U.S. equities ended Q2 with strength, with the S&P 500® posting a gain of 9%, despite inflation concerns and uncertainty over the future course of the Fed's stimulus efforts. In a reversal from Q1, mid- and small-caps underperformed, with the S&P MidCap 400® and S&P SmallCap 600® up 4% and 5%, respectively. Volatility declined, with the VIX closing at 15.83. All factors posted gains, with Momentum in the lead, after its disappointing performance in Q1. In another reversal, [...]

A major reversal in the U.S. markets occurred in November, thanks to promising developments on COVID-19 vaccines along with a putatively benign outcome of the Presidential and Congressional elections. The S&P 500® gained 11%, its best performance since April, while smaller caps outperformed, with the S&P MidCap 400® and the S&P SmallCap 600® rising 14% and 18%, respectively. Volatility declined, as VIX® closed the month at 20.57. All factor indices gained, as High Beta and Enhanced Value strategies topped [...]

It’s natural for investors to seek a connection between who wins the White House and which way stocks will go. But a look at history underscores that shareholders are investing in companies, not a political party.

    Click HERE to download this interactive exhibit that examines market and economic data for nearly 100 years of US presidential terms.