DAILY STOCK MARKET FORECAST

10/8/05 Weekend-

10/7/05 Friday-

Major indexes set to open higher: |  Look for a neutral-to-positive open.   10/7/05 Friday 9:28a Eastern

Week ends in up tick: |  Stock market major indexes advance slightly Friday stopping a 4-day slide. The DJIA rose slightly by 0.1 percent, the S&P 500 had a good session with a 0.4 percent rise, and the NASDAQ was up by 0.3 percent. The forecast indicates NEGATIVE with a negative bias.   10/7/05 Friday 4:48p Eastern  

10/6/05 Thursday-

Thursday open seen somewhat positive: |  Look for a neutral-to-positive open;  could turn mixed.   10/6/05 Thursday 9:29a Eastern

Stocks try for a comeback: |  Stocks jump higher in last half hour of trade but still end in negative territory. The DJIA ended lower by 0.3 percent, the S&P500 was off by 0.4 percent, and the NASDAQ lower by 0.9 percent. The forecast indicates NEGATIVE with a negative bias.   10/6/05 Thursday 5:44p Eastern  

10/5/05 Wednesday-

Flat to negative start for Wednesday: |  Look for a flat, probably lower open.   10/5/05 Wednesday 9:27a Eastern

Wednesday records another negative day: |  Stocks continue lower Wednesday on building fear of inflation and a slowing economy. The DJIA lost 1.2 percent, the S&P500 lost 1.5 percent, and the NASDAQ hit hard with a 1.7 percent dive. The afternoon Barometer model run set the bias to negative so the forecast now reads NEGATIVE with a negative bias.   10/5/05 Wednesday 4:55p Eastern  

10/4/05 Tuesday- Rosh Hashanah-

Flat open seen for Tuesday: |  Look for a neutral, possibly mixed open.   10/4/05 Tuesday 9:28a Eastern

Inflation fear and Q3 earnings-- worry investors: |  Inflation and Q3 earnings worries   get the best of buyers and seller win the day as the major indices fell sharply Tuesday afternoon-  Factory order data and Fed speak help the selling. The DJIA lost 0.9 percent, the S&P500 lost 1 percent, and the NASDAQ moved lower by 0.8 percent. The forecast continues to indicates NEGATIVE with a neutral bias.. .   10/4/05 Tuesday 4:57p Eastern  

10/3/05 Monday-

Flat start seen for Monday's open: |  Look for a neutral, possibly mixed open.   10/3/05 Monday 9:27a Eastern

Indices meander Monday midday: |  Popular average continue in mixed fashion midday Monday with the DJIA off by 0.2 percent, the S&P500 off slightly by 0.1 percent, while the NASDAQ moves high by 0.3 percent. The forecast indicates NEGATIVE with a neutral bias.   10/3/05 Monday 11:59a Eastern

Market ends flat Monday on strong ISM data: |  Market dips lower on big manufacturing number but NASDAQ holds above unchanged. The DJIA closes Monday lower by 0.3 percent, the S&P 500 was lower by 0.2 percent while the NASDAQ, off the highs, gained 0.2 percent. The forecast indicates NEGATIVE with a neutral bias.   10/3/05 Monday 4:55p Eastern  

10/1/05 Weekend-

9/30/05 Friday-

Last day of Q3;  market looks flat: |  Look for a flat open;  could turn mixed.   9/30/05 Friday 9:24a Eastern

Mostly flat day ends positive ahead of Q4: |  Dow and S&P500 end flat;  NASDAQ jumps higher on last trade day of third-quarter. The DJIA rose by 0.2 percent, the S&P500 slightly higher by 0.1 percent, and the NASDAQ a solid 1/2 percent rise. The forecast indicates NEGATIVE with a neutral bias.   9/30/05 Friday 4:56p Eastern  

9/29/05 Thursday-

Another slow start seen Thursday: |  Look for a flat, possibly mixed open.   9/29/05 Thursday 9:25a Eastern

Investors position for end of quarter: |  Finally, stocks ramp higher after several days meandering as September-trade closes tomorrow. Strong oil prices but lighter gas prices and other news [GDP 3.3 in Q 2 -  jobless initial claims - and some corporate forecasts]  gets traders to bid stocks higher as the third-quarter comes to an end tomorrow. The DJIA rose by 0.8 percent, the S&P500 rose by 0.9 percent, and the NASDAQ moved higher by 1.2 percent. The forecast reads NEGATIVE with a neutral bias.   9/29/05 Thursday 5:08p Eastern  

9/28/05 Wednesday-

Firm open seen for Wednesday: |  Look for a neutral-to-positive open..   9/28/05 Wednesday 9:25a Eastern

Wednesday ends like Tuesday- flat: |  Much like yesterday, stocks go both sides of unchanged and settle flat amid little news [durable goods data - Kodak warns]. The mid afternoon model-run indicated a bias change to neutral;  model data indicated slight improvements in the forecast metrics. The forecast now reads NEGATIVE with a neutral bias. The DJIA and S&P500 ended slightly higher and the NASDAQ ended slightly lower.   9/28/05 Wednesday 5:05p Eastern  

9/27/05 Tuesday-

Tuesday's start looks flat: |  Look for a neutral, possibly mixed open.   9/27/05 Tuesday 9:26a Eastern

Stocks end flat Tuesday: |  Stocks meander Tuesday and end flat as consumer confidence fell to 86.6 in September, according to The Conference Board. Not much other news to trade on but a lot of uncertainty [Katrina - Rita, and rate hike - inflation] kept the market quite. The DJIA ended up slightly by 0.1 percent, the NASDAQ ended lower by 0.2 percent, the S&P 500 ended flat. The Barometer forecast indicates NEGATIVE with a negative forecast-bias.   9/27/05 Tuesday 5:02p Eastern  

9/26/05 Monday-

Better start seen for this week: |  Look for a positive open.   9/26/05 Monday 9:24a Eastern

