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Weekly Updates

October 22, 2026

 

iM-Business Cycle Index

BCI-10-22-2026 BCIw-10-22-2026   The BCI is not signalling a recession

 

 



October 20, 2026

Performance-wk-10-20-2026 Performance-mth-10-20-2026 Out of sample performance summary of our models for the past 1, 2, 4 and 13 week periods. The active active return indicates how the models over- or underperformed the benchmark ETF SPY. Also the YTD, and the 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year annualized returns are shown in the second table
RequireGold
iM-Inflation Attuned Multi-Model Market Timer: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 10.6%, and for the last 12 months is 11.9%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 13.3% and 16.6% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Inflation Attuned Multi-Model Market Timer gained 1.22% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 3/24/2017 would have grown to $169,321,075 which includes $4,109,301 cash and excludes $4,103,439 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM-Conference Board LEIg Timer: The model’s performance YTD is 14.3%, and for the last 12 months is 7.3%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 20.1% and 9.4% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Conference Board LEIg Timer gained 0.47% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 4/5/2017 would have grown to $763,775 which includes $9,534 cash and excludes $769 spent on fees and slippage.
iM-FlipSaver 60:40 | 20:80 – 2017: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 8.3%, and for the last 12 months is 8.4%. Over the same period the benchmark E60B40 performance was 7.1% and 9.0% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of iM-FlipSaver 80:20 | 20:80 gained -0.74% at a time when SPY gained -0.70%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 7/16/2015 would have grown to $194,212 which includes $374 cash and excludes $5,614 spent on fees and slippage.
iM-FlipSaver 70:30 | 20:80 – 2017: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 9.8%, and for the last 12 months is 9.9%. Over the same period the benchmark E60B40 performance was 7.1% and 9.0% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of iM-FlipSaver 70:30 | 20:80 gained -0.96% at a time when SPY gained -0.70%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 7/15/2015 would have grown to $205,062 which includes $830 cash and excludes $5,886 spent on fees and slippage.
iM-FlipSaver 80:20 | 20:80 – 2017: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 11.3%, and for the last 12 months is 11.4%. Over the same period the benchmark E60B40 performance was 7.1% and 9.0% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of iM-FlipSaver 80:20 | 20:80 gained -1.16% at a time when SPY gained -0.70%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/2/2017 would have grown to $216,081 which includes $60 cash and excludes $6,150 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold18-1.5HedgeFundSelect-10-20-2026
iM-5HedgeFundSelect: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 930.37% while the benchmark SPY gained 347.06% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-5HedgeFundSelect gained -4.50% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $25,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $257,593 which includes $10,739 cash and excludes $3,606 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold10-1.iM-10LargeHedgeFundSelect-10-20-2026
iM-10LargeHedgeFundSelect: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 691.54% while the benchmark SPY gained 347.06% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-10LargeHedgeFundSelect gained -4.49% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $25,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $187,435 which includes -$9,730 cash and excludes $2,084 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold38-1.iM-Top5QQQSelect-10-20-2026
iM-Top5(QQQ)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 1928.89% while the benchmark SPY gained 347.06% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(QQQ)Select gained 1.60% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $2,028,890 which includes -$27,079 cash and excludes $35,396 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver37-1.iM-Top5XLBSelect-10-20-2026
iM-Top5(XLB)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 287.45% while the benchmark SPY gained 347.06% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(XLB)Select gained 3.02% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $387,445 which includes $3,848 cash and excludes $18,262 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver35-1.iM-Top5XLISelect-10-20-2026
iM-Top5(XLI)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 437.57% while the benchmark SPY gained 347.06% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(XLI)Select gained 2.91% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $537,574 which includes $78 cash and excludes $10,234 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver27-1.iM-Top5XLKSelect-10-20-2026
iM-Top5(XLK)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 1046.08% while the benchmark SPY gained 347.06% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(XLK)Select gained -0.70% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $1,146,085 which includes $457 cash and excludes $3,952 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver28-1.iM-Top5XLPSelect-10-20-2026
iM-Top5(XLP)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 256.82% while the benchmark SPY gained 347.06% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(XLP)Select gained 5.09% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $356,815 which includes -$986 cash and excludes $3,653 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver33-1.iM-Top5XLVSelect-10-20-2026
iM-Top5(XLV)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 410.99% while the benchmark SPY gained 347.06% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(XLV)Select gained 3.27% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $510,990 which includes $1,243 cash and excludes $20,953 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver34-1.iM-Top5XLUSelect-10-20-2026
iM-Top5(XLU)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 201.46% while the benchmark SPY gained 347.06% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(XLU)Select gained 0.04% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $301,458 which includes $3,811 cash and excludes $19,252 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver36-1.iM-Top5XLYSelect-10-20-2026
iM-Top5(XLY)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 352.75% while the benchmark SPY gained 347.06% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(XLY)Select gained 2.96% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $452,753 which includes $480 cash and excludes $8,975 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM-Seasonal Super-Sectors (Top5 combo) : Since inception, on 11/17/2020, the model gained 152.63% while the benchmark SPY gained 132.07% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Seasonal Super-Sectors (Top5 combo) gained 1.49% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 11/17/2020 would have grown to $252,632 which includes $939 cash and excludes $00 spent on fees and slippage.
