iShares US Insurance ETF (IAK) & Sector Scopes Monthly Update (Feb 2022)
Although there continues to be significant volatility in individual stocks and sectors, particularly around earnings reports, and most notably in the social media group lately, some of the overall headwinds that had been knocking equities down lately appear to be easing a bit.
Several of the major equity indices have spent the last few days clawing back some of their recent losses and moving back toward the middle of their recent trading ranges. So far this appears to be a relief rally driven by bargain hunting and short covering, possibly related to a slowing of corporate and economic news flow last week.
At this point it’s too early to say if we are out of the woods yet, particularly with last week’s higher than expected US wage inflation and this week’s gains in energy and grain prices, headlined by WTI crude oil trading above $90.00/bbl. The US 10-year treasury note yield peeked above 1.95% this week, indicating continued pressure on central banks to raise interest rates.
The coming week brings a number of economic reports, starting today with US consumer price inflation. More inflation reports, plus retail sales and housing numbers are also due in the coming days. Earnings season continues as well with results on the way from the mining, hotels, and technology sectors, plus some of the first results from retailers.
In this issue of Equity Leaders Weekly, we take out monthly look at sector scopes and at financials, particularly the insurance sector.
iShares US Insurance ETF (IAK)
With several seniors reporting results in the last few days, the insurance group has been attracting particular attention. Continuing a bullish Rising Channel of higher highs and higher lows, the iShares US Insurance ETF (IAK) has broken out to a new all-time high this month, completing a bullish Double Top pattern to signal the start of a new upleg.
Vertical and horizontal counts suggest potential upside resistance near $91.60 and $96.25, followed by the $100.00 round number. Initial support appears near $84.60 based on a 3-box reversal.
Sector Scopes Monthly Update (Feb 2022)
The relatively strongest names on the right-hand side are similar to last month, including Energy, Financials (banks and insurance) and Consumer Staples (food and tobacco). The bullish percent for Construction has weakened dramatically, sending the sector to the left end of the page, with Electronics & Semiconductors, Conglomerates, and Media also struggling.
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