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

How to Use Heikin Ashi Charts

Heikin ashi charts can potentially help traders identify when trends are likely to reverse. Learn how to read these charts and how to use them when trading.
January 6, 2026

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.
January 5, 2026

3 Stock Options Trading Stats on thinkorswim

Learn how three options statistics on thinkorswim—implied and historical volatility, the Sizzle Index, and the put/call ratio—can help traders make more informed decisions.
December 31, 2025

How to Invest Like a Boss—As a Teen

Check out the different types of investing accounts and how to pick the right account type for your goal.
December 26, 2025

This Cool Investing Feature Is the Key to Reaching Your Goals

See how compound growth can boost your savings.
December 26, 2025

More Than Meets the Eye: How to Read Stock Quotes

New to investing and never ventured past the buy/sell buttons? Start by learning how to read stock quotes and other technical information.
December 23, 2025

10 Answers to Common Investing Questions

Discover expert answers to some of the most common questions about investing. We'll cover topics like why to invest, when to invest, how much to invest, and more.
December 22, 2025

Closing Thoughts on a Year of Uncertainty

At the end of 2025, Liz Ann Sonders and Kathy Jones assess the resiliency of the economy.
December 19, 2025

Saving for College: 529 College Savings Plans

The 529 savings plan provides several tax advantages when used for education expenses.
December 16, 2025

Schwab's Market Perspective: 2026 Outlook

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

How Stock Buybacks Work and Why They Matter

Stock buybacks are a major driver of equity markets. Learn how they work, why companies use them, the risks involved, and how to evaluate them as an investor.
December 11, 2025

Fed Cuts Rates for the Third Time This Year

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

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.
December 10, 2025

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.
December 9, 2025

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.
December 9, 2025

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.
December 5, 2025

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.
December 3, 2025

Economic Moats: Why They Matter

Learn how durable competitive advantages like scale, brand strength, and high switching costs can potentially help companies protect profits and market share over the long term.
December 3, 2025

What Are 0DTE Options? Learn the Basics

Explore the popularity of 0DTE options trading. With increased volume comes tighter spreads but beware of market volatility. Learn about the potential risks and rewards.
December 2, 2025

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?
December 2, 2025

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