August 1, 2025 | Warning Sign? S&P and Nasdaq Flash Outside Reversal Patterns

Here are a few key charts that capture today’s market story.

We start with the S&P 500 heatmap for Thursday. Outside of a handful of Big Tech names – most notably META and Microsoft, which delivered standout earnings -the broader index was awash in red.

Despite strong results from those leaders, both the Nasdaq and S&P 500 posted what’s known as outside reversal days.

Here’s what that means specifically:

‘Outside day’:
The day’s high is higher and low is lower than the previous day’s range – so it completely ‘engulfs’ the prior day’s trading range.

‘Reversal lower’:
The index closes below the previous day’s close, despite opening strong (and possibly making new highs intraday).

Nasdaq – Outside Reversal

S&P 500 – Outside Reversal

What it suggests:

• Early strength was overwhelmed by selling pressure, showing a loss of momentum.
• Outside reversals to the downside often act as short-term warning signals—especially during extended rallies.
• When combined with heavy volume, it can add conviction to the bearish setup.

This doesn’t guarantee a major top, but it raises a caution flag that a pullback or period of consolidation may be near.

Stay informed!

Martin

Martin Straith August 1st, 2025

Posted In: The Trend Letter

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