iM-Dividend Growth Portfolio: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 30.1%, and for the last 12 months is 28.9%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 13.3% and 16.6% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Dividend Growth Portfolio gained 2.03% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 6/30/2016 would have grown to $692,884 which includes $1,552 cash and excludes $16,095 spent on fees and slippage.
iM-Gold Momentum Timer (AU, NEM, SBSW): The model’s out of sample performance YTD is -10.7%, and for the last 12 months is 11.8%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 13.3% and 16.6% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Gold Momentum Timer (AU, NEM, SBSW) gained -1.89% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 6/30/2016 would have grown to -$27,095 which includes $306,772 cash and excludes Gain to date spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM-ModSum/YieldCurve Timer: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 9.7%, and for the last 12 months is 9.4%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 13.3% and 16.6% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of iM-PortSum/YieldCurve Timer gained -1.49% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/1/2016 would have grown to $420,175 which includes $144 cash and excludes $2,605 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver8-1.VDIGXtrade-10-20-2026
iM-Best10(VDIGX)-Trader: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 3.0%, and for the last 12 months is 6.4%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 13.3% and 16.6% respectively. Since inception, on 7/1/2014, the model gained 283.69% while the benchmark SPY gained 379.90% and VDIGX gained -100.00% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Best10(VDIGX) gained 3.62% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 7/1/2014 would have grown to $383,690 which includes $1,093 cash and excludes $5,836 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM 6-Stock Capital Strength Portfolio: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 30.6%, and for the last 12 months is 33.6%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 13.3% and 16.6% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM 6-Stock Capital Strength Portfolio gained 3.86% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 10/28/2016 would have grown to $335,470 which includes $2,680 cash and excludes $4,732 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold7-1.USMVtrade-10-20-2026
iM-Best12(USMV)-Trader: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 20.1%, and for the last 12 months is 23.8%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 13.3% and 16.6% respectively. Since inception, on 6/30/2014, the model gained 412.92% while the benchmark SPY gained 379.90% and the ETF USMV gained -100.00% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Best12(USMV)-Trader gained -0.94% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 6/30/2014 would have grown to $512,920 which includes $1,734 cash and excludes $9,286 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold13-1.MinVolUSMVInv-10-20-2026
iM-Min Volatility(USMV) Investor (Tax Efficient): The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 23.3%, and for the last 12 months is 24.5%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 13.3% and 16.6% respectively. Since inception, on 1/3/2013, the model gained 1367.78% while the benchmark SPY gained 562.46% and the ETF USMV gained -100.00% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Best12(USMV)Q1 gained 2.15% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/3/2013 would have grown to $1,467,783 which includes $166 cash and excludes $18,626 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM-Bond Market Trader (High-Yield Bond or 10-yr Treasury Bond): The model’s out of sample performance YTD is -2.3%, and for the last 12 months is -2.6%. Over the same period the benchmark BND performance was -1.8% and -1.9% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Bond Market Trader (High-Yield Bond or 10-yr Treasury Bond) gained 0.71% at a time when BND gained 0.50%. A starting capital of $10,000 at inception on 1/3/2000 would have grown to $145,719 which includes $2,492 cash and excludes $2,977 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM-ModSum/YieldCurve Timer: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 9.7%, and for the last 12 months is 9.4%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 13.3% and 16.6% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of iM-PortSum/YieldCurve Timer gained -1.49% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/1/2016 would have grown to $420,175 which includes $144 cash and excludes $2,605 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver
iM-Best2 MC-Score ETF System: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 11.5%, and for the last 12 months is 10.8%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 13.3% and 16.6% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Best2 MC-Score ETF System gained 1.86% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 6/30/2016 would have grown to $209,852 which includes $2,974 cash and excludes $5,779 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver
iM-Best4 MC-Score Vanguard System: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 3.8%, and for the last 12 months is 1.4%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 13.3% and 16.6% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Best4 MC-Score Vanguard System gained 0.48% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 6/30/2016 would have grown to $189,801 which includes $8,854 cash and excludes $00 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM-Composite (SPY-IEF) Timer: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 14.6%, and for the last 12 months is 14.2%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 13.3% and 16.6% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Composite (SPY-IEF) Timer gained -1.48% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 6/30/2016 would have grown to $248,196 which includes $2,156 cash and excludes $8,651 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM-Composite(Gold-Stocks-Bond) Timer: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is -9.1%, and for the last 12 months is -7.4%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 13.3% and 16.6% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Composite(Gold-Stocks-Bond) Timer gained -0.83% at a time when SPY gained -1.49%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 6/30/2016 would have grown to $367,036 which includes -$556 cash and excludes $11,611 spent on fees and slippage.



