There is reason for optimism heading into next week when looking at history. Going back to 1953, the S & P 500 has climbed around 0.5% during the final week of August on a median basis, according to data analyzed by Bespoke Investment Group. Looking at just the past 10 years alone, that median return shoots up to about 1.1%. That is a bright spot ahead of a historically weak period for the market. September ranks as the worst month on average for the S & P 500 going back to 1950, according to data from the Stock Trader’s Almanac. The broad market index averages a loss of 0.7% for the month. Things could play out differently in the new month, as they have in August. Almanac data shows the S & P 500 is flat on average for the month. That said, the benchmark is up more than 1% month to date. .SPX 1M mountain The S & P 500, 1 month The upcoming week also has some events that may move the market in the trading month’s final days. Investors and analysts alike will keep a close eye on earnings from artificial intelligence darling Nvidia expected Wednesday. Attention will then turn to July’s personal consumption expenditures price index reading due Friday, which traders will monitor for fresh insights into the path of inflation.
