Markets and Economy

Read our latest market commentary on of-the-moment trends so you can make informed investment decisions

market volatility government policy international sectors us

Bonds

Bonds vs. Bond Funds: Which Is Right for You?

Not sure which to choose? Here are some things to consider about individual bonds vs. bond funds.

Markets and Economy

Stocks Muted Early on Flat June PPI, Bank Earnings

The June Producer Price Index landed below expectations, but May data was revised to 0.3% and 0.4% for core PPI from the initially reported 0.1%. Big banks, JNJ reported earnings.

Futures

Looking to the Futures

Live cattle futures traded higher in Tuesday’s session with the cash market driving prices higher on low supply.

International

Benefits of Emerging Markets Diversification

Emerging market (EM) countries are often generalized as all the same and driven by commodity prices. The reality can be very different. Here's what you should know about EM stocks now.

Trading

The S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite managed to eke out fresh record intraday highs this week in the face of several new tariff announcements this week. However, there are signs that momentum is waning and next week has multiple potential catalysts to test the bull's resiliency.

Markets and Economy

Schwab's Market Perspective: On Firmer Ground?

The resilient job market has supported stock gains, but Washington policy has been a primary market driver so far this year.

Company Earnings

Q2 Bank Earnings Preview: A Dimmer Light?

After mid-level performance in Q1, financials sector earnings are seen slowing in Q2, according to analysts, though favorable signs like the yield curve could help margins.

Bonds

Fixed Income: Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to questions investors are asking about Treasury bonds, tax policy, credit quality, and other issues affecting fixed income investments.

2Q Earnings: The Beat Goes On?

The earnings bar is fairly low for the second quarter, setting companies up for a potential easy jump—but there will likely be more focus on forward guidance.

Markets and Economy

Easy Money? Rate Cuts May Not Ease Borrowing Costs

Though some urge rate cuts, doing that won't necessarily reduce borrowing costs if the market doesn't agree with the timing. It could raise inflation fears, hurting Treasuries.

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Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Hedging and protective strategies generally involve additional costs and do not assure a profit or guarantee against loss.

Options carry a high level of risk and are not suitable for all investors. Certain requirements must be met to trade options through Schwab. Please read the options disclosure document titled "Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options" before considering any option transaction. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.

With long options, investors may lose 100% of funds invested.

Covered calls provide downside protection only to the extent of premiums received, and prevent any profitability above the strike price of the call.

Cryptocurrency- related products carry a substantial level of risk and are not suitable for all investors. Investments in cryptocurrencies are relatively new, highly speculative, and may be subject to extreme price volatility, illiquidity, and increased risk of loss, including your entire investment in the fund. Spot markets on which cryptocurrencies trade are relatively new and largely unregulated, and therefore, may be more exposed to fraud and security breaches than established, regulated exchanges for other financial assets or instruments. Some cryptocurrency-related products use futures contracts to attempt to duplicate the performance of an investment in cryptocurrency, which may result in unpredictable pricing, higher transaction costs, and performance that fails to track the price of the reference cryptocurrency as intended. Please read more about risks of trading cryptocurrency futures here.

Futures, futures options and Forex trading involves substantial risk and is not suitable for all investors. Please read the Risk Disclosure Statement for Futures and Options prior to trading futures products.

Forex trading involves leverage, carries a substantial level of risk, and is not suitable for all investors. Please read the Risk Disclosure for Forex.

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