Party Over for Nasdaq QQQ, AAPL, AMZN?

Tech stocks have been on fire before hitting an ‘air pocket’ last week. Is the current dip the end of the tech party or a buying opportunity?

After pointing out Fibonacci resistance (for QQQ) at 143.75, the May 31 Profit Radar Report noted that: “The Nasdaq-100 painted a bearish reversal candle today. Every red candle high (since October 2013) saw lower prices at some point over the next 1-2 weeks.”

Seven days after the May 31 bearish reversal candle, the Nasdaq suffered a monster reversal candle. Volume (for QQQ) soared to a 2017 record. The June 9 ‘red stick’ erased 10 days of gains.

On that day, more than one third of the 100 QQQ ETF components suffered a buying climax (where a stock rallies to a new 52-week high, but ends down for the week). Buying climaxes are generally a sign of distribution and indicate that stocks are moving from strong to weak hands.

Similar buying climaxes in 2010, 2014, and 2015 led to noteworthy pullbacks.

The problem with extreme ‘air pocket’ days (like June 9) is that they almost instantly create an oversold condition, and the propensity for a bounce.

Next support for QQQ is at 137.20 – 135.70. Resistance is around 141. Support may cause another bounce, but risk of further losses remains elevated as long as QQQ is below 141.

AAPL

Due to its humungous market cap, AAPL is Wall Streets’ VIP and MVP stock. More often than not, if AAPL sneezes, the S&P 500, Nasdaq and at times DJIA will catch a cold.

Based on the long-term black trend channel(s), we determined that up side for AAPL (and indexes like the S&P 500 and Nasdaq) was limited after hitting 155 in May.

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Support worth watching is around 140 and 135.

AMZN

The May 29 Profit Radar Report stated: “AMZN almost cracked the 1,000 mark, which more than anything is a psychological ‘resistance’ level. Cycles project a severe drop for AMZN. Last time this happened (late 2015), AMZN reacted late, but ultimately dropped around 30%. Although more gains are possible, late buyers will probably end up regretting their decision.”

Since May 29, AMZN gained as much as 2%, but subsequently dropped as much as 8.8%, before finding support around 925 (green line). 925 and support near the black trend channel deserve to be watched. It would take a move above 991 to unlock the potential for new highs.

Summary

Based on our research, we don’t expect to see a major market top at this time, but QQQ, AAPL and AMZN are likely to enter a period of consolidation and quite possible some ‘shake out’ moves designed to shake out weak hands.

The Profit Radar Report’s goal is to simplify investing decisions, avoid big losses and spot high probability, low-risk trades. The Profit Radar Report hasn’t suffered a losing trade since June 2015.

A comprehensive analysis for the S&P 500 is available here: Comprehensive S&P 500 Update

Simon Maierhofer is the founder of iSPYETF and the publisher of the Profit Radar Report. Barron’s rated iSPYETF as a “trader with a good track record” (click here for Barron’s profile of the Profit Radar Report). The Profit Radar Report presents complex market analysis (S&P 500, Dow Jones, gold, silver, euro and bonds) in an easy format. Technical analysis, sentiment indicators, seasonal patterns and common sense are all wrapped up into two or more easy-to-read weekly updates. All Profit Radar Report recommendations resulted in a 59.51% net gain in 2013, 17.59% in 2014, and 24.52% in 2015.

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Post AAPL Earnings – What’s Next for the Nasdaq?

It’s been a remarkable couple of weeks for the Nasdaq, not just in terms of performance, also in terms of ‘market oddities.’

On Friday, the Nasdaq QQQ ETF literally jumped higher, propelled by Google’s 13% gain.

However, Google’s massive rally covered up internal Nasdaq weakness. On that day more Nasdaq-100 components were actually down than up.

New highs on negative breadth is a rare feat. Nevertheless, the Nasdaq managed to do the same thing again on Monday.

The Nasdaq Composite is made up of about 3,000 stocks (compared to 100 for the Nasdaq-100). On Monday, there were 940 more stocks down than up.

Here’s another breadth measure, illustrated visually via the chart below. The upper bars represent the PowerShares QQQ ETF, the lower graph the number of Nasdaq Composite stocks at new 52-week highs.

