In strong, healthy bull markets, high-beta stocks tend to lead.
These are the riskier, more volatile names—mostly Tech and Discretionary. They're the high-flyers that drive markets higher.
On the other hand, low-volatility stocks are more defensive in nature. Think Consumer Staples and Utilities. They're where investors hide when uncertainty rises.
Right now, the SPHB/SPLV ratio is collapsing to fresh 52-week lows.
When risk-on stocks underperform and defensives take the lead, it's a sign of shifting tides.
U.S. equities are running into a major confluence of resistance after a weak rebound in recent days.
Until buyers step up and show some serious follow-through, sellers are likely to remain in control.
When looking at the most crucial risk-on groups, two sectors are approaching a resolution that could set the tone for the weeks and months ahead.
First, Large-Cap Technology relative to the S&P 500 is teetering just above the lower bounds of a two-year topping formation.
With Tech representing roughly 30% of the S&P, a breakdown here wouldn't just be a sector-specific issue—it could have broader implications for the entire market.
Adding to the concern, Home Construction $ITB, a critical...