Big Week Ahead: SPX Support \Test, Fed Minutes, Inflation Data
Hey Traders,
The stock market experienced a broad-based decline for the trading week ending February 13, 2026, driven largely by growing concerns around the disruptive impact and stretched valuations tied to the AI trade. The week started strong, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average reaching a historic milestone — but momentum faded quickly as heavy selling in technology stocks dragged the broader indices lower.
A softer-than-expected CPI inflation report on Friday produced a short-lived bounce, but most of those gains faded by the close — a sign that traders are still cautious and quick to sell strength rather than chase upside.
Week over week, the S&P 500 finished lower and is now sitting close to its 100-day moving average, which is an important technical line in the sand. If SPX breaks and holds below 6800, we could see additional downside pressure and expanding volatility. If buyers defend this level, we may see stabilization and a relief move.
📅 Looking Ahead This Week
We have several potential market-moving catalysts coming up:
- Release of the latest Federal Open Market Committee meeting minutes on Wednesday
- Key inflation data due Friday
- Possible tariff-related decision from the Supreme Court of the United States expected around February 20
Policy signals + inflation data + legal decisions tied to trade can all influence rate expectations and sector rotation, so expect headline sensitivity to stay elevated.
🧭 My Tactical Approach Right Now
In this environment, discipline matters more than boldness:
- Build cash reserves on the sidelines
- Be ready to deploy if we get a deeper pullback
- Stay selective with entries
- Do not allocate more than 10% of your account to any single trade
This is how we stay in the game long enough to take advantage of opportunity instead of reacting emotionally to volatility.
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Trade smart and have a great week ahead!
Gautam
(Your Financial Freedom Coach)
⚠️ Disclaimer: Options involve risk and are not suitable for all investors. Returns are not guaranteed. This message is for educational purposes only and not financial advice.
