Markets and Economy

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

Weekly Trader's Outlook

Markets limped into the long Labor Day weekend after Friday's sell-off wiped out the early week gains.

Stocks Fall: Fed Policy Assessed After In-Line PCE

Today's July PCE inflation data met expectations but remains higher than the Fed's target. Stocks fell but rate cut odds remain high. Thin, pre-holiday trading could dominate.

Looking to the Futures

Wednesday’s sharp drop in gasoline illustrates the effects of the futures roll.

How to Effectively Read Federal Reserve Minutes

Learning to read the Fed minutes effectively can help traders understand the central bank's policy-making process, sentiment, and rate expectations, all of which can impact markets.

Nvidia Earnings Ahead with China, AI Spend in Focus

Nvidia, the biggest AI-chip firm, reports Wednesday. Watchlist items include the pathway toward resuming H20 chip sales in China, revenue guidance, and Blackwell growth.

Will a Weak Dollar Enhance International Returns?

International stocks have outperformed the broad U.S. stock market so far this year. If the U.S. dollar continues to weaken, it could boost international returns even more.

Health Care Sector Struggles as Pharma Tariffs Loom

U.S. health care stocks are having their worst year relative to the S&P 500 in years, and the next blow could be pharma tariffs. Still, some retail investors see opportunity.

Inflation: The Heat Is On?

July inflation data emphasized that tariff-related price pressures are still with us, in addition to some heat in the services sector—making the road to Fed cuts a bit bumpier.

Q2 Retail Earnings Preview: Demand in Question

Major retailers preparing to report are still facing uncertainty around tariffs' impact on prices and shopper demand. Fresh worries arose after disappointing July jobs data.

Schwab's Market Perspective: Downshifting

U.S. economic growth slowed decisively in the first half of the year amid concern about rising tariffs, although corporate fundamentals have remained strong.