Overseas markets outperformed US markets over the last 13 months.
Yes, international (overseas) markets have significantly outperformed U.S. markets over the last 13 months (specifically spanning 2025 through early 2026). After a long period of "U.S. exceptionalism," a major shift occurred where foreign equities broke their decade-long lag to outperform U.S. markets by roughly 15%.
Performance Highlights (Last 13+ Months)
2025 Performance: International equities outperformed U.S. stocks, with the MSCI All Country World ex-USA index gaining 29.2%, significantly outpacing the S&P 500's 16.39% gain.
Detailed Returns (2025): The MSCI EAFE Index (developed international) returned approximately 32%, and the MSCI Emerging Markets Index returned 34%.
Key Outperformers: Several international markets saw dramatic gains, including South Korea's Kospi (up nearly 76%), Japan's Nikkei 225 (up 26%), and strong performances from Germany's DAX, Mexico, and Canada.
Early 2026 Trend: The trend continued into 2026, with Asian equities and other international markets extending their lead over the S&P 500 through January and early February.