Stocks continue in positive territory: |  Major indices run-up early and have trend sideways midday Monday on relief that Rita was somewhat less damaging than first feared. The DJIA is up by 0.6 percent, the S&P 500 up by 0.4 percent, and the NASDAQ up by 1/2 percent. The Barometer forecast, changed last Wednesday, now indicates NEGATIVE with a negative bias.   9/26/05 Monday 12:00p Eastern

Popular averages started higher but end neutral: |  Market ends near flat Monday after starting the day well into positive territory. Storm damage from Rita appears to be minimal for the oil/gas infrastructure but oil and gas continue price moves higher. The DJIA and NASDAQ ended higher by 0.2 percent, the S&P 500 ended flat. The Barometer forecast indicates NEGATIVE with a negative forecast-bias.   9/26/05 Monday 4:59p Eastern  

9/24/05 Weekend-

9/23/05 Friday-

Another weak start seen Friday: |  Look for a neutral, possibly mixed open.   9/23/05 Friday 9:25a Eastern

Market ends Friday neutral as investors wait on Rita: |  Oil slips as Rita weakens, sending the Dow and S&P500  to near unchanged;  NASDAQ gains on the day. The DJIA ends flat, the S&P 500 ended slightly higher by 0.1 percent, the NASDAQ ended higher by 0.3 percent. The Barometer forecast, changed Wednesday, now indicates NEGATIVE with a negative bias.   9/23/05 Friday 4:55p Eastern  

9/22/05 Thursday-

Weak start for Thursday: |  Look for a neutral, possibly mixed open.   9/22/05 Thursday 9:23a Eastern

Stock market turns around midday Thursday: |  Stocks make a comeback while Rita continues churning towards the Texas-Louisiana shoreline, downgraded to a cat-4 storm. The DJIA and S&P500 rose 0.4 percent, and the NASDAQ rose 0.2 percent. The Barometer forecast, changed yesterday, now indicates NEGATIVE with a negative bias.   9/22/05 Thursday 4:46p Eastern  

9/21/05 Wednesday-

Weak start on Rita concerns: |  Look for a neutral-to-negative open.   9/21/05 Wednesday 9:27a Eastern

Stocks down as Rita continues its approach to Texas: |  Stock major indices moved lower Wednesday morning amid Rita concerns--  now a cat 4 storm--  as she moves into the Central-Gulf, moving to the Central-Texas shore. Oil maintains the mid $60 bbl as oil/gas concerns remain. The DJIA is off by 1/2 percent, the S&P 500 off by 0.4 percent, and the NASDAQ is off by 0.6 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a negative bias. The forecast is subject to downgrade in today's session.   9/21/05 Wednesday 11:40 Eastern

Forecast is changing to NEGATIVE: |  Pre close model run indicates a forecast change to NEGATIVE. The change will take place over the close.    9/21/05 Wednesday 3:55p Eastern- updated  

9/20/05 Tuesday-

Positive open seen on Fed day: |  Look for a neutral-to-positive open.   9/20/05 Tuesday 9:28a Eastern

FOMC meets to decide on rates: |  Major indexes continue in positive territory as investors await the FOMC rate-hike. The Fed is scheduled to announce their decision at about 2:15 pm Eastern. The DJIA and S&P500 are higher by 0.2 percent, the NASDAQ is up by 1/2 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a negative bias. The forecast is subject to downgrade.   9/20/05 Tuesday 12:21p Eastern

One day negative reaction to the Fed: |  One day negative reaction to the rate increase doesn't mean more negative market days to come--  investors might be encouraged that with all the negative stuff going on [oil/gas prices - Rita on the prowl] the stock market could have sank further than it did. With oil inventory report out tomorrow and better idea where Rita is going, traders and investors could be less negative and send stocks back up Wednesday. Meantime, the DJIA and NASDAQ lost 0.7 percent, the S&P500 was off by 0.8 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a negative bias. The forecast is subject to downgrade in Wednesday's session.   9/20/05 Tuesday 5:43p Eastern  

9/19/05 Monday-

Flat start seen Monday: |  Look for a neutral, possibly mixed open.   9/19/05 Monday 9:26a Eastern

oil on the move; Rita forecast to enter the Gulf: |  With Rita on the prowl, traders run oil prices up by better than $3 to $66.35 bbl as investors turn to selling stocks on Fed Eve. With Rita forecast to enter the Gulf, platforms go on alert and investors ready for the Fed tomorrow in hopes that the FOMC will suspend the rate-hike cycle. The DJIA and NASDAQ are off by 0.7 percent, the S&P 500 is off by 1/2 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a negative bias. The Barometer Bug was changed over the weekend to make the display larger and to remove some of the bias filters...   9/19/05 Monday 11:35a Eastern

Fed and Rita takes stocks lower: |  Uncertainty takes the stock market lower Monday on Fed Eve as Rita is expected to enter the Gulf and could reach cat 3 as it aims for Houston's rich oil infrastructure. Big question of the day is, will the FOMC hold rates or continue the rate-hiking cycle tomorrow. The answer will be known Tuesday at about 2:15 pm EST. The DJIA closed lower by 0.8 percent, the S&P500 was off by 0.6 percent, and the NASDAQ ended lower by 0.7 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a negative bias. The forecast is subject to downgrade tomorrow.   9/19/05 Monday 5:05p Eastern  

9/17/05 Weekend-

Forecast display has changed: |  The forecast display--  upper left corner--  was upgraded to a larger more readable display. We also discontinued several filter levels from the connection between the models and the bias...   9/17/05 Saturday 2:09p Eastern  

9/16/05 Friday-

Positive outlook for Friday: |  Look for a neutral-to-positive open. Chance of turning mixed.   9/16/05 Friday 9:28a Eastern

