S&P 500 enters strongest seasonal window since 1950

The S&P 500 seasonal window opened on Wednesday, with historical data showing the index has risen from mid-October to year-end in 80% of years since 1950. From the Oct 13 close to year-end, the S&P 500 gained in 61 of 76 years, with a median gain of 4.2%, compared to an average period return of about 2% in 66% of cases. Despite recent record highs followed by a 0.75% fall, hotter US inflation (3.7% year-on-year in September) and potential Fed hikes pose risks, though a four-year bull market and expected third-quarter earnings growth of 29.2% provide a fundamental base.