Market Analysis & Research

Last week the index posted a total return of negative 4.5%, the second week of single-digit moves after much sharper gyrations both up and down in the early stages of the crisis.

We are not expecting a “V” shaped recovery because some effects of the virus are likely to remain for quite some time. This news on durable goods orders, though, is consistent with underlying business fundamentals remaining intact for now despite the shutdown.

Fifty-four listed equity REITs responded between April 8 and April 15, representing most property sectors and almost $418 billion in equity market capitalization or 44% of the FTSE Nareit All Equity REIT equity market capitalization.

In more normal times a weekly move up or down of nearly 4% would be major news, but in a period of heightened volatility during the covid-19 crisis, this is the smallest move in quite a while.

The markets have gained ground in two of the past three weeks despite news of record levels of jobless claims as firms close to curb the spread of COVID-19. 

REITs declined in the week ended April 3, with a total return of -7.67%, giving back almost half of the gains they posted the week before.

Several important data releases are scheduled in the coming weeks. Here’s what to watch.

The stock market got a bit of relief last week as forceful policy measures prompted a three-day rally, trimming some of the recent losses.

The mortgage market is critically important for the economy and for financial markets.

Growing concerns about the impact of the coronavirus on the economy have caused severe liquidity issues in some asset classes.

The main question today is how long the phase of rapid growth of infection and the economic shutdowns necessary to contain it will last.