Indexes move higher amid options expiration: |  Stocks ramp up on options expiration Friday while oil slips as gold and silver continue moving higher. The DJIA and S&P 500 rose 0.8 percent, and the NASDAQ was up by 0.7 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a negative bias.   9/16/05 Friday 4:53p Eastern  

9/15/05 Thursday-

Mostly positive open seen for Thursday: |  Look for a neutral-to-positive open. Could turn mixed.   9/15/05 Thursday 9:26a Eastern

Indexes meander midday Thursday: |  Stocks continue to hang close to unchanged, midday Thursday, while the price of oil holds near mid-$60 bbl, amid a surge in jobless claims due to Katrina and consumer prices that edged up 1/2 percent in August, according to a Government report. The DJIA is up 0.2 percent, the S&P500 is higher by 0.3 percent, and the NASDAQ is flat. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a negative bias.   9/15/05 Thursday 11:42a Eastern

Stocks meander, traders await the Fed: |  Jobless initial claims jump and CPI rises 1/2 percent, but traders and investors opt to wait on the Fed next week to see if interest rate-hike might be suspended in view of the unknown factors to the economy from Katrina. Meanwhile, stocks meander and end in mixed mode Thursday with the DJIA and S&P500 slightly higher by 0.1 percent, the NASDAQ was off by 0.2 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a negative bias.   9/15/05 Thursday 5:31p Eastern  

9/14/05 Wednesday-

Wednesday's opening comment: |  Look for a neutral, flat open-  could turn mixed.   9/14/05 Wednesday 9:27a Eastern

Indices continue flat midday: |  Stocks continue in mixed mode Wednesday midday amid a decline in retail sales [for August] as reported by the Government this morning. Traders and investors may opt-out for the next several days, as up on deck is the FOMC and rate-hike focus;  could see mostly sideways movement for the rest of the week. The DJIA is slightly higher by 0.1 percent, the S&P500 is up by 0.2 percent, the NASDAQ is slightly lower by 0.1 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a negative bias.   9/14/05 Wednesday 12:25p Eastern

Oil up, retail sales and the market move lower: |  S&P 500 slips while Dow and the NASDAQ dive on higher oil prices and a decline in August retail sales. The DJIA lost 1/2 percent, the NASDAQ 1 percent loss, and the S&P500 lost 0.3 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a negative bias.   9/14/05 Wednesday 5:29p Eastern  

9/13/05 Tuesday-

Weak start for equities seen: |  Look for a neutral-to-negative open.   9/13/05 Tuesday 9:25a Eastern

Sellers "turn" Tuesday: |  Retail sector lead stocks lower after PPI shows up tic for producer prices and mild inflation. It was sellers turn today, as stocks moved lower with the DJIA and S&P500 off by 0.8 percent, and the NASDAQ lower by 1/2 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a negative bias.   9/13/05 Tuesday 4:58p Eastern  

9/12/05 Monday-

Monday's opening comment: |  Look for a flat-to-mixed open.   9/12/05 Monday 9:24a Eastern

Market moves nearly flat: |  Major indexes tour the flat line Monday midday amid a slew of acquisition news. Oracle announced an agreement to buy Siebel Systems, EBay-Skype deal, and Wachovia - Westcorp help keep things mostly positive. Oil and gas continue to trend lower. The DJIA registers flat, the S&P500 lower by 0.1 percent, and the NASDAQ is up by 0.2 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a negative bias. The bias is subject to change.   9/12/05 Monday 11:54a Eastern

Popular averages end mixed Monday: |  The stock market meanders all day near the unchanged line and ends mixed on a day that saw several acquisitions and deals [Oracle - Siebel, Wachovia - Westcorp, EBay - Skype]. The DJIA ended slightly higher by less than 0.1 percent, the S&P500 ended slightly lower by 0.1 percent, and the NASDAQ was higher by 0.3 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a negative bias. The bias is subject to change.   9/12/05 Monday 5:08p Eastern  

9/10/05 Weekend-

9/9/05 Friday-

Stocks set for flat start: |  Look for a neutral-to-positive open.   9/9/05 Friday 9:26a Eastern

Major indices end with a very positive week: |  Stocks do well this short week with healthy gains. Next week will see the return to full staff for traders and investors ahead of Fed week as rate talk will be the focus- the Fed is scheduled to meet September 20. The DJIA and the S&P 500 rose by 0.8 percent today and the NASDAQ up by 0.4 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a negative bias. The bias is subject to change.   9/9/05 Friday 5:00p Eastern  

9/8/05 Thursday-

Lower open seen Thursday: |  Look for a neutral-to-negative open.   9/8/05 Thursday 9:24a Eastern

Popular averages move lower Thursday: |  Socks move lower Thursday on growing fear of a Katrina-related slowing of the economy. The DJIA and S&P500 closed off by 0.4 percent, the NASDAQ was off by 0.3 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a negative bias.   9/8/05 Thursday 5:00p Eastern  

9/7/05 Wednesday-

Wednesday's opening comment: |  Look for a neutral, possibly mixed open.   9/7/05 Wednesday 9:26a Eastern

Major indexes post gains Wednesday: |  The DJIA rose 0.4 percent, the S&P500 and NASDAQ rose 0.2 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a negative bias.   9/7/05 Wednesday 5:36p Eastern  

9/6/05 Tuesday-

Positive start to shortened week: |  Look for a positive open.   9/6/05 Tuesday 9:24a Eastern

Major indexes close Tuesday with substantial gains: |  The DJIA closed higher by 1.4 percent, the S&P500 was up by 1.3 percent, and the NASDAQ was up by 1.2 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a negative bias.   9/6/05 Tuesday 4:47p Eastern  

9/3/05 Weekend- Labor Day- holiday-

Markets closed: |  Markets are closed in the U.S. for the Labor Day holiday. The focus all week and continuing today is the Gulf Coast and the devastation from Katrina.   9/5/05 Monday 11:11a Eastern  

9/2/05 Friday-

Fridays open looks positive: |  Look for a neutral-to-positive open.   9/2/05 Friday 9:20a Eastern

