Category: The Growth Stock Report

The Bear put a headlock on the Bull as we head into a traditionally strong pre-holiday week. 

Bias here has gone down to a cautionary Yellow Flag. Recent Growth Stock breakouts are working, though road signs flash warning as the uncertainty of a pandemic looms. 

For the Week: 

• The S&P 500, -2.42% 
• The Nasdaq, -2.59%
• The Dow, -2.84%

Don’t look too much into the selling. Despite two clear distribution days, the bias here won’t shift lower as long as leadership and price action hold up above the major moving averages. 

Technology continues to pull action higher, though most other sectors continue to struggle under the 200-day averages. 

Lighter volume for the NYSE and Nasdaq was’t panic motivated, and was long overdue as a consequence of an “over bought” market. 

The coronavirus battlefront threatens further economic impact. Rising infection and hospitalization rates in some regions will thwart business. To what degree is uncertain.  

The Fed showed concern for banks when Friday it instructed them to preserve capital by putting a hold on buybacks and paying dividends. Continued high unemployment is worrisome, and will need to be resolved before stimulus wears off. 

Another round of government stimulus may very well be in the works, which would be a big boost to market sentiment. 

Next week will be a day shorter as the U.S. celebrates the Fourth of July. 

It’s window dressing time. Quality names are well bid as being as portfolio managers look to impress customers with their holdings.

Small caps will likely benefit from the annual Russell 2000 realignment on June 29, as well as the 90 day ETF realignment to end the quarter.

The best thing the Bull has going for it is names from the Dow paying dividends four times greater than the 10-year Treasury notes. Smart money will gravitate to this.

LEADERSHIP

The semiconductor index (SMH, -1.87%) is flirting with a failed breakout. Action here is key to the broader market’s direction.

Watch for any weakness in the internet (FDN, -2.01%) and software (IGV, -0.88%) indexes. The Bull has been led from its March lows by these stay at home friendly businesses. Any faltering could pull major indexes in the southern direction that the energy, finance, retail, industrial and transportation stocks have been leaning toward. 

Facebook (FB, -8.32%) and Google (GOOG, -5.65%) took dip down to their 50-day moving averages this week, breaking their upward drifts. 

Meanwhile, this group of stellar tech names continues to hold bullish form: Apple (AAPL, -3.07%) Amazon (AMZN, -2.24%), Netflix (NFLX, -4.83%) and Microsoft (MSFT, -2%.)  

Gold (GLD, +0.45%) remains near highs. The biotechs (IBB, -2%) continue to produce a multitude of growth stock breakouts. See below. 

TECHNICALLY SPEAKING

• The S&P 500 is lacking a long-term trend as the 50-day moving average tracks slow the 200-day MA.
• NYSE volume for the week was 5% lighter than last week, and favored the bears with a 0.6 ratio of buyers to sellers. 
• Nasdaq volume was 15% higher and showed an even 1 ratio of buyers to sellers.
• Declining issues dominated for the NYSE and Nasdaq with advance/decline ratios of 0.3 and 0.4 respectively. 

GROWTH STOCKS

Growth Stock breakouts are holding, though we’re seeing some erosion in these quality names as fewer appear to be on track for new buy setups. 

Fresh breakouts in biotech show optimism for the industry as the pandemic takes  center role in the healthcare sector. 

Breakouts

PFSI	PennyMac Financial Services, Inc.	Finance/Rental/Leasing
PLMR	Palomar Holdings, Inc.	Property/Casualty Insurance
ZM	Zoom Video Communications, Inc. Class A	Packaged Software
AMRC	Ameresco, Inc. Class A	Engineering & Construction
CHGG	Chegg, Inc.	Miscellaneous Commercial Services
IPHI	Inphi Corporation	Semiconductors
TTD	Trade Desk, Inc. Class A	Advertising/Marketing Services
VAPO	Vapotherm, Inc.	Medical Specialties
ALNY	Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc	Biotechnology
CGEN	Compugen Ltd.	Biotechnology
IMMU	Immunomedics, Inc.	Biotechnology
OCUL	Ocular Therapeutix Inc	Pharmaceuticals: Major
CRSP	CRISPR Therapeutics AG	Biotechnology
CRWD	CrowdStrike Holdings, Inc. Class A	Packaged Software
EXPI	eXp World Holdings, Inc.	Financial Conglomerates
TWST	Twist Bioscience Corp.	Biotechnology
AEYE	AudioEye, Inc.	Internet Software/Services
RARE	Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical, Inc.	Biotechnology
WRTC	Wrap Technologies, Inc.	Industrial Conglomerates
CDNA	CareDx, Inc.	Medical Specialties
ALBO	Albireo Pharma, Inc.	Pharmaceuticals: Other

Bases

NBIX	Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc.	Biotechnology
NTRA	Natera, Inc.	Medical/Nursing Services
XLRN	Acceleron Pharma Inc	Biotechnology
BYND	Beyond Meat, Inc.	Food: Major Diversified
PAAS	Pan American Silver Corp.	Precious Metals
TNDM	Tandem Diabetes Care, Inc.	Medical Specialties
STNE	StoneCo Ltd. Class A	Packaged Software
LGIH	LGI Homes, Inc.	Homebuilding
PAYC	Paycom Software, Inc.	Packaged Software
DRNA	Dicerna Pharmaceuticals, Inc.	Biotechnology
Z	Zillow Group, Inc. Class C	Information Technology Services
IIPR	Innovative Industrial Properties Inc	Real Estate Investment Trusts
SILK	Silk Road Medical, Inc.	Medical Specialties
SWAV	Shockwave Medical, Inc.	Medical Specialties
OR	Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd	Precious Metals
AKCA	Akcea Therapeutics, Inc.	Pharmaceuticals: Major
EXAS	Exact Sciences Corporation	Biotechnology
KERN	Akerna Corp.	Data Processing Services

Stay safe,

Dan

Quick Take: Buy Bias. Despite significant economic uncertainty, buyers continue to step up to support growth stocks. But we’re long due for a pullback. 

Marauders:

Typical of June, a flight to quality bid shares higher as portfolio managers maneuvered to add leaders in their holdings.

