Equity markets posted positive returns around the globe in the first quarter. Looking at broad market indices, US equities outperformed non-US developed and emerging markets.
REIT indices outperformed equity market indices in both the US and non-US developed markets.
The Bloomberg Commodity Index Total Return returned 6.32% for the first quarter of 2019.
Equity markets around the world posted negative returns for the quarter. Looking at broad market indices, emerging markets outperformed developed markets, including the US.
US equities underperformed both non-US developed and emerging markets.
After declines of 10% or more, equity returns over the subsequent 12 months have been positive over 70% of the time.
The increased market volatility in the fourth quarter of 2018 underscores the importance of following an investment approach based on diversification and discipline rather than prediction and timing.
Looking at broad market indices, the US outperformed non-US developed and emerging markets during the quarter.
Quarterly Topic: Total Cost of Fund Ownership. The article starting on page 16 illustrates to importance of mutual fund operating costs and that investors should consider going beyond expense ratios when evaluating options.
Looking at broad market indices, the US outperformed non-US developed and emerging markets during the second quarter.
Almost all currencies depreciated vs. the US dollar.
Last year International Developed Stocks and International Emerging Stocks outperformed US Large Stocks.
Year-to-date US Stocks are outperforming International Stocks.
For the 10 year period from 2000–2009 the S&P 500 lost -9.10%. International investments logged significant gains during this period.
Looking at broad market indices, emerging markets outperformed developed markets, including the US, in the first quarter.
Non-US real estate investment trusts outperformed US REITs in the first quarter.
Interest rates increased in the US during the first quarter.
The yield on the 10-year Treasury note increased to 2.74%.
