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Investing Strategies

Insights and information on investing and more from Charles Schwab & Co. Inc.

Today's Options Market Update

The tech sector, led by Oracle, added to gains Friday after yesterday's recovery, boosting the Nasdaq. Nike fell double-digits after earnings, while the Bank of Japan hiked rates.

December 19, 2025 • Joe Mazzola

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Consider Overseas Equities

This year has been a case study regarding the potential benefits of international equities, with overseas stocks from developed markets currently on track to eclipse U.S. stocks.

December 19, 2025

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Weekly Trader's Outlook

Stocks were able to register a late-week recovery, largely supported by yesterday's inflation data, but it's unclear whether a year-end rally is in the cards for investors.

December 19, 2025

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Stocks Up on Tech Boost

The tech sector, led by Oracle, added to gains Friday after yesterday's recovery, boosting the Nasdaq. Nike fell double-digits after earnings, while the Bank of Japan hiked rates.

December 19, 2025

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Looking to the Futures

January Soybean Futures (/ZSF26) settled lower on Thursday for the fifth straight trading session, settling at $10.52 ¼.

December 19, 2025

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Investors are navigating not just uncertainty, but an unstable environment influenced by tariffs and inflation, among other factors. While volatility may increase, there is likely room for another solid year in 2026, especially for fixed income and international stocks.

December 12, 2025

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How Stock Buybacks Work

Stock buybacks are a major driver of equity markets. Learn how they work, why companies use them, the risks involved, and how to evaluate them as an investor.

December 11, 2025

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2026 International Outlook

International stocks could be poised for another strong year in 2026 due to accelerating global growth, attractive valuations and the potential for dollar weakness.

December 09, 2025

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Consider Longer-Term Munis

Municipal bonds are well suited for the needs of tax-conscious investors. And given relative yields, we think that high-quality, longer-term municipal bonds are worth considering.

December 04, 2025

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2026 Municipal Bonds Outlook

We believe municipal bonds will continue to offer attractive tax-adjusted yields in 2026, while credit quality should remain stable.

December 04, 2025

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2026 Fixed Income Outlook

Overall, we expect 2026 to be another good year of returns for bond investors, but the range of potential outcomes is wide.

December 03, 2025

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Zeroing In on 0DTE Options

Explore the popularity of 0DTE options trading. With increased volume comes tighter spreads but beware of market volatility. Learn about the potential risks and rewards.

December 02, 2025

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How Portfolio Margin Works

Portfolio margin is available to qualified Schwab clients who have a margin account and meet the requirements. Learn more about what it is, how it works, and the risks involved.

December 01, 2025

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Personal Finance Calendar

A month-by-month guide to help get your finances in top shape this year.

November 26, 2025

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Contango vs. Backwardation

The slope of a futures curve—whether in contango or backwardation—can greatly impact the profitability and risk involved in several trading strategies.

November 25, 2025

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Transports Slow, Role Unclear

Amid tech competition and industry challenges, transports—long seen as an economic barometer—were outpaced by major indexes over the last year. Is the sector still a useful tool?

November 24, 2025

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Trading the VIX

Some traders use products tied to the VIX to hedge their portfolios against market declines or speculate on shifts in volatility. But trading the VIX carries significant risk.

November 21, 2025

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Insights & Education are provided by Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.

The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned here may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decision. All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions. Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness, or reliability cannot be guaranteed. Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.