Investors invested a record $47.7 billion in stocks in the week ending July 17. This is the fifth largest indicator in history. US stocks were the most in demand, attracting $44.8 billion, which is the fourth largest indicator. European stocks have been losing investments for the ninth week in a row, totaling $1.4 billion. Japanese stocks rose slightly, and emerging markets continue to attract investment ($3.1 billion over the past seven weeks). The technology sector led the way in investments ($2.4 billion) for the third week in a row. The financial and commodity sectors also showed an increase in investments – $1.3 and $1.2 billion, respectively. Small-cap stocks received $9.9 billion. Funds investing in large American companies were the most popular ($27.4 billion), followed by funds investing in small American companies ($9.9 billion). Investments in funds specializing in fast-growing American companies amounted to $0.8 billion. Funds investing in undervalued American companies showed even more modest growth — only $0.1 billion. Analysts note the growth of a mild economic downturn in the United States, but consider it short-lived. They predict a reduction in interest rates, which will have a quick effect.
