Intraday highs of the S&P 500 moderate: US markets navigate between caution and expectation

The S&P 500 index hit intraday highs with a gain of 0.16%, although investors maintain a defensive stance as they process U.S. labor market information. On-chain signals reflect a dual outlook, with no clear consensus on the immediate direction.

Trading volume contains the bullish momentum

During this session, U.S. markets operated with a quieter flow of transactions than usual. This low trading activity suggests that many market participants are in wait-and-see mode, assessing the macroeconomic context before the Federal Reserve makes critical decisions on its monetary policy. The Nasdaq 100 and the Dow Jones reflected this caution, showing virtually stagnant movements.

Anticipation for labor market data

Markets are watching for upcoming employment reports, a key indicator that could significantly influence the Fed’s upcoming policy decisions. This monitoring of economic data explains the relative moderation in volumes and the caution among investors, who prefer to wait for confirmations before increasing their exposure.

Technical outlook toward the end of the year

Analysts like Tom Essaye warn that as the year-end approaches, there is an expectation of a gentle slowdown in the economy. Under this scenario, Essaye anticipates that additional gains could materialize in the indices, especially when the corporate earnings season begins. The combination of a soft landing and positive earnings data could rekindle buyer interest at the intraday highs observed today.

The S&P 500 continues to be the market thermometer, and although the intraday advance was modest, the stance of institutional investors suggests that risk appetite could recover with evidence of corporate strength.