Stock indices end lower Friday but up for the week: |  Stocks meander the flat line Friday and end slightly lower with the DJIA closing slightly lower by 0.1 percent, the S&P500 and NASDAQ lower by 0.3 percent. U.S. Markets will be closed Monday for the holiday and will reopen for normal session on Tuesday. The forecast indicates CAUTION with a negative bias.   9/2/05 Friday 4:48p Eastern  

9/1/05 Thursday-

Flat start to Thursday seen: |  Look for a neutral-to-mixed open.   9/1/05 Thursday 9:27a Eastern

Stock market closes mixed Thursday: |  Stocks end mixed on the first trade of the month. The DJIA and NASDAQ closed lower by 0.2 percent-  the S&P500 ended slightly higher by 0.1 percent. The forecast indicates CAUTION with a negative bias.  9/1/05 Thursday 4:49p Eastern  

8/31/05 Wednesday-

Weak start set for Wednesday: |  Look for a flat, possibly mixed open.   8/31/05 Wednesday 9:24a Eastern

Stocks meander Wednesday morning: |  Stock major indexes continue to move along the unchanged-line, while oil holds $69 and gas prices move higher. Trade for the rest of the week likely to be slow [depending on remaining economical data;  nonfarm and ISM-PMI] ahead of the holiday and the return to full staff the following week. The DJIA is off by 0.2 percent, the S&P500 is slightly off by 0.1 percent, the NASDAQ is trading flat. The forecast indicates CAUTION with a negative bias;  bias was changed yesterday prior to the close.   8/31/05 Wednesday 12:31p Eastern

Stocks bounce higher in afternoon trade to end August regular session: |  Market puts on a small rally in afternoon trading to end near the highs off the session, on the last trade of the regular session for August. The DJIA ended up by 0.7 percent, the S&P500 up by 1 percent, and the NASDAQ was higher by 1.1 percent. The forecast indicates CAUTION with a negative bias;  bias was changed yesterday prior to the close.   8/31/05 Wednesday 4:57p Eastern  

8/30/05 Tuesday-

Market to open lower Tuesday: |  Look for a neutral-to-negative open.   8/30/05 Tuesday 9:27a Eastern

Stocks down, oil and gas up: |  U.S. major indices move lower Tuesday midday while the price of oil pushes past $70. Katrina a focus for investors as they deal with the aftermath while damage assessment continues to worsen. The DJIA was off 0.8 percent, the S&P500 off by 0.6 percent, and the NASDAQ off by 0.7 percent. The Barometer forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a neutral bias. The bias is subject to further downgrade.   8/30/05 Tuesday 11:55a Eastern

Bias changes to negative as S&P500 tests the Barometer 1202 line: |  The forecast-bias is changing to NEGATIVE from neutral. Additional details to come.   8/30/05 Tuesday 3:53p Eastern  

8/29/05 Monday-

Stocks set to move lower on oil: |  Look for a negative open.   8/29/05 Monday 9:27a Eastern

All eyes on Katrina as it moves onshore near New Orleans: |  Late morning trade sees the major indices near unchanged, improving from early move lower on oil prices, kicked higher by Katrina. Katrina moved onshore early Monday near New Orleans, with winds near 145 miles per hour, causing major disruptions. The DJIA, S&P500, and NASDAQ are near unchanged. The forecast indicates CAUTION with a neutral bias.   8/29/05 Monday 10:59a Eastern

Model probabilities have changed with Katrina: |  The Barometer models indicate probability of further decline in the S&P500-  below the 1200 line-  has changed to "medium" from "higher" in this mornings model run. The S&P500, intraday, had slipped to just above 1202 in early trade, bouncing back and trending into positive territory midmorning. This change in probabilities makes all three scenarios equally weighted at "medium"...   8/29/05 Monday 1:59p Eastern

S&P 500 dips to near 1202, satisfies models: |  Stocks climb the wall of worry and close with nice gains, after dipping negative early this morning on concerns over Katrina. Ahead of tons of economical data this week, the DJIA and S&P500 closed up by 0.6 percent, the NASDAQ higher by 0.8 percent. The Barometer models had indicated an intraday dip of the S&P500-  to just above 1202. This could indicate a move lower by the S&P500 from current levels, less likely. The Market Memo probabilities were changed. The Barometer forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a neutral bias.   8/29/05 Monday 5:42p Eastern  

8/27/05 Weekend-

8/26/05 Friday-

Mild start set for Friday: |  Look for a neutral-to-mixed open.   8/26/05 Friday 9:27a Eastern

S&P 500 moves closer to 1200 on a weak session: |  Stock indices move lower amid a disappointing consumer sentiment report and little other relevant news. A vacuum of economical data and low market participation is a somewhat typical late-summer slump. But a slew of important economical datum next week should pick up trading as we move into a busier period for the market in a couple of weeks. The DJIA lost 1/2 percent today, the S&P500 and NASDAQ was lower by 0.6 percent. The forecast indicates CAUTION with a neutral bias.   8/26/05 Friday 4:55p Eastern  

8/25/05 Thursday-

Slow start expected Thursday: |  Look for a neutral-to-positive open.   8/25/05 Thursday 9:27a Eastern

Stocks maintain positive stance, oil holds $66.: |   Investors nibble Thursday morning sending the popular averages slightly higher as most traders and investors await the economical datum next week;  in the hopper are the FOMC minutes, GDP, PMI reports, and nonfarm payroll-  all next week and sure to give marketers momentum  one way or the other. The Barometer-bias was downgraded yesterday to neutral on model data suggesting an up tic in risk. The DJIA and S&P 500 are slightly higher by 0.2 percent, the NASDAQ higher by 0.3 percent. The Barometer forecast now reads CAUTION with a neutral forecast-bias.   8/25/05 Thursday 11:33a Eastern

