Monitoring The ‘Risk Trade’ With The Gold/Silver Ratio (GLD, SLV, SPY, DBC)
The gold/silver ratio is not just for gold bugs; it can help us monitor the appeal of the ‘risk on’ trade relative to the ‘risk off’ trade in many markets, including global stocks (NYSE:SPY) and commodities (NYSE:DBC).
While gold (NYSE:GLD) and silver (NYSE:SLV) are often grouped together in investment discussions, gold has more of an Armageddon appeal and silver has more of an industrial appeal. Generally, when the gold/silver ratio is rising, it signals higher levels of fear and concern about the economic outlook. Notice how gold was much more attractive in the minds of market participants during the 2008 portion of the last bear market (see below).
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The current gold/silver ratio, shown below, recently broke through the downward sloping trendline that was formed as risk assets rallied off the July and September 2010 lows. While it is too early to read too much into the break of the red trendline shown below, it is worth keeping an eye on.
If the gold/silver ratio makes a higher low, followed by a higher high, then our concerns would be increased relative to a possible bout of risk aversion in all markets. As of Thursday’s close, the risk-on trade still rules the day. Sentiment and possible overhead key S&P 500 levels are two other ways to keep an eye on the health of the current bullish trends in stocks and commodities.
On Thursday, the CCM Bull Market Sustainability Index (BMSI) closed again at 3,745, a level that continues to favor bullish outcomes over bearish outcomes. The CCM 80-20 Correction Index dropped down to 1,176, which historically points to favorable risk-reward conditions for risk investors looking out one-to-twelve months (see table below).
Notice the risk-reward ratio of 3.76, looking out three months, is the most attractive three month ratio in the table. This aligns well with the positive fundamental and technical developments we identified in late December 2010. [Related ETFs: SPDR S&P 500 ETF (NYSE:SPY), PowerShares DB Commodity Index Tracking ETF (NYSE:DBC), iShares Silver Trust ETF (NYSE:SLV), SPDR Gold Shares ETF (NYSE:GLD)]
Written By Chris Ciovacco From Ciovacco Capital Management, LLC
Chris Ciovacco began his investment career with Morgan Stanley in Atlanta in 1994. With a focus on global macro investing, Chris uses both fundamental and technical analysis to assist in managing risk while looking for growth opportunities around the globe in all asset classes. If you are looking for an independent money manager or financial advisor, Ciovacco Capital is worth a look. Chris graduated from Georgia Tech with Highest Honors earning a degree in Industrial and Systems Engineering in 1990. His experience in the professional ranks began in 1985 as he began working as a co-op for IBM in Atlanta.
Ciovacco Capital Management, LLC (CCM) is an independent money management firm serving clients nationwide. By utilizing extensive research, disciplined risk management techniques, and a globally diversified approach, CCM prudently manages investments for individuals and business owners. Our focus is on principal protection and purchasing power preservation in an ever-changing global investment climate.
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