S&P 500 Index Returns In April Even with the Middle East conflict clouding the seasonal backdrop, April has historically been a strong month for U.S. equities, averaging positive returns since 1950. Image: Carson Investment Research
Equity Positioning and S&P 500 EPS Growth Equity positioning is bracing for a sharp earnings slowdown, but recent data are undermining that story. If the gloom fades, risk appetite may rebound fast and lift stocks. Image: Deutsche Bank Asset Allocation
Volatility – VIX Index The VIX dropping below 20 signals fading market jitters and a steadier tone, typically a tailwind for equities as calmer volatility expectations often accompany rising stock prices. Lower volatility tends to invite buyers back in. Image: MarketDesk Research
S&P 500 Performance After 6-Day Win Streaks and Up 6% Six days up in a row and a 6% surge: history says that combo often bodes well for U.S. stocks, with median 12-month gains of 18% since 1950, enough to keep the bulls smiling. Image: Carson Investment Research
Consumer Sentiment Index and Subsequent 12-Month S&P 500 Returns History shows that when consumer confidence sinks, stocks often rebound, turning gloom into a launchpad for gains. It’s the familiar rhythm of fear giving way to fresh optimism. Image: J.P. Morgan Asset Management
S&P 500 Quarterly Earnings Growth Deutsche Bank is turning more bullish on corporate America. Backed by a supportive macro backdrop, it sees S&P 500 earnings growth coming in strong at 19.2% for Q1, comfortably ahead of consensus. Image: Deutsche Bank Asset Allocation
Valuations – Software vs. World ex. TMT and Technology vs. World TMT Valuations in global tech and software have narrowed sharply, with forward P/Es at their lowest level relative to world equities in more than five years. That could mark a buying window, assuming earnings momentum stays intact. Image: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research
U.S. Heavy Truck Sales and Recessions (Leading Indicator) U.S. heavy truck sales slightly in March to 342K (annualized). Before recessions, heavy trucks sales tend to peak and then decline, providing insights into the overall health of the U.S. economy as a leading economic indicator. Click the Image to Enlarge
U.S. Tech – 3-Month Change in Price vs. 3-Month Change in FY2 EPS Until recently, U.S. tech earnings and stock returns have run hand in hand. With the correlation breaking down, dips are looking more like entry points, supported by solid growth prospects tied to AI adoption. Image: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research
Oil Prices vs. U.S. Inflation When oil climbs, inflation usually follows, lifting energy and transport costs that spread through the economy. The result often weighs on stocks, as tighter profit margins and softer consumer spending feed through the market. Image: Real Investment Advice
1000 Point Advances for the Dow Jones Industrial Average The Dow posted its 25th intraday gain of more than 1,000 points yesterday, with 23 coming during Trump’s presidency. Everyone wants to catch the big move, but the hard part is not missing it. Image: Carson Investment Research