October 13, 2026

Performance-wk-10-13-2026 Performance-mth-10-13-2026 Out of sample performance summary of our models for the past 1, 2, 4 and 13 week periods. The active active return indicates how the models over- or underperformed the benchmark ETF SPY. Also the YTD, and the 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year annualized returns are shown in the second table
RequireGold
iM-Inflation Attuned Multi-Model Market Timer: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 9.2%, and for the last 12 months is 12.7%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 15.0% and 20.4% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Inflation Attuned Multi-Model Market Timer gained 3.28% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 3/24/2017 would have grown to $167,285,364 which includes $4,109,301 cash and excludes $4,103,439 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM-Conference Board LEIg Timer: The model’s performance YTD is 14.3%, and for the last 12 months is 7.3%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 20.1% and 9.4% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Conference Board LEIg Timer gained 1.47% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 4/5/2017 would have grown to $760,206 which includes $9,534 cash and excludes $769 spent on fees and slippage.
iM-FlipSaver 60:40 | 20:80 – 2017: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 9.1%, and for the last 12 months is 9.8%. Over the same period the benchmark E60B40 performance was 7.9% and 11.1% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of iM-FlipSaver 80:20 | 20:80 gained 0.34% at a time when SPY gained 0.47%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 7/16/2015 would have grown to $195,654 which includes $374 cash and excludes $5,614 spent on fees and slippage.
iM-FlipSaver 70:30 | 20:80 – 2017: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 10.8%, and for the last 12 months is 11.6%. Over the same period the benchmark E60B40 performance was 7.9% and 11.1% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of iM-FlipSaver 70:30 | 20:80 gained 0.32% at a time when SPY gained 0.47%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 7/15/2015 would have grown to $207,040 which includes $830 cash and excludes $5,886 spent on fees and slippage.
iM-FlipSaver 80:20 | 20:80 – 2017: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 12.6%, and for the last 12 months is 13.4%. Over the same period the benchmark E60B40 performance was 7.9% and 11.1% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of iM-FlipSaver 80:20 | 20:80 gained 0.30% at a time when SPY gained 0.47%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/2/2017 would have grown to $218,621 which includes $60 cash and excludes $6,150 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold18-1.5HedgeFundSelect-10-13-2026
iM-5HedgeFundSelect: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 978.93% while the benchmark SPY gained 353.84% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-5HedgeFundSelect gained -3.54% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $25,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $269,732 which includes $10,739 cash and excludes $3,606 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold10-1.iM-10LargeHedgeFundSelect-10-13-2026
iM-10LargeHedgeFundSelect: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 728.75% while the benchmark SPY gained 353.84% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-10LargeHedgeFundSelect gained -1.23% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $25,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $196,737 which includes -$9,772 cash and excludes $2,084 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold38-1.iM-Top5QQQSelect-10-13-2026
iM-Top5(QQQ)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 1896.98% while the benchmark SPY gained 353.84% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(QQQ)Select gained -0.09% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $1,996,983 which includes -$27,079 cash and excludes $35,396 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver37-1.iM-Top5XLBSelect-10-13-2026
iM-Top5(XLB)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 276.08% while the benchmark SPY gained 353.84% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(XLB)Select gained -0.95% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $376,082 which includes $3,848 cash and excludes $18,262 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver35-1.iM-Top5XLISelect-10-13-2026
iM-Top5(XLI)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 422.39% while the benchmark SPY gained 353.84% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(XLI)Select gained -0.26% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $522,388 which includes $3,704 cash and excludes $10,212 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver27-1.iM-Top5XLKSelect-10-13-2026
iM-Top5(XLK)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 1054.20% while the benchmark SPY gained 353.84% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(XLK)Select gained 3.43% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $1,154,205 which includes $457 cash and excludes $3,952 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver28-1.iM-Top5XLPSelect-10-13-2026
iM-Top5(XLP)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 239.52% while the benchmark SPY gained 353.84% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(XLP)Select gained 3.57% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $339,517 which includes -$1,368 cash and excludes $3,653 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver33-1.iM-Top5XLVSelect-10-13-2026
iM-Top5(XLV)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 394.82% while the benchmark SPY gained 353.84% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(XLV)Select gained 3.40% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $494,818 which includes -$9,969 cash and excludes $20,936 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver34-1.iM-Top5XLUSelect-10-13-2026
iM-Top5(XLU)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 201.32% while the benchmark SPY gained 353.84% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(XLU)Select gained 3.24% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $301,325 which includes $3,811 cash and excludes $19,252 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver36-1.iM-Top5XLYSelect-10-13-2026
iM-Top5(XLY)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 339.73% while the benchmark SPY gained 353.84% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(XLY)Select gained 1.40% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $439,729 which includes $450 cash and excludes $8,952 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM-Seasonal Super-Sectors (Top5 combo) : Since inception, on 11/17/2020, the model gained 148.91% while the benchmark SPY gained 135.59% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Seasonal Super-Sectors (Top5 combo) gained 2.56% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 11/17/2020 would have grown to $248,911 which includes $676 cash and excludes $00 spent on fees and slippage.
