Stock futures (/ES) are trading relatively flat after the S&P 500 Index (SPX) yesterday closed higher for a fifth straight day. The winning streak is the longest so far this year, and the market will be trying to extend its gains today. Investors will be guided by a large number of corporate earnings report this week. Today they will also be watching several economic data points, including a housing price index, existing home sales data, and the Richmond Fed Manufacturing report. Option volatility continued its downward spiral yesterday, albeit with small losses. The CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) is at $13.25 and is once again approaching its support level near $12. We should expect the ‘Fear Gauge’ to bounce off this level again as stocks trend back towards all-time highs.
Treasuries were flat to higher overnight with the 10-year yield at 2.72%. Bonds were mixed overseas with European debt markets mostly lower amid a better risk tone. There wasn't a lot of news overseas but an ECB's member indicated the Bank has room for more easing. The markets are shrugging off ongoing Ukraine tensions as European equities rally. Japan was lower and the rest of Asia was mixed. The Treasury auctions $32 B in 2-year notes to kick off this week's coupon supply. M&A activity continues to pick up this year as the pharmaceutical sector is seeing a few deals unfold. Historically this may support the over-bought scenario in stocks as organic growth slows and companies over-pay for expansion during a Bull Run.
Stock Stories:
Netflix (NFLX) – Streaming higher – The internet content streamer posts EPS that beats expectations slightly but the company only met on the top-line. The company raised its guidance for the year and will raise prices for new members. The shares are up 7% this morning on the back of multiple analyst upgrades despite an astronomical valuation.
McDonalds (MCD) – Junk Food – The fast-food giant posts a downbeat earnings report as the company misses on EPS and is barely in-line on Revenues. The company is blaming weather and costs for the miss but the chain continues its recent miscues. The stock is up slightly despite the weak results in the pre-market.