Stocks and oil close higher Thursday: |  Stocks meander and close slightly higher as oil sets record close at $67.49 bbl, +0.17. Unless there is market-moving news Friday, look for another slow, near neutral day, as traders and investors opt for major economical data next week. The DJIA and S&P500 closed slightly higher by 0.2 percent, and the NASDAQ was higher by 0.3 percent. The forecast, changed yesterday, now indicates CAUTION with a neutral bias.   8/25/05 Thursday 5:02p Eastern  

8/24/05 Wednesday-

Weak start Wednesday: |  Look for a neutral-to-negative open.   8/24/05 Wednesday 9:26a Eastern

Stock averages try to hold positive territory: |  Dow and S&P500 trade near flat, NASDAQ posts higher amid mixed economical data [durable goods - July new home sales] as oil continues to hold $66 bbl. The DJIA and S&P 500 holding close to the unchanged line, the NASDAQ is higher by 0.6 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a positive bias.   8/24/05 Wednesday 1:51p Eastern

Media and news alert;  forecast bias change in progress: |  The forecast-bias is being downgraded to NEUTRAL from positive. Pre close model data and forecast model data indicate a bias change to take place before the close. Further information to come.   8/24/05 Wednesday 3:52p Eastern

Stocks down, oil up, equals forecast bias change: |  Stocks turn south Wednesday afternoon as oil prices spike higher into records territory. Mixed economical datum today took backseat to oil prices, as traders and investors see $70 bbl around the corner. The Barometer forecast-bias was changed to neutral from a long-running positive stance, as model data suggested an increase risk of further move down for the major indexes. The DJIA closed off by 0.8 percent, the S&P500 was off by 0.7 percent, and the NASDAQ was lower by 0.4 percent. The forecast now indicates CAUTION with a neutral bias.   8/24/05 Wednesday 5:42p Eastern  

8/23/05 Tuesday-

Weak start for Tuesday's market: |  Look for a flat, possibly mixed open.   8/23/05 Tuesday 9:26a Eastern

Stocks end lower Tuesday: |  Major market indexes ended Tuesday lower on housing data and little other news. The DJIA was lower by 1/2 percent, the S&P 500 was off 0.3 percent, and the NASDAQ off by 0.2 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a positive bias.   8/23/05 Tuesday 4:50p Eastern  

8/22/05 Monday-

Major market indexes maintain lift: |  Stocks make a move higher from the open as oil prices hold $65. At midmorning, the DJIA, S&P 500, and NASDAQ are higher by 0.7 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a positive bias.   8/22/05 Monday 10:23a Eastern

Major averages run-up early but end flat: |  A run-up for the major indexes early this morning loses steam and investors settle for  a slightly positive session. With no economical data today and oil prices threatening to move higher, the stock market ends with a slight gain. The DJIA ended higher by 0.1 percent, the S&P 500 ends up by 0.2 percent, and the NASDAQ was up by 0.3 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a positive bias.   8/22/05 Monday 4:53p Eastern  

8/20/05 Weekend-

8/19/05 Friday-

Stocks and oil set for higher start: |  Look for a neutral-to-positive open.   8/19/05 Friday 9:26a Eastern

Major indices end Friday mixed: |  Oil prices - terrorism - Vioxx judgment takes the steam out of trading as the popular averages end Friday mixed;  DJIA and S&P 500 end slightly positive, and the NASDAQ ended slightly negative. The forecast continues to show CAUTION with a positive bias. 8/19/05 Friday 5:34p Eastern  

8/18/05 Thursday-

Thursday opening comment: |  Look for a neutral-to-negative open.   8/18/05 Thursday 9:27a Eastern

Stocks nearly flat for the day: |  Stock indices-  Dow and S&P 500-  go flat for the day, NASDAQ moves lower on a day investors watch oil prices to see where they might go from the low $60's. With no economical data scheduled for tomorrow, Friday could be a neutral to slightly lower day depending on oil prices. The DJIA and S&P500 ended near unchanged, NASDAQ lost 0.4 percent. The Barometer forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a positive bias;  the bias is subject to change.   8/18/05 Thursday 5:00p Eastern  

8/17/05 Wednesday-

Wednesday flat start ahead: |  Look for a neutral flat open.   8/17/05 Wednesday 9:24a Eastern

Oil down stocks up Wednesday midday: |  Strong inflation input has little effect over traders and investors as they move the major indices higher while the price of oil relents. Oil prices are down sharply midday Wednesday while the stock market move higher. The DJIA is up by 1/2 percent, the S&P 500 is higher by 0.3 percent, and the NASDAQ is up by 0.6 percent. The forecast indicates CAUTION with a positive bias- the bias is subject to chnage.   8/17/05 Wednesday 12:17p Eastern

Price of oil slides back to test support: |  Stocks put in a good day but well off the highs of the session-  S&P 500 ends flat. Oil prices get slammed but equities don't take advantage. Could be traders are waiting to see what happens when prices test the low 60 dollar range. PPI data was strong, sparking inflation fear. With jobless claims and money supply data ahead tomorrow and consumer sentiment Friday, will give investors more data to play with. The DJIA and NASDAQ ended higher by 0.4 percent, and the S&P500 ended flat. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a positive bias;  the bias continues to be subject to downgrade.   8/17/05 Wednesday 6:05p Eastern  

8/16/05 Tuesday-

Tuesday's open: |  Look for a neutral-to-negative open.   8/16/05 Tuesday 9:27a Eastern

Stocks move lower Tuesday morning: |  Popular averages move lower Tuesday midday amid economical input [CPI and other data] and earnings/outlook. The DJIA was off by 0.8 percent, the S&P500 off by 0.7 percent, and the NASDAQ lower by 0.9 percent. Barometer forecast continues at CAUTION with a positive forecast bias.   8/16/05 Tuesday 12:24p Eastern