The number of stocks at new highs fell from 189 on Friday to 97 on Tuesday, a 49% drop.

My most recent Profit Radar Report highlighted lagging breadth and bearish divergences and warned of a pullback.

Regarding AAPL earnings, the Profit Radar Report said Sunday that: “AAPL is butting against minor resistance and AAPL seasonality shows some weakness in the middle of July. AAPL’s move is likely to be more subdued than GOOG.”

AAPL (Nasdaq: AAPL) dropped as much as 7% in post-earnings after market trading and gapped below support this morning. Click here for detailed AAPL analysis.

What’s next for the Nasdaq?

The bottom line, based on a number of indicators, is this: The potential for a nasty Nasdaq selloff exists, but another rally leg to new highs seems more likely. The green lines (around 111 and 106) should provide support for the QQQ. If they don’t, watch out.

A more detailed analysis for the S&P 500 is available here: S&P 500 Analysis

Simon Maierhofer is the publisher of the Profit Radar Report. The Profit Radar Report presents complex market analysis (S&P 500, Dow Jones, gold, silver, euro and bonds) in an easy format. Technical analysis, sentiment indicators, seasonal patterns and common sense are all wrapped up into two or more easy-to-read weekly updates. All Profit Radar Report recommendations resulted in a 59.51% net gain in 2013 and 17.59% in 2014.

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Apples Bounces from Key Support

Apple’s slow slide lower accelerated earlier this week after falling through trend line support at 125.

This trend line buoyed prices seven times since mid-March (blue ovals), but the jug can only go to the well so often before it breaks.

Once Apple (Nasdaq: AAPL) broke below 125, it quickly moved to 120 on high volume.

120 is important, because it represents the November and January highs.

It just so happens that the 200-day SMA is just below 120.

The 200-day SMA is the go-to indicator for many investors, which ironically makes it more susceptive to whipsaws.

With or without whipsaw, 120 is an important level to watch.

Another important level (based on the log scale chart) is 116.

In terms of AAPL’s ‘summer to-do-list’, there are open chart gaps at 114.36 and 99.96, which may want to get filled

July 21 is an important date if you’re thinking about buying or selling AAPL. That’s when AAPL releases its earnings (after the bell).

AAPL tends to pop the day after earnings (pink), but that’s not guaranteed. The last all-time high occurred the day after earnings, and it’s been down ever since.

According to UBS, half of AAPL’s revenue growth cames from China. According to FactSet, China accounts for 16.2% of AAPL’s total revenue. Chinese stocks are down 30% since June 5. This could make its way into earnings … and spook investors.

AAPL seasonality suggests being careful in July and early August. Click here for AAPL seasonality chart.

Simon Maierhofer is the publisher of the Profit Radar Report. The Profit Radar Report presents complex market analysis (S&P 500, Dow Jones, gold, silver, euro and bonds) in an easy format. Technical analysis, sentiment indicators, seasonal patterns and common sense are all wrapped up into two or more easy-to-read weekly updates. All Profit Radar Report recommendations resulted in a 59.51% net gain in 2013 and 17.59% in 2014.

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Under the Hood: S&P 500 Deteriorating

We observed on April 21, that the stock market was actually stronger than the S&P 500 (NYSEArca: SPY) chart led to believe (Article: Under the Hood is more Strength than the S&P 500 Chart Shows).

Subsequently, the S&P 500 moved to a new all-time high on April 27 (2,126.92).

However, this condition of underlying strength quickly morphed into underlying weakness.

The April 26 Profit Radar Report observed this: “Interesting, 1-2 weeks ago, the percentage of NYSE stocks above their 50-day SMA was actually higher than the S&P 500 chart would suggest. Now, the percentage of NYSE (and S&P 500) stocks above their 50-day SMA is visibly lagging the new all-time highs. RSI is also lagging.”

The chart below shows that bearish divergences between the S&P 500 and the percentage of NYSE stocks above their 50-day SMA tend to lead to weakness (only 2 out of 8 corrections since 2014 were not preceded by this divergence).

