Strong recent returns ARE a combination of earnings growth (expected to remain robust in the next few quarters as shown in Exhibit 2) and investors’ willingness to pay more for each dollar of those earnings (likely helped by Fed policies and lack of attractive alternatives).
COVID Impact On Company Fundamentals
There were 38 companies in the S&P 500 with Q2 revenue decline of 50% or more. It makes sense that concerts, cruise operators, hotels/casinos, airlines and travel sites are heavily represented. There was very little activity in those areas in April, May and June. Energy sector is also featured prominently.
Reviewing Market Fundamentals
Despite swings in sentiment market fundamentals remain strong, but is there room for further improvement?
Where Have All The Sales Gone?
Sales growth is coming from a handful of real stars and a whole bunch of M&A activity