(BofA-ML) Global Equities See Best Inflows Since U.S. Election

Investors poured $21b into equities and $10.9b into bonds in the week through April 26, BofAML strategists Michael Hartnett and Jared Woodard write in note.
  • Europe equity funds see $2.4b of inflows, the most since December 2015 after “market-friendly” French election
    • U.S. equity funds get $13.8b, most in 19 weeks, amid tax-reform optimism
    • EM stocks see 6th straight weekly inflows, Japan sees inflows in 14 of past 16 weeks
  • Global stock market cap up $3.3 trillion YTD; bull market unlikely to end until bullish macro data prompt central banks to tighten
    • Returns for stocks and bonds impressive given Trump disappointment, EU politics; best explanation is supportive central-bank liquidity
  • Sector-wise, investors poured money into financials, tech, energy and U.S. smallcaps; redemptions in defensives including REITs, consumer, utilities and telcos