Although the Nasdaq-100, QQQ and AAPL (Nasdaq: AAPL) staged a bullish breakout (as reported here: Nasdaq QQQ ETF Break out of Bull Flag and here: Fascinating AAPL Formation Telegraphed Bullish Breakout), the Profit Radar Report did not issue an official buy signal for the following reason:

“Based on breadth and seasonality, this rally is not built on a solid foundation. Also, the Nasdaq-100 has gapped up 1% to at least a once-year high 50 other times besides Friday. Over the next three sessions, it added to its gains only 38% of the time, averaging a return of 0.6%. Its maximum gain during the next three days averaged +1.3%, the maximum loss -3.2%.”

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The above-mentioned articles warned that: “The trend is up, but lagging breadth and the open chart gap suggest an eventual pullback is likely,” and “In terms of Elliott Wave Theory, any new AAPL high could complete a 5-wave move and result in a larger-scale reversal.”

AAPL spiked to a new all-time high on Tuesday (April 28) and has fallen 10 points since.

This week’s down side reversal of the S&P 500, Nasdaq and AAPL after a bullish breakout (according to technical analysis) emphasize why it is helpful to monitor multiple indicators.

That’s why the Profit Radar Report looks at supply & demand, technical analysis, investor sentiment, seasonality and price patterns for a comprehensive outlook.

How a combination of the above indicators is used to spot high probability trades is shown here (with an actual recent example): How to Spot High Probability Setups

Simon Maierhofer is the publisher of the Profit Radar Report. The Profit Radar Report presents complex market analysis (S&P 500, Dow Jones, gold, silver, euro and bonds) in an easy format. Technical analysis, sentiment indicators, seasonal patterns and common sense are all wrapped up into two or more easy-to-read weekly updates. All Profit Radar Report recommendations resulted in a 59.51% net gain in 2013 and 17.59% in 2014.

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Nasdaq QQQ ETF Breaks out of Bull Flag

The April 22 Profit Radar Report showed this chart of the Nasdaq-100 and stated:

“There are similarities between AAPL and the Nasdaq-100, which is forming a potential bull flag. A break above 4,465 – 4,485 (corresponding level for QQQ = 109.10) could drive the Nasdaq-100 to next resistance around 4,600. Aggressive investors may buy QQQ with a break above 109.10.”

The bullish breakout materialized, but how legitimate is it?

 

Below is an update chart of the Nasdaq QQQ ETF.

• The breakout occurred on elevated volume. Bullish.
• There’s on open chart gap at 109.55, which will probably get filled.
• There’s a long-term bearish RSI divergence. Potentially bearish.
• RSI may be about to close above trend line resistance. Potentially bullish.
• Next resistance at 111.50 – 112.20.
• Ideal bull flag target is around 112.50.

The trend is up, but lagging breadth and the open chart gap suggest an eventual pullback is likely.

AAPL, the MVP of the Nasdaq and most important stock in the world, shows one of the most fascinating chart formations. More detail here: Fascinating AAPL Chart Formation Telegraphed Bullish Breakout

Simon Maierhofer is the publisher of the Profit Radar Report. The Profit Radar Report presents complex market analysis (S&P 500, Dow Jones, gold, silver, euro and bonds) in an easy format. Technical analysis, sentiment indicators, seasonal patterns and common sense are all wrapped up into two or more easy-to-read weekly updates. All Profit Radar Report recommendations resulted in a 59.51% net gain in 2013 and 17.59% in 2014.

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Fascinating AAPL Formation Telegraphed Bullish Breakout

The April 22 Profit Radar Report highlighting this fascination AAPL (Nasdaq: AAPL) formation with the following commentary:

“AAPL, the most important stock in the world, hasn’t been able to nudge the S&P, Dow Jones or Nasdaq in either direction. That’s because AAPL is stuck in its own trading range/triangle. The consolidation pattern is similar to that of Q3 2014. AAPL closed at 128.62 today. This mini-breakout increases the odds of more upside.”

