STOCK MARKET BULLISH -- LONG -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant is long. The EOM print results in no change. The bears had a chance, pushing the VIX above 14, but they ran out of gas and the bulls managed to print new all-time highs for the SPX at 1597.57. VIX 14 remains a key bull-bear line in the sand.  The bulls are cruising and even if VIX moves above 14, that may not be enough oomph for bears to create a turn.  Interestingly, the bears would likely be best served if the VIX oscillates above and below 14 a few times tomorrow. This action would raise the signal line and perhaps enable the bears to develop the oomph to run lower.

For the SPX starting at 1597.57, the bulls only need to see a smidge of green in the futures overnight and the SPX will be printing above 1600 tomorrow after the opening bell rings. The bears need to push the SPX under 1587 to accelerate the downside. A move through 1588-1597 is sideways action. Markets remain highly erratic and unstable. 

5/3/13; 9:00 AM EST =

4/30/13; 7:00 PM EST EOM = +46; signal line is +32

4/30/13; 10:45 AM EST = +46; signal line is +32

STOCK MARKET BULLISH -- LONG -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant remains long. The algo prints another number today as volatility drops; the VIX is back under 14 to make for happy bulls again.  For now, the imminent turn notation is removed since it appears that the bulls are holding on adequately. Things may change fast and markets remain at an inflection point. Continue watching VIX 14 and SPX 1582 today.

4/30/13; 7:00 PM EST EOM =

4/30/13; 10:45 AM EST = +46; signal line is +32

4/30/13; 10:00 AM EST = +32; signal line is +31

STOCK MARKET BULLISH -- LONG -- CAUTION -- TURN MAY BE IMMINENT

Keybot the Quant remains long. VIX moves above 14 empowering the market bears but for now, the bears do not have adequate juice to cause the algorithm to flip short.  The pre-scheduled number prints and reaffirms the smidge of an advantage that the bulls now hold. The bulls need to push the VIX back below 14 as quick as possible, otherwise, the bears will gain strength. VIX 14 and SPX 1582 are key today.  The drama continues with the algo number and signal line both at 32-ish showing that the markets are at an inflection point.

4/30/13; 7:00 PM EST EOM =

4/30/13; 10:00 AM EST = +32; signal line is +31

4/30/13; 9:58 AM EST = +32; signal line is +32 but algorithm says stay long

4/28/13; 7:00 PM EST = +46; signal line is +32

STOCK MARKET BULLISH -- LONG -- CAUTION -- TURN MAY BE IMMINENT

Keybot the Quant remains long with the balance of the markets remaining in the hands of volatility.  Watch VIX 14.00. The bulls will continue along on easy street if the VIX stays under 14.00. If the VIX moves above 14.00, the markets will sell off and Keybot will likely flip to the short side. The algo did not print any numbers during the Monday session.

For the SPX starting at 1594, the bulls need to touch the 1597 handle and an upside acceleration will occur with price moving up through 1600. The bears need to push lower to 1582 to accelerate the downside. A move through 1583-1596 is sideways action. A turn may be imminent since VIX begins at 13.71 only 29 cents below the 14.00 line in the sand. A pre-scheduled number prints at 10 AM so the action can be updated at that time.

5/3/13; 9:00 AM EST =

4/30/13; 7:00 PM EST EOM =

4/30/13; 10:00 AM EST =

4/28/13; 7:00 PM EST = +46; signal line is +32

STOCK MARKET BULLISH -- LONG -- CAUTION -- TURN MAY BE IMMINENT

Keybot the Quant remains long heading into the new week of trading.  The Friday drama around volatility will continue as soon as the opening bell rings. Very simply, if the VIX stays under 14.16, the bulls will rule the markets. If VIX pops above 14.16, it is time for the bears to growl and take the markets lower. If the VIX moves above 14.16, it is likely that Keybot will flip to the short side so the imminent turn signal notation is displayed above.

For the SPX starting at 1582, the bulls need to punch up through 1586 which will accelerate the upside to 1589 immediately, and another test of the important and strong 1593 all-time closing high is likely.  For the bears, a push under 1578 is needed to accelerate the downside. A test of the strong 1576 would occur quickly and likely fail sending the SPX towards the 1560's. A move through 1579-1585 is sideways action. Markets remain highly erratic and unstable and extreme caution is warranted moving forward. VIX 14.16 will tell you the market story after Monday's opening bell rings.

5/5/13; 7:00 PM EST =

5/3/13; 9:00 AM EST =

4/30/13; 7:00 PM EST EOM =

4/30/13; 10:00 AM EST =

4/28/13; 7:00 PM EST = +46; signal line is +32

4/26/13; 10:00 AM EST = +46; signal line is +32

STOCK MARKET BULLISH -- LONG -- CAUTION -- TURN MAY BE IMMINENT

Keybot the Quant remains long through the weekend. The algo motored along yesterday without printing any numbers past 10 AM. The market bears were given the markets on a silver platter yesterday but they could not convert.  The VIX tested the bull-bear danger line, now at 14.16, and even managed to punch out a high at 14.18, but the bears did not have the juice to keep the VIX above 14.16. The focus on volatility will pick up again at Monday's opening bell. Next week's sectors and levels of interest can be identified once the Sunday pre-scheduled number prints tomorrow. The turn may be imminent notation is added since Keybot only needs to see VIX 14.16 and will likely flip short. Monday is a very important day.

4/28/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/26/13; 10:00 AM EST = +46; signal line is +32

STOCK MARKET BULLISH -- LONG -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant remains long.  The pre-scheduled print results in no changes. The broad indexes are flat, however, drama is erupting with VIX.  The HOD for VIX is 14.04 only eleven pennies from the bull-bear line.  The VIX is now printing 13.82. If the VIX moves above 14.15 the bears will growl and Keybot will be set up to flip short. VIX 14.15 and SPX 1579 are the two key levels to watch today.

