- All four major U.S. equity indexes closed this past week at fresh record highs on signs of progress on stalled stimulus talks and the first regulatory approval of a coronavirus vaccine.
- Having now rebounded by over 65% from its pandemic lows, the S&P 500 rallied another 1.7% this past week, but were outpaced yet again by the high-flying mid caps and small caps.
- Real estate equities were among the leaders - particularly the COVID-sensitive property sectors - driven by a wave of dividend hikes. Equity REITs rallied 1.8% and Mortgage REITs gained 1.9%.
- Dividend declaration season has been kind to REIT investors thus far as five equity REITs boosted their dividend this week. 46 equity REITs have now raised dividends in 2020 compared to 66 that have reduced or suspended payouts.
- Economic data was lukewarm this past week amid signs that the employment rebound is losing steam. Mortgage rates dipped to fresh record lows last week, however, which is expected to provide further fuel for the resilient U.S. housing industry.
For further details see:
'Tis The Season For REIT Dividends