An Elliott Wave Principle (EWP) framework combined with market breadth flagged on 3 June, with the S&P 500 (SPX) near $7,570, that the balance of evidence pointed to a large-degree decline lasting several months. The index later slid to $7,237 on Tuesday before rebounding to $7,456. The next projected move is lower to $6,840–7,075, based on Fibonacci relationships from (grey) c/iii = 1.618x a/i through to c/iii = a/i, conditional on SPX remaining below $7,598 and $7,598 acting as the relevant ceiling against $7,598–$7,598.

Short-term tracking over early June was framed in wave counts and target zones. A weekly roadmap published for 4–5 June anticipated a lower low, then a rebound to $7,595+/-10, and a subsequent push towards $7,490+/-30; SPX opened 4 June at $7,516, rose to $7,598 and then fell to $7,368 on 5 June. After an up day on 8 June and a reversal on 9 June, the five (orange) waves lower were treated as complete, implying a three-wave corrective bounce: W-a was set at $7,380–7,430 (print $7,396), W-b at $7,300 +/-25 (print $7,257), and W-c at $7,465–7,530 (high so far $7,456).

Outlook And Economic Backdrop

Based on the current market structure, we believe the S&P 500 is in the early stages of a significant decline that could last for several months. The recent rally is a temporary bounce, presenting an opportunity to position for the next move down. We are preparing for a drop toward the $6,840-$7,075 range in the coming weeks.

This technical outlook is reinforced by recent economic data, which shows signs of strain. The latest May CPI report came in hotter than expected at 3.8%, suggesting inflation remains stubborn and could keep the Federal Reserve from cutting rates. Additionally, the VIX has been climbing from its lows, recently closing above 18, which indicates a subtle rise in market anxiety.

Trading Strategies And Risk Management

For traders, this means we should view any strength toward the $7,598 level as an opportunity to initiate bearish positions. We are looking at buying SPX or SPY put options with expirations in late July or August to capitalize on the expected downward move. These positions offer a defined-risk way to profit from a potential sharp decline.

Another strategy we are considering is selling call credit spreads with a short strike above the critical $7,600 resistance area. This approach allows us to profit from both a drop in the index and time decay, as long as the S&P 500 remains below our key invalidation level. It provides a higher probability of success compared to an outright short position.

For those trading futures, we see a clear signal to establish short positions on /ES contracts, with a protective stop-loss order placed just above the $7,598 high. This level is the line in the sand for the current bearish outlook. A break above it would force us to reassess our position immediately.

This setup is reminiscent of past market environments, such as the deceptive bear market rallies seen in 2008, where sharp bounces often preceded even steeper declines. We must remain disciplined and not get lured into a false sense of security by short-term strength. The weight of the evidence points to a much lower market in the near future.