Market Observations – May 2018

By Bob McCormick

Bob McCormick's Market Observations

Folks,

When I think the world is going to hell in a handbasket, I spend a few moments reading history. One of my favorite periods is the 1930s. It gives me a healthy dose of perspective. I figure any era that starts with the superlative “Great” can’t be all bad. Nothing like seeing true misery to pull me out of my “woe is us” funk.

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of a few key items.

One could read much more on the 1930s and wonder how the heck we survived that period. The actions and events then provide helpful reference points to measure the severity of times now or in the future.

Cheers,
Bob

Market Returns

U.S. stocks rallied modestly in April while international developed market stocks had the strongest showing. With interest rates continuing to rise, bond market returns were once again negative.