Russell 2000 in May: seasonality and history
Since 1988, the Russell 2000 has risen in May in 67% of years (26 of 39), with an average return of +1.38% and a median of +2.12%. That makes May its #3 month of 12.
Average+1.38%
Years up67%
Best year1997 · +11.01%
Worst year2019 · −7.90%
The seasonal path through May
Cumulative sum of each day's average return through May, all years since 1988.
| Strongest days | Avg | Up |
|---|---|---|
| May 27 | +0.86% | 77% |
| May 26 | +0.72% | 74% |
| May 2 | +0.40% | 71% |
| Weakest days | Avg | Up |
|---|---|---|
| May 7 | −0.38% | 48% |
| May 13 | −0.28% | 46% |
| May 6 | −0.24% | 54% |
Seasonal trend windows touching May
- ▲ Bullish May 25 – Jun 8 · 15 days · seasonal Σ +3.65%
May in recent years
| Year | Russell 2000 in May |
|---|---|
| 2026 | +4.27% |
| 2025 | +5.20% |
| 2024 | +4.87% |
| 2023 | −1.09% |
| 2022 | −0.00% |
| 2021 | +0.11% |
| 2020 | +6.36% |
| 2019 | −7.90% |
| 2018 | +5.95% |
| 2017 | −2.16% |
Questions
Is May a good month for the Russell 2000?
On average, yes: +1.38% since 1988, rising in 67% of years. But the range is wide, from −7.90% in 2019 to +11.01% in 1997, so an average is a tendency, not a forecast.
What are the strongest days in May?
May 27 (+0.86%, up 77% of years), May 26 (+0.72%, up 74% of years), May 2 (+0.40%, up 71% of years).