4/28/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/26/13; 10:00 AM EST = +46; signal line is +32

4/23/13; 9:30 AM EST = +46; signal line is +32; go long 1569; (Benchmark SPX for 2013 = +10.0%)(Keybot this trade = -0.2%; Keybot for 2013 = +0.9%)(Actual this trade = -0.8%; Actual for 2013 = +0.5%)

STOCK MARKET BULLISH -- LONG -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant remains long. The SPX ran higher yesterday but faded in the afternoon. VIX 14.15 remains key. Bulls continue to keep markets buoyant if the VIX stays under 14.15 but the bears will growl above 14.15. For the SPX starting at 1585, the bulls need to attack the all-time closing high at 1593, and if this resistance gives way, the all-time high at 1597 will be tested in quick order.  The bears need to push under 1579 and the downside will accelerate, 1576 would occur quickly and likely fail.  A move through 1580-1592 is sideways action for today.  Keybot prints a pre-scheduled number at 10 AM so the market action can be updated at that time. Markets remain unstable and erratic.

4/28/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/26/13; 10:00 AM EST =

4/23/13; 9:30 AM EST = +46; signal line is +32; go long 1569; (Benchmark SPX for 2013 = +10.0%)(Keybot this trade = -0.2%; Keybot for 2013 = +0.9%)(Actual this trade = -0.8%; Actual for 2013 = +0.5%)

STOCK MARKET BULLISH -- LONG -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant remains long moving into the Thursday session. The semiconductors jumped sharply higher helping to maintain bullishness along with lower volatility and higher financials.  Markets should remain sideways with an upward bias as long as the VIX is under 14.15 (now at 13.61).  For the SPX starting at 1579, the bulls need to touch the 1583 handle and that will create an upward acceleration to 1588-1589. The bears need to push under 1576 to accelerate the downside. A move through 1577-1582 is sideways action.

Keybot did not whipsaw after the move to the long side at Tuesday's opening bell. This is interesting since a multi-day timer is expiring and the next flip to the downside that Keybot performs will likely start to use double ETF's again. For now, the bulls are driving the bus. Markets remain highly unstable and erratic. Watch VIX 14.15 as the key metric.  Bulls will continue to march markets higher with the VIX under 14.15 but the market bears will shine if VIX moves above 14.15.

4/26/13; 10:00 AM EST =

4/23/13; 9:30 AM EST = +46; signal line is +32; go long 1569; (Benchmark SPX for 2013 = +10.0%)(Keybot this trade = -0.2%; Keybot for 2013 = +0.9%)(Actual this trade = -0.8%; Actual for 2013 = +0.5%)

STOCK MARKET BULLISH -- LONG -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant is long moving into the Wednesday session.  The bulls push strongly higher yesterday using stronger semiconductors, lower volatility and stronger financials as the main drivers. Markets should remain elevated if the SOX stays above 424.15, VIX below 14.15 and XLF above 17.98.  Bears need to reverse one of these three parameters. For the SPX starting at 1579, closing at the highs, the bulls need to push less than a point higher after the open, and this will launch a several handle upside acceleration. The S&P futures are up about four at this writing a few hours before the opening bell. The bears need to push the SPX under 1563 to regain their mojo and create a downside acceleration. A move through 1564-1578 is sideways action. Markets remain unstable. The bulls are driving the bus.

4/26/13; 10:00 AM EST =

4/23/13; 9:30 AM EST = +46; signal line is +32; go long 1569; (Benchmark SPX for 2013 = +10.0%)(Keybot this trade = -0.2%; Keybot for 2013 = +0.9%)(Actual this trade = -0.8%; Actual for 2013 = +0.5%)

STOCK MARKET BULLISH -- LONG -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant flips to the long side after the opening bell at SPX 1569. The semiconductors jump strongly and volatility collapses under 14.  The bulls are driving the bus again.  The last trade is flatish with Keybot showing a flat return this year thus far while the SPX Benchmark is up 10% on the year. Keybot rotates out of RWM and into DIA. Watch SOX 424.15, VIX 14.15 and XLF 17.98. All three are in the bull camp so markets will move higher unless one of these three parameters reverse. The SPX 1566 was touched and the markets accelerated higher. Markets remain unstable and erratic so the caution flag is displayed. As always, stay alert for a whipsaw today or tomorrow.

4/26/13; 10:00 AM EST =

4/23/13; 9:30 AM EST = +46; signal line is +32; go long 1569; (Benchmark SPX for 2013 = +10.0%)(Keybot this trade = -0.2%; Keybot for 2013 = +0.9%)(Actual this trade = -0.8%; Actual for 2013 = +0.5%)

4/21/13; 7:00 PM EST = +16; signal line is +32

4/19/13; 10:07 AM EST = +16; signal line is +32

4/18/13; 9:51 AM EST = +0; signal line is +33

4/17/13; 1:38 PM EST = +16; signal line is +34

4/17/13; 12:12 PM EST = +0; signal line is +34

4/17/13; 9:30 AM EST = +16; signal line is +35

4/16/13; 3:37 PM EST = +46; signal line is +36 but algorithm says stay short

4/16/13; 1:54 PM EST = +32; signal line is +34

4/16/13; 12:52 PM EST = +46; signal line is +35 but algorithm says stay short

4/16/13; 9:53 AM EST = +32; signal line is +34

4/16/13; 9:39 AM EST = +46; signal line is +34 but algorithm says stay short

4/16/13; 9:30 AM EST = +33; signal line is +33 but algorithm says stay short

4/16/13; 9:00 AM EST = +17; signal line is +33

4/15/13; 2:56 PM EST = +17; signal line is +34

4/15/13; 2:44 PM EST = +33; signal line is +35

4/15/13; 2:01 PM EST = +17; signal line is +36

4/15/13; 12:58 PM EST = +33; signal line is +38; go short 1566; (Benchmark SPX for 2013 = +9.8%)(Keybot this trade = -0.0%; Keybot for 2013 = +1.1%)(Actual this trade = +0.2%; Actual for 2013 = +1.3%)

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT -- CAUTION -- TURN MAY BE IMMINENT

Keybot the Quant remains short. The algo idled along yesterday without printing any numbers. For Tuesday, the semiconductors, volatility and financials will dictate market direction. The market bulls need to push the SOX above 424.00 and/or VIX below 14.15 to win back control of the markets. If the SOX moves above 424.00, it is likely that Keybot will flip long, hence, the imminent turn signal is displayed. If the bears keep the SOX below 424.00 and the VIX above 14.15, the markets will continue to sell off.  The bears will receive additional downside fuel if the XLF (financials) falls under 17.97.