Tuesday's major indexes move lower: |  Oil - gas - inflation was the theme today as investors are becoming concerned oil prices could cut into profits and consumers cash. Major indices drop over 1 percent today on CPI reading with PPI on deck for tomorrow. The DJIA closed lower by 1.1 percent, the S&P 500 was lower by 1.2 percent, and the NASDAQ closed off by 1.4 percent. The forecast shows CAUTION with a positive forecast bias;  the bias is subject to downgrade Wednesday.   8/16/05 Tuesday 5:45p Eastern  

8/15/05 Monday-

Flat start for Monday seen: |  Look for a neutral-to-negative open.   8/15/05 Monday 9:27a Eastern

Stocks go positive midday- momentum turns: |  Little in market news sees a turnaround midmorning Monday with the major indexes breaking even around noon eastern. At about 1:53, the DJIA was higher by 1/2 percent, the S&P 500 higher by 0.4 percent, and the NASDAQ up by 0.8 percent. The Barometer forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a positive bias.   8/15/05 Monday 1:53p Eastern

Stocks end in positive territory Monday: |  While investors and traders await inflation data, today's market does an early dip into negative territory and rebounds and becomes positive midday on little news and economical data. CPI and PPI are on deck and could produce volatility tomorrow and Wednesday. Meanwhile, today, the DJIA and S&P 500 ended up by 0.3 percent, and the NASDAQ ended higher by 1/2 percent. The forecast continues to show CAUTION with a positive bias.   8/15/05 Monday 5:02p Eastern  

8/13/05 Weekend-

8/12/05 Friday-

Friday to start out lower: |  Look for a negative open.   8/12/05 Friday 9:25a Eastern

The mood on Wall Street was set early on Friday: |  Oil - trade deficit - airline fears - Dell set the mood for investors, as no one could catch a bid to move stocks up- momentum for the Dow, S&P 500, and NASDAQ were south all day-  investors take profits from yesterdays rally. The DJIA and NASDAQ lost 0.8 percent, and the S&P 500 lost 0.6 percent. The Barometer forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a positive bias;  the bias is subject to downgrade.   8/12/05 Friday 5:36p Eastern  

8/11/05 Thursday-

Stocks set for weak start: |  Look for neutral open.   8/11/05 Thursday 9:24a Eastern

Market averages continue to hold gains: |  Oil continues higher midday, nearing $66 bbl, while the popular averages post gains but off the highs of the morning. Retail sales help sentiment while gold too is advancing in Thursday's session. The DJIA is slightly higher by 0.2 percent;  S&P 500 and NASDAQ up by 0.3 percent. The forecast continues to show CAUTION with a positive bias.   8/11/05 Thursday 12:25p Eastern

Late rally takes indexes up nearly 1 percent- oil up too with a record: |  Last 40 minutes of trade takes the popular averages higher while oil and gold mount an assault. Stocks did well amid retail sales, business inventory, and jobless claims economical reports as investors seek more tomorrow and next week with fresh inflation data. The DJIA ramp higher by 0.9 percent, S&P 500 was higher by 0.7 percent, and the NASDAQ up by 0.8 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a positive bias;  bias is subject to upgrade in Fridays session.   8/11/05 Thursday 5:08p Eastern  

8/10/05 Wednesday-

Stocks set to open positive: |  Look for a positive open, NASDAQ could lag.   8/10/05 Wednesday 9:25a Eastern

DJIA and S&P500 bounce higher- NASDAQ lags, but positive: |  Stocks continue the swing higher from yesterdays mute response to the Fed raising rates. The price of oil holds $63 bbl on inventory report while there is little other news to trade on at this hour. The DJIA and S&P500 hold a 0.8 percent gain, and the NASDAQ is higher by 0.4 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a positive bias.   8/10/05 Wednesday 11:26a Eastern

Major stock market indexes give-up and slide 1 percent as oil ramps higher: |  Major indices reported nice gains early in today's session but as oil moved higher [nearly $65 bbl] the popular averages moved lower to end about 1 percent off  the highs. Very little economical input today but tomorrow, jobless claims, business inventory, and retail sales could move trading. The DJIA and S&P 500 ended lower by 0.2 percent, the NASDAQ off by 0.8 percent. The forecast continues at CAUTION with a positive bias.   8/10/05 Wednesday 4:57p Eastern  

8/9/05 Tuesday-

Tuesday open- Fed day: |  Look for a positive open.   8/9/05 Tuesday 9:28a Eastern

Fed raises target interest rate to 3.5 percent: |  The Committee believes that, even after this action, the stance of monetary policy remains accommodative-  policy accommodation still measured.   8/9/05 Tuesday 3:39p Eastern

Stocks gain slightly on Fed rate-hike: | Major indexes ran-up in early morning trade and hung around waiting for the Fed to raise rates. Indexes meandered in afternoon trade to end slightly higher. Wednesdays market could tell us what investors feel about continuing rate-hikes. The Fed statement that accompanied the hike indicates that the Fed will continue hiking rates-  no apparent sign to indicate the end of the hike-cycle. The DJIA ended higher by 0.8 percent, the S&P500 higher by 0.7 percent, and the NASDAQ was up by 1/2 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a positive bias.   8/9/05 Tuesday 5:36p Eastern  

8/8/05 Monday-

Monday's opening comment: |  Look for a neutral-to-positive open.   8/8/05 Monday 9:28a Eastern

Stocks turn flat, oil ramps up-  ahead of FOMC meeting tomorrow: |  Oil tops $63. bbl, headed for 64 on production and terrorism concerns while M&A activity picks up [ETrade - Harris Direct]. It is widely expected for the Fed to raise rates to 3.5 percent in tomorrows meeting but investors will want to know if the Fed will hint at a stopping point on hikes-  it is becoming accepted that rate-hike will continue through the year and maybe into 2006. Stocks turn flat as no one is willing to make much of a bet before the Fed statement Tuesday afternoon. The DJIA is flat, S&P500 up slightly by 0.1 percent, and the NASDAQ is down by 0.2 percent. The Barometer forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a positive bias.    8/8/05 Monday 12:23p Eastern

