Magnificent Seven Stocks vs. S&P 500 Index Since DeepSeek’s emergence in January 2025, the Magnificent Seven stocks have underperformed compared to the S&P 500, driven by AI disruption fears and concerns over capital expenditures. Image: Deutsche Bank
U.S. 2s10s Yield Curve and Consensus Probability of a U.S. Recessions in the Next 12 Months Although fears of a U.S. recession have been mounting, the 2s10s U.S. Treasury yield curve’s recent steepening suggests a more optimistic economic outlook. Image: Deutsche Bank
S&P 500 vs. High-Grade U.S. Bonds vs. Junk U.S. Bonds While U.S. stocks generally have higher long-term returns, the current economic climate may favor junk U.S. bonds as a more stable investment option amidst fears of an equity downturn. Image: Bloomberg
U.S. Election Scenario Probability As Republicans gain momentum heading into the U.S. elections, the prospect of their sweeping victory raises both hopes for short-term economic gains and fears of larger deficits and sustained inflationary pressures. Image: Deutsche Bank
Corporate Clients’ 4-Week Average Buybacks vs. S&P 500 Total Quarterly Buybacks BofA’s corporate clients are significantly increasing stock buybacks, defying recession fears and indicating a positive market outlook, suggesting these companies expect ongoing growth and stability in the future. Image: BofA Securities
Volatility – VIX and U.S. Election The historical trend of the VIX spiking before U.S. elections and then rapidly declining afterward can be attributed to heightened uncertainty and investor fear in the lead-up to the elections. Image: Morgan Stanley Research
Average Monthly Volatility for U.S. Election Years Since 1928 The historical pattern of the VIX rising before U.S. elections and then rapidly plunging afterward is attributed to increased uncertainty and investor fear leading up to the elections. Image: BofA US Equity & Quant Strategy
Investor Psychology Cycle When investor psychology is overly negative, it may indicate undervalued market prices, presenting buying opportunities for investors who are able to take a contrarian approach and invest when others are fearful. Image: Real Investment Advice
Professional Forecasters Probability of Recession U.S. recession fears among professional forecasters remain elevated. Image: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research
S&P 500 Performance After First 1% Decline After More Than Two Months Without One Why U.S. equity investors should not fear the first 1% drop following more than two months without one? Because the S&P 500 has gained 14.8% on average one year later since 1980. Image: Carson Investment Research
U.S. Labor Market – Initial Claims The jump in U.S. jobless claims is raising fears of a potential recession. Image: J.P. Morgan