The data for March is in, which means we can update our asset class scoreboard to reflect the first quarter of 2013. As it turns out, March was a fantastic month for investors nearly irrespective of where investors had their money (at least, according to our proxies for the various asset classes). Every asset class we track finished the month above February levels except for bonds, which is also the only asset class that remains in the red so far in 2013 (Disclaimer: past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results).

Managed futures held its own for another month, but still trails stocks and real estate. Trends continued in a number of markets, but a lack of volatility has meant that many markets have only been creeping along (grains being the notable exception). Trend followers are enjoying the smaller number of whipsaw days, for sure, but it may take a little more conviction behind these market moves for managed futures to truly shine. Still, middle of the pack is a fine place to be while we keep on waiting for better conditions to arrive. (Disclaimer: past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results)

Managed Futures = Newedge CTA Index, Cash = 13 week T-Bill rate,
Bonds = Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF (BND), Hedge Funds = DJCS Core Hedge Fund Index
Commodities = iShares GSCI ETF (GSG), Real Estate = iShares DJ Real Estate ETF (IYR)
World Stocks = MCSI World Index (ex USA), US Stocks = S&P 500