Seasonality – S&P 500 Index Performance Post-Election Years

Seasonality – S&P 500 Index Performance Post-Election Years In post-election years since 1950, February has been a challenging month for investors, with the stock market experiencing an average decline of 1.3% and negative returns 50% of the time. Image: Carson Investment Research

ISM Manufacturing Index vs. S&P 500 Index

ISM Manufacturing Index vs. S&P 500 Index The U.S. ISM Manufacturing Index reached 50.9% in January, surpassing the 49.8% consensus forecast and indicating expansion in the manufacturing sector. This chart shows the correlation between the U.S. ISM manufacturing index and the S&P 500 index year-over-year percent change, since 2011.   Click the Image to Enlarge…

Seasonality – S&P 500 Index Average Monthly Returns

Seasonality – S&P 500 Index Average Monthly Returns Given February’s historical reputation as the weakest month in post-election years, current market volatility is to be expected. Image: Carson Investment Research

S&P 500 and 10-Month Moving Average

S&P 500 and 10-Month Moving Average The S&P 500’s 2.78% gain in January, including dividends, underscores the strength of the cyclical bull market that began in late 2022. Current conditions suggest continued growth potential. Image: Topdown Charts

S&P 500 Performance When >2% YTD Return in January

S&P 500 Performance When >2% YTD Return in January Bulls have reason to smile: historically, when the S&P 500 index rises more than 2% in January, it’s a good omen. Since 1951, such starts have led to average annual returns of 18.4%, with positive years 88% of the time. Image: Carson Investment Research

Seven Largest Companies as Share of S&P 500 Total Market Capitalization

Seven Largest Companies as Share of S&P 500 Total Market Capitalization The seven largest stocks in the S&P 500 index account for 33% of its total market capitalization. While this high concentration doesn’t necessarily predict market downturns, it can potentially lead to increased volatility. Image: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research

Magnificent Seven and S&P 500 – 12-Month Trailing EPS

Magnificent Seven and S&P 500 – 12-Month Trailing EPS The Magnificent 7’s future growth is expected to moderate after their exceptional recent performance. While they will remain key market leaders, their rate of expansion is likely to slow down in 2025. Image: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research

Seasonality – Monthly Return Stats for the S&P 500

Seasonality – Monthly Return Stats for the S&P 500 February’s stock market behavior has historically been flat on average, with a reputation for volatility and unpredictability, making it a challenging month for investors to navigate. Image: Topdown Charts

Stock Buybacks vs. S&P 500

Stock Buybacks vs. S&P 500 Stock buybacks strongly correlate with S&P 500 performance by improving financial metrics, boosting confidence, and driving stock prices higher. In 2025, companies are expected to hit $1 trillion in share repurchases. Image: Real Investment Advice

S&P 500 Index Returns in February

S&P 500 Index Returns in February Since 1950, February has historically been a month of flat returns for U.S. stocks, but this overall neutral performance often masks underlying market volatility. Image: Carson Investment Research

S&P 500 Top 5 Stocks’ Weight vs. 1-Year Forward Returns

S&P 500 Top 5 Stocks’ Weight vs. 1-Year Forward Returns While the current high market concentration is a significant feature of today’s market landscape, it doesn’t necessarily predict poor performance in the near term. Image: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research