Trading

Learn how to develop and implement a trading plan that consists of analyzing the markets, filtering for potential opportunities, assessing risks, executing trades, and evaluating results. 

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?

Trading the VIX: Strategies for the Fear Index

Some traders use products tied to the VIX to hedge their portfolios against market declines or speculate on shifts in volatility. But trading the VIX carries significant risk.

Box Spreads: What They Are and How to Use Them

A box spread options strategy can be a useful cash management tool when executed correctly, potentially helping traders lend or borrow money synthetically via the options market.

Intro to Put Ratio Options Spreads

Discover how traders may use put ratio options spreads to pursue specific financial objectives, as well as the strategy's advantages and risks.

Q3 Retail Earnings Preview: Consumer Mood Darkens

Consumers are in a sour mood over inflation and jobs as major retailers prepare to report earnings and offer their outlooks for the holiday shopping period.

Margin Loans and Purchased Money Market Funds

Money market funds aren't the same as cash when it comes to margin loans. Understanding the key differences can help avoid surprise margin loans and interest charges.

Round Lots Regulatory Changes

New regulations will impact how bid, ask, and last sizes display on Schwab platforms starting Nov. 3, 2025. The updates will take effect automatically—no client action is required.

Unbalanced Butterfly and Strong Directional Bias

A guide to using unbalanced butterflies for traders who have a strong directional bias but want to generate income and ensure they have defined risk.

A Guide to the Covered Strangle Options Strategy

Learn how covered strangles can potentially help traders earn extra income from options and manage their stock positions during periods of sideways trading.

Investing Basics: What Are Stocks?

Start your investing journey by learning how stocks work, how to analyze them, and the benefits and risks involved with owning them.