There wasn't much to attract interest but the Russell 2000 managed to stick its head above the parapet with a solid gain.  The Russell 2000 was left just shy of challenging trading range resistance.  Other indices are trading in a tight range which builds tension for a reactionary move; given what's happened in Small Caps, a breakout higher is perhaps favored. The Russell 2000 cleared inner resistance of the 'bear trap' and brought the index to trading range resistance. Tomorrow, watch for a consolidation at 1,420 before the Russell 2000 pushes higher.

Today was the perfect day for bulls looking for buying opportunities. Markets exhibited small bullish 'hammers' as part of a 3-day pullback; collectively shaping up as bullish flags. As an added bonus, volume rose to register an accumulation day. The S&P pullback will be confirmed on a move above 2,435 with a stop on a loss of 2,425.

Higher Volume distribution took hold in indices but there was no significant point loss to go with the selling. S&P gains posted late last week are holding while breakout buyers have yet to feel the pressure of this week's losses. The surge in S&P relative performance has weakened but hasn't yet pushed a 'sell' trigger.

Two days of gains have pushed markets beyond their breakout levels and new closing highs. Volume has not been spectacular, but shareholders will not be complaining. Shorts will be out or left holding big losses. The Russell 2000 had the best of the action as it negated the 'bear flag' in a move which now looks destined to challenge of 1,425. The MACD is building on its 'buy' trigger but relative performance against the Nasdaq could do with a kicker to mark the return of Small Cap leadership.