Markets and Economy

Read our latest market commentary on of-the-moment trends so you can make informed investment decisions

Schwab Market Update

After the Fed kept rates paused as anticipated, stocks climbed on hopes of a trade deal with the U.K. and after Trump said a Biden-era chip export restriction might go away.

Fed Holds Rates Steady but Warns of Rising Risks

The Fed held the federal funds rate steady but noted that the risks of slowing economic growth and higher inflation have risen.

Tariffs: Q1 Impacts and Q2 Negotiations

A look back at the impacts of tariff announcements last quarter, and what we might expect from tariff negotiations during the 90-day implementation delay in Q2.

Weekly Market Outlook

Chief Global Investment Strategist Jeffrey Kleintop's 90-second take on the markets for the week ahead.

"Soft" Data Hits Hard: Why Does Sentiment Matter?

University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment is a so-called "soft" report, not reflecting "hard" data like GDP or CPI. It moved markets recently, so how much attention should investors pay?

Why Is the U.S. Dollar Declining?

Historically the United States dollar strengthens when U.S. Treasury yields rise. But the reverse happened in April after the White House announced widespread tariffs.

Dominoes: Recessions' History Guide

Recession risk remains elevated, likely only receding with a fuller "pivot" in tariff-related uncertainty. While every recession is unique, history can provide a guide.

The State of Rates and the Bond Market During Uncertainty

Collin Martin and Kathy Jones dissect the current environment for different types of bonds and bond investors.

Q1 Tech Earnings Preview: Tariffs Chip Confidence

As major tech firms like Apple and Microsoft report, they face questions about the impact of tariffs. Q1 results may be discounted, with strength seen as pre-tariff demand.

Weak Dollar Is No Silver Lining as Firms Face Tariffs

The U.S. dollar hit 3-year lows after tariff "liberation day," and a weak greenback often aids U.S. companies with big overseas sales. That may not happen now as the trade war simmers.