Quadruple witching in the options market on Friday capped off a week that had the Nasdaq came just short of a new high. A small cap rally also added heat as the Russell 2000 index realigns itself (IWM, +2.31%). 

The Nasdaq’s +3.73% gain came on volume down 10% from last week’s heavy selling rout. It convincingly favored advancers to decliners by more than two to one. 

The S&P 500 posted posted a +1.86% gain and the Dow was +1.04% with NYSE volume off 15% from last week with advancers and decliners a near match. 

Stocks appear to be pricing in a V-shape recovery vs. the  Fed’s  U-shape prediction. The old adage that “You don’t fight the Fed,” as well as “Don’t fight the tape,” has been the winning mantra since stimulus plans were set in play. 

Friday’s heavy volume down day would be an ominous sign of institutional dumping if it weren’t for options expirations. However, the major indexes have been taking in more buy-volume than sell volume since putting in their lows in March. 

Though much uncertainty remains regarding the pandemic, which is still on, as well as what happens when stimulus money wears off, which may happen in the Fall. Let’s not forget it’s an election year and the country is going through historical social unrest. 

Covid-19 won’t kill economy. Rising infection rates in 15 states has raised fears. Though in ten of the states the increase is minor, and somewhat expected after reopening from lockdown. Rates have been falling in 16 states. 

The virus situation may be more severe for states such as Arizona, South Carolina and Alabama, which have seen more severe upticks. 

The market has rightly favored companies with business models that cater to the agoraphobic. 

Tech leadership from FB, AAPL, AMZN, NFLX, GOOG and MSFT was solid for the week. Take not that GOOG is showing relative weakness here, down -7% from its 52-week high, with the rest of the pack down less than 2%.

Internet, cloud computing, social media and esports stocks rage on.

Biotech (IBB, +7.33%) had a monumental week as it set a new high as it continues to breakout from a five year base. This was the most shorted sector, so no doubt covering  here. Though the virus has made the sector attractive for its potential to cure. 

Gold (GLD, +0.87%) holds near highs not seen in eight years, as gold miners (GDX, +2.79%) recover from pullback mode. Similar story for silver miners (SLVP, +0.34%.) 

TECHNICALLY SPEAKING, 

• The S&P 500 is showing near-term weakness as it consolidates under a bearish island top.
• Strength For The Week: Healthcare, Technology, Communications
• Weakness: Utilities, Energy, Real Estate

GROWTH STOCKS

It’s breakout-palooza out there. Hit ‘em until it stops. I like to ring the cash register at 20%. Do it five times to more than double your money. 

Last week we saw from our list:

BREAKOUTS:

ADBE	Adobe Inc	Software & IT Services
APPS	Digital Turbine Inc	Software & IT Services
EA	Electronic Arts Inc	Software & IT Services
EPAM	Epam Systems Inc	Software & IT Services
HOLX	Hologic Inc	Healthcare Equipment & Supplies
LOW	Lowe`s Companies Inc	Specialty Retailers
PFSI	PennyMac Financial Services Inc	Banking Services
PLMR	Palomar Holdings Inc	Insurance
RAPT	Rapt Therapeutics Inc	Biotechnology & Medical Research

BASES

ALGN	Align Technology Inc	Healthcare Equipment & Supplies
BLFS	Biolife Solutions Inc	Healthcare Equipment & Supplies
CORT	Corcept Therapeutics Inc	Pharmaceuticals
CPRX	Catalyst Pharmaceuticals Inc	Biotechnology & Medical Research
DHX	DHI Group Inc	Professional & Commercial Services
FND	Floor & Decor Holdings Inc	Specialty Retailers
GDDY	GoDaddy Inc	Software & IT Services
K	Kellogg Co	Food & Tobacco
LAKE	Lakeland Industries Inc	Textiles & Apparel
LL	Lumber Liquidators Holdings Inc	Specialty Retailers
MVIS	MicroVision Inc	Electronic Equipment & Parts
RMD	Resmed Inc	Healthcare Equipment & Supplies
SHW	Sherwin-Williams Co	Chemicals
SITE	SiteOne Landscape Supply Inc	Food & Tobacco

TOP INDUSTRY GROUPS, RANKED BY PROXIMITY TO 52-WEEK HIGH

Global X Social Media ETF (XNAS:SOCL)

Invesco NASDAQ Internet ETF (XNAS:PNQI)

VanEck Vectors Video Gaming and eSports ETF (XNAS:ESPO)

First Trust Cloud Computing ETF (XNAS:SKYY)

Invesco Dynamic Software ETF (ARCX:PSJ)

Amplify Online Retail ETF (XNAS:IBUY)

Global X Future Analytics Tech ETF (XNAS:AIQ)

Invesco Dynamic Networking ETF (ARCX:PXQ)

Sea Ltd (XNYS:SE)

SPDR S&P Health Care Equipment ETF (ARCX:XHE)

Get on, play it safe.

Dan

Quick Take: Sell Bias. Economic and pandemic uncertainty serve as a backdrop in an election year.  

Dear Market Player:

For the week, the Bull took a one-two hit as sellers took profits amid fears over the world’s health and finance concerns. 

The seemingly overdue selling sent the S&P 500 down -4.78% on institutional grade volume, and the Nasdaq down -2.3% on volume that favored the bulls by a modest margin. 

The week’s heaviest selling came Thursday on the heels of Fed Chairman Jerome Powell’s press conference where he stated raising interest rates wasn’t a consideration given the country’s  economic situation.

The Fed said it doesn’t see the economy returning to pre-pandemic levels until 2022. This year’s GDP may fall 6.5% and unemployment, not at about 13%, may recover to about 9% by the end of the year.  

A resurge in covid-19 cases in places such as Florida, Texas and Arizona reminded the country still has an invisible enemy to reckon with. 

Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin said a second quarantine was not an option, though a second round of stimulus checks may be.

A market awash in cash keeps the Bulls perky. They are reassured the Fed has their back as it expects the economy will continue to tick. 

