Stock Market Sets New Record High: What’s Driving It?
by Financial Design Studio, Inc. / October 30, 2019
The S&P 500 Index closed at a record high on Monday October 28. With all the noise this year about trade wars, slowing growth, and impeachment it’s a surprise to see the market power through these worries.
What’s driving the record high market?
First, third quarter 2019 earnings for large U.S. companies have been good. According to FactSet (below) about 3 out of 4 companies that have reported so far have beaten analyst earnings expectations. The only real weakness has been in Energy where oil prices have been weak.
Secondly, the Federal Reserve delivered its third straight interest rate cut this week. As we’ve mentioned before the Fed has done a 180-degree turn since last year, when it was hiking interest rates. This has boosted investor confidence that the recent economic slowdown won’t turn into a full-blown recession.
It’s been a remarkable 12 months
The stock market has moved around a lot in the last year. This time last year, the market was in the midst of a correction which took the stock market down almost 20% in three months. Since the bottom in late December, the market has risen almost 30%!
It goes to show how important it is to stay invested. No one can time markets. But we can always take what the market gives us and rebalance our portfolios to take advantage of these moves.
Wondering how this affects your future finances? Schedule a call with Financial Design Studio to discuss your portfolio today.
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We are financial advisors in Deer Park and Barrington, IL. A team with a passion for helping others design a path to financial success — whatever success means for you. Each of our unique insights fit together to create broad expertise, complete roadmaps, and creative solutions. We have seen the power of having a financial plan, and adjusting that plan to life. The result? Freedom from worrying about the future so you can enjoy today.