Equity futures have moved around in a very narrow range.  The market continues to be concerned about chatter from the Federal Reserve it is ready to discuss tapering.  Said in a different way, they are ready to discuss removing the punch bowl.  That is the last thing any investor wants to hear, even though it’s inevitable.

The thing is, nobody wants to deal with that this year, next year or even the year after that.  But several FOMC members have said they are open to discussions, including:

• Harker
• Bostic
• Evans
• Kaplan

Federal Reserve Vice Chairman said its too soon to think about it, which is distinctively different than discussing it.  It would seem the topic would come up anyway in the normal course of Fed business, but just a whiff of the Fed removing the punch bowl has given the market pause.

It simply is not happening anytime soon.

What is happening right now is the sharp decline in Covid-19 hospitalizations, which is great news for humanity; although, the focus has been on the sloppy initial vaccination process.  That will improve.

Portfolio Approach

We are adding to Technology in our Hotline Model Portfolio.

Today’s Session

Lots of attention today will be on Capitol Hill, as articles of impeachment gain momentum with reports that Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell is on board.  If that is true, it could change things, although a week is short period of time. 

Meanwhile, there is not a lot of news as we wait for earnings season to kick off on Friday.  Keep paying attention to other news, like the latest on Class 8 truck orders in December, which is one of the largest in history.

Make Sure to Tune in Today