The S&P 500 has cleared its 200-day for the first time in 18 months, placing the U.S. markets' uptrend on even firmer footing.

This rally attempt is the most firmly grounded since the crash, punctuated by two 20-to-1 up sessions in recent days. Investors should regard it as a bear-market rally, however, although the near-term path of least resistance for stocks is now higher.

This company's recent quarter shows that it will be less exposed to cutbacks in capital spending thanks to its emphasis on offshore drilling.

Despite stabilizing, the U.S. markets have yet to establish a near-term uptrend. S&P 850 remains the level to track.

Examine three commodity stocks and one ETF that have been beaten down but could also be an opportunity for long-term investors.