Last month I wondered whether we would get May flowers? This month’s question is do we get a June Swoon?
For the month of May 2015, the US equity market (basis S&P 500) managed to bloom a bit with a 1% gain for the month. On the fixed income side, US 10year Treasury rates crept up from 2.05% to 2.10%. Both markets had been higher during the middle of the month, but some continued softness in economic data saw both stocks and interest rates decline into the end of the month.
On May 29, 2015 the Bureau of Economic Analysis issued their 2nd estimate of 1st quarter 2015 GDP (gross domestic product), which was a decrease of 0.7% – down from an original estimate of a 0.2% increase. The BEA indicated that the decrease was primarily due to negative contributions from exports, nonresidential fixed investment and state/local government spending. Exports were hurt by the strength of the dollar and fixed investment was likely hurt by the harsh winter weather.
Recognizing that GDP is a backward looking statistic, let’s look at where jobs are heading. The April 2015 jobs report showed an increase of 223,000 jobs (source Bureau of Labor Statistics), a significant rebound from March 2015. As long as the US continues creating around 200,000 new jobs monthly, I expect gradual economic growth will likely continue. The May 2015 jobs report comes out June 5, 2015. Stay tuned.
With the US equity markets hovering in record territory, some analysts are voicing concern that the market is “expensive”. I too am concerned about this. However, one needs to also consider value of stocks as compared to other options investors may choose from. The earnings yield (earnings divided by price) for the S&P 500 is currently around 4.85%. With the current level of interest rates around 2% on 10 year US Treasuries, stocks still look like a reasonable value versus bonds. See chart (courtesy of Quandl.com) of quarterly S&P 500 earnings yield from May 2000 through May 2015.
The other consideration on equities is the trend. So far the S&P 500 was up in May and is up for the year. “Since 1929, there have been 39 years when the S&P 500 has returned gains simultaneously in May and year-to-date. In each of those instances, the S&P 500 averaged gains of 1.1 percent in June and 7 percent for the rest of year” Bespoke Investment Group/CNBC. While this is a compelling statistic, as NY Rangers fans learned last night, history doesn’t always repeat.
So will there be a June Swoon? I don’t think so but I remain ever vigilant for any signs of a change in the economy and financial markets.
June Calendar of Events (comments and additions for future months are always welcome)
- June is Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Month. Let’s all try to be more supportive of our LGBT sons & daughters, brothers & sisters, nieces & nephews, and all people regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. I know I am proud of my family and friends.
June 14th Flag Day ~ Pres. Woodrow Wilson called for a day honoring the US flag and Pres. Harry Truman made June 14th officially Flag Day in 1949
June 18th Ramadan starts ~ Ramadan is the holiest month in the Islamic calendar. Let’s be tolerant of all religions and people
June 21st Father’s Day ~ President Lyndon B. Johnson declared the second Sunday in June as Father’s Day in 1966
June 21st Summer Solstice ~ 1st day of summer and the day with longest hours of sunshine in the Northern Hemisphere
June 29th Feast of St. Peter ~ Jesus said “And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church” (Matthew 16:18)
Source: Riverfront Investment Group, Yahoo Finance, Bespoke Investment Group
Although information herein has been obtained from sources deemed reliable, its accuracy and completeness are not asserted. All opinions and estimates included in this report constitute the judgment of the financial advisor as of the dates indicated and are subject to change without notice. This report is for informational purposes only and is not intended as an offer or solicitation with respect to the purchase or sale of any security.
Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or a loss. Diversification does not ensure a profit or ensure against a loss. There is no assurance that any investment strategy will be successful. Past performance is no assurance of future results.
Please consider the charges, risks, expenses and investment objectives carefully before investing. Please see a prospectus containing this and other information. Read it carefully before you invest or send money.
Information provided should not be construed as legal or tax advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matter with the appropriate professional.
mywealthdirectionblog.com 