Markets and Economy

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

#bcn-card--image--4418{display: none !important;}

Fed Hikes in 12-0 Vote, Commits to Inflation Fight

Fed policymakers unanimously voted to raise rates 25 basis points, the first hike since 2023, and vowed to fight inflation. Another hike is seen this year, but 2027 is in question.

#bcn-card--image--1783{display: none !important;}

International

European Stocks: Reasons to Reconsider

European equities may have support from global growth, improving fundamentals, lower relative valuations, and fiscal spending—plus diversification from the AI cycle.

#bcn-card--image--9768{display: none !important;}

Take a Hike: Rate Hikes and Market Impacts

History suggests slower Fed tightening tends to support stronger market returns and firmer economic growth, while faster hikes typically deepen drawdowns.

#bcn-card--image--8215{display: none !important;}

Markets and Economy

What Is a Market Bubble?

Famous market bubbles share some characteristics, but it's nearly impossible to predict how big a bubble might get and when one is about to burst.

#bcn-card--image--3242{display: none !important;}

Markets and Economy

Songs of Experience: Reminiscences of a Strategist

It's been 40 years since I began my career on Wall Street and the lessons I learned along the way from some all-time investment greats always hold true.

#bcn-card--image--1624{display: none !important;}

Options

How Interest Rate Movements Affect Options Prices

Interest rates have an important effect on options prices, especially when rates are high. The options greek rho measures the impact of rates and can help when evaluating options.

#bcn-card--image--5577{display: none !important;}

Markets and Economy

Hard-Hitting 'Soft' Data: Why Surveys Matter

'Soft' reports like sentiment and confidence don't reflect 'hard' data like GDP or CPI. Still, they can affect markets and come with various strengths and weaknesses to consider.

#bcn-card--image--6958{display: none !important;}

Markets and Economy

Geopolitical Uncertainty and Your Portfolio

Geopolitical developments at home and abroad could have longer-lasting impacts on the markets. Here, three experts discuss what it all means for investors.

#bcn-card--image--7549{display: none !important;}

International

Equity Diversification in an Era of Concentration

Tech and AI are driving a greater share of global equity market returns and earnings growth, raising concentration risks and the need for broader diversification.

#bcn-card--image--3243{display: none !important;}

Markets and Economy

Sentiment Boxes to Check: Market Condition Metrics

Several metrics including Schwab's STAX report, investor sentiment data, and the greed and fear index can help investors glean how participants view market conditions.

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