A cyclical rotation?
Stronger growth expectations are driving a global rotation out of growth-oriented and mega cap technology stocks, and into cyclical companies. At a time when geopolitical tensions and tariff discussions continue to simmer, we remind investors to stay invested despite the headline noise.
The Magnificent Seven and large cap growth stocks outperformed the S&P 500 for the majority of 2025, but equity leadership shifted at the end of October. Cyclical stocks — those that are more economically sensitive — lagged large cap growth stocks and shares of mega cap technology companies until November 1, when we first detected a broadening in markets.
It was the beginning of a global rotation out of those growth-oriented and technology businesses into cyclical areas, such as small cap and large cap value stocks. Since November, cyclicals are up 11.8% compared to the negative returns for growth stocks and big tech in the S&P 500.
What changed? Markets are pricing in a stronger global growth outlook despite current events around geopolitics and tariffs. Many factors support improved economic activity, such as increasing capital expenditures, resilient consumer spending, improving productivity, easing financial conditions and solid earnings growth.
Even given these tailwinds, it is often hard to ignore headline noise. Nonetheless, we reiterate one of our core investing principles: don’t get distracted by headlines and stay invested. Over the long run, wealth is built by staying the course, remaining invested and keeping diversified.
869830 Exp : 21 January 2027
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE
Rising margin expectations continue to support equities, underscoring the resilience of corporate profitability in the face of last year’s tariffs and this year’s Middle East war. The U.S. remains especially strong compared to peers, though first quarter earnings will be an important test.
Technology valuations have meaningfully declined over the past year, but the sector continues to stand out for its strong earnings growth and relative resilience. While near-term uncertainty remains, tech still appears well positioned as a key driver of broader market growth.
Recent jobless claims data point to a resilient U.S. labor market, with both initial and continuing claims remaining low and signaling that unemployment is still contained. Although job growth has softened and remains subdued, March’s job growth of 178,000, the highest since 2024, is encouraging. Our constructive outlook still holds despite continued uncertainty related to the war in the Middle East.
Markets are reacting to the Middle East conflict with sharp moves across asset classes, signaling broad risk repricing and shifting safe‑haven behavior. While volatility is elevated, fundamentals like earnings growth continue to support our constructive outlook.




