S&P 500, Nasdaq 100 Technical Outlook: Significant Hurdles Ahead, Will The Rally Continue?

By Zain Vawda

Wall Street’s primary indexes have found some stability following a blockbuster start to the week. As the US session commenced, all major S&P sectors were trading higher, buoyed by improved market sentiment and a dovish stance from Japanese policymakers.

The market volatility experienced since late last week was partly triggered by the Bank of Japan’s surprise rate hike, prompting many institutions to unwind carry trades and cover positions. Additionally, fears of a global recession exacerbated the situation.

In early trading on Wednesday, Amazon (AMZN) led the gains, rising about 2.6%. Focus has shifted back to earnings, with Airbnb (ABNB) struggling, down 12.7%. The company forecasted third quarter revenue below estimates and warned of shorter booking windows and challenges ahead in H2 2024.

It’s essential to maintain perspective. Despite the recent correction, the S&P 500 is still up 10% year-to-date, and the Nasdaq 100 is up 8.5% year-to-date.

Despite this week’s market panic, pullbacks of 5% or more in the S&P 500 are relatively common. Since 1930, the S&P 500 has experienced an average of three 5% pullbacks per year.

Another chart I found interesting which relates to the S&P 500 shows a median peak-to-trough decline of around 10% since 1985. Comparing this to the recent 8% decline in the S&P 500, it offers some food for thought. Market participants often swing from one extreme to another, making these charts valuable for providing insight and perspective on recent market movements.

Technical Analysis S&P 500

From a technical standpoint, the S&P 500 has gained some traction on Wednesday, following a period of consolidation on Tuesday. However, numerous technical hurdles remain for the bulls if the rally is to continue.

Wednesday’s rally encountered resistance at the 100-day moving average, situated in a confluence zone between 5330 and 5267. This area presents several challenges, with further resistance expected at 5391 before the psychological level of 5500 becomes a focal point.

S&P 500 Daily Chart, August 7, 2024

Support

• 5193
• 5092
• 5048 (200-day MA)

Resistance

Nasdaq 100

The Nasdaq 100 chart closely mirrors the S&P 500, featuring a strong support base around the 17800 handle where the 200-day moving average is located.

Earlier this week, the 17300 support area was tested on Monday, but buyers intervened, pushing the price back above the 200-day moving average.

On the upside, immediate resistance was encountered on Wednesday at 18416. Further resistance lies at the 100-day moving average at 18800, before the descending trendline comes into focus.

Nasdaq 100 Daily Chart, August 7, 2024

Support

Resistance

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