Equity markets started a holiday-shortened week on a cautious note. The S&P 500 fell 0.40% at the close of the session following a stronger-than-expected ISM Services Figure. The ISM came in not only better than expected but it advanced from the previous month suggesting economic activity accelerated in the services sector. The takeaway from the report, however, is that economic activity is strongly and inflationary and thereby supports the idea of aggressive FOMC interest rate actions. In regard to the outlook for interest rate hikes; the CMEs FedWath Tool strengthened to show a 75% chance for a 75 basis point hike at the next meeting in two weeks.

The remainder of the week could be iffy for the market due to a lack of news on both the economic and earnings front. This is a bad situation for an edgy market and could lead to increased volatility if not an outright selloff. As it is, the S&P 500 is poised for another drop and could easily retest the 3,660 level by the end of the month.