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Higgins Capital Management, Inc.

Why June is Considered the Worst Month for the Stock Market

The US stock market is known for its volatility, with various factors influencing its performance throughout the year. Among the twelve months, June has historically been considered the worst month for the US stock market. This video will explore the reasons behind this phenomenon, focusing on historical trends, seasonal patterns, and the impact of specific events that typically occur in June.

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June has historically been considered the worst month for the US stock market due to a combination of factors. Historical trends, such as the "June Swoon," and seasonal patterns, like the "Sell in May and Go Away" adage, contribute to the market's weakness during this month. Additionally, specific events in June, such as the Federal Reserve's meeting and the end of the second quarter, can trigger market volatility. Psychological factors and investor behavior also play a role in June's poor performance, as reduced market participation and negative sentiment can lead to irrational decision-making. While past performance does not guarantee future results, understanding the reasons behind June's reputation as the worst month for the US stock market can help investors make more informed decisions and navigate this challenging period.

The term "June Swoon" has been coined by market analysts to describe the historically poor performance of the US stock market during June. According to data from the Stock Trader's Almanac, since 1950, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) has experienced an average decline of 0.3% in June, making it the worst month for the index. Similarly, the S&P 500 has also shown weakness in June, with an average return of -0.02% since 1928. These historical trends suggest that June has consistently been a challenging month for the US stock market.

The poor performance of the US stock market in June can be partially attributed to the well-known adage, "Sell in May and Go Away." This saying suggests that investors should sell their stocks in May and stay out of the market until November to avoid the typically weaker summer months. Many investors follow this strategy, leading to decreased market participation and reduced trading volumes in June. As a result, the market becomes more susceptible to volatility and negative sentiment.
June is also known for several events that can negatively impact the US stock market. One such event is the Federal Reserve's June meeting, where the central bank reviews its monetary policy and makes decisions regarding interest rates. Investors often approach this meeting with caution, as any unexpected changes in monetary policy can lead to market turbulence. Additionally, June marks the end of the second quarter, which means that companies start preparing their quarterly earnings reports. If earnings expectations are not met or if companies provide disappointing forward guidance, it can trigger a sell-off in the market.

Investor behavior and psychological factors also play a role in June's poor stock market performance. As the summer months approach, many investors tend to take vacations or become less active in the market. This reduced participation can lead to lower trading volumes and increased volatility. Moreover, negative sentiment and fear can spread quickly among investors during periods of uncertainty, causing them to make irrational decisions and sell their holdings, further exacerbating the downward pressure on stock prices.

The information contained in this Higgins Capital communication is provided for information purposes and is not a solicitation or offer to buy or sell any securities or related financial instruments in any jurisdiction. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

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