In the second quarter of 2019, global stocks and bonds continued to post strong returns coming off a historic first quarter.
Equity markets around the globe achieved positive returns for the quarter despite ups and downs throughout the quarter. Emerging markets lagged behind their developed counterparts. The Federal Reserve did not cut interest rates at its June meeting but indicated that rate cuts may be on the horizon. Government bond yields fell as market prices rose. Corporate bonds delivered positive total returns overall and performed better than government bonds.
Let Us Catch You Up
If you don’t have much time, simply check out pages 3 and 4. You’ll see the overall performance of stock and bonds and an overview of major new events from the quarter.
An outline is included below, but be sure to download a full copy of the quarterly market review summary.
Notable Q1 Headlines
- S&P 500 Posts Best First Half in 22 Years
- US Budget Deficit Grew 15% in First Half of Fiscal 2019
- Home-Price Growth Slows to Lowest Level Since 2012
- US-China Trade Talks End without a Deal
- Japan Surprises with 2.1% Growth
- US Job Openings Outnumber Unemployed by Widest Gap Ever
Q1 Index Returns
US Market +4.10%
Developed +3.79%
Emerging +0.61%
Real Estate +1.29%
US Bond +3.08%
Global Bond +2.75%