Although the third quarter ended on a downbeat, it was the best quarter in the markets since 1998. A number of exchange traded funds (ETFs) also exhibited some impressive gains. Where were the hot spots?
Airline Industry. Total airline traffic is still declining, but at a slower rate than it was. Additionally, the drop in freight traffic is declining at a slower rate. Some analysts expect the industry to start taking off in 2010.
- Claymore/NYSE Arca Airline ETF (NYSE: FAA): up 51% in the third quarter
Brazil. Moody’s Investor Services is eyeing Brazil for a possible upgrade to investment-grade. Moody’s would join both Fitch and Standard & Poor’s in giving Brazil an investment-grade rating. A better rating will improved investor sentiment and a boost in the financial sector.
- Market Vectors Brazil Small-Cap ETF (NYSEArca: BRF): up 44.7% in the third quarter
Commercial Real Estate. The real estate sector has been thoroughly beaten, but some analysts out there feel that the sector has seen the worst, and 2010 could mark a period of improvement. Some pension funds are also beginning to jump into the sector.
- iShares FTSE NAREIT Industrial/Office Complex (NYSEArca: FIO): up 39.9% in the third quarter