Financials Sector Seasonality
How S&P 500 financials stocks have behaved through the calendar year, measured with XLF, the Financial Select Sector SPDR Fund, over the last 15 years. Its strongest month has been November (average +4.61%, higher in 12 of 15 years), and its weakest September (−1.35%, higher in 5 of 15).
Financials seasonality chart
Financials stocks seasonality by month
XLF has beaten the S&P 500 (SPY) on average in 5 of the 12 months, with its biggest edge in November (+1.32%).
| Month | XLF avg | Higher in | SPY avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | +1.54% | 10 of 15 yrs | +1.28% |
| February | +1.54% | 10 of 15 yrs | +1.12% |
| March | −1.13% | 6 of 15 yrs | +0.57% |
| April | +0.86% | 7 of 15 yrs | +1.18% |
| May | +0.22% | 9 of 15 yrs | +1.03% |
| June | +0.35% | 6 of 15 yrs | +1.37% |
| July | +2.55% | 11 of 15 yrs | +2.70% |
| August | −0.18% | 8 of 15 yrs | +0.16% |
| September | −1.35% | 5 of 15 yrs | −1.16% |
| October | +3.15% | 11 of 15 yrs | +2.17% |
| November | +4.61% | 12 of 15 yrs | +3.29% |
| December | +0.86% | 11 of 15 yrs | +0.31% |
From split- and dividend-adjusted prices, complete years only. See our methodology. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Financials stocks in the S&P 500
76 stocks, largest first by market cap as of November 2026. Open any one for its own seasonality chart and best months.
Financials seasonality FAQ
What is the best month for financials stocks?
Measured by XLF over the last 15 years, November has been the strongest month, averaging +4.61% and rising in 12 of 15 years.
What is the worst month for financials stocks?
September has been the weakest, averaging −1.35% and rising in 5 of 15 years.
Which stocks are in the financials sector?
The 76 S&P 500 financials stocks listed on this page, led by BRK-B, JPM, V, MA, BAC by market cap.
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