The market is slightly higher in early trading. For the first morning in awhile, there were no headlines out of Greece about progress or delays in its debt settlement talks.
Asian markets were higher overnight, led by China after the govt. raised gasoline prices and also provided support to the real estate market by instructing lenders to accommodate first time homebuyers.
In earnings news, positive reactions to earnings reports continue to outpace negative ones. Among the stocks rising after reporting are: TWX, DIS, CVS, AGU, IR, and the big ones of the day - RL and BWLD. Stocks declining after earnings include S, PNRA, and OPEN.
The euro is roughly flat this morning, and commodities are mixed. Oil prices are higher to $99.60, nearing the $100 level again. Gold prices are slightly lower nearing $1740. Silver prices are also lower, but copper prices are getting a boost.
The 10-year yield is rising further to 1.99%. The 2.00% level has acted like a magnet since early November. The VIX is flattish near the 17.60 level.
Trading comment: The stairstep higher action continues in the market. Those waiting for a pullback continue to be frustrated. This year is shaping up so far to be a year where it is proving more profitable to focus on individual stocks rather than the major indexes. I am focusing on those stocks that continue to show leadership and work their way to new highs. Also, stocks that have posted strong earnings and reacted positively should continue to act well. I think chasing laggards here in hopes of them playing catch up is a prescription for underperformance.
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