US Stock Markets Ended March 5, 2021

Bob Carey
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US Stock Markets Ended March 5, 2021

Posted Under: Weekly Market Commentary

Equity markets were choppy last week but ended generally in positive territory. The S&P 500 returned 0.84% for the week as there was a rotation from higher valuation names towards lower valuation names. Equites ground down to start the week on news of growing 10-year treasury yields, which increases discount rates and tends to push higher valuation names lower because much of their expected cash flows are further in the future. Higher yields was a driver behind the S&P 500 Growth Index returning -1.15% last week, while the S&P 500 Value Index returned 3%. Democrats appeared to reach a deal on passing a $1.9t stimulus package which sent stocks higher and closed the week mostly positive. From a sector perspective, Energy and Financials, which tend to have lower valuations, were the top performing sectors and Information Technology, which tends to have higher valuations, was the worst performing sector. On Friday, Energy names rallied as oil prices closed the week at $66.09, the highest closing since November 2018. OPEC surprised oil markets by deciding not to increase output, keeping the supply low as demand has been growing in places that are reopening from COVID restrictions. Earnings season is winding down but there were still a few notable announcements. Broadcom Inc., a mega cap semiconductor producer, announced 4Q profitability ahead of street estimates and initiated 1Q sales guidance above estimates. They credited their great quarter to content gains in their wireless businesses and continued success in their main networking business. Target Corp. announced quarterly results that were disappointing leading to a -5.90% return last week. The big box retailer beat quarterly earnings estimates but issued margin guidance that was worrisome to market participants and was the main driver for their negative return last week. Looking ahead to next week, eyes will continue to be on Congress and the odds of them passing the $1.9t stimulus package. While this is likely to fuel short term returns in equities, it remains to be seen how much it will fuel longer term inflation concerns. Equities remain a terrific vehicle to hold during inflationary periods. We remain constructive on equities, particularly lower valuation names as inflation concerns might warrant higher valuation names to continue rerating lower.

Posted on Monday, March 8, 2021 @ 8:05 AM • Post Link	Share:
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These posts were prepared by First Trust Advisors L.P., and reflect the current opinion of the authors. They are based upon sources and data believed to be accurate and reliable. Opinions and forward looking statements expressed are subject to change without notice. This information does not constitute a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any security.

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