Markets and Economy

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

market volatility government policy international sectors us
International

Can AI Continue to Drive Emerging Market Stocks?

Emerging market stocks have rebounded to new highs following their correction at the onset of the Iran war. The recent rally has been concentrated around AI. Can this continue?

Markets and Economy

Inflation Data, War News Could Dominate Week Ahead

With the earnings calendar lighter, investors focus on two key inflation reports, retail sales and war news this week. The tech rally took indexes to new record highs Friday.

Markets and Economy

Inflation Monitor: Warsh Dismisses 'Rough Swag'

Kevin Warsh, the presumptive incoming chair of the Federal Reserve, states his preferred inflation gauges over the Personal Consumption Expenditures price index.

Markets and Economy

Rising Oil, Lack of War Progress Sends Stocks Lower

Lack of progress on Iran sent oil up 2%, stalling the long rally. This week features key inflation data, a Trump visit to China, and the likely approval of a new Fed chairman.

Markets and Economy

April Jobs Data Looms Large, but Expectations Low

The nonfarm payrolls report for April at 8:30 a.m. could be today's scene stealer despite an uncertain situation in the Persian Gulf. Analysts expect jobs growth of around 60,000.

Markets and Economy

As Jobs Report Looms, Market Visits McDonald's

Earnings from McDonald's and a monthly tally of layoffs are both in focus this morning, along with the Middle East. Yesterday's fresh record highs came as crude oil tumbled.

Markets and Economy

First Quarter 2026 Earnings: Feelin' Alright

S&P 500 first quarter 2026 earnings are tracking at nearly 28% year-over-year, with rising profit margins suggesting the strong run could persist.

Markets and Economy

Jobs Data, Disney Awaited After New Record Highs

Stocks are at record highs after Tuesday's chip-led rally. Investors await ADP jobs data and Disney earnings this morning as they mull solid results from Advanced Micro Devices.

Markets and Economy

Jobs Data Parade Starts as Middle East Fears Rise

The tenuous ceasefire is under strain and oil and yields have climbed, putting stocks on defense as investors face job openings data and await Advanced Micro Devices earnings.

Trading

Weekly Trader's Outlook

Both the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite hit fresh highs this week as corporate earnings continue to deliver. While uncertainty around Iran and the trajectory of oil prices persists, investors appear willing to overlook that potential risk.

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.

0924-RGR0