iM-Dividend Growth Portfolio: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 27.5%, and for the last 12 months is 30.8%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 15.0% and 20.4% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Dividend Growth Portfolio gained 1.90% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 6/30/2016 would have grown to $679,128 which includes $1,552 cash and excludes $16,095 spent on fees and slippage.
iM-Gold Momentum Timer (AU, NEM, SBSW): The model’s out of sample performance YTD is -9.0%, and for the last 12 months is 18.4%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 15.0% and 20.4% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Gold Momentum Timer (AU, NEM, SBSW) gained -1.09% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 6/30/2016 would have grown to $453 which includes $299,241 cash and excludes Gain to date spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM-ModSum/YieldCurve Timer: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 11.4%, and for the last 12 months is 11.6%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 15.0% and 20.4% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of iM-PortSum/YieldCurve Timer gained 0.42% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/1/2016 would have grown to $426,543 which includes $144 cash and excludes $2,605 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver8-1.VDIGXtrade-10-13-2026
iM-Best10(VDIGX)-Trader: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is -0.6%, and for the last 12 months is 4.2%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 15.0% and 20.4% respectively. Since inception, on 7/1/2014, the model gained 270.29% while the benchmark SPY gained 387.18% and VDIGX gained -100.00% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Best10(VDIGX) gained 4.43% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 7/1/2014 would have grown to $370,294 which includes $1,163 cash and excludes $5,808 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM 6-Stock Capital Strength Portfolio: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 25.7%, and for the last 12 months is 29.3%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 15.0% and 20.4% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM 6-Stock Capital Strength Portfolio gained 2.85% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 10/28/2016 would have grown to $323,011 which includes $2,680 cash and excludes $4,732 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold7-1.USMVtrade-10-13-2026
iM-Best12(USMV)-Trader: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 21.2%, and for the last 12 months is 24.9%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 15.0% and 20.4% respectively. Since inception, on 6/30/2014, the model gained 417.80% while the benchmark SPY gained 387.18% and the ETF USMV gained -100.00% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Best12(USMV)-Trader gained 0.89% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 6/30/2014 would have grown to $517,796 which includes $1,728 cash and excludes $9,286 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold13-1.MinVolUSMVInv-10-13-2026
iM-Min Volatility(USMV) Investor (Tax Efficient): The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 20.7%, and for the last 12 months is 23.9%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 15.0% and 20.4% respectively. Since inception, on 1/3/2013, the model gained 1336.95% while the benchmark SPY gained 572.50% and the ETF USMV gained -100.00% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Best12(USMV)Q1 gained 2.07% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/3/2013 would have grown to $1,436,954 which includes -$14,608 cash and excludes $18,439 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM-Bond Market Trader (High-Yield Bond or 10-yr Treasury Bond): The model’s out of sample performance YTD is -3.0%, and for the last 12 months is -2.8%. Over the same period the benchmark BND performance was -2.2% and -1.9% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Bond Market Trader (High-Yield Bond or 10-yr Treasury Bond) gained 0.56% at a time when BND gained 0.53%. A starting capital of $10,000 at inception on 1/3/2000 would have grown to $144,686 which includes $2,492 cash and excludes $2,977 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM-ModSum/YieldCurve Timer: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 11.4%, and for the last 12 months is 11.6%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 15.0% and 20.4% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of iM-PortSum/YieldCurve Timer gained 0.42% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/1/2016 would have grown to $426,543 which includes $144 cash and excludes $2,605 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver
iM-Best2 MC-Score ETF System: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 9.5%, and for the last 12 months is 10.0%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 15.0% and 20.4% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Best2 MC-Score ETF System gained 2.87% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 6/30/2016 would have grown to $206,022 which includes $2,974 cash and excludes $5,779 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver
iM-Best4 MC-Score Vanguard System: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 3.3%, and for the last 12 months is 2.9%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 15.0% and 20.4% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Best4 MC-Score Vanguard System gained 2.73% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 6/30/2016 would have grown to $188,892 which includes $8,854 cash and excludes $00 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM-Composite (SPY-IEF) Timer: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 16.3%, and for the last 12 months is 16.5%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 15.0% and 20.4% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Composite (SPY-IEF) Timer gained 0.42% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 6/30/2016 would have grown to $251,926 which includes $2,156 cash and excludes $8,651 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM-Composite(Gold-Stocks-Bond) Timer: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is -8.3%, and for the last 12 months is -1.6%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 15.0% and 20.4% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Composite(Gold-Stocks-Bond) Timer gained 0.68% at a time when SPY gained 0.42%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 6/30/2016 would have grown to $370,109 which includes $188 cash and excludes $10,872 spent on fees and slippage.



