Nasdaq Composite in May: seasonality and history
Since 1971, the Nasdaq has risen in May in 62% of years (35 of 56), with an average return of +1.38% and a median of +2.85%. That makes May its #5 month of 12.
Average+1.38%
Years up62%
Best year1997 · +11.07%
Worst year2000 · −11.91%
The seasonal path through May
Cumulative sum of each day's average return through May, all years since 1971.
| Strongest days | Avg | Up |
|---|---|---|
| May 27 | +0.67% | 75% |
| May 26 | +0.44% | 72% |
| May 8 | +0.34% | 68% |
| Weakest days | Avg | Up |
|---|---|---|
| May 7 | −0.21% | 48% |
| May 23 | −0.20% | 50% |
| May 9 | −0.19% | 50% |
Seasonal trend windows touching May
- ▲ Bullish May 24 – Jun 7 · 15 days · seasonal Σ +2.66%
May in recent years
| Year | Nasdaq in May |
|---|---|
| 2026 | +8.36% |
| 2025 | +9.56% |
| 2024 | +6.88% |
| 2023 | +5.80% |
| 2022 | −2.05% |
| 2021 | −1.53% |
| 2020 | +6.75% |
| 2019 | −7.93% |
| 2018 | +5.32% |
| 2017 | +2.50% |
Questions
Is May a good month for the Nasdaq?
On average, yes: +1.38% since 1971, rising in 62% of years. But the range is wide, from −11.91% in 2000 to +11.07% in 1997, so an average is a tendency, not a forecast.
What are the strongest days in May?
May 27 (+0.67%, up 75% of years), May 26 (+0.44%, up 72% of years), May 8 (+0.34%, up 68% of years).