Stocks Unphased by Weak NFP Number as Yields Fall

(Post-NFP update) – The non-farm payrolls figure came in at 169,000, falling short of expectations. Consensus expectations were 180,000 prior to yesterday’s strong data, which prompted some to raise expectations to ~200,000. Futures do not seem troubled by the number, though, as perhaps the perception is that it makes the Fed less likely to taper in September. It will be interesting to see how this disappointing figure affects the 10-year treasury bond during today’s session after yields climbed above 3% for the first time since 2011 yesterday. If yields come off a bit, it could end up off-setting any disappointment for stocks about the still-lethargic employment recovery.

(Written prior to NFP report) – It was a pretty quiet night around the world with Europe basically flat as it waits for the US non-farm payrolls figure. Asia continues to hold up as Shanghai is trying to create a new uptrend. India is 10% off its Summer lows and it looks like there could be a bottom there. Nikkei pulled back 1.2% but it was up 5% so far this week.

The S&P is about 30 handles higher than it was a week ago as we wait for the NFP. After strong initial jobless claims and ISM non-manufacturing yesterday, initial projections of 180,000 job gains have given way to expectations closer to 200,000. Our thesis of rising rates continues as we are now above 3% on the 10-year, even a bit faster than I anticipated.

The S&P almost hit its 50-day MA yesterday but couldn’t power through it. Today it could try again (it stands at 1664ish) but a lot will depend on the jobs report. IF the Bears want this to be a “right shoulder” they should defend the 1670-1674 area in coming sessions. Support stands at 1653 then the 100-day at 1641ish.

Despite the choppy action in indices there continues to be lots of nice movement in individual stocks. A group of tech leaders that includes Facebook (FB), LinkedIn (LNKD) and Netflix (NFLX) has continued to act tremendously strong, while some recent laggard names like Google (GOOG) and Amazon (AMZN) woke up with “Day #1” type moves on Tuesday that continued through yesterday.

Yesterday it was very refreshing to see “good news” equate to “good news” for stocks. The market did close off its highs of the day, but it was constructive to see stocks absorb such a sharp spike up in bond yields and finish in positive territory. With rates moving above 3% after the close yesterday, it’s again encouraging to see futures pointing higher.

If we do get a number 200,000+ NFP number, it’s hard to say what the reaction could be. I think we may get an initial move lower as some will say it “cements” QE tapering later this month, but I think after the reflex move it could be bought. The Fed seems to be setting a course out of its controversial asset-buying program, so it’s about time the economy picks up some of the slack.

Disclosure: Scott Redler is long FB, BAC, BBRY calls

Disclaimer: This page contains affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase after clicking a link, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!

About Scott Redler 367 Articles

Scott Redler is the Chief Strategic Officer of T3 Live. He develops all trading strategies for the service and acts as the face of T3 Live. Mr. Redler focuses on thorough preparation and discipline as a trader.

Mr. Redler has been trading equities for more than 10 years and has more recently received widespread recognition from the financial community for his insightful, pragmatic approach. He began his career as a broker and venture capitalist where he was able to facilitate relationships that led him into trading. Beginning his trading career at Broadway Trading in 1999, Mr. Redler moved on with Marc Sperling to Sperling Enterprises, LLC after establishing himself as one of the best young traders in the firm. As a manager at Sperling Enterprises, continued to trade actively while working closely with all traders in the firm to dramatically increase performance.

Mr. Redler has participated in more than 30 triathlons and one IronMan, exhibiting a work ethic that also defines his trading. His vast knowledge and meticulous attention to detail has led to regular appearances on CNBC, Fox Business, Bloomberg, and he is a regular contributor to Minyanville and Forbes’ Intelligent Investing blog. He has been quoted in the Wall Street Journal and Investor's Business Daily, among other publications.

Scott received a B.B.A. in Marketing/Finance from the State University of New York at Albany, graduating Magna Cum Laude from Albany's School of Business.

Visit: T3Live

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.