The percentage comparison charts below were created using www.StockCharts.com (PerfChart) facilities.
The first time period begins with the 2011 year-to-date data.
The second time period shows data for the past six months.
The third time period shows data from August 5th.
The fourth time period shows data from the beginning of the current Options Expiration (from September 19th).
The last time period shows the current month-to-date data from October 3rd.
What's interesting to note is the increased percentage decline between the first and second chart time periods (the biggest decline of the year took place from May to August)...the Gold ETF is beginning to decline in the second time period. The third time period shows a contraction of the decline, except for the Gold EFT which has declined further. The Gold ETF declined considerably in the fourth time period, which the others basically continued to rally. The last time period shows the continuation of the rally, with the Gold ETF participating in a substantial turn around.
In conclusion, looking at the data on the first time period, it would appear that the ones to watch over the coming days/weeks are the Russell 2000 Index, and the Financials, Basic Materials, Gold and Oil ETFs in terms of how they compare with the other Major Indices, as well as with the Energy ETF...with possibly the closest watch on the Russell 2000 Index, the Financials ETF, and the Gold ETF.