Fund managers in June typically gravitate toward quality stocks as they add the winners to portfolios to impress clients. We’ve seen top dividend vehicles attract bids as bonds lose popularity with low yields. 

The Tech leaders pulled back with the broader market for the week, though still well above major moving averages . They continue to serve as strength in an economy that favors their “do it from home” offerings. FB, AAPL, AMZN, NFLX, GOOG and MSFT. 

New highs encourage from MICROSOFT (MSFT, +0.29%) chip standout Nvidia (NVDA, +0.14%) and eSports ETF (ESPO, +0.89%.) 

The US presidential election November will attract more attention from market pundits in the coming months. The corporate America’s tax structure will have an impact on its outcome. Look for polls as influence to buyers and sellers. 

Evidence of froth persists as low priced stocks have attracted bids, presumably from Robinhood type traders looking for an easy buck. This type of activity from the “lesser informed” has gone hand-in-hand with market tops before. 

NEXT WEEK

Tuesday: Earnings announcement from software maker Oracle (ORCL) and homebuilder Lennar (LEN.) 

Thursday: Earnings announcement from Kroger (KR.)

Friday: Earnings announcement from Carmax (KMX) AutoZone (AZO) and Tesla (TSLA.) 

TECHNICALLY SPEAKING

• The S&P 500 closed just above its 200-day moving average for the week.
• Two distribution days gave the Bear and edge for the week. 
• All sectors posted losses.
• The least weak were: Tech (XLK, -1.97%, Communications (XLC, -2.50%) and Consumer Staples (XLP, -3.81%)
• Weakest were: Energy (XLE, -11.2%), Financial (XLF, -9.18%) and Materials (-8.01%)
• NYSE Volume was 10% higher than last weak with a slightly bearish .8 Up/Dn ratio.
• Nadaq Volume was 5% higher with a slightly bullish Up/Dn ratio of 1.  
• The Advance Decline ratios were decidedly bearish with the NYSE at .2 and the Nasdaq at .4.

GROWTH STOCKS

Watch for recent breakouts falling apart. A handful of these happened last week.  This would serve as a caution for potential breakouts.

Homebuilders and REITs setting up in bases. Success here will bode well for the broader market.

Biotechs are holding their bullish patterns.

BREAOUTS

Adobe Inc	ADBE	Software & IT Services
Autodesk Inc	ADSK	Software & IT Services
Biomarin Pharmaceutical Inc	BMRN	Pharmaceuticals
Datadog Inc	DDOG	Software & IT Services
Fastly Inc	FSLY	Software & IT Services
Livongo Health Inc	LVGO	Healthcare Equipment & Supplies
Neurocrine Biosciences Inc	NBIX	Biotechnology & Medical Research
Trade Desk Inc	TTD	Software & IT Services

BASES

Adaptive Biotechnologies Corp	ADPT	Biotechnology & Medical Research
American Homes 4 Rent	AMH	Residential & Commercial REIT
Beyond Meat Inc	BYND	Food & Tobacco
D.R. Horton Inc	DHI	Homebuilding & Construction Supplies
GSX Techedu Inc	GSX	Personal & Household Products & Services
Invitation Homes Inc	INVH	Residential & Commercial REIT
ServiceNow Inc	NOW	Software & IT Services
Paycom Software Inc	PAYC	Software & IT Services
Pinterest Inc	PINS	Software & IT Services
Peloton Interactive Inc	PTON	Leisure Products
10X Genomics Inc	TXG	Healthcare Equipment & Supplies

Coming IPO’s from online used car seller Vroom (VRM) and Peter Thiel’s data miner Palantir hope to attract the bids like the recent IPO electric pickup truck maker Nikola (NKLA.)  

Stay safe,

Dan

Quick take: No Bias. Too much uncertainty.

Fear of missing out was the rally cry for many Bulls heading into Friday’s unemployment numbers. But apparently few were able to grasp the unexpected addition of 2.5 million jobs last month, which turbo charged shares even higher with the believe that a V-shaped recovery has been nailed in. 

For the week, the S&P 500 shot up +4.91% and the Nasdaq +3.42%. The buying was large and heavy with all sectors participating. 

The unexpected data miss from the “experts” has raised eyebrows. Perhaps the unfamiliar ground of shutting down the economy coupled with stimulus programs like the Payroll Protection Program has distorted economists visions. Perhaps the government’s history of errors in data plays a roll. 

What is clear is that the economy is mostly open now. What is unclear is how the economy will look when the stimulus runs out. The unemployment rate stands at 13% at them moment, down from 15% before Friday’s announcement. 

Stocks do not offer an attractive risk-reward scenario. Difficult to bet the market will continue to charge higher given valuations and the uncertainty of the economy – as well as the coronavirus.

The Dow, +6.81%, has been a big upside driver for the market as the hunt for yield continues. Dividends pay higher than treasuries. It’s hard to retire. 

Mixed signals with fund flows.:

While discount brokers have reported large inflows, many wealth advisors and fund managers haver reported outflows from stocks and into the safety of bonds. 

Large numbers of block trades Friday may suggest real buying. Funds available from quantitive easing will weigh in as will short covering.

For a change, the market is being led by non-tech names. Tech remains firm, with the FAANG and Microsoft stocks showing strength. But it’s the breadth of the rest of the market that has really stepped in of late. 

We may see some bad earnings reports in the second quarter, though the prospects are better for the second half of the year – IF the coronavirus does’t become a problem again. 

This pandemic market has created winners and losers depending on how well a companies model has allowed them to adjust to quarantines. 

There is always something to be afraid of.

Commercial Real Estate is threatened with with nearly half the rents not paid in May. Starbucks, TJ Max and Ross Store are among those who reportedly did not pay.

Wells Fargo (WFC, +19.64%) pulling back on auto and home equity loans is a concern for the credit market. Rental car company Hertz declaring bankruptcy is also worth taking note of for signs of a trend, or perhaps opening the door for other companies to succeed. 

TECHNICALLY SPEAKING

GROWTH STOCKS

Loads of high quality setups. We can see the 5G stocks making bases now, though they’re not qualifying with underlying fundamentals.

