Gold Net Long Managed Money on COMEX Gold’s appeal as a safe-haven asset historically strengthens during periods of uncertainty, leading to increased investor positioning. Image: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research
U.S. Consumers – Stock Prices and Income Expectations U.S. consumers are experiencing a notable rise in optimism regarding stock market returns for the next 12 months, but this may lead to disappointment as their outlook on income growth does not reflect the same enthusiasm. Image: Deutsche Bank
S&P 500 Returns Final Six Months When Up >10% at Midpoint of Year Bulls are smiling again, as December has been the cheerleader of the U.S. stock market since WWII—always positive in election years when the S&P 500 is up 10% or more at the midpoint! Image: Carson Investment Research
S&P 500 Ratio to Stoxx 600 The S&P 500’s performance relative to the Stoxx 600 has hit the upper limit of its long-term channel. While U.S. equities may continue to lead due to strong growth potential, economic shifts could alter this trend. Image: Deutsche Bank
S&P 500 Index and BB to 10-Year Treasury Spread Closely monitoring the junk to Treasury bond spread can provide valuable insights into the overall health and direction of the U.S. stock market, making it an important leading indicator to watch. Image: Real Investment Advice
Valuation – S&P 500 CAPE Ratio A high CAPE ratio suggests caution but isn’t a reliable market timing indicator. Markets may remain overvalued for extended periods, typically leading to subdued long-term equity returns. Image: Deutsche Bank
Equity, Bond, FX and Oil Volatility Premiums Volatility premiums have significantly declined across asset classes after the U.S. elections. As election results become known, market uncertainty diminishes, leading to lower volatility premiums and increased stability. Image: Deutsche Bank Asset Allocation
CEO Business Confidence Expectations for Economy The current landscape suggests a cautious yet optimistic outlook among CEOs, which could lead to increased economic activity and investment as businesses prepare for potential growth. Image: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research
VIX Indexed to Election Day Equity implied volatility typically increases leading up to U.S. presidential elections and decreases afterward, mirroring the market’s reaction to political uncertainty and its resolution. Image: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research
Contributions to Year-on-Year Headline CPI Inflation The combination of declining contributions from key sectors like shelter and transportation is expected to lead to a notable slowdown in U.S. headline CPI inflation, reaching 2.2% by the end of 2025. Image: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research
Average Year for the S&P 500 during an Election Year This election year appears to be among the strongest for the S&P 500 so far. Historically, the S&P 500 tends to experience a period of weakness leading up to the U.S. elections, followed by a potential rally towards year-end. Image: Carson Investment Research