Russell 2000 in July: seasonality and history
Since 1988, the Russell 2000 has risen in July in 56% of years (22 of 39), with an average return of +0.45% and a median of +1.33%. That makes July its #8 month of 12.
Average+0.45%
Years up56%
Best year2022 · +10.38%
Worst year2002 · −15.18%
The seasonal path through July
Cumulative sum of each day's average return through July, all years since 1988.
| Strongest days | Avg | Up |
|---|---|---|
| Jul 12 | +0.35% | 64% |
| Jul 29 | +0.29% | 54% |
| Jul 30 | +0.26% | 67% |
| Weakest days | Avg | Up |
|---|---|---|
| Jul 24 | −0.41% | 36% |
| Jul 2 | −0.39% | 41% |
| Jul 21 | −0.32% | 39% |
July in recent years
| Year | Russell 2000 in July |
|---|---|
| 2026 | −3.08% |
| 2025 | +1.68% |
| 2024 | +10.10% |
| 2023 | +6.06% |
| 2022 | +10.38% |
| 2021 | −3.65% |
| 2020 | +2.71% |
| 2019 | +0.51% |
| 2018 | +1.69% |
| 2017 | +0.69% |
Questions
Is July a good month for the Russell 2000?
On average, yes: +0.45% since 1988, rising in 56% of years. But the range is wide, from −15.18% in 2002 to +10.38% in 2022, so an average is a tendency, not a forecast.
What are the strongest days in July?
Jul 12 (+0.35%, up 64% of years), Jul 29 (+0.29%, up 54% of years), Jul 30 (+0.26%, up 67% of years).