute to market buoyancy, indicating a bullish environment, yet caution is advised due to sustainability concerns.
The upcoming U.S. elections could significantly impact market volatility, with contested outcomes potentially triggering sharp corrections and heightened risks.
Deep dives
Market Valuation Concerns
The current market valuation is significantly concerning as experts indicate that it is not cheap, especially when considering the market capitalization of the top three stocks, which stands at $10.5 trillion and has a price-to-sales ratio of 19. Historical comparisons show that this pricing level has not been sustained before and could indicate an impending market correction. Investors are warned that the ratios seen are reminiscent of the 2000 tech bubble, which suggests that the market may be showing signs of becoming overvalued. As a result, many analysts advise caution, emphasizing that future returns may be impaired due to these high valuations.
Impact of Government Fiscal Policies
Government fiscal policies have greatly contributed to market buoyancy, with significant annual deficits reaching $1.8 trillion, prompting discussions on the sustainability of such spending. This level of government debt issuance is historically stimulative, creating an environment conducive to rising asset prices. Analysts suggest that fiscal dominance will remain critical in navigating market conditions, particularly as the current financial conditions show signs of easing. This suggests a bullish scenario for equities, yet caution is warranted due to the potential implications of high fiscal deficits on future market stability.
Expectations Surrounding Upcoming Elections
The upcoming U.S. elections are seen as capable of generating significant market volatility, particularly if outcomes lead to contested results or uncertainty. Analysts highlight that election results can trigger sharp market reactions, with the potential for corrections prevalent if political narratives escalate tension. A decisive and clean electoral outcome may provide a positive outlook for market sentiment, yet there is shared concern that a contested election may lead to deeper market corrections. Thus, how the election unfolds will likely shape the near-term volatility and risk in the markets.
Technical Indicators Raise Concerns
Several technical indicators currently signal vulnerabilities within the market, suggesting that a substantial correction may be on the horizon. Notably, signs of divergences in key index performances suggest that the rally's strength may be overstated, risking a significant downturn. Instances of new all-time highs occurring amid negative divergences raise alarms regarding the underlying market strength and sustainability. As historical patterns suggest, such divergences preceded notable market corrections, necessitating vigilance among investors.
Wealth Inequality and Its Implications
The rising wealth gap exacerbated by current economic policies raises concerns about potential social instability and unrest. Analysts note that while asset prices soar, the benefits are disproportionately concentrated among asset owners, leaving lower-income groups struggling to keep up with inflation and rising costs. This disconnect between the flourishing stock market and stagnant wages for the average consumer can have dangerous societal consequences. Observations suggest that if left unaddressed, these disparities could lead to geopolitical tensions and broader societal repercussions.
When Sven Henrich of NorthmanTrader.com was last on this program in July, he shared that he had just closed out all his longs and moved to cash.
That moved paid off, as the S&P fell over 300 points in the following few weeks.
Stocks rebounded after the sell-off and have powered higher up to today, now back near all-time highs.
So what does his Technical Analysis tell us to expect next? Especially with volatility elevated, both in stocks as measured by the VIX and in bonds as measured by the MOVE index.
To find out, we'll now hear from the man himself.
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#technicalanalysis #bullmarket #volatility
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