 

Below is an update AAPL chart. The next meaningful resistance cluster is around 140, but the open chart gap (and various breadth divergences) allows for a ‘digestive pullback’ at any time. In terms of Elliott Wave Theory, any new high could complete a 5-wave move and result in a larger-scale reversal.

AAPL’s pop also propelled the Nasdaq-100 and PowerShares QQQ ETF (Nasdaq: QQQ) out of a formation called a bull flag. More details here: Nasdaq QQQ ETF Break out of Bull Flag

Simon Maierhofer is the publisher of the Profit Radar Report. The Profit Radar Report presents complex market analysis (S&P 500, Dow Jones, gold, silver, euro and bonds) in an easy format. Technical analysis, sentiment indicators, seasonal patterns and common sense are all wrapped up into two or more easy-to-read weekly updates. All Profit Radar Report recommendations resulted in a 59.51% net gain in 2013 and 17.59% in 2014.

Follow Simon on Twitter @ iSPYETF or sign up for the FREE iSPYETF Newsletter to get actionable ETF trade ideas delivered for free.

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I Spy … The Most Insightful AAPL Chart

Apple is the most important stock on planet earth.

It’s the biggest component of the S&P 500 (NYSEArca: SPY) and Nasdaq (Nasdaq: QQQ). As of March 18, it will also be part of the Dow Jones, where it will rank as #6 of 30 (at least initially). Not bad for a “newcomer.”

The ebbs and flows of AAPL will affect almost every corner of the stock market universe.

When AAPL coughs, the market will get a cold. What are the odds of AAPL catching a cough?

Historical Dow Jones Curse

Historical data shows that inclusion into the prestigious Dow 30 club is more of a blessing than a course, at least short-term. 9 of the 15 components added since 1999 lost on average 6.3% within the first month.

Technical Blessing?

I invite you to inspect the AAPL chart with me.

Support: Green lines at 120 – 122.

Resistance: The chart only shows one red line, but there are actually two red lines (one going back almost 20 years) converging around 140. Prior to that, there’s black trend channel resistance around 132.

Interpretation: Although the brief spike above the black trend channel (accompanied by a bearish RSI divergence) could be a throw over top, I personally favor higher prices as long as AAPL stays above 120.

This is in conflict with the ‘Dow curse,’ but in harmony with AAPL seasonality (view AAPL seasonality chart here).

Sentiment may also support further AAPL gains, as the iWatch failed to garner much excitement (it’s easier to beat low expectations).

• Bloomberg: Apple watch is a really poor product
• MarketWatch: 3 reasons to think twice before buying Apple watch

Summary: Support at 120 – 122 deserves being watched closely. I favor further up side as long as support holds. However, a close below 120 cautions of a deeper correction.

Simon Maierhofer is the publisher of the Profit Radar Report. The Profit Radar Report presents complex market analysis (S&P 500, Dow Jones, gold, silver, euro and bonds) in an easy format. Technical analysis, sentiment indicators, seasonal patterns and common sense are all wrapped up into two or more easy-to-read weekly updates. All Profit Radar Report recommendations resulted in a 59.51% net gain in 2013 and 17.59% in 2014.

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Immediate AAPL Down side Risk: 10%

Apple shares (Nasdaq: AAPL) have been flying below the radar. AAPL is moseying around near all-time highs without making a big splash.

The weekly AAPL log scale has the potential to stir up this sea of tranquility.

There is strong support around 100. A look at the daily chart shows an open chart gap at 99.96.

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Chart gaps often act as magnets, and the allure of the gap combined with strong support could cause a 10% correction.

The daily (non-log) chart also shows trend channel support around 106.

The short red line has served as resistance and may continue to do so.

Near-term support is around 106, but failure to hold 106 should lead to 100, which may be a good buying opportunity.

Simon Maierhofer is the publisher of the Profit Radar Report. The Profit Radar Report presents complex market analysis (S&P 500, Dow Jones, gold, silver, euro and bonds) in an easy format. Technical analysis, sentiment indicators, seasonal patterns and common sense are all wrapped up into two or more easy-to-read weekly updates. All Profit Radar Report recommendations resulted in a 59.51% net gain in 2013.

