Last week the Power of the Pattern reflected thatBasic Materials were lagging the broad market by a 14% , (since last April highs) and that for the broad market to move higher, the 500 index needed Basic Materials and the Russell 2000 to break resistance in the chart below (see 2/28 post)

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The chart below reflects that one week later, breakdowns in key sectors are taking place

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Joe Friday shared this past Friday that the Russell 2000, NYSE Composite and the Wilshire 5000 were all up against key over head resistance lines (see post here) .  Breakdowns in IYM, FCX and the Russell 2000 are not what long investors want to see when key Resistance is at hand!

The breakdowns suggest capital protection/harvesting should be considered at this time.  If you are interesting in scoring on defense, these breakdowns do suggest an opportunity is at hand with overhead stops.

How The Recent Decline In Stocks Looks "Eerily" Like Major Bear Markets Of The Past