Performance of Major Asset Classes November 2025 Introduction November returns were challenged by a hawkish Fed and concerns regarding tech valuations. The S&P 500 index (+0.1%) finished the month unchanged after an initial drawdown of -4.3%.  The NASDAQ (-1.6%) did not fare as well. But there was still plenty to […]

Major Asset Classes October 2025 Performance Comparison Introduction October returns ended on a strong note as year-on-year earnings growth of the S&P 500 index is coming at 10.7% for third quarter. The S&P 500 index (+2.3%) was up for the month supported by the Fed’s recent rate cut, supportive changes […]

Major Asset Classes September 2025 Performance Comparison Introduction September returns mark six straight month of consecutive stock market gains. September 2025 was also the best September for equity returns in 15 years. It was a stellar third quarter, thanks to a Fed policy shift, strong earnings upgrades, and robust consumer […]

Major Asset Classes August 2025 Performance Comparison Introduction August returns mark the fourth straight month of consecutive gains, resulting in high valuations and leaving prices vulnerable to drawdowns, as seen on the last day of the month.  The S&P 500 index (+1.9%) saw solid corporate earnings and increased optimism surrounding […]

Major Asset Classes July 2025 Performance Comparison Introduction July returns for the S&P 500 index (+2.2%) maintained upward momentum for the third month in a row despite ongoing tariff tensions and economic uncertainty. A key driver was second quarter earnings which grew 10.3% on an annual basis versus pre-report estimates […]

Major Asset Classes June 2025 Performance Comparison Introduction June returns for the S&P 500 (+5.0%) were solid despite volatility from trade tensions, inflation concerns, and geopolitical risks.  The last day of the quarter also saw a new all-time high, fueled by strong earnings from big tech and optimism from potential […]

Major Asset Classes April 2025 Performance Comparison Introduction April returns tell a tale of two markets. Early in the month, a severe market drawdown was triggered by tariff turmoil. Notably, the second half of the month had a relief rally given reduced geopolitical tension and improving corporate earnings. The S&P500 […]

Major Asset Classes February 2025 Performance Comparison Introduction February returns for the S&P 500 index (-1.4%) saw two all-time highs followed by sell-off at month-end tied. The market turned on new fiscal tightening, pending tariffs, consumer confidence declines, and forward projections of lower GDP and earnings growth. A shift in […]

Major Asset Classes January 2025 Performance Comparison Introduction January returns for the S&P 500 index (+2.7%) exactly offset the losses seen in December. It was a rollercoaster month with another all-time high for the S&P 500 index, followed by sharp drops triggered by a new IA model from China and […]