Gold vs. Other Asset Total Returns A performance rotation from stocks to gold is emerging. This may signal the beginning of a broader shift, as Trump’s efforts to weaken the dollar and lower rates coincide with a deteriorating outlook for equities. Image: Topdown Charts
Top Five Companies % of S&P 500 Market Capitalization The S&P 500 is experiencing unprecedented levels of concentration. While the concentration presents potential risks, the fundamentals of the top 5 companies remain strong, with elevated profit margins and robust cash flow generation. Image: Deutsche Bank
Annual Return of Treasuries – T-bills In 2024, U.S. Treasuries have once again underperformed cash, resulting in a challenging year for bond investors. Many investors have found more appealing opportunities in cash savings or other asset classes. Image: Bloomberg
Global Fund Flows Cash, equity, and bond funds globally are experiencing significant inflows, indicating a growing confidence in diversified asset allocation strategies. Image: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research
FMS Investor Positioning Global FMS investors have overweighted their exposure to utilities, bonds and telecoms compared to historical levels, while reducing their exposure to cash, energy, materials and tech. Image: BofA Global Fund Manager Survey
Spread Between BBB-Rated Corporate Bond Yield and 90-Day U.S. Treasury Bill Yield The recent increase in the spread between IG credit yield and cash yield marks a significant shift from a 43-year low. Should investors favor U.S. Treasury bills over IG bonds? Image: BofA Global Investment Strategy
U.S. Household Liquid Assets The amount of cash held by households in the United States has surged to an unprecedented level of $18 trillion, representing a significant increase from previous years. Image: BofA Research Investment Committee
Money Market Fund Flows While the U.S. equity market has been steadily rising since its 2022 low, conservative investors maintain a strong inclination towards holding cash. Image: BofA Global Investment Strategy
Mutual Fund and ETF In/(Out)Flows Since 2023, cash has emerged as the flow winner. Will it serve as the primary driving force behind the bull markets in the months ahead? Image: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research
S&P 500 Earnings Yield – UST 3-Month Yield Historically, when the cash yield exceeds the earnings yield, this is often seen as a headwind for equities, as investors tend to prefer allocating their funds to cash investments rather than stocks. Image: BofA Global Investment Strategy
U.S. Household Financial Assets The total amount of cash held by households in the United States has reached a staggering $18 trillion. Image: BofA Research Investment Committee