Technical Analysis: S&P 500 Index

Retracement zone if the S&P 500 cannot hold support
Technical analysis of the S&P 500 Index showing the support zone and the retracement zone.  The near-term trend is down and the intermediate trend is up.

S&P 500 Index 6 Month Daily chart

What is the trend? That is the most important point to determine in technical analysis and you always trade in the direction of the trend. The major trend is up, the intermediate trend is up and the near-term trend is down. The S&P 500 Index has gained around 16% from the June low for the current intermediate uptrend. Anytime an index or stock has gained around 20%, reversal signals on the charts take on greater significance. Trading is all about the assessing the probabilities.

The intermediate uptrend is still intact but the near-term downtrend must stop at the intermediate support zone. This support zone is around 1,420 which was a resistance point in the uptrend. The reversal of roles is an important concept in technical analysis. Also, the support zone is around the 50-day simple moving average which is always an important input in automated trading systems. And, the support zone is at the intersection of the upward sloping trendline.

The retracement zone is based on the 50% retracement of the move which started in June.  Also, the retracement zone is near the 200-day simple moving average which is also an important input in automated trading systems.

In summary, always trade in the direction of the the intermediate trend until there is a confirmed break of the trendline. Traders use different time and percent levels for confirmation numbers.

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Note: The above chart analysis is valid as of the publication date. To review current charts click on Home or perform a search. This technical analysis is for educational purposes so you can learn to trade online using candlestick charts. Please conduct your own chart analysis or consult your financial advisor before making investment decisions. The chart snippets are from BigCharts.com which I recommend and have used for fifteen years. The author of this article may hold long or short positions in the featured stock or index.

© 2012 TradeOnline.ca

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