Markets are relatively quiet in the pre-market, but commodities are seeing significant volatility, with oil moving higher and gold dropping sharply by over $200. Silver is under even more pressure, highlighting broad weakness in precious metals. Major index ETFs remain near recent lows, with the Dow breaking below both support and its 200-day moving average, while the S&P 500 tested key support and the NASDAQ continues to trade within a range.
Sector performance remains mixed, with energy stocks showing resilience despite broader market weakness, while financials and metals stocks continue to struggle. Bond prices are falling, pushing yields higher, and volatility is rising but not yet signaling a clear market bottom. Overall, markets remain range-bound, with traders watching closely for a breakdown in the NASDAQ as a potential bearish signal.
Stephen Whiteside
Thursday, March 19, 2026
