The stock market rally is facing selling pressure due to a less-dovish Fed and high valuations that are unsettling traders. Despite a positive session following a rough start to the month, sellers are making a stronger return.
Global stocks have experienced an impressive yearly surge, driven by strong uptrends since the surprising August non-farm payroll (NFP) report. However, sellers seem determined to reassert control.
The technical picture remains mostly positive, supported by solid fundamentals. Around 80% of reporting U.S. companies have shown growth, and the Fed had signaled a dovish path while the economy stayed resilient, fueling bullish momentum that closed last month at new highs.
Despite ongoing record levels, doubts persist about whether stock valuations have become excessively high. Markets closed today near session lows and at critical points that suggest important future movements.
The Federal Reserve's recent less-dovish stance—delivered during what was technically a rate cut—has alarmed highly leveraged traders. As a result, many are aggressively taking profits amid growing uncertainty.
Overall, while fundamentals remain strong, increased caution is emerging due to evolving Fed signals and stretched valuations.
"The relentless march to consistent new record levels keeps raising the same critical question: Are stock valuations simply too high now?"
Author's summary: The stock market’s recent rebound faces pressure as a cautious Fed and high valuations prompt traders to lock in profits amid uncertainty.
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