The stock market has been on a tear in recent years, but there are signs that a major earnings recession is on the horizon. In the first quarter of 2023, earnings for the S&P 500 grew by just 3.5%, the slowest pace in over two years. And there are indications that earnings growth will slow even further in the second quarter.
There are a number of factors that are contributing to the earnings slowdown. One is the rising cost of doing business. Inflation is at a 40-year high, and businesses are facing higher costs for labor, materials, and energy. This is squeezing profit margins.
Another factor is the slowdown in economic growth. The US economy is expected to grow by just 2% in 2023, the slowest pace in years. This will lead to lower demand for goods and services, which will hurt corporate profits.
Finally, the Federal Reserve is expected to raise interest rates several times this year in an effort to combat inflation. This will make it more expensive for businesses to borrow money, which will also hurt profit margins.
All of these factors are pointing to an earnings recession in the near future. And if stocks are not ready for it, we could see a major sell-off in the market.
Here are some reasons why stocks are not ready for an earnings recession:
- Valuations are stretched. The S&P 500 is trading at a price-to-earnings ratio of 21.5, which is well above its historical average of 15. This means that stocks are expensive, and they could be vulnerable to a sell-off if earnings growth slows.
- Investors are complacent. Many investors are complacent about the risks facing the stock market. They believe that the bull market will continue indefinitely, and they are not prepared for a major sell-off.
- There is a lack of diversification. Many investors are overweighted in US stocks, and they are not adequately diversified into other asset classes, such as bonds or international stocks. This could make them more vulnerable to losses if the US stock market suffers a major sell-off.
If you are concerned about an earnings recession, here are some things you can do:
- Reduce your exposure to US stocks. Consider increasing your allocation to international stocks or bonds.
- Increase your cash allocation. This will give you more dry powder to buy stocks on the cheap if there is a major sell-off.
- Be prepared for volatility. The stock market is likely to be volatile in the near future, so be prepared for sharp swings in prices.
An earnings recession is a real possibility, and it is important to be prepared for it. By taking steps to reduce your risk, you can protect your portfolio from losses.