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Markets & Economy

Get timely stock market analysis, perspectives and ideas from Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.

2026 Market Pitfalls

After three strong years in a row, major indexes ended the year seeking direction. While optimism abounds, here are some potential issues that could trip up U.S. stocks.

December 22, 2025 • Joe Mazzola

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Today's Options Market Update

Stocks are higher across the board, led by gains in the Russell 2000, as investors position ahead of a data-light, holiday-shortened week.

December 22, 2025

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Monday's Schwab Market Update Podcast

Improving investor sentiment around AI helped stocks claw back late last week, while trading could be light in coming days ahead of holiday closures. GDP data is due tomorrow.

December 22, 2025

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Stocks Rise on AI Trade

AI-related stocks rose early Monday, a positive sign for investors hoping for a Santa Claus rally in a week that's light on earnings report and economic data.

December 22, 2025

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Looking to the Futures

Crude oil futures (/CLG26) ended the week in the green as prices find support from geopolitical concerns.

December 22, 2025

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One Big Beautiful Bill Act Tax Cuts

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act preserves and expands many of the tax breaks that were due to expire at the end of this year.

December 19, 2025

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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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What Is a Recession?

Understand how a recession is defined and how to avoid common investment mistakes during recession-driven stock market downturns.

December 17, 2025

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Market Snapshot

Liz Ann Sonders shares her perspective on the U.S. stock market and economy in this monthly Market Snapshot video.

December 12, 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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Fed Cuts Interest Rates

The Federal Reserve lowered its policy interest rate by 25 basis points, as widely expected. However, Fed Chairman Powell hinted at a pause ahead, and there were several dissents.

December 10, 2025

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Hidden Economic Indicators

Researching lesser-known economic indicators on the thinkorswim® platform is a low-effort way to potentially elevate an investor's game.

December 10, 2025

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2026 U.S. Stocks Outlook

We believe the macro environment will continue to be unstable given policy crosscurrents and a wobbly labor market, but stocks can likely churn higher given a firmer earnings backdrop.

December 09, 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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Stock Sector Outlook

Our outlook on the 11 S&P 500 equity sectors.

December 05, 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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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.