An old stock-market adage applies this month — how you should play it in 2026

The adage "sell Rosh Hashanah, buy Yom Kippur" suggests that investors should sell their stocks around Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, which typically falls in September or October, and then buy back around Yom Kippur, a day of atonement that occurs about 10 days later. This strategy is based on historical market trends, which have shown that the market often experiences a downturn during this period.

While past performance is not a guarantee of future results, some analysts believe that this strategy can be effective due to the timing of Jewish holidays and the typical market behavior during this time. Historically, the market has tended to decline between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, making it a potentially profitable strategy for investors who sell before the downturn and buy back at lower prices. However, it's essential to note that this approach should be considered in the context of a broader investment strategy and not relied upon as the sole investment decision.

Looking ahead to 2026, investors should keep an eye on market trends and economic indicators to determine if this strategy will continue to be effective. As always, it's crucial to consider individual financial goals, risk tolerance, and market conditions before making any investment decisions. For now, brokers should be prepared to advise clients on the potential implications of this strategy and help them make informed investment choices.

Originally reported by marketwatch.com. BrokerNews adds analysis for finance & markets readers.