XLP Consumer Staples ETF: Defensive Investing in Food and Household Products

Dan Taylor | June 25, 2025

Warren Buffett buys companies so simple that even an idiot could run them. The same logic applies to consumer staples—essential products that survive recessions and crashes. The Consumer Staples Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLP) packages this defensive power into a …


Is the US in Disinflation or Stagflation?

Mish Schneider |

Given how loosely all the title terms are used, let’s start with the definitions of each. 

  • Disinflation
    • Definition: A slowdown in the rate of inflation—prices are still rising, but at a slower pace. 
    • Impact: Often seen during tightening monetary policy,

  • XLY Consumer Discretionary ETF: Investing in Retail and Entertainment Stocks

    Dan Taylor | June 23, 2025

    When the economy thrives, people splurge on cars, clothes, and vacations. When times get tough, they cut back on everything except basics. This behavior pattern creates predictable trading opportunities through the Consumer Discretionary Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLY).

    XLY offers …


    Are Long Bonds Now the Place for a Flight to Safety?

    Mish Schneider |

    A war in the Middle East can have significant and multifaceted impacts on the United States. 

    Typically, oil and gas would have the biggest impact with threats of supply disruptions. 

    However, the oil market, while higher from earlier in June, …


    Peace or Tragedy?
    Bullish or Bearish?

    Geoff Bysshe | June 22, 2025

    As I wrote this article, President Trump addressed the nation to explain that the US has bombed three nuclear sites that are considered the heart of Iran’s nuclear enrichment program. In his address, President Trump said, “Iran, the bully of …


    XLK Technology Sector ETF: How to Invest in Software and Semiconductor Stocks

    Dan Taylor | June 21, 2025

    While most investors chase individual tech stocks, smart money accumulates XLK – providing ownership in virtually every technology giant that matters. This isn't about picking winners in fast-moving software and semiconductors, but profiting from the entire technology revolution with a …


    XLV Healthcare Sector ETF: Guide to Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Investing

    Dan Taylor | June 18, 2025

    Healthcare operates independently of economic cycles, making XLV attractive for traders seeking both stability and growth. This ETF provides exposure to pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and biotech in one liquid instrument, offering catalyst-driven setups that can profit regardless of market direction.…


    All Hands on the Energy Deck!

    Mish Schneider |

    Even before the Israeli/Iran crisis, oil was on our radar and in our portfolio over $62 a barrel. 

    Shale oil supply could be peaking. 

    Rig counts were down for weeks. 

    US withdrew nearly 11 million barrels from the reserves. 

    Producers …


    XLU Utilities Sector ETF: Defensive Investing in Electric and Water Companies

    Dan Taylor | June 16, 2025

    When your phone dies, you plug it in. When you turn the faucet, water flows. These companies run 24/7 regardless of chaos. XLU gives direct access to essential infrastructure. While tech swings on earnings and growth craters on rates, utilities …


    Agricultural Commodities-Where’s the Deflation in This?

    Mish Schneider |

    On Sunday, I wrote the playbook for the Economic Economic Modern Family 

  • Watch Granny Retail-a failure of those key levels, spells more trouble for IWM IYT KRE. (She did not fail) 
  • Watch Semis SMH-if it pulls above $260 follow growth