For the SPX starting at 1562.50, the bulls need to touch the 1566 handle and it will be off to the races higher, with the algo likely moving towards flipping to the long side.  The bears need to push under 1548 and the downside will accelerate. A move through 1549-1565 is sideways action today. Markets remain erratic and unstable. SOX 424.00 is very important especially in early trading. The S&P futures are currently pointing to a drop of about four points in the SPX when it opens five hours from now.

4/28/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/26/13; 10:00 AM EST =

4/21/13; 7:00 PM EST = +16; signal line is +32

4/19/13; 10:07 AM EST = +16; signal line is +32

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant remains short moving into the Monday session.  Volatility and financials will tell the tale at the open.  If VIX stays above 14.25 and the XLF drops under 17.95, the markets will be selling off. If XLF stays above 17.95 and the VIX drops under 14.25, the bulls will be pushing markets strongly higher.  If the VIX stays above 14.25, and the XLF stays above 17.95, status quo, the markets will float along sideways. If the VIX drops under 14.25, Keybot the Quant may be in position to flip to the long side.

For the SPX starting at 1555, the bulls only need to touch 1556, barely one point higher, and an upside acceleration will occur. Therefore, the futures overnight are key. Any slight smidge of positivity in the futures overnight will indicate a bullish start to the week. The bears need to push under 1540 to accelerate the downside. This can only be accomplished if the financials (XLF) fail as described above.  A move through 1541-1555 is sideways action for Monday. Markets remain erratic and unstable.

4/28/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/26/13; 10:00 AM EST =

4/21/13; 7:00 PM EST = +16; signal line is +32

4/19/13; 10:07 AM EST = +16; signal line is +32

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant is short through the weekend. The financials added bull fuel on Friday. The battle on Monday will be the bulls trying to push volatility lower so they can start a new upward market move while the bears will try to push the financials, XLF, back under 17.95. Next weeks areas and levels of interest can be identified once the Sunday pre-scheduled number prints tomorrow.

4/21/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/19/13; 10:07 AM EST = +16; signal line is +32

4/18/13; 9:51 AM EST = +0; signal line is +33

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant remains short. The algo number moves higher as the bulls fight back today pushing XLF back above 17.95. This enables the broad indexes to move higher and the SPX is trying to move towards the 1553-1554 area. The caution flag is out again since the financials have recovered. Watch XLF 17.95.

4/21/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/19/13; 10:07 AM EST = +16; signal line is +32

4/18/13; 9:51 AM EST = +0; signal line is +33

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT

Keybot the Quant remains short moving into the Friday session. The market bears are performing damage on the broad markets. The break down of the financials yesterday, XLF though the 17.95 level, is very negative moving forward. Therefore, watch this closely today to see if the bulls show signs of life by moving XLF back above 17.95. The markets will trend lower as long as XLF stays under 17.95. For the SPX today, starting at 1542, with the bulls saving the markets yesterday preventing failure at 1540, for now, the bulls need to punch up through 1554 and it will be smooth sailing for the upside. The bears need to send the SPX under 1536 and price will be in the 1520's quickly. A move through 1537-1553 is sideways action. Markets remain unstable.

4/21/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/18/13; 9:51 AM EST = +0; signal line is +33

4/17/13; 1:38 PM EST = +16; signal line is +34

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT

Keybot the Quant remains short. The algo printed a number after the opening bell today. The financials moved into the bear camp, XLF fell under 17.95, creating broad market weakness. The SPX dropped through 1544 and is now attacking 1540 support where price will either bounce or die. The bears remain in control.

4/21/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/18/13; 9:51 AM EST = +0; signal line is +33

4/17/13; 1:38 PM EST = +16; signal line is +34

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT

Keybot the Quant is bearish moving into the Thursday session.  The bears are cruising but the markets are setting up for a recovery bounce today.  The algo continues to track volatility, semi's and financials as the three most important parameters determining market direction right now. Watch VIX 14.25 (now creating market negativity at 16.51), SOX 425.20 (now creating market negativity at 417.65), and XLF 17.95 (now creating market bullishness at 18.01). Any change to any of these three parameters will move the broad indexes in that respective direction.

For the SPX starting at 1552, the bulls need to touch 1575 to launch upside momo. The bears need to push under 1544 to accelerate the downside action.  A move through 1545-1574 is sideways action today. The bears are driving the bus. Markets remain very unstable.

4/21/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/17/13; 1:38 PM EST = +16; signal line is +34

4/17/13; 12:12 PM EST = +0; signal line is +34

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT

Keybot the Quant remains short as this weak market day continues. XLF lost the 17.95 ushering in serious market negativity but the bulls managed to push the XLF back above 17.95. Watch this bull-bear line in the sand closely since it will usher in strong market negativity. The bears are driving the bus and cruising. The caution flag is removed for now.

