Experts offer their insights on the U.S. and global markets

Successful investing begins with being informed. Read the insights of top Schwab professionals and keep up with the daily flux of the stock market.

US Market Commentary

The S&P 600: An Often-Overlooked Small-Cap Index

Funds that track the S&P 600 can provide investors exposure to the growth potential of small-cap stocks, with a profitability screen to weed out struggling companies.
September 30, 2025

Uncertainty on Tap as Possible D.C. Shutdown Looms

As Washington faces a midnight deadline to keep the government open, investors worry that key jobs data due later this week could be delayed, with a possible impact on Fed policy.
September 30, 2025

Stocks Down, Volatility Up as D.C. Shutdown Looms

Anxiety over a possible government shutdown and its impact on jobs data later this week have stocks lower this morning. The government will close if there's no deal by midnight.
September 30, 2025

Looking to the Futures

Gold prices set another all-time high pushing +50 points higher yesterday as the dollar continues to slide.
September 30, 2025

AI: Stairway to Heaven or Heartbreaker?

AI technology has the potential to profoundly improve industries and markets, but not without some risks—like valuation and profitability—that investors should be aware of.
September 29, 2025

Jobs, D.C. in Focus After Stocks Post Losing Week

Jobs data, Fed speakers, Nike earnings and D.C. events are all on investors' minds heading into the new week. Though rate cut odds and stocks rose Friday, so did Treasury yields.
September 29, 2025

Three Positives Result in Negative Stocks

GDP, unemployment claims, and durable goods data all came in better than expected, changing expectations to the Fed rate cuts causing stocks to sell off.
September 26, 2025

Sector Views: Monthly Stock Sector Outlook

Our outlook on the 11 S&P 500 equity sectors.
September 26, 2025

Weekly Trader's Outlook

All the major indices are on track for modest losses, mostly driven by profit taking in the tech/momentum space, but this week's economic data supports the notion of a healthy economy.
September 26, 2025

Stocks Stagnate as AI Companies Consolidate

Stock indexes retreated on Wednesday as AI tech companies settle lower. A weaker dollar could help multinational and foreign companies as the Fed navigates a sticky situation.
September 25, 2025

Fed's Dilemma: Boost Job Growth or Fight Inflation

As the Fed cuts rates while struggling to balance slowing job growth with inflation concerns, the central bank's independence is being tested. What's the impact on investors?
September 25, 2025

Precious Metals Shine Despite Hawkish Fed

Gold and silver have experienced large returns in 2025 and there are signs that they’ll continue. Bitcoin recently lost ground to gold, but seasonal cycles could cause a catch up.
September 24, 2025

Is the Chinese Stock Market Rally Sustainable?

Chinese equities have surged amid investor optimism about AI innovation and certain government initiatives, despite a slowdown in China's economy.
September 22, 2025

Understanding Risk-Based Concentration and Margin

Margin increases potential return—and risk. To help protect clients and the firm, Charles Schwab uses a risk-based concentration model to set margin requirements.
September 18, 2025

Fed Cuts Rates, Citing Weakening Job Market

As expected, the Federal Reserve cut its short-term interest rate, citing concerns about slowing job growth. Where Fed policy goes from here is less clear.
September 17, 2025

Every Brea(d)th You Take: Market Concentration Risks

Greater mega-cap stock exposure carries significant upside risks, but concentration can also work against investors—helping make the case for diversification in portfolios.
September 15, 2025

Could These 5 Strategies Help You Save on Domestic Travel?

Learn five simple ways to cut costs on domestic travel while still enjoying great experiences and making the most of every trip.
September 15, 2025

Where Do Public & Private Markets Converge? (With Steven Meier)

Steven Meier, Deputy Comptroller and Chief Investment Officer for the New York City retirement systems, joins the show to discuss capital markets and public finance.
September 12, 2025

Schwab's Market Perspective: The Inflation Problem

A Federal Reserve rate cut won't necessarily lower longer-term bond yields or mortgage rates.
September 12, 2025

An Investor's Guide to Options Income ETFs

Options income ETFs offer investors a unique combination of high yields, downside cushion, and reduced volatility, but they come with risks worth considering.
September 11, 2025

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