And welcome to closing bell. I'm Scott Wobner, live from Post 9 here at the New York Stock Exchange.

This make-or break out begins with one big question. Should you be more or less optimistic about stocks, given so many people seem to be on one side of that answer. We will ask our guests that question over this final stretch.

The scorecard looks like that was 60 to go in regulation today.

Fairly muted action, which you know what? Actually might be a good thing given the recent

volatility. Just take their deep breath. Staples, utilities, they are among the best

groups reflecting the defensive tone today for sure. Banks doing pretty well following more

earnings from Bank of America and City,

and probably the most important thing right now, a more calm bond market as well.

Yields moving lower today, so a little bit of the edge coming off there.

The dollar closely watched lately as well, a bit stronger today, and that too is pretty good to see, given some of the consternation about the currency markets lately as well.

It does take us to our talk of the tape.

Has the recent turbulence run its course or not?

The VIX today certainly suggesting a more calm environment, as it is actually back below 30.

Feels like forever since we've seen that.

Let's ask Adam Parker what this is all about he's the founder and ceo of trivariate

research

the cnbc contributor welcome

good to see you sat down and you're like wow it's a little calmer and i was like

that's a good thing it is actually right it feels like

let's like catch our breath and try and figure out where we are what would you tell

people now

you know it's funny i have a dinner I have a dinner coming tonight with like seven or eight CIOs.

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