Goldman sees potential rotation to low-profit stocks if jobs gain

Goldman sees potential rotation to low-profit stocks if jobs gain
A strong labor market report could see investors pivot.
SEP 30, 2024
By 

A solid US jobs report at the end of the week could spur a rotation from the market’s most profitable names into stocks with weaker earnings, according to Goldman Sachs Group Inc. strategists.

A strong Labor Department jobs print on Friday could prompt some investors to “price lower odds of substantial labor market weakening,” leading them to “rotate out of expensive ‘quality’ stocks into less-loved lower quality firms,” the team led by David Kostin wrote.

US equities have returned to record highs as investors bet the economy can avoid a recession, supported by looser monetary policy. The nonfarm payrolls report is the main focus for markets this week, and is expected to show a healthy, yet moderating, labor market.

Bloomberg’s factors-to-watch analysis shows that a so-called quality strategy, that sees investors target the most profitable equity names, has been among the top five best-performers in the US this year. 

Morgan Stanley’s Michael Wilson also flagged recently that the labor market will be a bigger driver of stocks than the outlook for interest rates. In a note on Sunday, the strategist reiterated his preference for large-cap stocks and higher-quality sectors.

Latest News

Advisors handicap the brewing battle between Trump and Powell
Advisors handicap the brewing battle between Trump and Powell

It's a showdown for the ages as wealth managers assess its impact on client portfolios.

Savvy Wealth wooes Commonwealth advisors with Fidelity advantage
Savvy Wealth wooes Commonwealth advisors with Fidelity advantage

CEO Ritik Malhotra is leveraging Savvy Wealth's Fidelity partnership in offers to Commonwealth advisors, alongside “Acquisition Relief Boxes” filled with cookies, brownies, and aspirin.

Elder fraud complaints surge past $4.8 billion as investment scams lead losses
Elder fraud complaints surge past $4.8 billion as investment scams lead losses

Fraud losses among Americans 60 and older surged 43 percent in 2024, led by investment schemes involving crypto and social manipulation.

Apollo ramps up retail push with 'New Markets' division
Apollo ramps up retail push with 'New Markets' division

The alternatives giant's new unit, led by a 17-year veteran, will tap into four areas worth an estimated $60 trillion.

Commonwealth advisors, employees, let it all hang out on Reddit
Commonwealth advisors, employees, let it all hang out on Reddit

"It's like a soap opera," says one senior industry executive.

SPONSORED Compliance in real time: Technology's expanding role in RIA oversight

RIAs face rising regulatory pressure in 2025. Forward-looking firms are responding with embedded technology, not more paperwork.

SPONSORED Advisory firms confront crossroads amid historic wealth transfer

As inheritances are set to reshape client portfolios and next-gen heirs demand digital-first experiences, firms are retooling their wealth tech stacks and succession models in real time.