ECI Report

Correlation Analyzer

Asset Correlation Analyzer

See how different assets and sectors move together — or apart — across economic cycles. Build a smarter, more diversified portfolio by understanding real correlation patterns.

Why Correlation Matters

Assets with low or negative correlations are better diversifiers. They don't move in lockstep, so when one struggles, the other might hold up — protecting your portfolio during downturns.

Correlation Analysis

Coefficient

50%

S&P 500
↔
Bonds

Data not available

What this means: Correlation ranges from -1 (opposite) to +1 (identical). Moderate correlation = some diversification benefit.

Performance During Each Cycle Stage

How these assets historically performed in different economic environments.

Early RecoveryEarly ExpansionLate ExpansionEarly ContractionRecessionTrough-20-1001020Return %
  • spy
  • agg

Early Recovery

Stocks lead, bonds lag

Early Expansion

Divergence widens

Late Expansion

Bonds decline, stocks hold

Early Contraction

Flight to safety

Recession

Bonds rally hard

Trough

Bonds peak first

How to Read Correlations

+1.0 (Perfect Positive)

Move identically in the same direction

Ex: SPY & QQQ — both equity indices

💡 Poor diversifiers; choose one or allocate lightly to both

0 to +0.5 (Weak Positive)

Generally move together, but not always

Ex: Stocks & Real Estate

💡 Some diversification benefit; allocate differently

-1.0 to 0 (Negative)

Move in opposite directions

Ex: Stocks & Bonds (especially in recessions)

💡 Excellent diversifiers; use to balance risk

Practical Example: The Classic 60/40 Portfolio

60% Stocks (SPY)

Growth engine. Performs well in expansions. Struggles in recessions.

⚠️ Risky alone during downturns

40% Bonds (AGG)

Stability anchor. Generates income. Often rallies when stocks fall.

✓ Negative correlation = natural hedge

In a recession: Stocks might drop 20%, but bonds might gain 10%. Your 60/40 portfolio loses roughly 8% instead of 20%. That negative correlation saved you 12 percentage points of loss — a life-changing difference over decades.

This tool is educational. Historical correlations do not guarantee future relationships. Correlations can change during market dislocations. Consult a financial advisor for personalized guidance.