The selloff in the equity markets intensified last week following a bearish technical signal, high inflation, and remarks from Fed chief Jerome Powell. Mr. Powell said inflation was a problem the Fed would fight forcefully adding that businesses and families would feel some pain in the process. The need to fight inflation means higher interest rates meant to cut back on hiring and activity which means fewer business and work opportunities over the next year or two. The S&P 500 fell more than 3.0% at the low of the day and looks like it will fall further in the coming days. The move not only confirms a reversal of long-term proportion but shows a high conviction within the market as well.

This week is another hurdle for the market. The NFP data is due out on Friday and is expected to show a slowdown in hiring as well as an increase in wages which is bad news for the market. In that scenario, labor and consumer markets are already feeling pain but not enough to correct the pace of inflation or stave off aggressive FOMC action.