October 6, 2026

Performance-wk-10-6-2026 Performance-mth-10-6-2026 Out of sample performance summary of our models for the past 1, 2, 4 and 13 week periods. The active active return indicates how the models over- or underperformed the benchmark ETF SPY. Also the YTD, and the 1-, 3-, 5- and 10-year annualized returns are shown in the second table
RequireGold
iM-Inflation Attuned Multi-Model Market Timer: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 5.8%, and for the last 12 months is 6.0%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 14.5% and 17.0% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Inflation Attuned Multi-Model Market Timer gained 1.72% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 3/24/2017 would have grown to $161,978,810 which includes $4,109,301 cash and excludes $4,103,439 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM-Conference Board LEIg Timer: The model’s performance YTD is 14.3%, and for the last 12 months is 7.3%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 20.1% and 9.4% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Conference Board LEIg Timer gained -0.16% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 4/5/2017 would have grown to $749,165 which includes $9,534 cash and excludes $769 spent on fees and slippage.
iM-FlipSaver 60:40 | 20:80 – 2017: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 8.7%, and for the last 12 months is 9.2%. Over the same period the benchmark E60B40 performance was 7.4% and 9.2% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of iM-FlipSaver 80:20 | 20:80 gained 0.76% at a time when SPY gained 0.64%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 7/16/2015 would have grown to $194,984 which includes $374 cash and excludes $5,614 spent on fees and slippage.
iM-FlipSaver 70:30 | 20:80 – 2017: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 10.5%, and for the last 12 months is 11.0%. Over the same period the benchmark E60B40 performance was 7.4% and 9.2% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of iM-FlipSaver 70:30 | 20:80 gained 0.89% at a time when SPY gained 0.64%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 7/15/2015 would have grown to $206,381 which includes $830 cash and excludes $5,886 spent on fees and slippage.
iM-FlipSaver 80:20 | 20:80 – 2017: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 12.2%, and for the last 12 months is 12.8%. Over the same period the benchmark E60B40 performance was 7.4% and 9.2% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of iM-FlipSaver 80:20 | 20:80 gained 1.02% at a time when SPY gained 0.64%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/2/2017 would have grown to $217,969 which includes $60 cash and excludes $6,150 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold18-1.5HedgeFundSelect-10-6-2026
iM-5HedgeFundSelect: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 1018.55% while the benchmark SPY gained 351.93% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-5HedgeFundSelect gained 3.26% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $25,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $279,637 which includes $9,818 cash and excludes $3,596 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold10-1.iM-10LargeHedgeFundSelect-10-6-2026
iM-10LargeHedgeFundSelect: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 739.03% while the benchmark SPY gained 351.93% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-10LargeHedgeFundSelect gained 1.86% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $25,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $199,307 which includes -$9,772 cash and excludes $2,084 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold38-1.iM-Top5QQQSelect-10-6-2026
iM-Top5(QQQ)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 1898.77% while the benchmark SPY gained 351.93% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(QQQ)Select gained -0.58% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $1,998,768 which includes -$27,079 cash and excludes $35,396 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver37-1.iM-Top5XLBSelect-10-6-2026
iM-Top5(XLB)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 279.68% while the benchmark SPY gained 351.93% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(XLB)Select gained -0.77% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $379,682 which includes $3,848 cash and excludes $18,262 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver35-1.iM-Top5XLISelect-10-6-2026