BREAKOUTS

Abbvie Inc	ABBV	Pharmaceuticals
Autodesk Inc	ADSK	Software & IT Services
A. O. Smith Corp	AOS	Machinery, Equipment & Components
TopBuild Corp	BLD	Construction & Engineering
Biomarin Pharmaceutical Inc	BMRN	Pharmaceuticals
Deckers Outdoor Corp	DECK	Textiles & Apparel
Danaher Corp	DHR	Healthcare Equipment & Supplies
Epam Systems Inc	EPAM	Software & IT Services
GoDaddy Inc	GDDY	Software & IT Services
Acushnet Holdings Corp	GOLF	Leisure Products
Howmet Aerospace Inc	HWM	Metals & Mining
Horizon Therapeutics PLC	HZNP	Pharmaceuticals
Lowe’s Companies Inc	LOW	Specialty Retailers
Livongo Health Inc	LVGO	Healthcare Equipment & Supplies
Paycom Software Inc	PAYC	Software & IT Services
Pool Corp	POOL	Leisure Products
Thor Industries Inc	THO	Leisure Products
Trade Desk Inc	TTD	Software & IT Services
UnitedHealth Group Inc	UNH	Healthcare Providers & Services
Slack Technologies Inc	WORK	Software & IT Services
Williams-Sonoma Inc	WSM	Specialty Retailers

BASES

American Airlines Group Inc	AAL	Passenger Transportation Services
Avantor Inc	AVTR	Healthcare Equipment & Supplies
Brunswick Corp	BC	Leisure Products
BWX Technologies Inc	BWXT	Aerospace & Defense
Beyond Meat Inc	BYND	Food & Tobacco
Charter Communications Inc	CHTR	Media & Publishing
D.R. Horton Inc	DHI	Homebuilding & Construction Supplies
DaVita Inc	DVA	Healthcare Providers & Services
Floor & Decor Holdings Inc	FND	Specialty Retailers
Heineken NV	HEIA	Beverages
Hologic Inc	HOLX	Healthcare Equipment & Supplies
J B Hunt Transport Services Inc	JBHT	Freight & Logistics Services
Manhattan Associates Inc	MANH	Software & IT Services
Microsoft Corp	MSFT	Software & IT Services
Cloudflare Inc	NET	Software & IT Services
ServiceNow Inc	NOW	Software & IT Services
Peloton Interactive Inc	PTON	Leisure Products
SiteOne Landscape Supply Inc	SITE	Food & Tobacco
Stericycle Inc	SRCL	Professional & Commercial Services
Atlassian Corporation PLC	TEAM	Software & IT Services
10X Genomics Inc	TXG	Healthcare Equipment & Supplies
Ubiquiti Inc	UI	Communications & Networking
VMware Inc	VMW	Software & IT Services

The stock market has not reacted to the protests and riots across the country. That shouldn’t be a sign of uncaring, only that it doesn’t appear to be taking away from business. Many companies have stepped up and donated for the sake of ending racism.

Society will ultimately be better for all of this. As Martin Luther King said, “riots are the language of the unheard.” Hopefully a lot of listening will take place as response.

There will come a day where people are only seen by their good actions and bad actions. Skin color and culture will be irrelevant in the true judgment of a person.

Stay safe,

Dan

Quick Take: No Bias. Uncertainty remains, though you can’t fight the Fed. 

Never count out American optimism. People want to get back to normal. Rockets and riots aside, this market continues to find buyers. 

The S&P 500 rose 3% for the week and is 11% off its 52-week high. The Nasdaq rose 1.77% and is down less than 4% from its high in February.

Scores of setups from growth stocks with new highs from top earners and issues ready to breakout to new highs. Forecasts from companies benefiting from the changed economy are bright. 

All of this upside has happened with a Sell Bias, which has now turned Neutral.  Uncertainty over the true economic damage as well as the future course of the coronavirus keeps vision cloudy.  

Clearly, the government stimulus is looking like a savior at this juncture. The big question is will the money outlast the coronavirus?

Dow stocks paying good dividends were in favor this week as subtle profit taking from tech stocks took place. 

Surprising economic data with consumer confidence up for April, as were new home sales. Personal savings also rose a record 33%. 

President Trump won’t likely want to risk letting the stock market to flounder in an election year. Though tensions with China, and potential interference with trade remain a major threat to the market. 

LEADERSHIP

FAANG Stocks keep their leadership intact with strong, bullish chart patterns, though none hit new highs for the week. 

New highs are just a shot away with basing patterns from Apple (AAPL), (GOOG) and Microsoft (MSFT)  

TECHNICALLY SPEAKING

• The S&P 500 regained its 200-SDMA with a solid four closes above the mark for the week. 
• All sectors were positive for the week.
• Advancing volume ruled for the second week in a row for the NYSE and Nasdaq.
• A touch less broad than last week, the rally experience just a little fewer advanced and new highs. 
• Near 52-week highs and relatively strong since the March lows are Gold (GLD, -0.18%), Healthcare (XLV, +3.40%) and Technology (XLK, +1.53%) Sectors were well bid. 
• Sectors lagging below major moving average with relative weakness are Real Estate (XLRE, +5.96%) and Industrials (XLI, +6%. s)

GROWTH STOCKS

Novavax (NVAX, -0.15) stays alive with its breakout. Sell-volume has been lighter than buy-volume, giving hope to this stock that’s doubled since we first mentioned it a few weeks ago. 

Many believe we could see multiple coronavirus vaccines ready by the end of the year as more than 100 vaccines are in development.  

Though any success with a vaccine might not mean the end of the coronavirus. Vaccines for the flu only work half the time. 

