Nasdaq Composite in February: seasonality and history
Since 1972, the Nasdaq has risen in February in 51% of years (28 of 55), with an average return of +0.40% and a median of +0.10%. That makes February its #11 month of 12.
Average+0.40%
Years up51%
Best year2000 · +19.19%
Worst year2001 · −22.39%
The seasonal path through February
Cumulative sum of each day's average return through February, all years since 1972.
| Strongest days | Avg | Up |
|---|---|---|
| Feb 1 | +0.47% | 72% |
| Feb 15 | +0.33% | 72% |
| Feb 6 | +0.31% | 62% |
| Weakest days | Avg | Up |
|---|---|---|
| Feb 21 | −0.49% | 25% |
| Feb 27 | −0.45% | 48% |
| Feb 17 | −0.20% | 47% |
Seasonal trend windows touching February
- ▼ Bearish Feb 16 – Feb 28 · 13 days · seasonal Σ −1.56%
February in recent years
| Year | Nasdaq in February |
|---|---|
| 2026 | −3.38% |
| 2025 | −3.97% |
| 2024 | +6.12% |
| 2023 | −1.11% |
| 2022 | −3.43% |
| 2021 | +0.93% |
| 2020 | −6.38% |
| 2019 | +3.44% |
| 2018 | −1.87% |
| 2017 | +3.75% |
Questions
Is February a good month for the Nasdaq?
On average, yes: +0.40% since 1972, rising in 51% of years. But the range is wide, from −22.39% in 2001 to +19.19% in 2000, so an average is a tendency, not a forecast.
What are the strongest days in February?
Feb 1 (+0.47%, up 72% of years), Feb 15 (+0.33%, up 72% of years), Feb 6 (+0.31%, up 62% of years).