Title: Market Rally Halted by Poor Bond Auction and Inflation Concerns, Small-Cap Stocks Vulnerable

In a slight setback after an impressive eight-day winning streak, stock futures suggest a steady opening on Friday. The decline in stocks can be attributed to a 30-year US government bond auction that was poorly received, along with remarks from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell expressing concerns about inflation. These factors caused retail investors to hesitate before embracing the risk-on mood of the recent rally, although some momentum chasing could occur before the late November and December tax-loss selling season.

Thursday’s decline highlighted the fragility of the recent rally, with particular weakness seen in the healthcare and consumer discretionary sectors. Moreover, market breadth indicated that there were more decliners than gainers, underscoring the need for cautiousness moving forward. Bond yields have experienced a sharp rise, introducing the potential for increased volatility in both equities and Treasuries. This volatility could persist as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches.

Of specific concern are small-cap stocks, which are particularly susceptible to higher interest rates. Until there is evidence of a peak in Treasury yields, investors are advised to exercise caution when dealing with small-cap stocks.

On Friday, investors can expect to receive updates on US economic data and speeches from various Federal Reserve officials. These updates hold the potential to sway market sentiment and influence trading patterns.

In other news, the US arm of the Industrial & Commercial Bank of China fell victim to a ransomware attack, causing concerns over the security of the financial sector. Additionally, Unity Software and Plug Power reported disappointing financial results, further impacting investor sentiment. Finally, Diageo, a multinational alcoholic beverage company, issued a profit warning due to slowing sales, signaling potential challenges in the industry.

As the market shows signs of vulnerability, it is crucial for investors to stay informed and adapt their strategies accordingly.