4/21/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/17/13; 1:38 PM EST = +16; signal line is +34

4/17/13; 12:12 PM EST = +0; signal line is +34

4/17/13; 9:30 AM EST = +16; signal line is +35

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant remains short. The bears came to play and smacked semiconductors lower and volatility higher which results in a complete give back of yesterday's market gains. The algo is now tracking XLF 17.95 with interest. XLF printed 17.98 minutes ago, watch this closely since substantial extended market downside will occur with XLF losing 17.95. Markets may drift sideways into the Beige Book this afternoon at 2 PM.  SOX 425.80, VIX 14.21 and XLF 17.95 dictate market direction. SPX is at 1550.

4/21/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/17/13; 9:30 AM EST = +16; signal line is +35

4/16/13; 3:37 PM EST = +46; signal line is +36 but algorithm says stay short

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT -- CAUTION -- TURN MAY BE IMMINENT

Keybot the Quant is short going into the Wednesday session but the algo wants to go long. The algo would have flipped long if the SPX crossed 1581 today, but it did not. Watch VIX 14.21 and SOX 425.80; both are back in the bull camp. If both stay in the bull camp, and the SPX moves above 1575 and holds it for a few minutes, Keybot will likely flip long. The bears must achieve either the VIX 14.21 or SOX 425.80, otherwise, they got nothing. Markets remain erratic and unstable.

4/21/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/16/13; 3:37 PM EST = +46; signal line is +36 but algorithm says stay short

4/16/13; 1:54 PM EST = +32; signal line is +34

4/16/13; 12:52 PM EST = +46; signal line is +35 but algorithm says stay short

4/16/13; 9:53 AM EST = +32; signal line is +34

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant is short and active in today's market printing three numbers to begin the day. The VIX remains in the bear camp above 14.21 and the SOX is now in the bull camp above 425.65. These two are dictating market direction today. Markets remain unstable. Keybot will likely remain short today unless the SPX moves above 1581 where a flip back to the long side may occur. The bears remain in control by a hair.

4/21/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/16/13; 9:53 AM EST = +32; signal line is +34

4/16/13; 9:39 AM EST = +46; signal line is +34 but algorithm says stay short

4/16/13; 9:30 AM EST = +33; signal line is +33 but algorithm says stay short

4/16/13; 9:00 AM EST = +17; signal line is +33

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT -- CAUTION -- WHIPSAW TURN MAY BE IMMINENT

Keybot the Quant is short. The pre-scheduled number results in a one point change for the signal line. Today will determine if a whipsaw move occurs, or not. SOX and VIX are key, as highlighted last evening, and will likely determine if Keybot flips back to the long side, or not. The bears are driving the bus to begin the day.

4/21/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/16/13; 9:00 AM EST = +17; signal line is +33

4/15/13; 2:56 PM EST = +17; signal line is +34

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant is short moving into the Tuesday session. The failure in semiconductors and volatility today is important and created the market selling. The algo is now tracking financials with interest. For the bulls to regain mojo, they must push either the SOX above 425.65, now at 422.67 creating market negativity, or, the VIX below 14.30, now at 17.27 creating market negativity. The bears need to push XLF under 17.94, now at 18.08 creating market bullishness. If all three parameters remain as is, the markets will float along sideways.

For the SPX starting at 1552, closing at the lows, the bears only need to see a smidge of red in the futures and the market downside will accelerate at the opening bell. The bulls will fight overnight to keep the futures positive and at the same time work on boosting semi's and pushing volatility lower.  A move through 1553-1587 is sideways action. SOX 425.65, VIX 14.30, XLF 17.94 and SPX 1552 will tell the market story. Keybot prints a pre-sheduled number in the morning so the action can be updated at that time.

4/21/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/16/13; 9:00 AM EST =

4/15/13; 2:56 PM EST = +17; signal line is +34

4/15/13; 2:44 PM EST = +33; signal line is +35

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT -- CAUTION

The semiconductors reverse to the downside and collapse, again. So the whipsaw threat disappears for now and the market selling worsens. VIX is 15.33 well above the 14.21 bull-bear danger line now causing market bearishness. SOX is 424.38 well below the 425.67 bull-bear danger line now causing market bearishness. Hang on, this is a bumpy ride.

4/16/13; 9:00 AM EST =

4/15/13; 2:56 PM EST = +17; signal line is +34

4/15/13; 2:44 PM EST = +33; signal line is +35

4/15/13; 2:01 PM EST = +17; signal line is +36

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT -- CAUTION -- WHIPSAW TURN MAY BE IMMINENT

Keybot the Quant is short.  The semi's are staging a comeback, volatility is dropping, the bulls are fighting back to try and create a whipsaw. The algo number is only two points from the signal line. Watch VIX 14.21.

4/16/13; 9:00 AM EST =

4/15/13; 2:44 PM EST = +33; signal line is +35

4/15/13; 2:01 PM EST = +17; signal line is +36

4/15/13; 12:58 PM EST = +33; signal line is +38; go short 1566; (Benchmark SPX for 2013 = +9.8%)(Keybot this trade = -0.0%; Keybot for 2013 = +1.1%)(Actual this trade = +0.2%; Actual for 2013 = +1.3%)

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant flips to the short side today at SPX 1566. Volatility and semiconductors are now in the bear camp creating market negativity. Watch SOX 425.67 and VIX 14.21. The last trade was flat. Keybot exited DIA and entered RWM. Markets remain erratic and unstable. The bears are in the drivers seat. Stay alert for a potential whipsaw today or tomorrow.

