Markets and Economy

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

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July Jobs Growth Dips, Stocks Sink on Tariff News

Jobs growth in July landed below expectations, and previous months were revised downward, showing labor may be weakening. Tariff news helped push stocks down around 1% pre-market.

Markets and Economy

Fed Holds Rates Steady; Eyes Turn to September

Federal Reserve officials leave short-term interest rates unchanged but appear to open the door for a potential rate cut later this year.

International

Tariffs: Is the Worst Behind or Ahead of Us?

Stocks are near record highs despite rising U.S. tariffs. Why have markets seemed to shrug off tariffs lately, and will it last?

Good Times Bad Times: 2025's Leadership Shifts

The market's rebound from the April lows has had a speculative, risky leadership profile—but broader participation suggests the bull can keep running for now.

Company Earnings

Q2 Tech Earnings Preview: Strength Seen Continuing

Tech earnings strength has lifted S&P 500 earnings growth in recent quarters and could again as major firms like Apple, Microsoft, and Intel gear up to report in coming weeks.

Bonds

Bonds vs. Bond Funds: Which Is Right for You?

Not sure which to choose? Here are some things to consider about individual bonds vs. bond funds.

International

Benefits of Emerging Markets Diversification

Emerging market (EM) countries are often generalized as all the same and driven by commodity prices. The reality can be very different. Here's what you should know about EM stocks now.

Markets and Economy

Schwab's Market Perspective: On Firmer Ground?

The resilient job market has supported stock gains, but Washington policy has been a primary market driver so far this year.

Company Earnings

Q2 Bank Earnings Preview: A Dimmer Light?

After mid-level performance in Q1, financials sector earnings are seen slowing in Q2, according to analysts, though favorable signs like the yield curve could help margins.

Bonds

Fixed Income: Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to questions investors are asking about Treasury bonds, tax policy, credit quality, and other issues affecting fixed income investments.

The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax, legal or investment planning advice. Where specific advice is necessary or appropriate, consult with a qualified tax advisor, CPA, financial planner or investment manager.

Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Hedging and protective strategies generally involve additional costs and do not assure a profit or guarantee against loss.

Options carry a high level of risk and are not suitable for all investors. Certain requirements must be met to trade options through Schwab. Please read the options disclosure document titled "Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options" before considering any option transaction. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.

With long options, investors may lose 100% of funds invested.

Covered calls provide downside protection only to the extent of premiums received, and prevent any profitability above the strike price of the call.

Cryptocurrency- related products carry a substantial level of risk and are not suitable for all investors. Investments in cryptocurrencies are relatively new, highly speculative, and may be subject to extreme price volatility, illiquidity, and increased risk of loss, including your entire investment in the fund. Spot markets on which cryptocurrencies trade are relatively new and largely unregulated, and therefore, may be more exposed to fraud and security breaches than established, regulated exchanges for other financial assets or instruments. Some cryptocurrency-related products use futures contracts to attempt to duplicate the performance of an investment in cryptocurrency, which may result in unpredictable pricing, higher transaction costs, and performance that fails to track the price of the reference cryptocurrency as intended. Please read more about risks of trading cryptocurrency futures here.

Futures, futures options and Forex trading involves substantial risk and is not suitable for all investors. Please read the Risk Disclosure Statement for Futures and Options prior to trading futures products.

Forex trading involves leverage, carries a substantial level of risk, and is not suitable for all investors. Please read the Risk Disclosure for Forex.

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