
Vanguard’s Investment Advisory Research Center examines what persistent U.S. equity highs mean for advisors and clients.
In Q3 2025, U.S. equities hit record highs on one in every three trading days, far surpassing historical averages; balanced portfolios returned 7% YTD.
Contrary to fears, investing at all-time highs hasn’t hurt long-term returns—five- and ten-year gains often match or exceed non-peak periods.
The real story is improved investor discipline: advisors focusing on goals-based planning and behavioral coaching helped clients avoid emotional decisions.
Can advisors turn record-breaking markets into opportunities for stronger client relationships? Explore the full analysis for actionable insights.