Tag Archives: Santa Claus Rally

The Santa Claus Rally refers to a seasonal stock market trend where prices increase during the last five trading days of December and the first two of January. Since 1950, the S&P 500 has averaged a 1.3% gain during this period, often seen as an indicator of market optimism. The rally is attributed to factors like holiday spending, investor sentiment, and year-end tax considerations. However, its absence has sometimes preceded market downturns. Investors use the rally to adjust portfolios, favouring both small and large-cap stocks. While historically consistent, the rally is not guaranteed, requiring thoughtful strategies and broader market awareness.

The S&P 500 just extended its winning streak to seven straight quarters, and it's reasonable to wonder just how long it can continue...[That being said, however,] investors often enjoy a strong wind at their back in the fourth quarter, based on seasonal patterns and stock market history. Will 2014 be different [or will, as history suggests,] investors find a shiny new quarter during the next three months? [This article looks at these patterns to come to a better understanding of how the markets likely will perform for the balance of 2014.]