Markets & Economy
Get timely stock market analysis, perspectives and ideas from Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.
Markets & Economy
Today's Options Market Update
Investors expect a 25-basis-point rate cut today, with a small chance of 50 basis points. The Fed's economic and rate projections loom large, along with Chairman Powell's remarks.
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.
Stocks Flat Ahead of Fed
Investors expect a 25-basis point rate cut today, with a small chance of 50 basis points. The Fed's economic and rate projections loom large, along with Chairman Powell's remarks.
Looking to the Futures
Japanese Yen futures (/6J) indecisive as of late as traders await policy decisions.
Washington: What to Watch Now
The Federal Reserve holds the strangest FOMC meeting in memory, while Congress faces another potential government shutdown.
Markets & Economy
Monday's Schwab Market Update Podcast
All eyes will be on the Federal Reserve this week, with investors hoping for a rate cut, and signs of more market-boosting cuts on the horizon.
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.
Markets & Economy
Weekly Trader's Outlook
Stocks looked past softening labor market data and took a "don't fight the Fed" stance this week as stocks climbed higher into record territory.
Market Snapshot
Liz Ann Sonders shares her perspective on the U.S. stock market and economy in this monthly Market Snapshot video.
Fiscal Concerns and Stocks
Progress on reducing fiscal deficits has stalled in some large economies around the world. Should investors be worried?
Markets & Economy
Lower Bond Yields: You Can't Get There From Here
The Federal Reserve may cut rates a couple of times by year-end, but the pace and magnitude of easing in 2026 is unclear. There are still some roadblocks to lower bond yields.
Is Housing Bottoming?
The housing market remains out of sync with the broader economy as affordability is depressed, but an improvement in supply and demand dynamics might be on the horizon.
Stock Sector Outlook
Our outlook on the 11 S&P 500 equity sectors.
Markets & Economy
How to Read the Fed 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.
International Bonds Outlook
When the value of the U.S. dollar declines, international developed-market bonds tend to become attractive. Here's why the bond outlook is more positive than it has been for the past decade.
Weak Dollar's Impact on 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.
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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.