Investment Review - October 2020
- U.S. stocks lost ground in September. The S&P 500 was down -3.8%, the Nasdaq fell -5.1%, and the Down Jones Industrial average dropped -2.2%. Large cap technology stocks were the hardest hit in the decline, losing -5.4%.
- Technology stocks have outperformed in 2020, benefiting from business models that have escaped pandemic disruption and record low interest rates. Prior to the September sell-off, the technology sector had outperformed the S&P 500 by 36.0% vs. 9.7% year to date through August 31. September’s price action reflects a normalization of technology stock valuations, which should be constructive for the continuation of the current bull market.
- Companies are set to report Q3 earnings in the coming weeks, with analysts expecting a -21% year-over-year decline in the quarter. This is positive compared to Q2, when S&P earnings fell -32% compared to the prior year. Analysts now anticipate an earnings decline of -19% for all of 2020.
Sources: Bloomberg LLC, FactSet, U.S. Commerce Department, Bloomberg Businessweek, IHS iSuppli
Disclosure: This commentary reflects the opinions of Welch & Forbes based on information that we believe to be reliable. It is intended for informational purposes only, and not to suggest any specific performance or results, nor should it be considered investment, financial, tax or other professional advice. It is not an offer or solicitation.
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