A Choppy Start to the Week as Markets Search for Direction
Wendy Kirkland Market Watch April 13, 2026
Markets started the week mixed, following a choppy finish on Friday. By the close, the Dow and S&P 500 ended lower, while the Nasdaq managed to hold onto gains. Trading throughout the day was marked by frequent swings, with most indexes closing near their intraday lows—an early sign of hesitation among traders.
This morning’s open brought more of the same uncertainty. The Dow opened sharply lower and remains down, while the Nasdaq, S&P 500, and Russell 2000 recovered after early weakness and are currently trading modestly higher. Overall, market breadth is mixed, with performance varying by sector. Some stocks that were red earlier have turned green, suggesting active rotation rather than broad conviction.
Looking at the charts, the Dow remains technically bearish on a weekly basis, though momentum is improving. Recent bullish weeks have slowed, and indicators show weakening downside pressure, hinting at a possible shift—but not a confirmed one. Much will depend on how the rest of the week unfolds.
The Nasdaq and S&P 500 tell a slightly more optimistic story. Both have recently crossed into bullish territory, though momentum remains tentative. Past price action suggests these indexes could spend time moving sideways before attempting a stronger move higher. With ongoing global and geopolitical issues in play, a smooth, straight-up rally seems unlikely in the near term.
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Wendy Kirkland Market Watch April 13, 2026