Global Equities Still Well Above COVID Lows

June 30, 2022 | David Hernandez, CFA, Associate Director

Just over two years ago, on March 23rd, 2020, global equities hit their COVID-19-induced bottom. At their lows, the S&P 500, MSCI Emerging Markets Index, and MSCI EAFE Index were down 30%, 32%, and 33%, respectively, year-to-date. Over the next seven quarters, global equities produced mostly positive returns, with the S&P 500 leading the way. From the 2020 trough, the large-cap U.S. index was up an astounding 119% through the end of 2021.

This year, markets have faced several geopolitical and macroeconomic concerns that have squashed that positive momentum. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February and China’s rise in COVID-19 cases combined with its zero-COVID policy have worsened supply chain issues, exacerbated global inflation, and added to mounting economic pressures. To combat inflation, central banks have aggressively raised interest rates, which will likely further dampen economic activity. As a result of these headwinds, the S&P 500, MSCI EM, and MSCI EAFE benchmarks are all down roughly 17–19% year-to-date.¹ Despite these losses, global equities remain well above the COVID-19 trough, with non-U.S. equities still roughly 40+% higher and the S&P 500 77% higher. Looking forward, we expect global equities — particularly in developed countries — to face continued volatility in the second half of the year as central banks continue their fight against inflation, likely at the expense of economic growth.

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¹As of June 29, 2022

 

The opinions expressed herein are those of Marquette Associates, Inc. (“Marquette”), and are subject to change without notice. This material is not financial advice or an offer to purchase or sell any product. Marquette reserves the right to modify its current investment strategies and techniques based on changing market dynamics or client needs.