Market Dynamics Shift: Small Caps Regain Leadership as the Fed Cuts Rates Aggressively
The oft-treacherous summer months could not dampen investors’ spirits in the third quarter of 2024. All major indices advanced—closing at or near record highs—propelled by continued impressive corporate earnings and a larger-than-previously-expected interest rate cut by the Fed.
S&P 500 Achieves Record Start in Early 2024, Driven by AI Optimism
On the surface, the first six months of 2024 were a utopia for investors. The S&P 500 returned more than 15% with very little volatility. This advance occurred despite the Fed not cutting interest rates and with inflation remaining stubbornly elevated.
How 2023’s market strength continued into the new year
Whether the markets will continue ascending for the remainder of the year will likely be predicated on corporate earnings. Additionally, investors will need to navigate potential volatility caused by the timing of rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, a presidential election, and the overall health of the consumer.
The Importance of Earnings Power Amidst Changing Market Expectations
Against the backdrop of low expectations, 2023 helped wash away the sour taste of 2022. The S&P 500® index returned more than 26 percent and all major indices posted handsome advances.
Strong Portfolio Companies in the Face of Economic Challenges
Both September and the third quarter have well-earned reputations for being the most challenging periods of the calendar year for investors, and both continued that trend in the third quarter of 2023 as all major equity indices posted losses.