iM-Top5(XLI)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 423.76% while the benchmark SPY gained 351.93% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(XLI)Select gained -1.77% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $523,760 which includes $3,704 cash and excludes $10,212 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver27-1.iM-Top5XLKSelect-10-6-2026
iM-Top5(XLK)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 1015.96% while the benchmark SPY gained 351.93% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(XLK)Select gained 2.91% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $1,115,964 which includes $3,728 cash and excludes $3,886 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver28-1.iM-Top5XLPSelect-10-6-2026
iM-Top5(XLP)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 227.81% while the benchmark SPY gained 351.93% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(XLP)Select gained 1.49% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $327,806 which includes -$1,368 cash and excludes $3,653 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver33-1.iM-Top5XLVSelect-10-6-2026
iM-Top5(XLV)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 378.54% while the benchmark SPY gained 351.93% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(XLV)Select gained -3.07% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $478,536 which includes -$9,969 cash and excludes $20,936 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver34-1.iM-Top5XLUSelect-10-6-2026
iM-Top5(XLU)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 191.87% while the benchmark SPY gained 351.93% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(XLU)Select gained 2.40% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $291,875 which includes $2,867 cash and excludes $19,252 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver36-1.iM-Top5XLYSelect-10-6-2026
iM-Top5(XLY)Select: Since inception, on 1/5/2016, the model gained 333.68% while the benchmark SPY gained 351.93% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Top5(XLY)Select gained 0.03% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/5/2016 would have grown to $433,676 which includes $450 cash and excludes $8,952 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM-Seasonal Super-Sectors (Top5 combo) : Since inception, on 11/17/2020, the model gained 142.71% while the benchmark SPY gained 134.60% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Seasonal Super-Sectors (Top5 combo) gained 1.57% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 11/17/2020 would have grown to $242,709 which includes -$476 cash and excludes $00 spent on fees and slippage.
iM-Dividend Growth Portfolio: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 25.1%, and for the last 12 months is 23.4%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 14.5% and 17.0% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Dividend Growth Portfolio gained -1.21% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 6/30/2016 would have grown to $666,486 which includes $1,552 cash and excludes $16,095 spent on fees and slippage.
iM-Gold Momentum Timer (AU, NEM, SBSW): The model’s out of sample performance YTD is -8.0%, and for the last 12 months is 17.4%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 14.5% and 17.0% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Gold Momentum Timer (AU, NEM, SBSW) gained 1.81% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 6/30/2016 would have grown to $80,326 which includes $299,177 cash and excludes Gain to date spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM-ModSum/YieldCurve Timer: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 10.9%, and for the last 12 months is 11.7%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 14.5% and 17.0% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of iM-PortSum/YieldCurve Timer gained 1.20% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/1/2016 would have grown to $424,751 which includes $144 cash and excludes $2,605 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver8-1.VDIGXtrade-10-6-2026
iM-Best10(VDIGX)-Trader: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is -4.8%, and for the last 12 months is -1.7%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 14.5% and 17.0% respectively. Since inception, on 7/1/2014, the model gained 254.58% while the benchmark SPY gained 385.13% and VDIGX gained -100.00% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Best10(VDIGX) gained -0.06% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 7/1/2014 would have grown to $354,582 which includes $656 cash and excludes $5,808 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM 6-Stock Capital Strength Portfolio: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 22.3%, and for the last 12 months is 22.2%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 14.5% and 17.0% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM 6-Stock Capital Strength Portfolio gained 0.86% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 10/28/2016 would have grown to $314,065 which includes $2,680 cash and excludes $4,732 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold7-1.USMVtrade-10-6-2026
