S&P 500 Takes a Breather: What Investors Should Know

October 22, 2024

  • The S&P 500 has paused after its longest six-week winning streak since 1928.
  • The market’s “overbought” status signals a potential for short-term dips.
  • Investors should look for buying opportunities as earnings reports from major companies approach 

After six weeks of consistent gains, the S&P 500, a key index tracking 500 of the largest US companies, finally took a small step back. This six-week streak was one of the longest since 1928, highlighting just how strong the market momentum has been. But now, with the earnings reports of major companies like Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ: TSLA), The Boeing Company (NYSE: BA), and United Parcel Service, Inc. (NYSE: UPS) around the corner, the market is taking a short pause.

So, what does this mean for you as an investor? Let’s break it down.

Key Takeaways: Why the Market Paused

  • Longest Winning Streak Since 1928: The market recently completed a rare six-week streak, which is something that hasn’t happened often in nearly a century. This shows strong momentum, but after such gains, some investors start locking in profits, leading to minor pullbacks.
  • What’s “Overbought?” When analysts say the market is “overbought,” they mean stock prices have climbed higher than what their current value might suggest. This happens when there’s a lot of excitement or demand driving up prices.
  • History Tells Us to Stay Calm: Following such winning streaks, the market usually continues to perform well. Historical data shows small gains over the following weeks and even more significant returns over the next six to twelve months.

Why Investors Should Pay Attention

When stock prices go up quickly and reach “overbought” levels, there’s a risk of a pullback, which is like a reality check for investors. This happens when traders start selling to secure their gains, which can lead to short-term market dips. However, these dips aren’t necessarily a bad thing—they are a natural part of the market’s movement and can offer buying opportunities.

Call-to-Action: What Should You Do?

If you’re a long-term investor, don’t panic! Historically, these pauses have been temporary, and the market often bounces back stronger. Now is a great time to be on the lookout for buying opportunities when prices dip. With big companies like Tesla and Boeing set to report earnings, the market could see renewed momentum soon.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the earnings reports. If companies beat expectations, it could give the market a boost!

Disclaimer: ProsperUs Head of Content & Investment Lead Billy Toh doesn’t own shares of any companies mentioned.

Billy Toh

Billy is deeply committed to making investment accessible and understandable to everyone, a principle that drives his engagement with the capital markets and his long-term investment strategies. He is currently the Head of Content & Investment Lead for Prosperus and a SGX Academy Trainer. His extensive experience spans roles as an economist at RHB Investment Bank, focusing on the Thailand and Philippines markets, and as a financial journalist at The Edge Malaysia. Additionally, his background includes valuable time spent in an asset management firm. Outside of finance, Billy enjoys meaningful conversations over coffee, keeps fit as a fitness enthusiast, and has a keen interest in technology.

Share this

Subscribe to our weekly
newsletter and stay updated!