Most of the time, the U.S. stock market looks to 3 factors (call them the “pillars” which support the stock market) to support its upward trend – let’s grade each of the pillars.

CONSUMER SPENDING: This grade is a B+ (favorable).

THE FED AND ITS POLICIES: This factor is rated C- (Below average).

BUSINESS PROFITABILITY: This factor’s grade is A- (very favorable). So far, earnings have been solid. More than 70% of the 88 companies that have reported so far have topped estimates. And sales have been even better—72% of those companies have reported better-than-expected revenue, well above the long-term average of 59% (Source: Barrons).

OTHER CONCERNS:  The “Heat Map” is indicating the U.S. stock market is in OK shape ASSUMING no international crisis. On a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being the highest level of crisis, I rate these international risks collectively as a 5. These risks deserve our ongoing attention.