Shaken, Not Stirred: Wall Street's Winning Streak Defies Economic Gravity!

A Winning Hand or a Bluff?

Well this is a turn up for the books. The S&P 500 that old reliable index is on a nine day winning streak. Not since November 2004 has it performed such a feat. One might say it's rarer than a dry martini in a desert shaken not stirred of course. Even the Dow Jones is joining the party enjoying its longest winning streak in over a year. It appears the market's saying "No Mr. White I expect you to buy!"

Across the Pond: London's Record Run

Not to be outdone our friends across the pond in London are having a jolly good time. The FTSE 100 index has clocked a record 15 consecutive days of gains. Seems everyone's eager to get a slice of the action. Perhaps they've discovered my secret investment strategy: Buy low sell higher... and always look good doing it.

Technical Difficulties Solved?

According to the experts this isn't just a fluke. Mary Ann Bartels from Sanctuary Wealth claims the rally is patching up some 'technical damage' from earlier in the year. Apparently market breadth is strong and 'buy signals' are flashing like Q's latest gadgets. Volume is 'decent enough' which in my line of work is a bit like saying a Walther PPK is 'adequate'. I prefer excellence naturally.

Positive Vibes and Trade Talks

There have been whispers of positive news – a better than expected jobs report and potential trade talks between the US and China. Though I've learned in my travels 'never trust anyone' – especially governments bearing gifts. Still one must acknowledge that even a broken clock is right twice a day.

A Market on a Mission?

Frank Gretz a technical analyst at Wellington Shields wisely notes that even bull markets can't go straight up. He suggests a 'logical stalling point' is near reminding us that what goes up must eventually come down. Reminds me of that time I jumped out of a perfectly good airplane without a parachute... Thankfully there was a convenient pile of conveniently placed hay awaiting.

The Apple Doesn't Fall Far...

Ah but there's always a catch isn't there? Even as markets soar Apple warns of tariff related costs. As ever it appears analysts and economists are pulling back their expectations for economic growth. As Gretz aptly put it 'If half of your brain is technical and half fundamental… you probably have a migraine'. I would say trust your instincts... and always have an escape plan.