Stocks climbed higher in August, despite a drop in consumer confidence amid the spread of the Delta variant and the possibility of travel restrictions.
Stocks closed generally higher in July, despite a downturn at the end of the month.
Stocks were volatile in May, likely a reflection of strength in the U.S. economy as well as concerns about inflation and the timing of when the Federal Reserve might begin to taper its accommodative policies.
Stocks climbed higher in April on the heels of strong first-quarter corporate earnings reports and encouraging employment data.