iM-Best12(USMV)-Trader: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 20.1%, and for the last 12 months is 23.0%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 14.5% and 17.0% respectively. Since inception, on 6/30/2014, the model gained 413.23% while the benchmark SPY gained 385.13% and the ETF USMV gained -100.00% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Best12(USMV)-Trader gained -0.06% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 6/30/2014 would have grown to $513,232 which includes $1,728 cash and excludes $9,286 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold13-1.MinVolUSMVInv-10-6-2026
iM-Min Volatility(USMV) Investor (Tax Efficient): The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 18.3%, and for the last 12 months is 19.3%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 14.5% and 17.0% respectively. Since inception, on 1/3/2013, the model gained 1307.79% while the benchmark SPY gained 569.68% and the ETF USMV gained -100.00% over the same period. Over the previous week the market value of iM-Best12(USMV)Q1 gained 6.24% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/3/2013 would have grown to $1,407,789 which includes $332 cash and excludes $18,138 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM-Bond Market Trader (High-Yield Bond or 10-yr Treasury Bond): The model’s out of sample performance YTD is -3.5%, and for the last 12 months is -2.8%. Over the same period the benchmark BND performance was -2.8% and -2.1% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Bond Market Trader (High-Yield Bond or 10-yr Treasury Bond) gained -0.33% at a time when BND gained -0.22%. A starting capital of $10,000 at inception on 1/3/2000 would have grown to $143,875 which includes $2,492 cash and excludes $2,977 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM-ModSum/YieldCurve Timer: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 10.9%, and for the last 12 months is 11.7%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 14.5% and 17.0% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of iM-PortSum/YieldCurve Timer gained 1.20% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 1/1/2016 would have grown to $424,751 which includes $144 cash and excludes $2,605 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver
iM-Best2 MC-Score ETF System: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 6.4%, and for the last 12 months is 6.3%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 14.5% and 17.0% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Best2 MC-Score ETF System gained -0.15% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 6/30/2016 would have grown to $200,271 which includes $2,974 cash and excludes $5,779 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireSilver
iM-Best4 MC-Score Vanguard System: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 0.5%, and for the last 12 months is -0.4%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 14.5% and 17.0% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Best4 MC-Score Vanguard System gained -0.45% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 6/30/2016 would have grown to $183,880 which includes $8,854 cash and excludes $00 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM-Composite (SPY-IEF) Timer: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is 15.9%, and for the last 12 months is 16.7%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 14.5% and 17.0% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Composite (SPY-IEF) Timer gained 1.19% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 6/30/2016 would have grown to $250,877 which includes $2,156 cash and excludes $8,651 spent on fees and slippage.
RequireGold
iM-Composite(Gold-Stocks-Bond) Timer: The model’s out of sample performance YTD is -9.0%, and for the last 12 months is 0.9%. Over the same period the benchmark SPY performance was 14.5% and 17.0% respectively. Over the previous week the market value of the iM-Composite(Gold-Stocks-Bond) Timer gained 0.42% at a time when SPY gained 1.20%. A starting capital of $100,000 at inception on 6/30/2016 would have grown to $367,623 which includes $188 cash and excludes $10,872 spent on fees and slippage.



