When put demand slows, it suggests many of these managers are not in buying mode, but as put demand grows, it implies they are buying.

FORBES: Carving Out A Bull-Market Bottom

"Poor demand at today's auction was quite surprising, given the recent flight-to-quality mode, " said analysts at Newedge.

WSJ: European Stocks Catch a Bounce

The last time the housing market seemed to be in recovery mode was back in mid-2010, after the first-time homebuyer tax credit boosted demand for homes.

FORBES: Housing Recovery? Starts And Sales Of Existing Units Hit Two-Year Highs