These sort of record low cash levels in the funds are generally indicative of a short term top in equities.
“'Simon, Simon, behold! Satan has demanded permission to have all of you, to sift you like wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith may not fail. And once you have returned, you must strengthen your brothers.' And Simon said, 'Lord, I am ready to go with you, to prison and death.' Jesus answered, 'Before the cock crows, you will deny three times that you even know me.'" Luke 22:31-34
These sort of record low cash levels in the funds are generally indicative of a short term top in equities.
The mutual funds, and those who give them their money to invest, look to be about 'all in' with regard to US equities.
As I recall, the bond funds have decent cash levels, and the piling into short term Treasuries at negative interest rates is certainly a phenomenon.
The hypocrisy and venality of the US financial sector knows no bounds, and they seem to have bought off the guardians of he public trust. The US government desperately needs to sustain confidence and the aura of recovery. They do not need a falling stock market to say the least. And yet, they have to continue funding record levels of debt issuance every month.
A lot of demand for funds, and many of the players close to flat busted.
It may be an interesting year.