BREAKOUTS

Biomarin Pharmaceutical Inc	BMRN	Pharmaceuticals
Charter Communications Inc	CHTR	Media & Publishing
Acushnet Holdings Corp	GOLF	Leisure Products
Cloudflare Inc	NET	Software & IT Services
Pool Corp	POOL	Leisure Products
Atlassian Corporation PLC	TEAM	Software & IT Services
Williams-Sonoma Inc	WSM	Specialty Retailers

BASES

A. O. Smith Corp	AOS	Machinery, Equipment & Components
Avantor Inc	AVTR	Healthcare Equipment & Supplies
TopBuild Corp	BLD	Construction & Engineering
Beyond Meat Inc	BYND	Food & Tobacco
Deckers Outdoor Corp	DECK	Textiles & Apparel
D.R. Horton Inc	DHI	Homebuilding & Construction Supplies
DaVita Inc	DVA	Healthcare Providers & Services
Epam Systems Inc	EPAM	Software & IT Services
GoDaddy Inc	GDDY	Software & IT Services
J B Hunt Transport Services Inc	JBHT	Freight & Logistics Services
Manhattan Associates Inc	MANH	Software & IT Services
Microsoft Corp	MSFT	Software & IT Services
SiteOne Landscape Supply Inc	SITE	Food & Tobacco
Thor Industries Inc	THO	Leisure Products
Ubiquiti Inc	UI	Communications & Networking
UnitedHealth Group Inc	UNH	Healthcare Providers & Services

TOP 10 ETF’s As Ranked By New 52-Week Highs

First Trust Cloud Computing ETF (XNAS:SKYY)

Invesco Dynamic Software ETF (ARCX:PSJ)

First Trust NASDAQ Cybersecurity ETF (XNAS:CIBR)

Invesco Dynamic Networking ETF (ARCX:PXQ)

Amplify Online Retail ETF (XNAS:IBUY)

VanEck Vectors Video Gaming and eSports ETF (XNAS:ESPO)

Invesco NASDAQ Internet ETF (XNAS:PNQI)

Global X Social Media ETF (XNAS:SOCL)

Global X Future Analytics Tech ETF (XNAS:AIQ)

SPDR S&P Health Care Equipment ETF (ARCX:XHE)

This weekend’s launch of the combined SpaceX and Nasa rocket marks a turning point in the space industry where the private sector becomes involved. Perhaps as pivotal as when the government handed over the Internet to the private companies. 

SpaceX spent $400 million to develop its Falcon 9 rocket, about a tenth of what it costs Nasa. 

Stay safe,

Dan

Quick Take: Sell Bias. Uncertainty in with a low Risk/Reward environment.

Dear Reader:

Stocks drifted higher for the week, like a beach ball catching a warm breeze of hope into the Memorial Day weekend.  

For the week, the S&P 500, +3.20% and the Nasdaq, +3.44% experienced broad-based buying on lighter volume, driven largely by some of sectors that have been the weekest from the past few weeks.

Trend Watch

COVID-19 is on the decline across the US, for the moment. New hospitalizations have dropped by 50% in the last 30 days, and deaths continue to decrease week over week. Though caution is due as the numbers have only plateaued for Los Angleles, Chicago and Washington DC.

States continued to re-open their economies at varied paces. Estimates are too fuzzy to take faith in. Most believe it will be another year for recovery of jobs and earnings lost.  

Pick your pattern: V-L-E-U-M-A. Stocks have put in a V pattern recovery off their bottom last month. The debate is wether or not it will mirror the economic recovery.  

Central banks around the world don’t have much room to lower rates. US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said the economy may experience “permanent damage” if quarantine rules stay in place for too long.

Chinese oil demand has returned. The leading commodity price index, the CRB, which includes oil, is down nearly a third since February. Economic bellwether Copper continues to weigh it down with low demand.  

Signs of commercial real estate weakness should be watched as the sectors deals with a changing economy. Stay-at-home workers may be the new trend, which if so, may lead to businesses wanting smaller footprints with their properties.  

So far, most commercial real estate REITs have reported being stable, according to trade group Nareit. Apartment REIT rent collections in May held at 95% to match April collections. Office real estate reported collections 92%, down 1% from April. 

Shopping center REITs have been the hardest hit as owners report collecting on just under half of their rents.  Grocery and drug stores have propped up free-standing retail REITs as the sector reported receiving 70% of rents for April and May. 

Four large retailers have declared bankruptcy during the pandemic: JCPenney, Neiman Marcus, Pier 1 and True Religion all declaring bankruptcy. 

Leaders

Amazon stock (AMZN, +1.12%) hit an all time high this week as its sales have ramped up during the quarantine. The Retail sector (RTH, +2.15%) closed the week just shy of an all time high, driven primarily from large online sellers like

Facebook (FB, 11.40%) hit an all-time new high after announcing its new online shop service, which will allow merchants to use their existing e-commerce sites into Facebook more easily. The company will collect on transaction revenue as well as more traffic for the company as its advertising has taken a blow. 

Companies that cater to the stay-at-home crowd with strong balance sheets are being rewarded. Big Tech market value now makes up 24% of the S&P 500 index, a gain of three percentage points higher than before the crisis. 

Fake meat maker Beyond Meat (BYND, +1.97%) reported its first-quarter revenue doubled from a year ago as the concept gains in popularity. 

The plant-based meat industry reported sales up 280% for March compared to a year ago. Sales are expected to double to more than $25 billion in the next five years. Still they only make up one percent of conventional meat sales. 

Major food makers including Tyson Foods (TSN), Kellogg (K) and Con Agra (CAG) have been developing their own products. 

Technically Speaking

• S&P 500 Price action spent another week inching toward its 200-DMA
• The 50-day SMA has turned north, though has a ways to go before any cross with the 200-day 
• NYSE and NASDAQ action favored the bulls on all measures: volume, new highs, and advances.
• Recently hot Biotech (IBB, +0.82%) slowed its pace, while Gold (GLD, -0.44%) and Gold Miners (GDX, -2.79%) pulled back from new highs for the week. 
• Beaten sectors rallied Industrials(XLI,+7.37%) and Real Estate (XLRE, +5.55%) Energy (XLE, +6.92%)
• Healthcare, -0.80%, was the only sector down for the week, while Consumer Staples was near breakeven, +0.14%.

