Markets & Economy
Get timely stock market analysis, perspectives and ideas from Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.
Markets & Economy
Today's Options Market Update
Stocks are lower across the board, led by selling pressure in the AI-related names, as investors await Fed speak later today.


Stocks Pause Near Highs
Stocks are in a holding pattern near AI-driven record highs after Monday's rally. Five Fed speakers and a Treasury auction loom, with no end to the government shutdown in sight.

Looking to the Futures
Bitcoin extended its rally to reach new all-time highs in Monday’s trading but is not the only asset that has made significant gains this year, the S&P 500 and gold have also been posting all-time highs, while the dollar index remains depressed.

Monday's Schwab Market Update Podcast
Though the government remained closed as of this recording, the coming week features plenty of action including Treasury auctions and earnings from Delta and Applied Digital.

The Delayed Impact of Tariffs
Why hasn't the broader global economy felt the full effect of tariffs on imports?
Markets & Economy

Weekly Trader's Outlook
All the major indices hit fresh record highs this week despite the U.S. government shutdown. Is there enough in the tank to sustain bullish momentum next week?

Government Shutdown
A government shutdown began just after midnight Wednesday morning. Here's what to know about how we got here and what could come next.

D.C. Buys Stocks: What to Know
The U.S. government bought shares of Intel and other companies and made a deal with Nvidia for some of its revenue. What does this mean for investors and for those firms?
Markets & Economy

The S&P 600 Explained
Funds that track the S&P 600 can provide investors exposure to the growth potential of small-cap stocks, with a profitability screen to weed out struggling companies.

AI: Heaven or Heartbreaker?
AI technology has the potential to profoundly improve industries and markets, but not without some risks—like valuation and profitability—that investors should be aware of.

Stock Sector Outlook
Our outlook on the 11 S&P 500 equity sectors.
Markets & Economy

High-Yield Munis: What to Know
High-yield munis have extra risks and yields are low relative to investment-grade munis. However, investors in higher tax brackets may still want to consider a small allocation if it fits their risk tolerance.

BLS vs. ADP Jobs Reports
BLS and ADP jobs reports often diverge, creating mixed signals. Traders need to know why this happens, and how to use these reports to spot risks, opportunities, and mispricing.

China Rally: Is It Sustainable?
Chinese equities have surged amid investor optimism about AI innovation and certain government initiatives, despite a slowdown in China's economy.
Markets & Economy

Fed Cuts Interest Rates
As expected, the Federal Reserve cut its short-term interest rate, citing concerns about slowing job growth. Where Fed policy goes from here is less clear.

Market Concentration Risks
Greater mega-cap stock exposure carries significant upside risks, but concentration can also work against investors—helping make the case for diversification in portfolios.

Perspective: Inflation Problem
A Federal Reserve rate cut won't necessarily lower longer-term bond yields or mortgage rates.
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Insights & Ideas 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 type of securities and investment strategies mentioned 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 or economic conditions.