The U.S. Dollar is trying to turn up for the fourth time since it topped in 2004, but this bottom looks more promising than the prior three. While the long-term trend is down, this bottom is the third confirmation of the descending wedge formation, a technical configuration which normally resolves to the up side. This wedge is also a long-term formation, so the direction of a breakout has long-term implications.

In the short-term we have a PMO (Price Momentum Oscillator) buy signal, generated when the PMO crosses up through its 10-EMA. Also, the price index has broken above the short-term declining trend line. Medium-term we have a positive divergence as the PMO has been making higher highs corresponding to lower price lows.

On the long-term chart below we can see other positive signs. Most important is the long-term support zone between 78 and 80. There is no guarantee that the support will hold, but we have to view it as being in the plus column. Assuming that the support does hold, the bottom that will result will form a double bottom that spans over two years. Like the wedge formation, this will have very positive long-term implications.

Bottom Line: Let there be no doubt, the trend is down in both the medium- and long-term (our trend model is still bearish on the dollar), and it is too early to assume that a change in trend is taking place; however, there are plenty of reasons to begin nursing some positive expectations.

Below is a recent snapshot of our primary trend-following timing model status for the major indexes and sectors we track. Note that we have added the nine Rydex Equal Weight ETF versions of the S&P Spider Sectors. This may seem redundant, but the equal weighted indexes usually do not perform the same as their cap-weighted counterparts.

Technical analysis is a windsock, not a crystal ball. Be prepared to adjust your tactics and strategy if conditions change.

BIO: Carl Swenlin is a self-taught technical analyst, who has been involved in market analysis since 1981. A pioneer in the creation of online technical resources, he is president and founder of DecisionPoint.com, a premier technical analysis website specializing in stock market indicators, charting, and focused research reports. Mr. Swenlin is a Member of the Market Technicians Association.