In September, most asset classes saw a slight upward trajectory, except for commodities, which have continued to slip since July:
U.S. real estate maintained its momentum, with the IYR index gaining +3.07%, as favorable mortgage rates and sustained demand persisted. Global equities extended their advance, with the ACWX world stock index rising +2.64% and the S&P 500 climbing +2.10%, driven by positive economic data.
Bonds delivered solid returns, with the BND index up +1.31%, as yields remained stable. Hedge funds also performed well, with the QAI index increasing +1.45%, thanks to diversified strategies across various market segments.
Commodities took a breather, with the GSG index edging down -0.19%, as global growth moderated slightly. Cash yields remained steady at +0.39%.
Managed futures had faced grim performance since May, but with the September score, we’re finally seeing a glimmer of recovery. The index rebounded with a +1.15% gain, which will hopefully continue as trend-following strategies capitalize on market movements.
What’s next?
Looking ahead to October 2024, the investment landscape is set to be influenced by a significant development: the Federal Reserve’s first interest rate cut in 4.5 years. This shift in monetary policy is expected to have a notable impact on various asset classes, particularly bonds.
As the Fed moves to lower interest rates, bond prices are likely to rise due to the inverse relationship between rates and bond prices. This could provide a tailwind for fixed-income investments, making bonds an attractive option for investors seeking stability and potential capital appreciation.
Past performance is not indicative of future results.
Past performance is not indicative of future results.
Sources: Managed Futures = SocGen CTA Index,
Cash = US T-Bill 13 week coupon equivalent annual rate/12, with YTD the sum of each month’s value,
Bonds = Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF (NYSEARCA:BND),
Hedge Funds = IQ Hedge Multi-Strategy Tracker ETF (NYSEARCA:QAI)
Commodities = iShares S&P GSCI Commodity-Indexed Trust ETF (NYSEARCA:GSG);
Real Estate = iShares U.S. Real Estate ETF (NYSEARCA:IYR);
World Stocks = iShares MSCI ACWI ex-U.S. ETF (NASDAQ:ACWX);
US Stocks = SPDR S&P 500 ETF (NYSEARCA:SPY)
All ETF performance data from Y Charts