BREAKOUTS 

BioCryst Pharmaceuticals Inc	BCRX	Biotechnology & Medical Research
Electronic Arts Inc	EA	Software & IT Services
ETSY Inc	ETSY	Diversified Retail
Fate Therapeutics Inc	FATE	Biotechnology & Medical Research
Glu Mobile Inc	GLUU	Software & IT Services
NetEase Inc	NTES	Software & IT Services
Novavax Inc	NVAX	Biotechnology & Medical Research
Ultragenyx Pharmaceutical Inc	RARE	Biotechnology & Medical Research
Schrodinger Inc	SDGR	Software & IT Services
Atlassian Corporation PLC	TEAM	Software & IT Services
2U Inc	TWOU	Software & IT Services
United Therapeutics Corp	UTHR	Biotechnology & Medical Research
Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc	VRTX	Biotechnology & Medical Research
Wix.Com Ltd	WIX	Software & IT Services
Acceleron Pharma Inc	XLRN	Biotechnology & Medical Research
Zynga Inc	ZNGA	Software & IT Services
Zynex Inc	ZYXI	Healthcare Equipment & Supplies

BASES

Lots of basing patterns out there. Here’s a handful of top quality stocks in hot industry groups.

ACADIA Pharmaceuticals Inc	ACAD	Biotechnology & Medical Research
Autodesk Inc	ADSK	Software & IT Services
Advanced Micro Devices Inc	AMD	Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment
Biomarin Pharmaceutical Inc	BMRN	Pharmaceuticals
Amicus Therapeutics Inc	FOLD	Biotechnology & Medical Research
Gravity Co Ltd	GRVY	Software & IT Services
Nautilus Inc	NLS	Leisure Products

Amicus Therapeutics Inc. (FOLD, +9.31%)

• Setup tight in a ten-month base, this Biotech is part of a hot sector.
• Solid revenue, accumulation make it attractive.
• Recent breakout from sector with Fate Therapeutics (FATE) could be the trailblazer for it.

Use your stops, play it safe.

Dan

Quick Take: Sell Bias. There’s too much uncertainty in the market and markets hate uncertainty. 

Dear Readers:

Lots of heavy talk from leaders with relatively little reaction from stocks this week.

For the week, the Nasdaq, -1.17%, and the S&P 500, -2.26%, closed above their 20-day moving averages. Broad based selling came with higher than average volume creating churning.

The market is looking for signs of economic recovery as the world continues to slowly re-open from coronavirus quarantines.

Neither Fed Chairman Jerome Powell, who said, “the recovery may come more slowly than we would like, nor top White House infectious disease expert Dr. Anthony Fauci had much to offer in optimism.

There’s solid reason to sell. Famed market players including David Tepper, Stanley Druckenmiller and Carl Icahn have voiced their opinions of an overvalued market.

Reasons to buy are overall less convincing, though explain the run up in select stocks that have been pulling the market higher. Investors don’t buy on GDP predictions as much as they do earnings guidance.

The government has pumped more than three trillion dollars into the system, and unlike the financial crisis where rescue funds shored up reserves for balance sheets. This money going to circulate more throughout the economy.

Companies offering products and services compatible for staying at home are being rewarded, as are big stores that have stayed open as they take business that would have otherwise gone to smaller businesses forced to close.  

Technology shares remain a bright spot. The trend here is stay-at-home products and services, which is right in tune with the tech giants that have been leading stocks higher.

Amazon (AMZN) +1.27%, Apple (AAPL) -0.78%, Microsoft (MSFT) -0.82%, Netflix (NFLX) +4.28%, Google (GOOG) -1.09%. 

Biotech, $BTK +2.38% continues its advance out of a twenty-month-long base as funding pours in for remedies against coronavirus. Biotechs are coincidently the most shorted sector, followed by financial and healthcare. Don’t let that sway you – the herd often gets slaughtered. More on individual $BTK names below. 

The commodity Gold, GLD +2.19%, as well as Gold Miners, GDX +4.91%, also push to new highs as investors seek security from uncertainty. 

Earnings guidance remains a rarity given the too many unanswered questions for the rest of the year. There were no major earnings surprises for the week.

Economic data was predictably poor for the week. Most notably, retail sales fell more than 16% in April, which was more than expected as well as a record. 

Economic forecasts, though often wrong, will likely serve even less useful as economists surely can’t predict the coronavirus as well. 

Potential game changers include: Any positive news regarding coronavirus drug treatment. US tensions with China remain a threat to the market. 

Key Earnings announcement next week from: Nvidia (NVDA), which charged higher after breaking out last week, Walmart (WMT), Target (TGT) Home Depot (HD) Lowes (LOW)

TECHNICALLY SPEAKING

• The S&P 500 is moving sideways below its 200-day SMA and above its 50-day SMA, a common experience after a quick rebound from a sharp sell-off as bulls and bears have been slaughtered.
• Volume for the week tilted to the Bears with NYSE declining at +17B and advancing at +10B 
• Overall volume pattern gives and edge to the Bears with three clear Distribution days in the past month. 
• NYSE decliners, 2,538, beat out advancers 498.
• There were 130 new lows and 73 new highs. 

GROWTH STOCK ACTION

Stock selection for this report focuses only on high quality companies that actually make money and are part of strong trending industry groups.

This week we have a selection of names from the Biotech, Software and Online Gaming groups. 

HIGH QUALITY BREAKOUTS

Novavax, Inc. (NVAX) is in the midst of a breakout while setup in a new multi-year base. This maker of a promising flu vaccine is also experiencing attention for its experience with developing a vaccine for the coronavirus. 

Its price has doubled since first mentioned on this report last month. 

Also in Breakout Territory Are:

ZYXI,ZNGA,WIX,VRTX,TWOU,TEAM,SE,RGEN,NVAX,NTES,NLS,GLUU,FOLD,ETSY,CAPR

HIGH QUALITY BASES

ACAD,AMD,AMGN,BMRN,CVM,DVA,FATE,GIGM,GRVY,PSTI,RARE,ROKU,SDGR,UTHR,XLRN

LAST WORDS

Perhaps online trading has taken over as an American pastime. E-Trade and Ameritrade reportED three times as much trading compared to a year ago. 

The founder of Barstool Sports has transformed into a day trader and is having his time in the financial media – reminds of characters in online brokerage commercials in the tech bubble era at the turn of the century.

