Market Analysis: S&P 500 Rises After Inflation News

The CPI index values published yesterday showed that inflation in the US has increased slightly, but increased: actual = 3.7% in annual terms (expected = 3.6%, last month = 3.2%). According to the FT, the main reason is rising energy prices.

Recent data shows that the Fed's fight against inflation is becoming more difficult. Nevertheless, the markets perceived the event positively, as:
→ during a surge in volatility, the price of E-mini S&P 500 futures dropped to a minimum of the week, but the day closed at its maximum;
→ in the early hours of Thursday, the price increased.

Perhaps market participants believe that the Fed will be able to make a “soft landing.” By the way, Bank of America analysts, in a report dated September 11, wrote that the fall in the stock index from July highs represents a correction within the bull market that has been ongoing since the end of 2022.

On the other hand, Morgan Stanley analysts believe the S&P 500 could fall 25% if investors feel fearful as US stocks look risky and expensive. But BlackRock writes that the risk of recession remains high, since companies need to take out loans for business development at higher rates. And this will ultimately worsen financial reporting.

The difference in opinions is reflected in the chart, which suggests that the market is entering (or has already entered) a consolidation (flat) stage, since:
→ the decrease in B→C to the support line 4,440 is approximately 50% of the growth impulse A→B to the resistance line 4,535;
→ the growth of C→D to the resistance line 4,495 is approximately 50% of the declining impulse of A→B.

The damping of volatility can be interpreted in such a way that supply and demand balance each other. But September is traditionally a stormy month for stock markets. Let's see what its second half will be like - we are waiting for the meeting of central banks, the decisions of which will be announced next week.