Markets and Economy

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

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Markets and Economy

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.

Markets and Economy

"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?

Markets and Economy

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.

Bonds

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.

Markets and Economy

Weekly Market Outlook

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

Markets and Economy

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.

Company Earnings

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.

Markets and Economy

Weak Dollar Is No Silver Lining as Firms Face Tariffs

The U.S. dollar hit 3-year lows after tariff "liberation day," and a weak greenback often aids U.S. companies with big overseas sales. That may not happen now as the trade war simmers.

International

Early Impacts of the Trade War

Theoretical forecasts and earnings announcements may provide initial insights as to the impact of current tariff proposals, although estimates may be imprecise.

US

Upside Down(side): Markets' Wild Rides

Markets have had a wild ride these past couple of weeks, alongside chaotic tariff-related news, with volatility (and its policy triggers) most elevated in the bond market.

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