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SPY|QQQ Wednesday 4PM 12/31/2025

December 31, 2025 3 min read

Market Sentiment Analysis

Overall Market Sentiment:

SPY (S&P 500 ETF):
Analyzing the recent 13 bars on the SPY 30-minute chart indicates a somewhat cautious sentiment. The close prices show a slight downward trend, with volume peaking substantially around the middle of the 13-bar period, suggesting potential distribution. The moving averages might indicate resistance post the recent expansion. Look for breaking resistance or support to confirm the next move.

QQQ (Nasdaq-100 ETF):
The QQQ portrays similar weakness, with a consistent decline in recent bars. Despite occasional upward spikes, volume stayed elevated, indicating selling pressure. Moving averages align with this cautious sentiment, suggesting room for further correction unless a breakout above recent highs occurs.

VXX (Volatility Index):
Recent spikes in VXX signal heightened volatility, often leading to market caution or downturns. Its peak close, followed by a moderation, aligns with selling pressure on SPY and QQQ. Volatility spikes typically precede significant market moves, acting as a hedge against bearish market shifts.

Sector Analysis:

  • Strong Sectors:
    • XLK (Technology): Despite a slowdown, it shows resilience against broad market weakness. Its versatility often attracts investors amid volatility.
    • XLY (Consumer Discretionary): Displays defensive traits with manageable declines.
  • Weak Sectors:
    • XLI (Industrials) and XLF (Financials): Significantly impacted by market conditions, showing sharp declines in recent bars.

Sector rotation hints at a defensive market stance, with investors pivoting from cyclical equities towards relative safety in technology and discretionary sectors.

Key Levels to Watch:

SPY:
Immediate support can be identified around 681.80. A drop below this level could signal further downside risk. Conversely, resistance near 685.14 might require breaking to initiate a bullish trend.

QQQ:
Support near 613.87 may hold short-term woes unless breached, while 617.42 serves as resistance, requiring a breakout for a renewed upswing.

Scenarios:

Bullish Scenario:
For both SPY and QQQ, bullish momentum could blossom if key resistance levels are cleared, coupled with positive economic data or strong earnings reports. Pivotal indicators include a recovery in volume on advancing prices, signifying accumulation.

Bearish Scenario:
Adverse developments, such as negative geopolitical news or disappointing economic indicators, could trigger a decline through support levels. The steep drops in Industrials and Financials underscore possible vulnerability to further downturns.

Overall Commentary:

Presently, the market reflects cautious sentiment amidst increased volatility. Defensive sector positioning highlights investor prudence, steering funds into technology and consumer discretionary equities, which typically show resilience amid uncertainty. Critical support levels should be closely watched as potential triggers for both bearish and bullish pivot points, impacting short-term trading decisions significantly.

Charts:
– SPY: finviz ticker=SPY
– QQQ: finviz ticker=QQQ
– VXX: finviz ticker=VXX

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