4/16/13; 9:00 AM EST =

4/15/13; 2:01 PM EST = +17; signal line is +36

4/15/13; 12:58 PM EST = +33; signal line is +38; go short 1566; (Benchmark SPX for 2013 = +9.8%)(Keybot this trade = -0.0%; Keybot for 2013 = +1.1%)(Actual this trade = +0.2%; Actual for 2013 = +1.3%)

4/15/13; 12:45 PM EST = +33; signal line is +38 but algorithm says stay long

4/14/13; 7:00 PM EST = +49; signal line is +39

4/12/13; 10:00 AM EST = +49; signal line is +39

4/9/13; 12:32 PM EST = +49; signal line is +39; go long 1568; (Benchmark SPX for 2013 = +10.0%)(Keybot this trade = -0.4%; Keybot for 2013 = +1.1%)(Actual this trade = -0.5%; Actual for 2013 = +1.1%)

STOCK MARKET BULLISH -- LONG -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant is long heading into the Monday session. The bulls need to bring copper and commodities higher to receive more upside fuel. Bulls need JJC 43.65, now at 41.61.  The bears need to pull SOX down to 425.00, now at 433.63, and/or, push the VIX  up to 14.40, now at 12.06. If status quo remains with these three parameters, market float along sideways with an upward bias.

For the SPX starting at 1589, the bulls need to push up through the 1593 level and a test of the all-time high at 1597 will occur in a heartbeat. The bears will try to push under 1580 to accelerate a quick drop to test 1576. A move through 1581-1592 is sideways action. Keybot prints one pre-scheduled number this week on Tuesday morning. Markets remain erratic and unstable.

4/21/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/16/13; 9:00 AM EST =

4/14/13; 7:00 PM EST = +49; signal line is +39

4/12/13; 10:00 AM EST = +49; signal line is +39

STOCK MARKET BULLISH -- LONG -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant remains long through the weekend. The pre-scheduled number yesterday results in no change. The algo idled along all day without printing any further numbers. For next week, volatility, copper and semiconductors will be key. The broad indexes fell yesterday but note that volatility finished lower as well. This does not happen often, perhaps less than 10% of the time, so one of them is wrong (either the SPX should have been substantially higher today finishing up on the day, or, volatility should have moved far higher). The SPX accelerated lower when 1586 support gave way, but recovered due to the lower volatility. The sectors and levels of interest can be identified once the Sunday pre-scheduled number prints.

4/14/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/12/13; 10:00 AM EST = +49; signal line is +39

4/9/13; 12:32 PM EST = +49; signal line is +39; go long 1568; (Benchmark SPX for 2013 = +10.0%)(Keybot this trade = -0.4%; Keybot for 2013 = +1.1%)(Actual this trade = -0.5%; Actual for 2013 = +1.1%)

STOCK MARKET BULLISH -- LONG -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant is long going into the Friday session. The algo motored along today without printing any numbers. The markets drifted sideways with an upward bias.  Friday is the same set-up as today. The bears need to push the VIX over 14.40 (now at 12.24) to gain downside mojo. The bulls need to push JJC over 43.85 (now at 42.86) to gain upside mojo. If VIX stays under 14.40, and JJC under 43.85, the markets will float along sideways with an upward bias. For the SPX starting at 1593, the bulls need to push up over 1597 to accelerate the upside which will surely push over 1600 in a heartbeat. The bears need to touch the 1586 handle and the downside will accelerate. A move through 1587-1596 is sideways action. Keybot prints a pre-scheduled number at 10 AM but the site here will probably not be updated until later tomorrow afternoon.

4/14/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/12/13; 10:00 AM EST =

4/9/13; 12:32 PM EST = +49; signal line is +39; go long 1568; (Benchmark SPX for 2013 = +10.0%)(Keybot this trade = -0.4%; Keybot for 2013 = +1.1%)(Actual this trade = -0.5%; Actual for 2013 = +1.1%)

STOCK MARKET BULLISH -- LONG -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant remains long. The algo did not print any numbers yesterday. U.S. markets experience a melt-up yesterday due to the continued Fed and BOJ easy money policies as well as money fleeing Europe. Volatility drops and semiconductors explode higher providing the bull fuel. Copper was weak remaining in the bear camp. The bulls need JJC 43.90 to ignite more upside. The bears need to move VIX above 14.40 to initiate market selling. If JJC stays under 43.90 and VIX under 14.40, the markets will float along sideways with an upward bias.

For the SPX starting at 1588, the bulls need to push up through 1589, only about one point higher, to further accelerate the market upside. The bears need to retrace yesterday's move to develop any downside mojo, a formidable task. More importantly, the bears will try to prevent any further drop in the VIX now at 12.36. Markets remain erratic and unstable.

4/12/13; 10:00 AM EST =

4/9/13; 12:32 PM EST = +49; signal line is +39; go long 1568; (Benchmark SPX for 2013 = +10.0%)(Keybot this trade = -0.4%; Keybot for 2013 = +1.1%)(Actual this trade = -0.5%; Actual for 2013 = +1.1%)

STOCK MARKET BULLISH -- LONG -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant is bullish moving into the Wednesday session. The algo did not print any further numbers today after the flip to the long side at lunch time. The bulls are receiving oomph from low volatility and strong semiconductors. The bears are receiving juice from weak copper. Thus, the bulls need to push JJC above 43.90, now at 43.05, to receive upside market fuel. The bears need to push SOX below 424.00 or VIX above 14.40 to accelerate the markets downside.

For the SPX starting at 1568.61, the bulls need to touch the 1574 handle and it will be off to the races higher, with the all-time closing high at 1576.09 giving way in quick order and the move begins to the 1580's. The bears need to push under 1561 and the market downside will accelerate. A move through 1562-1573 is sideways action. Markets remain unstable and erratic as evidenced by the price behavior over the last three trading sessions.

4/12/13; 10:00 AM EST =

4/9/13; 12:32 PM EST = +49; signal line is +39; go long 1568; (Benchmark SPX for 2013 = +10.0%)(Keybot this trade = -0.4%; Keybot for 2013 = +1.1%)(Actual this trade = -0.5%; Actual for 2013 = +1.1%)

STOCK MARKET BULLISH -- LONG -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant flips to the long side at SPX 1568. The bulls goose the semiconductors at lunch time to convincingly push above SOX 423.90 and the SPX moves above 1567.  Keybot exited SH and entered DIA.  The last trade results in a one-half percent loss. As always, stay alert for a whipsaw move back to the short side either today or tomorrow, especially in these unstable and treacherous markets. Watch SOX 423.90 and VIX 14.42. The Benchmark SPX is up 10% this year thus far.

