With economic growth rising at a stronger rate than expected for this part of the cycle and inflation holding above the 2.0% target, the Fed appears more cautious about the need for rate cuts.
U.S. stocks retreated as the Fed indicated it likely would lower rates only twice in 2025. The Dow dropped more than 1,000 points, and the S&P slid almost 3%. The Nasdaq lost 3.6%.
Surprises most often are hiding in plain sight. Being aware and prepared with a plan for the unexpected are keys to achieving goals.
We expect gears to shift as potential policy changes under the Trump administration add to uncertainty about inflation and the global economy.
Our outlook on the 11 S&P 500 equity sectors.
The U.S. economy and stock market are entering 2025 from a position of strength, but risks of volatility—especially pertaining to policy—are much higher compared to last year.
Strong 2024 performance may be tough to replicate given tight credit spreads, but we still have a favorable view on corporate bond investments given the strong economy.
We believe municipal bonds currently offer a compelling balance of risk and reward for investors in higher tax brackets.
The bond market is caught between the Federal Reserve's plans to cut interest rates and the risk of higher inflation and federal debt levels.
International markets are expected to clear the hurdles of uncertain trade policy, tighter fiscal policy and slower than average economic growth to support solid overall returns.
You're interested in investing in municipal bonds, but which type—general obligation or revenue—is best for you? We break it down.
Some post-election stock market excitement has receded, but the story of strong breadth—which predated the election—has not changed and continues to support the market for now.
Treasury inflation-protected securities can help buffer a portfolio against inflation. However, it's important to understand their unique characteristics and complex nature.
Market reactions to a potential trade war may be less extreme than anticipated by investors, although volatility is likely during trade negotiations.
The period from the 1960s to the 1990s defined by record-setting inflation and big swings in GDP bears a striking resemblance to the current environment.
AI chip-leader Nvidia reports Wednesday after recent guidance from cloud providers suggests the demand powering its shares could continue. Its own guidance, however, could be key.
Declining inflation has been a theme for the economy since mid-2022, but we still believe the road may have some curves.
Recent data, early results, and a relatively firm economy point toward possible improvement in Q3 retail earnings as Walmart, Target, and other big-box stores prepare to report.
Republicans won the White House and Senate in the 2024 U.S. election, while vote counting continues for the House of Representatives. Here's a look at the policies that could affect markets.
The Fed cut rates by 0.25%, with limited changes to the statement, while Powell's blunt "no" response about any coming political pressure to resign was headline grabbing.
Stocks and yields made slight early gains but attention is mainly on today's U.S. election. ISM Services data and a 10-year note auction lie ahead, and bond volatility is high.
The Treasury yield curve is an important economic indicator that, depending on its shape, can signal changes in market expectations and provide economic insight.
Although investing in in-state municipal bonds may have tax advantages, there can be good reasons to buy out-of-state munis.
Earnings season is shaping up to be relatively strong so far, but the market will likely continue to shift focus to an increasingly murky sales picture.
The tech sector approaches third-quarter earnings season in unusual territory, with investors worried about a slowdown in earnings growth over the last year. Margins loom large.
Tighter fiscal policy in Europe and China may hinder the economic response to easing monetary policy, with a resulting shift in investors' focus.
Agency bonds issued by government-sponsored enterprises can offer slightly higher yields than U.S. Treasury bonds, without requiring bondholders to take on too much additional risk.
Turbulent market conditions can make anyone nervous. Here's what investors should know about dealing with them.
This unique bull market is still young relative to history and, for now, supported by relatively healthy breadth and broadening participation.
Has the Federal Reserve achieved an economic "soft landing"? A resilient U.S. economy suggests it may have.
After the Fed's 50-basis-point rate cut, big banks kick off earnings season amid fears that lower rates could hurt the net-interest income that propelled growth the last two years.
Should China deliver sufficient stimulus to break the cycle of tightening fiscal policy, we may find China, and emerging markets, investable again.
How will the U.S. dollar respond to Federal Reserve rate cuts? The factors that have supported a strong dollar for years remain largely intact.
Historically, staying invested has been, in our view, an effective strategy and one to consider when it comes to election years and beyond.
Policy, more likely to be dictated by economic circumstances, may not resemble generous populist proposals, which could limit their impact on stock markets.
Schwab Sector Views is our six- to 12-month outlook for stock sectors, which represent broad sectors of the economy. The Schwab Center for Financial Research (SCFR) combines a factor-based approach with a market and economic assessment to determine the ratings. For the basics on sectors, please see Stock Sectors: What Are They? How Are They Used?
From "how" to "why now," here are four things investors should understand about bond investing.
Policymakers indicated that more interest rate cuts were likely in coming months.
Panic is never a good investment strategy—nor is greed. Here's how disciplined investing helps navigate through volatile environments.
The Federal Reserve is widely expected to begin cutting interest rates at its September meeting. Market performance may depend on whether the pace of cuts is fast or slow.
Certificates of deposit (CDs) and Treasuries both can offer steady, predictable investment income—but how to decide between them? Here are five factors to help you choose.
How are bull and bear markets defined and how should you approach them as an investor?
While the pace of Federal Reserve cuts is in question, all roads lead to lower interest rates.
Given the backdrop of monetary policy stimulus, the global economy is poised for growth and international stocks for continued leadership.
Stock buybacks have boomed in recent years. With corporate cash flows remaining high and potential rate cuts from the Fed, the trend appears set to continue.
Investors should be careful what they wish for in hoping for an aggressive Fed rate cutting cycle, given stocks tend to do better when cuts are slow and steady.
High-yield bonds have been one of the best-performing bond investments so far this year, but there may be better entry points down the road.
Although we think it's too early to declare the economy is in a recession, risk is elevated. For investors who are concerned about a recession, municipal bonds may help buffer a portfolio.
