VanEck Semiconductor ETF Posts 6.8% Average May Gain, 90% Win Rate
The VanEck Semiconductor ETF has averaged a 6.8% gain in May over the past decade with a 90% winning rate, while the PHLX Semiconductor Index notched an 18-day win streak that saw it add nearly 45%. Semiconductor stocks comprise 13 of the S&P 500’s 25 best historical May performers, led by Nvidia’s 22% gain.
1. SMH May Seasonality
The VanEck Semiconductor ETF has delivered a 6.8% average return in May over the past decade and achieved a 90% win rate, making it one of only two tracked ETFs with such consistency in that month.
2. PHLX Semiconductor Index Momentum
The PHLX Semiconductor Index recorded an 18-day win streak before a brief pullback, gaining nearly 45% over that span, with Nvidia contributing a 22% rise and fueling sector momentum.
3. Top Historical May Performers
Semiconductor stocks account for 13 of the S&P 500’s 25 best historical May performers, including Nvidia, Broadcom and Texas Instruments among 11 SOX components, underscoring the sector’s seasonal strength.
4. May Earnings Catalysts
Four SMH components—ON Semiconductor, Microchip Technology, Analog Devices and Applied Materials—are set to report earnings in May, with options markets pricing in implied moves up to 12.3% ahead of their releases.