Any investor, given the recent volatility and broad selloff, would be tempted to doubt the ability of the market to muster much more in the way of follow through, which is certainly understandable. There is palpable doubt in the market, and only a modest pull back in the measure of fear. Investors must keep several themes in mind when assessing the next directional move by US equity markets.
Will US corporate earnings/valuations and guidance support expectations of further revenue and earnings growth? Have we seen the worst of China’s selloff? Has crude stumbled upon a tradable bottom? Will the EU be able to manage a move away from further ECB accommodation? Is the US economic activity likely to accelerate after a disappointing Q4 showing? Is the Federal Reserve likely to hold off on a move in rates next month?