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

Forward/Backward: 2025 Review With a Note on Venezuela

The capture of Venezuelan President Maduro has been digested well by global markets, which is in keeping with 2025’s theme of massive volatility and solid index-level returns.

Closing Thoughts on a Year of Uncertainty

At the end of 2025, Liz Ann Sonders and Kathy Jones assess the resiliency of the economy.

Trading Tools

Tracking Lesser-Known Economic Indicators

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

2026 Outlook: U.S. Stocks and Economy

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.

International

2026 Outlook: International Stocks and Economy

International stocks could be poised for another strong year in 2026 due to accelerating global growth, attractive valuations and the potential for dollar weakness.

Implications of a New Fed Chair Nominee

Liz Ann Sonders and Kathy Jones review the Federal Reserve’s latest dilemma and the complexity of policy setting in this environment.

Bonds

2026 Outlook: Treasury Bonds and Fixed Income

Overall, we expect 2026 to be another good year of returns for bond investors, but the range of potential outcomes is wide.

Markets and Economy

Utilities Lose Defensive Touch as AI Ignites Rally

Thanks to AI-generated power demand, the utilities sector is losing its traditional defensive role. Is this a permanent move, or will utilities ultimately regain their place?

Markets and Economy

Are Transports Losing Their Barometer Status?

Amid tech competition and industry challenges, transports—long seen as an economic barometer—were outpaced by major indexes over the last year. Is the sector still a useful tool?

Stocks: Less Comfortably Numb

After a gangbuster stock market rally since the early-April lows, many of the prior highfliers have taken a breather amid AI bubble and valuation concerns.

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

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