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Perspectives

Expert insight & commentary on retirement, personal finance, investing strategies and more from Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.

Retirement

Beyond the 4% Rule

How much can you spend without running out of money? The 4% rule is a popular rule of thumb, but you can do better. Here are guidelines for finding your personalized spending rate.

March 27, 2026 Chris Kawashima

The Saver's Tax Credit

If you contribute to an IRA, 401(k), or other retirement plan, you may qualify for the Saver's Credit. Learn more about how the Saver's Tax Credit works.

March 25, 2026

5 Roth IRA Alternatives

If you're interested in contributing to a Roth IRA but your income exceeds IRS limits, you still have other tax-smart ways to save for retirement.

March 17, 2026

Financial Independence

Financial independence means having the freedom and flexibility to live life on your terms. Here's how you can begin to achieve it.

March 11, 2026

Stable Value Funds Explained

Stable value funds combine high-quality bond portfolios with insurance-based contracts to preserve capital and provide steady returns for retirement investors or education savers.

March 10, 2026

Investing Strategies

Options Spreads and Volatility

Bid/ask options spreads widen during volatile markets as market makers adapt how they manage trades amid increased uncertainty.

March 30, 2026

Staples Down Since War

During geopolitical strife, some investors seek possible stability in consumer staples. Despite their reputation, staples underperformed the broader market after the Iran war began.

March 30, 2026

Stocks Up Despite Oil

Stocks rebounded early from last Friday's selloff even though oil is back above $100. A drop in Treasury yields provided a tailwind amid mixed signals on de-escalation progress.

March 30, 2026

Looking to the Futures

Crude oil futures prices rose sharply this past week.

March 30, 2026

Markets & Economy

Options Spreads and Volatility

Bid/ask options spreads widen during volatile markets as market makers adapt how they manage trades amid increased uncertainty.

March 30, 2026

Staples Down Since War

During geopolitical strife, some investors seek possible stability in consumer staples. Despite their reputation, staples underperformed the broader market after the Iran war began.

March 30, 2026

Monday's Schwab Market Update Podcast

A series of key jobs reports could take focus off of geopolitics and oil at least somewhat in a week shortened by the Good Friday holiday. Nonfarm payrolls is due Friday.

March 30, 2026

Personal Finance & Planning

Monday's Schwab Market Update Podcast

A series of key jobs reports could take focus off of geopolitics and oil at least somewhat in a week shortened by the Good Friday holiday. Nonfarm payrolls is due Friday.

March 30, 2026

Staples Down Since War

During geopolitical strife, some investors seek possible stability in consumer staples. Despite their reputation, staples underperformed the broader market after the Iran war began.

March 30, 2026

Options Spreads and Volatility

Bid/ask options spreads widen during volatile markets as market makers adapt how they manage trades amid increased uncertainty.

March 30, 2026

Money Talk

7 Common Car Buying Mistakes

Buying on emotion is just one potential car-buying pitfall. Here are seven other common mistakes and what you can do to avoid them.

August 14, 2024 Patrick Means

Family Loan Do's and Don'ts

While there are pitfalls to lending a family member money, there can also be rewards. Just be sure to clearly set expectations and limits right from the start.

August 07, 2024

5 Types of Mortgage Loans

If you're looking for a mortgage loan, here are five types to consider. Check out the pros and cons to help you choose the right one for you.

July 31, 2024

Starting a 401(k) in Your 20s

Retirement may seem far away, but starting to save in a 401(k) in your 20s is one of the best things you can do for your future self. Here's why.

December 03, 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.