September 17, 2026

 

iM-Business Cycle Index

BCI-9-17-2026 BCIw-9-17-2026   The BCI is not signalling a recession

 

 



Monthly Updates

May 8, 2026

Unemployment

Fig-8.-5-8-2026 Prob-5-8-2026

The 5/8/2026 BLS Employment Situation Report reports that the April 2026 unemployment rate remained unchanged at  4.3%.

Our UER model does  signal a recession with a near  zero recession probability of (see graph).

 

 

CAPE-Cycle-ID

Fig-9a-5-8-2026Fig 9a depicts the CAPE-Cycle-ID and the year-on-year rate-of-change of the Shiller CAPE;  the level switched from -2 to 0 end of June 2023 generating a buy  signal. This indicator now invested in the markets. This indicator is described here.

To avoid the bear market, exit stocks when the spread between the 5-month and 25-month moving averages of S&P-real becomes negative and simultaneously the CAPE-Cycle-ID score is 0 or -2. (read more)

 

Estimated Forward 10-Year Returns

Fig-9b-5-8-2026The estimated forward 10‐year annualized real return is 4.7% (previous month 5.0%) with a 95% confidence interval 3.3% to 6.2%  (3.6% to 6.5%). Also refer to the  Realized Forward 10-Year Returns vs. Inflation Rate Fig-9c-5-8-2026We may be in a rising inflation period with a falling CAPE-MA35 ratio similar to 1964-1973. This implies very low or negative 10 year forward annualized real returns, much lower than the returns indicated by regression analysis shown in the Estimated Forward 10-Year Returns.

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iM-GT Timer

Fig-10-5-8-2026The iM-GT Timer, based on Google Search Trends volume indicator is not invested in the stock markets since beginning November 2025. This indicator is described here.

 

 

Trade Weighted USD

USD-5-8-2026 Will be updated later, the weekly FRED data series we used was discontinued and replacement series is daily and runs from 2015. We need to adapt our software and graphics first.

 

 

 

TIAA Real Estate Account

Fig-11.-5-8-2026The 1-year rolling return is =1.88% (previous month 2.26%) and is invested in the TIAA Real Estate Account since beginning May 2025.

Read more …

 

 

 

 

 



Favorite Websites

Advisor Perspectives/Doug Short
A Dash of Insight
Franz Lischka’s Blog
No Spin Forecast
Portfolio123
Quantocracy

 

With reference to Section 202(a)(11)(D) of the Investment Advisers Act: We are Engineers and not Investment Advisers, read more ...
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