Long-term returns for S&P 500 in March are ‘middling’ compared to other months: Bespoke

  • U.S. stocks had mixed performance in March after a strong February rally
  • Historical data shows that the first day of March has seen modest gains for the S&P 500
  • The second day of March has tended to see positive returns, but declines follow thereafter
  • Long-term returns for the S&P 500 in March have been ‘middling’ compared to other months
  • Marches following strong Januaries and Februaries have resulted in weak performance for the S&P 500

U.S. stocks had a winning month in February, but concerns arise about potential profit-taking in March. Historical data shows that after a 4% rally in February, the first day of March has seen modest gains for the S&P 500. However, the index tends to decline thereafter. Long-term returns for the S&P 500 in March have been ‘middling’ compared to other months, with unremarkable gains. Additionally, Marches following strong Januaries and Februaries have resulted in weak performance for the S&P 500.

Factuality Level: 3
Factuality Justification: The article provides historical data and analysis on the performance of the S&P 500 in March after a strong February. However, it lacks depth and context, focusing mainly on past trends without considering current market conditions or other relevant factors. The information presented is somewhat repetitive, and the article could benefit from a more critical analysis of the data provided.
Noise Level: 3
Noise Justification: The article provides a detailed analysis of historical stock market performance in relation to the month of March. It includes data from Bespoke Investment Group and FactSet to support its claims. The article stays on topic and does not dive into unrelated territories. However, the article could benefit from more actionable insights or suggestions for investors.
Financial Relevance: Yes
Financial Markets Impacted: U.S. stocks
Presence Of Extreme Event: No
Nature Of Extreme Event: No
Impact Rating Of The Extreme Event: No
Rating Justification: The article discusses the performance of U.S. stocks in February and the potential for profit-taking in March. While there is no mention of an extreme event, the information is relevant to financial markets.
Public Companies: S&P 500 (SPX), Nasdaq Composite (COMP), Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA)
Key People: Bespoke Investment Group analysts (Analysts)


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