Could these characters be responsible for the run-up in stocks?

Stay safe,

Dan

Dear reader,

Stocks are hot as the world economy re-opens. 

While the re-opening of businesses will come slowly, in stages, the stock market has wasted no time taking back lost ground for the year. 

Technology shares drove the week’s action as the Nasdaq roared 6% for higher to mark a 1% gain for the year.  The S&P 500 is down 10% for the year.

Fear of missing out on a new bull market, FOMO, became a theme this week. Last week it was short covering. Who wants to fight the Fed?

Some traders feel the Federal Reserve has put a floor on the market. There’s lots of money out there, and it doesn’t appear to be fleeing the market. 

The Bears are sticking to the notion that bear markets always have rallies that get everyone feeling good, like we’re in a new bull market. To this cause, the path of least resistance remains down as markets don’t do well with uncertainty, and there’s plenty of that at hand. 

China and Japan offer hints of what the US might expect post-quarantine. The Chinese have showed reluctance to resume normal life as restaurants and travel have not resumed to pre-virus levels. In Japan, an uptick in cases after quarantine has triggered a second round of lockdowns.  

Companies benefiting from social distancing have pulled indexes higher, including market flagships Amazon (AMZN), Netflix (NFLX), Microsoft (MSFT), Google (GOOG) and Apple (AAPL),  

Other hot spots include biotechnology, healthcare, high quality dividend payers and foreign stocks whose economies opened. Stocks may also be seen as a hedge against potential inflation with unprecedented money printing by the government. 

Meanwhile, major carnage in finance, retail, energy, industrials and travel related stocks threatens to become leadership to the downside if the bear returns.

There have been a number of positive first quarter earnings reports, especially from tech names. But first quarter numbers do not represent the full impact of the economic shutdown which started in its last two weeks. 

In the coming weeks second quarter earnings will be the focus, and are feared to be the worst of the year. Many feel a bounce back will occur in the third quarter.

About a third of the companies in the S&P 500 that report earnings have refused to give guidance given the unprecedented environment. Goldman Sachs expects S&P 500 earning to be off by a third for the full year. 

The S&P 500 fell 35% from its February hight to its March low, which matches exactly that an average bear market. The big question is whether or not the stock market losing a third of its value this year is an accurate reflection of future earnings.

The hope is that we’ve hit bottom. The market looks like its anticipating a V-shaped economic turnaround, which is hard to imagine happening given the horrendous economic data. 

So far, the market doesn’t care that economic data is at its worst since the Great Depression of the 1930’s. April’s unemployment report showed more than 20 million jobs lost. That’s the size of the state of New York. 

The good news is the unemployment report is a lagging indicator. More than a fifth of the 23 million jobless are classified as temporary rather than permanent.

US relations with China will likely play on market sentiment in the coming weeks. Threats of, and actual punishment to China for its behavior during the early days of the virus outbreak will be a headwind indexes, while talk of resuming trade talks may boost them. 

Trump wants a strong stock market heading into the November election. 

Technically Speaking

• The S&P 500’s 3.5% climb for the week gives it a solid close above its 50-day moving average. But it wasn’t enough to take out last week’s high.
• The 50-day averages are key. Any firm close below will assert the Bear’s cause. 
• Bulls take the volume edge for the week, with two accumulation days to zero distribution days on the S&P 500 and Nasdaq.

Breakouts are happening. Upside momentum on the major indexes coupled with a boost in business for the newly strong stay-at-home market is rewarding companies with strong fundamentals.  

Recent Breakouts from eBay (EBAY), from a multi-month base, Etsy (ETSY) and Peloton (PTON) are just a few of many we’ve seen. 

Continued strength from Biotech is evident with the iShares Nasdaq Biotechnology Index ETF (IBB) approaching its 2015 high. 

Gilead Sciences (GILD) slipped 3% for the week as it flirts with a failed breakout. The company’s Covid-19 drug remdesivir is now shipping to hospitals. 

Many of bases are in the process of being formed, though few meet the strict criteria of our fundamental standards. 

The Trade Desk Inc. (TTD) is a top candidate as it technically broke out Thursday, though is still within acceptable range of its buy-point. 

The company’s cloud-based technology gives its customers the ability run digital ads via video, audio on multiple platforms. Fundamental year over year highlights include 33% quarterly revenue growth, 137 earnings growth and 22% return on equity. 

Many, many other opportunities are lining up. Many of which will hinge on broader market strength.

Also, Corona beer sales strong, according to its parent company Constellation Brands (STZ). Unfortunately, it does not meet our strict fundamental criteria for buys. 

Be lucky,

Dan

Dear Readers:

Friday we kicked off May trading with a broad sell-off on the major indexes, erasing gains made earlier in the week. Lack of volume shows less fervor for the Bears.

The month of April proved to be the best for the S&P 500 since 1987 as it rocketed up 12.7%, cutting its loss for the year to 10%.

The Coronavirus appears to be slowing. States are either re-opening or making plans to do so. All great news minus the fear of infections with a second wave which will persist until a vaccine is available.

Heavy-handed short covering has fueled upward momentum. This rally off the March low doesn’t look any different than a bear market rallies following similar steep sell-offs.

Buyers are more concerned with going against the government’s massive stimulus than focussing on the usual fundamentals.

Unfortunately, economic carnage from stay-at-home orders is feared to be among the worst the United States has seen, though only time will tell. First quarter GDP fell 4.8%, but the second quarter is estimated to have a 30% to 40% drop, with full year GDP expected to contract 4% to 5%. 

Widespread struggling among companies will continue. Earnings are expected to fall more than 15% for the first quarter. More than 30 million people have lost their jobs in the last six weeks. 

Quarterly reports from the digital heavyweights showed some resilience with sales and are poised to do well with their work-from-home products. Thought future guidance was lacking.  

Apple (AAPL), +2.16%, showed resilience with iPhone sales, though declined to give guidance. Google (GOOG), +3.23%, had better than expected revenue, search biz stable, cloud biz more appealing to CEO’s, work at home. Microsoft (MSFT), +0.01%,reported it was alive and well, a boost from its XBox home video game a highlight. 

