Happy New Year; the first two trading days of the year last week saw some investors take profits from last year’s terrific market performance. It probably didn’t mean much as far as a forecast for the year. This week means a lot more. Professional traders are back at their desks and other investors are back after almost two weeks of holiday.

There is an old indicator that says the first week of trading in a new year usually sets the tone for the entire year. We believe that week is now.

We will see, but

Most fundamentals point to a strengthening U.S. economy and

good business opportunities.

International is also picking up, but not everywhere. We will be more specific as to where we see opportunity in future blogs.