4/12/13; 10:00 AM EST =

4/9/13; 12:32 PM EST = +49; signal line is +39; go long 1568; (Benchmark SPX for 2013 = +10.0%)(Keybot this trade = -0.4%; Keybot for 2013 = +1.1%)(Actual this trade = -0.5%; Actual for 2013 = +1.1%)

4/9/13; 10:58 AM EST = +33; signal line is +39

4/9/13; 10:28 AM EST = +49; signal line is +39 but algorithm says stay short

4/9/13; 9:51 AM EST = +33; signal line is +39

4/8/13; 3:57 PM EST = +49; signal line is +40 but algorithm says stay short

4/8/13; 10:31 PM EST = +33; signal line is +40

4/8/13; 10:19 PM EST = +17; signal line is +40

4/7/13; 7:00 PM EST = +33; signal line is +41

4/5/13; 1:31 PM EST = +33; signal line is +42

4/5/13; 11:28 AM EST = +17; signal line is +42

4/5/13; 11:18 AM EST = +33; signal line is +43

4/5/13; 9:30 AM EST = +17; signal line is +44

4/5/13; 9:00 AM EST = +33; signal line is +44

4/4/13; 2:17 PM EST = +33; signal line is +45

4/4/13; 12:00 PM EST = +17; signal line is +45

4/3/13; 11:02 AM EST = +33; signal line is +45; go short 1562; (Benchmark SPX for 2013  = +8.7%)(Keybot this trade = +0.3%; Keybot for 2013 = +1.5%)(Actual this trade = +0.6%; Actual for 2013 = +1.6%)

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant remains short as the erratic market behavior continues. SOX fell under 423.90 so the bears have some breathing room again.  If SOX stays under 423.90, bears do not have any worries. If SOX moves above 423.90, and the SPX moves above 1567, Keybot will likely flip long. The beat goes on. The algo is active today printing three numbers thus far. The turn is not imminent if SOX stays under 423.90 but the caution flag remains in place since the markets are a coin flip these days. VIX is at 13.40 one buck under the 14.42 bull-bear danger line favoring the bulls. Watch SOX 423.90.

4/12/13; 10:00 AM EST =

4/9/13; 10:58 AM EST = +33; signal line is +39

4/9/13; 10:28 AM EST = +49; signal line is +39 but algorithm says stay short

4/9/13; 9:51 AM EST = +33; signal line is +39

4/8/13; 3:57 PM EST = +49; signal line is +40 but algorithm says stay short

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT -- CAUTION -- TURN MAY BE IMMINENT

Keybot the Quant is short overnight going into Tuesday, however, the algo is within one single hair of flipping long. The semiconductors were pumped by the bulls since that was the way to send markets higher. SOX moved from 419 to over 424 in the final two hours and Keybot's level of interest converged to the 424-ish level in the same time frame. The SOX level to watch is now at 423.90 and the final print today is 424.17 so the semi's are back in the bull camp and supplying upside energy. Keybot wants to go long and would have if the SOX would have crossed 423.90 a few minutes earlier, or, if the markets were open a few minutes longer. Thus, the drama will have to play out tomorrow.

VIX collapsed today from the 14.50 high to close at 13.19. VIX 14.42 is key tomorrow. XLF jumped higher to 18.21 well above the level of interest at 17.84. Keybot will likely flip long tomorrow if the SPX prints above 1563 after the opening bell.  The opening bell may be tricky, however, since a gap up opening would set a timer in motion and the flip to the long side may be delayed until around 11:00 AM.

For the SPX on Tuesday starting at 1563, if the overnight futures are green, Keybot will likely flip long unless a gap up occurs, which would create a delay. The bears need to keep the overnight futures red and push the SPX under 1549 to accelerate the downside. A move through 1550-1562 is sideways action. The bulls must keep SOX above 423.90, otherwise, Keybot will remain short.  Markets obviously remain extremely erratic and unstable. In a nutshell, SPX 1563 and SOX 423.90 determines if Keybot flips long tomorrow morning.

4/12/13; 10:00 AM EST =

4/8/13; 3:57 PM EST = +49; signal line is +40 but algorithm says stay short

4/8/13; 10:31 PM EST = +33; signal line is +40

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant is short as the new week of trading begins and the algo prints two numbers. The drama with VIX 14.47 picks up where it left off on Friday. The VIX popped above today, but then the bulls were able to push volatility back under VIX 14.47. So far today, the VIX is under 14.47 and SOX is under 424.80 so markets float sideways. SOX is printing 418.64. Markets will decide direction when VIX moves above 14.47 (happy bears), or SOX moves above 424.80 (happy bulls). Also watch the financials, XLF 17.82; if this fails, then the broad indexes will sell off. XLF is at 18.02. For now, a bull-bear standoff is in play today; watch volatility for clues. VIX is now printing 14.07 which creates market bullishness, but only forty cents from bear trouble.

4/12/13; 10:00 AM EST =

4/8/13; 10:31 PM EST = +33; signal line is +40

4/8/13; 10:19 PM EST = +17; signal line is +40

4/7/13; 7:00 PM EST = +33; signal line is +41

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant is short moving into the Monday trading session. The break down in semiconductors is a game-changer. The algo is tracking semi's, volatility and financials. Volatility and semi's will dictate market direction. The bulls need to move SOX above 425 to enable markets to recover. If SOX moves above 425, Keybot will likely flip to the long side. The bears need to push the VIX above 14.47 and it will be smooth sailing to the downside. If SOX stays under 425, and VIX stays under 14.47, the broad indexes will float along sideways. If the bears start to run the markets lower with the VIX above 14.47, watch XLF 17.80 since this will kick in significant market downside.