Pandemic success Amazon (AMZN), -5.15%, said it would spend its $4B profit to help protect its workforce from Covid-19, including $1B for in-house testing. While its cloud business slowed, its video conference, gaming and entertainment picked up. Amazon’s stock is up more than 50% since its March low.

Technically Speaking

• The S&P 500 holds above its 50-day simple moving average. 
• Volume patterns continue to favor the bulls, though it may be short covering and stimulus related rather than truly committed buyers. Six clear Accumulation Days have been notched in since the March low, where the Bears have failed to notch in a single Distribution Day

Small caps are showing relative strength with the S&P Smallcap 600 up 3.48% for the week. Materials and Energy were big gainers here, a sign of optimism as the larger companies have been seen as safer for investors compared to the riskier, more leveraged small companies.

The market will become more selective over stocks with a flight to quality. Growth stocks prefer bull markets to move them higher. Few from this group tend to do well when the trend is down.

The Nasdaq Biotechnology Index (IBB) fell 4% and back below its breakout base line as it put the breaks on a strong rally that began mid-March. The sector remains in the spotlight with hopes of a remedy and cure for the virus. 

Gilead Science’s (GILD), +0.39%, Remdesivir showed positive testing results with about a thousand Covid patients, reducing their hospital stays by about four days on average to 11. Any hint that they’re on the right track with this could serve as a base for other drugs.

Intact breakouts in biotech include Cel-Sci Corp. (CVM), United Therapeutics Corp. (UTHR), Repligen Corp. (RGEN), Bio-Techno Corp (TECH) and Vertex Pharmaceuticals (VRTX.)

Heavyweight Amgen (AMGN) looks to be tested with its breakout, failing is BioMarin (BMRN.)

The economy is changing. It may be rough sledding at the moment, though we will come out of it stronger and better. This report will have much to say on trends shaping our lives and investments. There’s loads of opportunity. 

And, there’s plenty of chicken to make up for a decline in red meat. 

Good luck out there,

Dan

Dear Readers:

The Growth Stock Report resumes after a long hiatus. It’s a new market. Time to reset. It’s great to be back!

US Major indexes hold gains after taking back about half their losses from lows made last month. The glass is half empty, bears hold the cards.

Expect retest of March lows until the market gets a better read on the timing and recovering of the world economy. Is it going to happen this year? Is it safe now?

Disease control and economic turmoil puts financial markets into uncharted waters. 

Seven states are planning to end their stay-at-home orders. Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan and Texas are set for this week. The governor of California is scheduled to address the issue for his state on that day. Eastern states, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and Washington DC are looking at mid-May openings.

Political leaders fear a second wave of Covid-19 could be worse that the first, calling for a second quarentine, which would have an even more devastating affect on the economy. In 1918, the Spanish flu in winter was far worse than what it caused in deaths in the spring. Many epidemics have come in waves.

China and its post quarantine economy may prove to be a bellwether for the rest of the world. So far, it appears people are staying home more there, with restaurants and travel less popular.

Any medical remedy for the vaccine will be a game-changer. More on biotech stocks below.

Earnings season is in full swing. Watch for forward earnings guidance from tech giants Amazon, Facebook, Google and Apple scheduled to announce this week.

Uncertainty over the market environment has caused companies to remove earnings guidance. Chipotle, Unilever, AT&T, and Domino’s Pizza were in this group last week. Warren Buffett has previously been an advocate for abandoning the practice altogether for their tendency to put too much emphasis on short-term profits.

Look out for companies lowering dividends. Dividend opportunities attract bids as the yield spread between S&P dividends and Treasuries are at 50 year high.

Technically speaking: 

• The S&P 500 put in a bearish two-step symmetrical pattern and closed just under its 50-day moving average. There’s a Bull/Bear fight at this level, lots of chop back and forth.
• Defensiveness is en vogue.
• The Biotech and Gold Miner sectors have broken out of multi-year bases. More on this below.
• Relative Strength: Healthcare,
• Relative Weakness: Financials, Energy, Industrials, Real Estate
• Technology is poised to lead after closing firmly above its 50-day MA – but it’s may be more of a look than a reality.
• A high volume turn on the S&P’s 50-day would be an invitation to load the boat short. 
• Volume ratio on the NYSE last week gives the bears a modest edge, while the Nasdaq weighed to the Bulls advantage.

We shouldn’t assume there’s bullish commitment from funds at this juncture. Buy-volume may largely be from algorithm traders and quantitive easing. Governments are printing money.

Upside trailblazers Netflix (NFLX) Amazon (AMZN) assume bullish leadership with new highs. Companies catering to the stay at home market do well in this environment. Their continued success could pull many others higher.

Software stocks have been a bright spot for the tech sector. Subscription based business models continue to bode well for the group. Companies offering stay-at-home solutions, such as Zoom (ZM), Citrix (CTXS) and Equinix (EQIX) are benefiting nicely in this environment.

VanEck Vectors Video Gaming and eSports ETF (ESPO) broke out of a base to a new high. Kids, and probably a significant number of their parents, are finding online gaming an outlet as almost all other forms of entertainment involving coming into contact with others has disappeared.

Biotechs are breaking out. The iShares Nasdaq Biotechnology ETF (IBB) is pushing new highs in a five-year base. Driving it, are Hopeful remedy makers for Covid-19, Gilead (GILD) and Novavax (NVAX) are leading the charge. Gilead stumbled on questionable early test results for its vaccine, though it’s still intact. 

Biotechs have out performed the market in recessions. Promising gene therapy has long enticed investors. Reportedly China is buying into the sector here, perhaps to take ownership of a potential remedy for the disease. 

Gold is holding highs not seen since in more than six years. The precious metal was trending higher before the pandemic hit. Any weakness in the dollar from the unprecedented printing of money will fuel it higher – as will a host of the usual fears including global economic depression and government breakdowns. 

The Gold Miners ETF (GDX) broke out to a 52-week high last week as it cleared a four week base.  

Until next week,

Dan