Episode 53: Is the S&P Rally A Bull Trap? With Dale Pinkert

Maggie Lake Talking Markets34mMay 22, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

The S&P 500's recent rally may be a dangerous bull trap, according to Dale Pinkert, who warns that technical divergences—especially on the four-hour charts—signal a failing rally. Despite strong market sentiment and a rebound in bonds, Pinkert sees signs of distribution at the top, with key leaders like semiconductors and Bitcoin failing to make new highs. He argues that the market’s inability to confirm a new high on the S&P 500, combined with a confirmed bearish divergence, suggests a potential double top and a coming pullback to 7,100—possibly even down to 6,900. He believes this could be the last good buying opportunity before a final melt-up, but only if the market breaks through resistance. Meanwhile, he remains bearish on gold, targeting 3,800, and skeptical of new IPOs like SpaceX, warning they could drain liquidity and favor early investors over retail. The episode also explores geopolitical risks, including a potential multipolar world order, and the fragility of consumer sentiment despite strong tech performance. Pinkert emphasizes that traders must respect their emotional state, especially during personal hardship, reminding listeners that markets will always be there when they’re ready. The episode underscores a critical tension: the market is behaving like it’s in a bull phase, but the underlying technicals suggest a top is forming.

Key Takeaways
1

A confirmed bearish divergence on the S&P 500’s four-hour chart signals a potential double top and a coming pullback to 7,100.

2

Semiconductors and Bitcoin are failing to make new highs despite index rallies—key sign of distribution and weakening leadership.

3

The bond market’s recent reversal at 82.70 may be a temporary reprieve; rates could resume rising if inflation persists.

4

Gold remains bearish; Pinkert still targets 3,800, especially if the dollar strengthens and the Fed delays rate cuts.

5

New IPOs like SpaceX could drain market liquidity and favor early investors—retail traders should wait for post-IPO clarity.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
5 min

New Fed Chair & Bond Market Reversal

It's interesting that we may have Kevin Warsh in the bond market. And it's interesting because if you look at, for example, the two-year, all the interest rate pressure is happening on the front end.

Highlight
5:00
5 min

S&P 500: Bull Trap or Final Rally?

This time I have even a little more conviction because of the divergence, Dr. Divergence. And so I think that we could have a decent break.

Highlight
10:00
5 min

Leadership Failure: Semiconductors & Bitcoin

Despite the S&P’s gains, key leaders like Micron and Bitcoin are failing to make new highs. Pinkert interprets this as a sign of distribution and warns that a semiconductor roll-over could drag the entire market down.

15:00
5 min

Gold, Dollar & Fed Policy Outlook

Pinkert remains bearish on gold, targeting 3,800, and sees the dollar as still strong. He believes Warsh may favor a weaker dollar to help bonds, but only after the Fed exits its current 'basement' of high rates.

20:00
5 min

IPOs, Liquidity & Retail Risk

With SpaceX poised for an IPO, Pinkert warns of liquidity drain and the structural advantage of early investors. He advises retail traders to wait for post-IPO clarity before entering.

High-Impact Quotes
I actually think that the three great powers are getting together and slicing up the pie, where Putin can have Europe if he wants to conquer it.
Dale Pinkert31:22
Viral: 88.0
This time I have even a little more conviction because of the divergence, Dr. Divergence. And so I think that we could have a decent break.
Dale Pinkert11:33
Viral: 82.0
The only thing that could happen... although we're real close to it not happening, is look at how many times this pivot has held.
Dale Pinkert25:00
Viral: 70.0
Speakers

Host

Maggie Lake

Guest

Dale Pinkert
Topics Discussed
s&p 500 rally90%bearish divergence85%new fed chair80%gold price target75%geopolitical risk72%ipo liquidity risk70%ag commodities65%trading psychology60%
People & Brands

Dale Pinkert

person

25xNeutral

S&P 500

other

18xNeutral

Maggie Lake

person

15xNeutral

Kevin Warsh

person

12xNeutral

gold

other

10xNeutral

Bitcoin

other

6xNeutral

SpaceX

organization

5xNeutral

El Niño

other

4xNeutral

Robert Bryce

person

3xPositive

Henry Kissinger

person

2xNeutral

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