I think it has less to do with im[roved sentiment and much more to do with lack of selling pressure due to tax-loss selling. the big question is ... "will it sustain itself?"

My answer at this point is "who knows", if you're long relax, if your a trader, watch close.

on another note

I think a lot of people will be surprised this year when they get t3's from their mutual fund companies saying they owe capital gains tax when their investments are down 30%.

That should be interesting :)