How I Use the 50- and 100-Day MAs as Critical Decision Points for Tech Stocks

by Roger Scott | Oct 19, 2026

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In this market, tech stocks are hitting their 50-day moving averages, and the big question on my mind is simple…

Are they going to hold?

When I’m analyzing major tech names like Microsoft (MSFT), Nvidia (NVDA) or Dell (DELL), I’m not just looking at price action. I’m watching how these stocks behave around two critical levels — the 50- and 100-day moving averages (MA).

These aren’t arbitrary lines on a chart. They’re structural battlegrounds where bulls and bears fight for control.

If a stock holds above these levels and starts to bounce, you’ve got a solid setup with continuation potential. But if it breaks below, that’s when things can get ugly fast.

What Happens When Tech Stocks Test These Levels

Let me walk you through what I’ve been seeing. The SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust (SPY) is still at its 50-day moving average. As long as it doesn’t break the recent low, I’m comfortable with the price action. Staying near the 50-day moving average is the key.

The Nasdaq 100 (QQQ) faces a similar situation near its 100-day MA. The structure remains intact, but we’re at a critical juncture. If this level doesn’t hold, there isn’t much support immediately below it.

DELL is at its 100-day MA and appears to be finding support. If it breaks that level, it could be very bad for the broader market. I’m hoping it holds and starts filling the gap because otherwise, the price action could get ugly.

The same framework applies to CrowdStrike Holdings (CRWD), which is breaking its 50-day MA. If CRWD holds, closes green and starts moving higher, it could become a beautiful trade. We need to see how the setup develops over the next few days.

Using These Levels for Trade Management

These moving averages aren’t just for market analysis — they’re also critical for managing individual positions. I went long MSFT for a swing trade, and I like the setup as long as it doesn’t move too far below the 15-day EMA. I’m encouraged that MSFT hasn’t fallen nearly as much as other stocks.

With NVDA, the setup is clear. The stock is sitting at its 100-day, waiting for a bounce or a breakdown. If it bounces, the 100-day could act as support. If it falls, the 200-day is the next major level — and that would signal deeper trouble for chip stocks.

The key is patience. Every day the market remains near these averages gives good news more time to surface and investors more time to digest the bad news already priced in.

These moving averages are my make-or-break levels. They tell me whether the bullish structure remains intact or significant downside may be ahead. Watch them closely, respect them and let them guide your decisions.

I hope that helps!

Roger Scott
Roger Scott Trading

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