-The second week of November results: Markets fell sharply to snap six consecutive weeks of gains. All major indices posted broad-based declines, with consumer and energy stocks leading the underperformers. The retail sector, in particular, came under pressure following poor earnings results. Market volatility will likely persist so long as investors remain wary of the near-term outlook.
-The first week of November results: Markets rose for the sixth straight week as generally positive economic data and a flurry of M&A news boosted investor sentiment. All major indices gained; the Dow Jones Industrial Average once again turned positive for the year.
-Both the SEC & FINRA has issued Investor Alerts on automated investment tools like Robo-Advisors: "While automated investment tools may offer clear benefits—including low cost, ease of use, and broad access—it is important to understand their risks and limitations before using them. Investors should be wary of tools that promise better portfolio performance. . Be aware that an automated tool may rely on assumptions that could be incorrect or do not apply to your individual situation. In addition, an automated investment tool, like other investment programs, may be programmed to consider limited options. For example, an automated investment tool may only consider investments offered by an affiliated firm."
-To recap October, the S&P 500 picked up +8.3% last month, registering its best monthly return in four years. The performance of U.S. stocks this year has uncannily mirrored the pattern of the market's performance of 2011, when the S&P 500 experienced a correction and finished the year virtually flat. All the known market risks are still present, including China, Greece, Fed, Valuations, Oil and Earnings.