Stock averages at yearly highs

Dow shot ahead 53 taking it above 10½K to a new 2009 high, advancers over decliners almost 3-1 & NAZ gained 16 to another yearly high. Not a sign of a bear in sight. Banks also had a good day as the Financial Index is putting more distance between it & its trading range low. While this has been a stellar year for many stocks, others have not done so well. Citigroup (C) is one of my favorites which falls into the latter group.


S&P 500 FINANCIALS INDEX

Value 195.77

Change 1.67

% Change 0.9%

Citigroup --- YTD




The Alerian MLP Index & the Dow Jones REIT Index each gained 2½ to new yearly highs. However for MLPs it's a year they will will never forget, up 111 already. Junk bond funds were strong taking them to new yearly highs bringing yields down to "only" 10% or so. Treasuries sold off again, the yield on the 10-year Treasury bond rose 6 more basis points to 3.81% which will work its way thru to higher rates on mortgages.


Alerian MLP Index --- YTD




Dow Jones REIT Index --- YTD





Commodities joined stocks finishing the week with solid gains.

CLG10.NYM

..Crude Oil Feb 10

..77.75

.. 1.08 ......(1.4%)

GCZ09.CMX

..Gold Dec 09

..1,104.30

.. 11.00 ......(1.0%)

Find out what's inside Trend TV Click Here






For the bargain hunters, not all the MLPs participated in this year's rally. Constellation Energy Partners (CEP) has had a tough time which meant dropping the distribution, allowing them to pay down part of their loan. Recently they refinanced that loan with a larger one. Its units are still under $4, but those who like risk might be interested in this MLP on the assumption they will turn around. If so, gains will be substantial.

Constellation Partners --- YTD





Markets had another good week with major averages reaching new 2009 highs. Gov debt is mounting, unemployment drones on & sales are sluggish at best, but bulls like what they see. Next week holiday retail sales will be reported. They may be wishy washy, but bulls are in charge & will probably take markets to new heights.


Dow Jones Industrials --- YTD



Nasdaq --- YTD

Happy holidays to all
& to all a good night!!