Summary

• The Dow Jones surged to record highs on improving consumer sentiment, easing gas prices, and optimism over the U.S.-Iran peace deal.
• The oldest barometer of the U.S. stock market, the Dow Jones offers exposure to industry leaders and the world's most recognized companies.
• Despite the index's high profile and solid performance, only a handful of the 30 blue chips in the Dow Jones have Quant Ratings above a Hold.
• Using Seeking Alpha's Portfolio Analyzer, I ran the Dow Jones index through the Quant System and uncovered the three best quant-rated stocks.
• I am Steven Cress, Head of Quantitative Strategies at Seeking Alpha. I manage the quant ratings and factor grades on stocks and ETFs in Seeking Alpha Premium. I also lead Quant Growth and Income, which is a model portfolio for dividend investors interested in capital appreciation and income.

Dow Tops Record High

From its first close at 40.94 in 1896 to recent highs above 51,000, the Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJI) is the oldest continuous barometer of the U.S. stock market, containing some of the world

Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it. I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.

Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given that any particular security, portfolio, transaction or investment strategy is suitable for any specific person. The author is not advising you personally concerning the nature, potential, value or suitability of any particular security or other matter. You alone are solely responsible for determining whether any investment, security or strategy, or any product or service, is appropriate or suitable for you based on your investment objectives and personal and financial situation. Steven Cress is the Head of Quantitative Strategy at Seeking Alpha. Any views or opinions expressed herein may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank.