Stocks Hit Record Highs Every Three Days on Average in Q3

Core Insights - US equity markets have reached all-time highs on average one out of every three days in Q3, with this quarter accounting for the majority of record high days in 2023 [1] - Despite a strong market performance, there has been a significant flow of investments into bonds and money markets over the past decade, while equity investments have remained relatively flat [2] - The Buffett Indicator, which compares the total value of the stock market to US GDP, is currently at a record high of nearly 220%, suggesting potential overvaluation and a bubble in the economy [2] - A balanced investor with a 60/40 stock-bond allocation would have seen a 5% gain for Q3 and a 13% gain year-to-date [4] Market Dynamics - The current market composition is markedly different from 50 years ago, with today's leading stocks being asset-light and cash-generating, resulting in higher P/E multiples compared to the industrial-heavy market leaders of the past [3] - There is caution against labeling high valuations as the new norm, as market conditions are constantly evolving and historical comparisons may not be relevant [3]