For the SPX starting at 1553, the bulls need to touch 1560 and the upside will accelerate to 1565 in a heartbeat. The bears need to push below 1540 and the downside will accelerate to test 1531 in a heartbeat. A move through 1541-1559 is sideways action. In a nutshell, SOX 425 and VIX 14.47 is all that matters. Markets remain unstable and erratic. The bears are driving the bus to begin the new week.

4/14/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/12/13; 10:00 AM EST =

4/7/13; 7:00 PM EST = +33; signal line is +41

4/5/13; 1:31 PM EST = +33; signal line is +42

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant remains short through the weekend. VIX dropped like a stone at the end of the session allowing the SPX to recover into the closing bell. The landscape changes last week since not only are sectors such as copper and commodities weak, but now semiconductors have joined the bear camp. These building blocks of all services and products are dropping off. The volatility drama will pick up again on Monday morning. The algo will verify the SOX 425 and VIX 14.47 levels for Monday, or tweak them slightly, after the Sunday pre-scheduled number prints tomorrow. For next week, bulls win with SOX 425; bears win with VIX 14.47. As long as SOX stays under 425, Keybot will likely remain short regardless of the SPX moving higher. The caution flag is back since volatility dropped under 14.47.

4/7/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/5/13; 1:31 PM EST = +33; signal line is +42

4/5/13; 11:28 AM EST = +17; signal line is +42

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT

Keybot the Quant remains short as the Friday session moves along. Today is an active day for the algo with three more numbers printing. The bulls and bears are fighting over the VIX 14.47 level. VIX is now at 14.41 so the bulls are winning. SOX is at 417 well under the 425 bull-bear line so Keybot will likely remain short unless the semiconductors catch a major bid. The broad indexes should float out sideways into the weekend with the VIX below 14.47. If the VIX moves back above 14.47 before the closing bell, the markets will sell off in force.

4/7/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/5/13; 1:31 PM EST = +33; signal line is +42

4/5/13; 11:28 AM EST = +17; signal line is +42

4/5/13; 11:18 AM EST = +33; signal line is +43

4/5/13; 9:30 AM EST = +17; signal line is +44

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT

Keybot the Quant motors along on the short side. The algo prints a lower number at the opening bell.  The VIX catapults up through 15.40 decisively. See if it holds today. SOX crumbles to 412 creating serious damage in semi's. Look at the financials, XLF, dancing along the bull-bear line at 17.80. If XLF moves lower it will take the broad indexes another leg lower today. The markets are near 48 hours beyond where Keybot flipped short so a whipsaw did not occur. The bears are cruising.

4/7/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/5/13; 9:30 AM EST = +17; signal line is +44

4/5/13; 9:00 AM EST = +33; signal line is +44

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT

Keybot the Quant is short moving into the Friday session. The Monthly Jobs Report laid an egg a short time ago. Keybot's pre-scheduled number prints with the signal line losing one tick. The S&P futures are down -20. SOX should easily stay under 425 and the VIX will likely catapult above 14.50 so the bears should rule the day today. For now, the caution flag is removed since it appears that the bears are cruising.

4/7/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/5/13; 9:00 AM EST = +33; signal line is +44

4/4/13; 2:17 PM EST = +33; signal line is +45

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant remains bearish. The SOX is under 425 (causing bearishness), VIX is under 14.47 (causing bullishness) and XLF is above 17.80 (causing bullishness); the same conditions as last evening. Volatility jumped to help the bears today but then retreated in the afternoon to allow the bulls to move markets higher.  For the SPX starting at 1560, the bulls need to touch 1563 to accelerate the upside. Bears need to push under 1553 to accelerate the downside. A move through 1554-1562 is sideways action. Keybot prints a pre-scheduled number in the morning so the pre-market action can be updated at that time. If SOX moves above 425, Keybot will likely flip long. If SOX remains under 425, Keybot will likely remain short.

4/7/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/5/13; 9:00 AM EST =

4/4/13; 2:17 PM EST = +33; signal line is +45

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant remains bearish but the bulls are staging a come back today pushing the VIX back below 14.47. SOX is 420.  The SPX is at 1559.  The caution flag is out but the bears remain in control.

4/5/13; 9:00 AM EST =

4/4/13; 2:17 PM EST = +33; signal line is +45

4/4/13; 12:00 PM EST = +17; signal line is +45

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT

Keybot the Quant remains short as the Thursday session motors along.  VIX moves above 14.47 which is another feather in the bear's cap. It is surprising to see the broad indexes remain sideways with the now elevated volatility. Watch VIX 14.47 as the day plays out. SOX is 419 firmly bearish. XLF is 18 remaining bullish. SPX is printing 1555. The caution flag was removed but if VIX drops back under 14.47 the caution will have to be displayed. The bears are driving the bus despite the buoyancy occurring in the markets today.

4/5/13; 9:00 AM EST =

4/4/13; 12:00 PM EST = +17; signal line is +45

4/3/13; 11:02 AM EST = +33; signal line is +45; go short 1562; (Benchmark SPX for 2013  = +8.7%)(Keybot this trade = +0.3%; Keybot for 2013 = +1.5%)(Actual this trade = +0.6%; Actual for 2013 = +1.6%)

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant is short going into the Thursday session. The breakdown in semiconductors is key to the market weakness so watch SOX 425 closely (now at 416). Market bears will maintain control on the broad indexes as long as SOX stays under 425. Commodities and copper have broken down as well creating market negativity. On the bull side, VIX remains under 14.50 (now at 14.21) and allows the bulls to continue along without worry. The bulls are also keeping financials, XLF, above 17.80 which creates market positivity. Thus, the battle lines are in place. The bulls will try to move SOX back above 425 and the markets will recover and head to new highs once again.  The bears need to push either VIX above 14.50, or XLF under 17.80, and the market selling will continue in force.

