Insights

May 22, 2019 | Investment Review

Investment Review - May 2019

  1. The major U.S. equity indices all posted gains in April. The Nasdaq Composite increased 4.7%, the S&P 500 added 3.9%, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.6%. Following a sell-off in December 2018, the market has regained all-time highs after a strong start to the year.

  2. S&P 500 earnings for the first quarter have been better than expected. Technology and Financials led the market in April. Healthcare was a drag on the market, as investors are concerned with Medicare for All discussions by Democratic Presidential candidates.


  3. April saw a strong IPO market, led by Zoom Video Communications, Beyond Meat and Pinterest. Uber is one of the most anticipated IPOs in recent memory and is expected to be the largest IPO in 5 years. The Biotech sector also had a number of successful IPOs, which should continue through May.

key investment statistics may 2019

Sources: Bloomberg LLC,  FACTSET, Wall Street Journal, U.S. Department of Labor, Federal Reserve, Institute for Supply Management, ISI

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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