Keeping Perspective In An Unreal Environment

Published Friday, July 10, 2020, 7:03 p.m.

The Standard & Poor's 500 stock index surged 1% today on positive news about a coronavirus treatment.

The S&P 500 roughly tracks with the progress of civilization, but progress is unpredictable and hard to see one day at a time.

Here's a snapshot depicting progress from a longer-term perspective: For the five years through June 30, 2020, the S&P 500 was No. 1 among the broadly diversified group of 13 asset classes listed here. Three months after the Covid crisis began, the U.S. stock market topped this long list of securities investments with a total return over the five years of 66.5%.

Closing Friday at 3,185.04, the S&P 500 posted a 1.74% gain over last week. It's up 35% from the March 23rd Covid-crisis bear market low.

On Thursday, the S&P 500 sent a bullish technical signal called a "golden cross," which has marked the end of previous bear markets. In addition, the index's 50-day average crossed above the 200-day average, another sign of strength.

Stock prices have swung wildly since the virus crisis started in March and it's wise to expect considerable volatility in the months ahead.


The Standard & Poor's 500 (S&P 500) is an unmanaged group of securities considered to be representative of the stock market in general. It is a market-value weighted index with each stock's weight proportionate to its market value. Index returns do not include fees or expenses. Investing involves risk, including the loss of principal, and past performance is no guarantee of future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor's shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance quoted.

Nothing contained herein is to be considered a solicitation, research material, an investment recommendation, or advice of any kind, and it is subject to change without notice. It does not take into account your investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs. Product suitability must be independently determined for each individual investor.

This material represents an assessment of the market and economic environment at a specific point in time and is not intended to be a forecast of future events or a guarantee of future results. Forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties. Actual results, performance, or achievements may differ materially from those expressed or implied. Information is based on data gathered from what we believe are reliable sources. It is not guaranteed as to accuracy, does not purport to be complete, and is not intended to be used as a primary basis for investment decisions.

This article was written by a veteran financial journalist based on data compiled and analyzed by independent economist, Fritz Meyer. While these are sources we believe to be reliable, the information is not intended to be used as financial advice without consulting a professional about your personal situation.

Indices are unmanaged and not available for direct investment. Investments with higher return potential carry greater risk for loss. Past performance is not an indicator of your future results.

2024

    2023

    2022

    2021

    2020

    2019

    2018

    2017

    2016

    2015

    Contact Us

    Call Us: 301-770-9880

    Email: info@burtwealth.com

    Burt Wealth Advisors
    6116 Executive Blvd. Suite 500
    N. Bethesda, Maryland 20852

     

     

     

     

    Start Your Risk Questionnaire