Dow and S&P 500 end nearly flat, while the NASDAQ moved lower-  Fed FOMC on deck: |  Oil hits record as it nears $64 bbl while stocks meander and end lower ahead of the rate-hike by the FOMC tomorrow. It is expected the Fed target to go to 3.5 percent, but it will be the accompanying statement that the market will focus on. Investors want to know when the hike-cycle will end. Some think not until 2006 when rates could reach 5 percent. The market could get volatile tomorrow afternoon. Meanwhile today, the major indexes [DJIA and S&P 500] ended nearly flat and the NASDAQ ended lower by 0.6 percent. The forecast continues to show CAUTION with a positive bias.   8/8/05 Monday 5:07p Eastern  

8/6/05 Weekend-

8/5/05 Friday-

Friday's market- open: |  Look for a neutral-to-negative open.   8/5/05 Friday 9:26a Eastern

Oil runs past $62 and baidu.com runs past 300 percent on debut: |  Guess no money left for equities as between oil and Wall Street's latest IPO, the broader market couldn't catch much of a bid. Nonfarm jobs data for July started the move lower for stocks this morning and put stress on investors as worries about continuing interest rate-hike fear is at the focus;  jobs-created and hourly-earnings came in above expectations. The DJIA fell 1/2 percent, the S&P 500 was off by 0.8 percent, and the NASDAQ ended off by 0.6 percent. The forecast indicates CAUTION with a positive bias. The bias is subject to downgrade Monday.  8/5/05 Friday 5:51p Eastern  

8/4/05 Thursday-

Thursday's market looks weak: |  Look for a negative open.   8/4/05 Thursday 9:26a Eastern

Store sales and jobs data set investors to take profits: |  With mixed retail sales data and an unexpected drop in jobless initials claims, investors take profits while price of oil builds support [oil holding $61 bbl]. Near the lows of the session, the DJIA is off by 0.7 percent, the S&P 500 is lower by 0.6 percent, and the NASDAQ is leading the way [lower] by 1 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a positive bias. The bias is subject downgrade.   8/4/05 Thursday 2:05p Eastern

Investor take money ahead of big jobs data tomorrow: |  Stocks moved lower Thursday ahead of the nonfarm unemployment report that experts say to expect around 180,000 new positions added to the workforce in July. Meanwhile in today's session retail sales and jobless claims got things off on the wrong foot. At the end of the session selling took the averages to near the lows of the day. The DJIA lost 0.8 percent, the S&P 500 lost 0.7 percent, and the NASDAQ lost 1.2 percent. The forecast indicates CAUTION with a positive forecast-bias;  the bias is subject to downgrade, to neutral.   8/4/05 Thursday 4:55p Eastern  

8/3/05 Wednesday-

Stocks set to open lower: |  Look for a negative open.   8/3/05 Wednesday 9:25a Eastern

Equities slip Wednesday morning amid high oil prices: |  U.S. stock major indexes moved lower Wednesday morning while the price of oil continues to hold low $60-62 bbl ahead of inventory report. ISM service report and EIA oil inventory input along with earnings sees some profit taking from yesterdays advances. At mid-session the DJIA is slightly lower by 0.1 percent, the S&P500 is flat, and the NASDAQ lower by 0.2 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a positive bias.   8/3/05 Wednesday 11:22a Eastern

Equity market ends mixed ahead of jobs input tomorrow and Friday: |  Oil moved lower as it appears it may try and build a base in the lower $60's. Time Warner posts loss and the 30-year bond is back-  to be issued next year. The DJIA and S&P500 ended slightly higher by 0.1 percent, the NASDAQ lower by 0.1 percent. The Barometer forecast continues to show CAUTION with a positive bias.   8/3/05 Wednesday 4:55p Eastern  

8/2/05 Tuesday-

Opening comment: |  Look for a neutral-to-positive open.   8/2/05 Tuesday 9:27a Eastern

Wall Street equity investors push the major indexes higher Tuesday: |  Stocks continue upward on economical input, such as consumer spending, and earnings [Comcast 2-Q profits] while CNOOC pulls Unocal offer. Oil prices are down slightly while traders appear to be building a base in the lower $60's, much like the lower $50 base-building months ago for a possible push higher to the upper $60, maybe $70. The DJIA and S&P500 posting 1/2 percent gain, with the NASDAQ higher by 0.6 percent. The forecast continues to show CAUTION with a positive bias.   8/2/05 Tuesday 11:16a Eastern

New forecast suggests sell off is coming: |  The Market Memo-  a Barometer forecast memo based on models-  suggests a "higher probability" that a sell off is near, could be just around the corner. "The first sell off could occur in early to mid August [S&P500 moving to 1200]."     8/2/05 Tuesday 1:39p Eastern

Stocks make big gains Tuesday, oil too: |  The stock market is hot with the major averages moving higher while the price of oil moves in the same direction. A new updated memo sees a dip for the S&P500 coming soon. Is this market for real or is this a "sucker's rally"? The Memo suggests three ways the market can go with a dip leading the way. Meanwhile, today's outstanding performance sees the DJIA higher by 0.6 percent, the S&P500 higher by 0.7 percent, and the NASDAQ up by 1 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a positive bias.   8/2/05 Tuesday 5:01p Eastern  

8/1/05 Monday-

Opening comment: |  Look for a neutral-to-positive open.   8/1/05 Monday 9:24a Eastern

Major stock market indexes mixed Monday morning as U.S. manufacturing continues to expand: |  Major indices continue in neutral territory, midmorning Monday, amid news that U.S. manufacturing continues to expand at 56.6% in July, according to a private economical group-  figures above 50 indicate expansion. The DJIA slightly lower by 0.1 percent, the S&P500 slightly higher by 0.1 percent, and the NASDAQ solidly up by 0.3 percent.   8/1/05 Monday 10:58a Eastern

