Markets and Economy

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

Weekly Trader's Outlook

Stocks maintained decent bullish momentum, supported by strong mega-cap tech earnings reports and improving sentiment around trade negotiations.

Schwab Market Update

The unemployment rate remained at 4.2% in April, while jobs growth hit 177,000, indicating the labor market is relatively healthy. Apple and Amazon fell as earnings disappointed.

Looking to the Futures

The Russell 2000 is down 11% for the year, nearly twice as much as the large-cap indexes.

"Soft" Data Hits Hard: Why Does Sentiment Matter?

University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment is a so-called "soft" report, not reflecting "hard" data like GDP or CPI. It moved markets recently, so how much attention should investors pay?

Why Is the U.S. Dollar Declining?

Historically the United States dollar strengthens when U.S. Treasury yields rise. But the reverse happened in April after the White House announced widespread tariffs.

Dominoes: Recessions' History Guide

Recession risk remains elevated, likely only receding with a fuller "pivot" in tariff-related uncertainty. While every recession is unique, history can provide a guide.

Weekly Market Outlook

Chief Global Investment Strategist Jeffrey Kleintop's 90-second take on the markets for the week ahead.

The State of Rates and the Bond Market During Uncertainty

Collin Martin and Kathy Jones dissect the current environment for different types of bonds and bond investors.

Q1 Tech Earnings Preview: Tariffs Chip Confidence

As major tech firms like Apple and Microsoft report, they face questions about the impact of tariffs. Q1 results may be discounted, with strength seen as pre-tariff demand.

Washington Washout: Stocks Dip on Fed, Trade Fears

Trump's criticism of Fed Chair Powell, along with lack of trade progress, hit stocks and pushed yields higher. The dollar reached new 3-year lows and gold made all-time highs.