For the SPX today, starting at 1554, the bulls need to push above 1571 to signal the all-clear for accelerated upside. This is 17 points higher and would retrace yesterday's move, a formidable task, but not impossible. The bulls are already trying to paint the day rosy with S&P futures up about 8 four hours before the U.S. open.  The bears need to drop under 1550, four points lower, to accelerate the downside. A move through 1551-1570 is sideways action today. The bears are driving the bus but the markets remain unstable and erratic. The ECB will move markets at 7:45 AM EST (rate decision) and 8:30 AM EST (Draghi press conference).

4/7/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/5/13; 9:00 AM EST =

4/3/13; 11:02 AM EST = +33; signal line is +45; go short 1562; (Benchmark SPX for 2013  = +8.7%)(Keybot this trade = +0.3%; Keybot for 2013 = +1.5%)(Actual this trade = +0.6%; Actual for 2013 = +1.6%)

STOCK MARKET BEARISH -- SHORT -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant flips to the short side at SPX 1562. Semiconductors collapse today; the SOX now printing 421.26 with a LOD at 420.84 far below the bull-bear line in the sand. The semi's have created the bulk of the market weakness this week.  VIX is above 13 but below the 14.50 bull-bear line helping the bulls. Markets should remain weak and have staying power on the bear side if the SOX remains under 425. The bears are driving the bus now and as always, stay alert for a whipsaw today or tomorrow. Keybot made a smidge of a profit on the last trade exiting DIA and entering SH a short time ago. The caution flag remains out but will not be needed if the bears push VIX above 14.50. Note the weakness in XLF and Keybot is now locking on to a XLF 17.80 target which would usher in strong market bearishness (now at 18.03).

4/5/13; 9:00 AM EST =

4/3/13; 11:02 AM EST = +33; signal line is +45; go short 1562; (Benchmark SPX for 2013  = +8.7%)(Keybot this trade = +0.3%; Keybot for 2013 = +1.5%)(Actual this trade = +0.6%; Actual for 2013 = +1.6%)

4/2/13; 2:27 PM EST = +33; signal line is +46 but algorithm says stay long

3/31/13; 7:00 PM EST EOM = +49; signal line is +47

3/29/13; 10:00 AM EST = +49; signal line is +46

3/28/13; 12:00 PM EST = +49; signal line is +45

3/28/13; 10:19 AM EST = +63; signal line is +44

3/28/13; 9:30 AM EST = +49; signal line is +43

3/27/13; 1:22 PM EST = +63; signal line is +42

3/26/13; 10:00 AM EST = +49; signal line is +41

3/24/13; 7:00 PM EST = +49; signal line is +40

3/20/13; 11:15 AM EST = +49; signal line is +39; go long 1557; (Benchmark SPX for 2013  = +9.2%)(Keybot this trade = -1.1%; Keybot for 2013 = +1.2%)(Actual this trade = -0.8%; Actual for 2013 = +1.0%)

STOCK MARKET BULLISH -- LONG -- CAUTION -- TURN MAY BE IMMINENT

Keybot the Quant remains long moving into the Wednesday session. The algo wants to flip short but is held back until all the internal programming rules are satisfied.  If the SPX drops under 1562, it is highly likely that Keybot will flip short. The bulls will instead try to push the SPX higher to touch the 1574 handle which will set up the test of the all-time high at 1576.09 that would likely give way in quick order.  A move through 1563-1573 is sideways action. The SPX begins at 1570.

The bulls need to push SOX above 425 and GTX above 4930 to receive upside market fuel. The bears need to push the VIX above 14.50 to receive downside fuel.  Markets remain unstable. The bears have it on a silver platter right now only needing eight negative SPX points to take control of the markets. If the SPX stays above 1562, the bears got nothing and the bulls will continue driving the bus floating markets higher. Hang on to your hat.  Wednesday is a big day. The battle is between SOX 425 (for happy bulls) and VIX 14.50 (for happy bears).

4/5/13; 9:00 AM EST =

4/2/13; 2:27 PM EST = +33; signal line is +46 but algorithm says stay long

STOCK MARKET BULLISH -- LONG -- CAUTION -- TURN MAY BE IMMINENT

Keybot the Quant is long but the algo wants to flip to the short side. Semiconductors broke down a short time ago as shown by SOX falling under 425.  Keybot is held back from flipping since internal rules must be satisfied. If the SPX drops under 1558.47, Keybot will likely flip short, if not, then the algo will remain long through the closing bell. The VIX is over 13 but remains far under the 14.55 bull-bear line in the sand.  The SPX is at 1569. The bulls are driving the bus but the bears have their paws on the steering wheel as well right now.

4/5/13; 9:00 AM EST =

4/2/13; 2:27 PM EST = +33; signal line is +46 but algorithm says stay long

3/31/13; 7:00 PM EST EOM = +49; signal line is +47

STOCK MARKET BULLISH -- LONG -- CAUTION

Keybot the Quant is long going into the Tuesday session. The SPX dropped yesterday but volatility remains low so the downside was not a serious threat. The algo idles along without printing any numbers. The algo is tracking semiconductors. Watch SOX 425, now at 427.80. A drop through SOX 425 will initiate strong broad market selling. Watch VIX 14.55 (currently creating market bullishness) and GTX 4930 (currently creating market bearishness) as well.

For the SPX, starting at 1562, the bulls need to touch the 1571 handle which will immediately launch a move to test the all-time closing high at 1576. The bears need to push below 1559 to accelerate the downside. A move through 1560-1570 is sideways action. S&P futures are pointing to seven points of upside with the open about 3 1/2 hours away.

4/7/13; 7:00 PM EST =

4/5/13; 9:00 AM EST =

3/31/13; 7:00 PM EST EOM = +49; signal line is +47