Stock market closed Monday session mixed, as the wait is on for fresh economical input: |  Stocks meander while oil moves higher [above $61 bbl] in response to King Fahd's death. Procter & Gamble posts a rise in profits and ISM manufacturing report indicates manufacturing continuing to expand. The DJIA closed off by 0.2 percent, the S&P500 slightly higher by 0.1 percent, and the NASDAQ outperformed with a 1/2 percent gain. The forecast continues to show CAUTION with a positive bias.   8/1/05 Monday 4:54p Eastern  

7/30/05 Weekend-

7/29/05 Friday-

Opening comment: |  Look for a neutral possibly mixed open.   7/29/05 Friday 9:27a Eastern

The popular average move lower Friday on GDP input: |  Stocks sagged Friday amid report that inflation continues to be contained while the economy continues hot, but slowing, had traders and investors not as active in buying today, the last trade of the month. The DJIA and NASDAQ ended lower by 0.6 percent, the S&P500 was off by 0.8 percent. The Barometer forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a positive bias.   7/29/05 Friday 4:52p Eastern  

7/28/05 Thursday-

Opening comment: |  Look for a neutral-to-positive open.   7/28/05 Thursday 9:27a Eastern

Market indices bounce off lows, trend up Thursday morning: |  Exxon Mobil earnings helps investors to trade stocks higher in the morning session while the wait continues for GDP input tomorrow. At midday the DJIA and S&P500 were higher by 0.4 percent while the NASDAQ was up by 0.3 percent. The forecast continues to show CAUTION with a positive bias.   7/28/05 Thursday 12:32p Eastern

Another rise for the major indexes ahead of GDP: |  U.S. stock market puts in another positive day on earnings/outlook input and little other news [little to no bad news is very good news]. All eyes are on GDP input out tomorrow morning that will indicate how the second-quarter is doing;  this is advance estimates of 2Q by the Government. Exxon Mobile and others helped investors send stocks higher with the DJIA, S&P500, and NASDAQ closing higher by 0.6 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a positive bias.   7/28/05 Thursday 5:08p Eastern  

7/27/05 Wednesday-

Opening comment: |  Look for a neutral-to-positive open.   7/27/05 Wednesday 9:27a Eastern

Stock market lingers: |  Again today stocks not moving much, nearing midday trade. Durable goods order input and generally good earning and outlook statements hasn't moved bids higher. Investors continue to be content looking for direction. The DJIA slightly higher by 0.1 percent, the S&P 500 is flat, and the NASDAQ lower by 0.2 percent. The forecast continues at CAUTION with a positive bias.   7/27/05 Wednesday 11:48 Eastern

Late day push sends indexes higher: |  The Federal Reserve released the Beige Book summary [unofficial comments by the Fed districts] that inspires buyers late in Wednesday's session. The report indicates the economy continuing to expand while the rate of inflation being contained. That report plus all the good earnings outlook and the Durable goods input sends stocks higher by 1/2 percent. The DJIA, S&P 500, and the NASDAQ rose by 1/2 percent. The forecast continues to show CAUTION with a positive bias.   7/27/05 Wednesday 5:36p Eastern  

7/26/05 Tuesday-

Opening comment: |  Look for a neutral-to-mixed open.   7/26/05 Tuesday 9:26a Eastern

Stocks meander the unchanged-line Tuesday: |  Not much movement Tuesday morning with the major indices, as there are plenty of earning to decipher [BP - Texas Instruments - Lockheed - DuPont and others]. Meanwhile, oil prices ramp up [$59.75 bbl, + 0.75] amid a slumping consumer confidence report issued this morning. The DJIA is lower by 0.2 percent, the S&P500 and NASDAQ are slightly higher by 0.1 percent. The forecast continues to show CAUTION with a positive bias.   7/26/05 Tuesday 12:54p Eastern

Popular stock indexes end mixed on flat session: |  With durable goods, oil inventory data, jobless claims, and GDP input outstanding, traders and investors opt to trade on fresh input scheduled for release over the next three-days. Earnings input does little to move bids higher as the market trended sideways Tuesday with the Dow managing a 0.2 percent loss, while the S&P500 gained 0.2 percent on the day;  NASDAQ turned in a 0.4 percent higher move. The forecast continues to show CAUTION with a positive bias.   7/26/05 Tuesday 5:39p Eastern  

7/25/05 Monday-

Opening comment: |  Look for a flat, possibly mixed open.   7/25/05 Monday 9:22a Eastern

Market major indexes meander the flat-line Monday: |  U.S. stock market gets off to a slow start Monday as traders may opt for important economical data later this week [GDP - Chicago PMI, and others];  Mixed earnings report today [Bellsouth - Xerox] is less than inspiring to investors thus far in trade;  M&A sees Teva Pharmaceutical to buy Ivax for 7.4 billion;  The DJIA is off slightly by 0.1 percent, the S&P 500 is flat, and the NASDAQ lower by 0.3 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a positive forecast-bias.   7/25/05 Monday 12:30p Eastern

US stocks trend lower Monday on slow day: |  Mixed earnings data today and little other data-points to consider;  traders and investors opt for more input in the form of Durable goods, GDP, and Chicago PMI in addition to more quarterly earnings news. The DJIA moved lower by 1/2 percent, the S&P500 was lower by 0.4 percent, and the NASDAQ was off the mark by 0.6 percent. The forecast continues to indicate CAUTION with a positive forecast-bias.   7/25/05 Monday 4:50p Eastern  

7/23/05 Weekend-

Forecast restatement-correction: |  We inadvertently said the bias is neutral. The forecast bias has been and is still positive. The forecast should have stated, The Market-Barometer?/font> stock market* forecast models indicate CAUTION with a positive forecast-bias going into Monday's open. We regret the error.   7/24/05 Sunday 9:38p Eastern