Greetings! Many of you are aware of Apple's recent stock split, but did you know there were also other changes to the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA), one of the most widely followed stock market indices? Salesforce.com, Amgen, and Honeywell International have replaced Exxon Mobil, Pfizer, and Raytheon Technologies. The change went into effect before the market opened on Monday, August 31.1 It’s important for us to know these changes took effect and to have a little better understanding of the financial markets. But remember that the DJIA has made several adjustments since it was first published in 1896, so a change to the Dow 30 lineup is nothing new.2 The index changes were prompted by Dow component Apple’s decision to split its stock four-for-one, which took effect on August 31.3 The DJIA is a price-weighted index, meaning the 30 companies are weighted in proportion to their price per share. By splitting its shares, Apple effectively reduced its influence—and the entire technology sector’s influence— on the Dow. In fact, Apple’s move reduced the dow's technology weighting from nearly 28% to 20%! The addition of Salesforce is designed to help bolster the technology sector.3 Put another way, before the split, Apple was the most influential component in the DJIA. After the split, it dropped to 17th.3 Some market analysts said the changes make the index “more in tune with the new economy.” The DJIA changes reflect the growing influence of technology and the waning influence of the old economy. Oil and gas multinational Exxon, for example, joined the Dow more than 90 years ago in 1928! 4,5 As always, please remember that the companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. |
1. S&P Dow Jones Indices, August 24, 2020 2. Investopedia, August 2018 3. CNBC.com, August 24, 2020 4. CNBC.com, August 25, 2020 5. Reuters.com, August 24, 2020 |
The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite, LLC, is not affiliated with the named representative, broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. All market indices discussed are unmanaged and are not illustrative of any particular investment. Indices do not incur management fees, costs and expenses, and cannot be invested into directly. |
Dow 30 Changes Its Starting Lineup