Follow Simon on Twitter @ iSPYETF or sign up for the FREE iSPYETF Newsletter to get actionable ETF trade ideas delivered for free.

New Trend? Dump AAPL to Buy MSFT?

For most of the 21st century Apple has been cool, while Microsoft couldn’t do more than drool. But things are changing (at least for investors). Microsoft has gone from ‘drool to cool’ on Wall Street. Will this surprising trend last?

Apple is hip and cool. Microsoft is boring and outdated. Apple (Nasdaq: AAPL) is in, Microsoft (Nasdaq: MSFT) is out.

That’s been the case most of the 21^st century, but there’s been an odd shift lately.

Investors are picking MSFT over AAPL.

If Microsoft’s Cortana had a voice in this article, she’d point out that investors are dumping Siri to be with Cortana.

The charts below show that Cortana may be right.

The MSFT:AAPL ratio chart shows the ratio bounce off a 1-year support level. If the ratio can overcome near-term resistance it is likely to climb further.

This would suggest MSFT will continue to outperform AAPL, at least for a little while.

A look at history, in particular recent history shows that September is a particularly painful month for AAPL investors. Click here to view a detailed look at AAPL seasonality.

AAPL and MSFT are the two biggest components of the PowerShares QQQ ETF (Nasdaq: QQQ), which sits right above important support (QQQ support level shown here).

Simon Maierhofer is the publisher of the Profit Radar Report. The Profit Radar Report presents complex market analysis (S&P 500, Dow Jones, gold, silver, euro and bonds) in an easy format. Technical analysis, sentiment indicators, seasonal patterns and common sense are all wrapped up into two or more easy-to-read weekly updates. All Profit Radar Report recommendations resulted in a 59.51% net gain in 2013.

Follow Simon on Twitter @ iSPYETF or sign up for the FREE iSPYETF Newsletter to get actionable ETF trade ideas delivered for free.

AAPL Drops Right Before Annual ‘Shock’ Period

A bigger and better iPhone, the new iWatch and new AAPL all-time highs … Apple has a lot of good things going. But, ironically this exciting time of the year (in terms of product launches) is the most treacherous for Apple shareholders.

Autumn is an exciting time for Apple geeks, but a treacherous time for Apple (Nasdaq: AAPL) shareholders.

Product rumors are planted in the spring and ripen in the fall as rumors mature towards tangible reality. Apple fans are hoping to feel, touch and buy a big screen iPhone or even an iWatch.

Ironically the autumn excitement doesn’t spill over to AAPL shares. September 21, 2012 was the kickoff for a 45% correction and August 19, 2013 saw a 12% pullback.

The August 24 Profit Radar Report summed up Apple’s position like this: “AAPL rallied to new all-time highs. As the chart shows, AAPL is just above green trend line support and just below red trend line resistance. AAPL seasonality points higher for another few weeks before the biggest seasonal weak spot of the year (AAPL topped on Sep. 22, 2012 at 705, split-adjusted). In short, the path of least resistance is up, as long as AAPL doesn’t close below 100. Danger will rise in mid-September.”

A detailed full-year AAPL seasonality chart is available here.

The chart below shows the various trend lines and support/resistance levels mentioned.

AAPL sliced below 100 on Thursday. Support around 100 has now become resistance. Green trend line support is at 97.

Based on seasonality, risk is rising and the path of least resistance is down as long as trade remains below 100 – 101.

Apple’s ‘bad Thursday’ spilled over to the Nasdaq-100 as the PowerShares QQQ ETF (Nasdaq: QQQ) painted a big red candle.

Thus far, QQQ remains above support at 99. A close below 99 may elicit more selling.

Simon Maierhofer is the publisher of the Profit Radar Report. The Profit Radar Report presents complex market analysis (S&P 500, Dow Jones, gold, silver, euro and bonds) in an easy format. Technical analysis, sentiment indicators, seasonal patterns and common sense are all wrapped up into two or more easy-to-read weekly updates. All Profit Radar Report recommendations resulted in a 59.51% net gain in 2013.

Follow Simon on Twitter @ iSPYETF or sign up for the FREE iSPYETF Newsletter to get actionable ETF trade ideas delivered for free.