January could prove to be a very difficult month for bonds, just as December was. Long-term interest rates rose anywhere from 35 to 40 basis points last month, and we're obviously starting January on a very weak -- if not suspect -- note.
I think right now the stock market is very comfortable with the benchmark 30-year-bond trading at between 6.5 and 7 percent. But if we start moving that range up to 7.25 and above, that could really be a major speed bump in the way of the stock market.
It was a little disappointing, but it is so expensive that there may be a lot of people holding onto their money for the 10-year and 30-year starting tomorrow.