Small-cap stocks have quietly outperformed large caps this year, supported by improving earnings expectations, attractive valuations, and signs of stronger domestic growth. While the backdrop is becoming more supportive, important...
Read MoreNo one likes paying taxes, but that check to the IRS is often a sign your investments are doing exactly what they’re supposed to. In today’s increasingly concentrated market environment, avoiding taxes can come at the cost of taking on...
Read MorePassive investing has gained popularity by keeping costs low and capturing most of the market’s return. It’s an advantage that has set a high bar for active managers. But a new form of active management is emerging, and in this week’s...
Read MoreBig changes could be on the way at the Federal Reserve as Kevin Warsh takes over as Chair. But one rule remains: don’t fight the Fed. In this week’s Money with Murphy, Kara explains three ways that the new Chair may change how policy...
Read MoreChampionship teams aren’t built on highlights alone, and neither are portfolios. The parts that get the least attention often matter the most when conditions get tough. In this week’s Markets in a Minute, KIM Investment Analyst Ryan...
Read MoreAfter more than a decade of U.S. leadership, international markets are making a powerful case as a complement to portfolios. With attractive valuations and earnings growth trending positively, the case for looking beyond the U.S. is...
Read MoreHeadlines are Loud, Earnings are Louder: Strong Fundamentals During Uncertain Times Markets are pushing to new highs even while geopolitical tensions persist. Strong earnings are a key reason why. In this week’s Markets in a Minute,...
Read MoreWith $1 trillion pouring into AI infrastructure, investors are wondering whether we are in a bubble and how long this boom can last. In this week’s Money with Murphy, Kara uses past technological revolutions across railroads,...
Read MoreThe private credit space has grown enormously over the last decade, luring investors with juicy yields and borrowers with bespoke terms. More recently, however, several credit issues have caused concern and sent some investors rushing...
Read MoreAfter finishing strong in 2025, the broad U.S. equities market got off to a rocky start this year. Stocks initially traded higher during the first quarter, but the onset of the Iran conflict in late February and resulting global spike...
Read MoreMarkets entered the new year on solid footing but quickly had to deal with the escalation of conflict in Iran. Oil prices surged, volatility picked up, and the investment landscape was reshaped. In this week’s Money with Murphy, Kara...
Read MoreRising oil prices that stem from the Iran conflict are putting pressure on households, but not everyone is feeling it in the same way. In this week’s Money with Murphy, Kara explains how today’s energy shock is amplifying the so-called...
Read MoreThe Iran Conflict, Geopolitics, and Oil – What Matters for InvestorsWith the conflict in the Middle East reaching its second month and traffic through the Strait of Hormuz continuing to remain at a standstill, markets have been...
Read MoreThe Iran conflict has led to a spike in market volatility, especially in the oil markets where consumers are feeling the pain at the pump. In this week’s Money with Murphy, Kara shares why the United States is uniquely positioned to...
Read MoreAfter a multi-year drought, the IPO market is showing signs of life, and 2026 could mark a turning point. A growing pipeline of long-awaited companies going public could lead to record-setting deal sizes. But with geopolitical...
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Rising oil prices amid an escalating Middle East conflict are creating new challenges for consumers, markets, and policymakers alike, with inflation risks and economic growth both hanging in the balance. This week’s Markets in a Minute...
Read MoreThe S&P 500 is on the verge of posting its fifth consecutive quarter of double-digit earnings growth, but that only tells part of the story. Leadership in the market is shifting, and performance is starting to broaden beyond the...
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Recent market volatility has been driven by a mix of growing concerns: tariffs, artificial intelligence, and growing disturbances in private credit. With so many things competing for investors' attention, it's becoming increasingly...
Read MoreSmall and Mid-Caps Are Re-Entering the ConversationFor years, investors have been rewarded by sticking with the biggest stocks in the market. That narrative may finally be starting to change. Small- and mid-cap stocks are showing early...
Read MoreBeyond Big Tech: The Global Surge in AI Adoption and Implications for InvestorsU.S. companies have been leaders in developing AI technology but global economies are embracing and deploying the technology faster. Companies integrating...
Read MoreThe ETF world isn’t the simple, low-cost marketplace it used to be. A surge in active management, higher fees, and increasingly complex strategies have reshaped the landscape. With more than 5,000 ETFs now competing for attention,...
Read MoreAfter years of record-breaking investment from the hyperscalers, 2026 may finally bring a shift. New incentives stemming from the implementation of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) could push companies outside of technology into...
Read MoreThriving in Uncertainty: Market Review and OutlookIn 2025, the S&P 500 posted its third consecutive year of double-digit gains and strong earnings growth signals the market is backed by strong fundamentals. As we look ahead to 2026, a...
Read MoreIn 2025, financial markets were tested but responded with resilience, posting a third consecutive year of double-digit gains. All 11 sectors of the S&P 500 saw gains but only two stocks in the Magnificent Seven beat the index’s 17%...
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Markets covered a lot of ground in 2025 but remained resilient. Tariff announcements in the first quarter of the year led to a significant drawdown and volatility across the globe. Yet, markets immediately bounced back to reach record...
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The final Federal Reserve meeting of the year comes with Chair Jerome Powell at a crossroads. The economy is sending mixed signals about what to do with interest rates, and the decision could have wide-ranging consequences as Powell’s...
Read MoreWorried About an AI Bubble? The Case for Emerging Markets Investors that have achieved strong returns in AI-driven technology stocks may want to consider an allocation to emerging markets. The cohort is putting the finishing touches on...
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With Thanksgiving quickly approaching, markets have served us plenty to be grateful for. From resilient rebounds after the tariff shock to robust corporate earnings, and a Federal Reserve that’s easing the path forward, 2025 has...
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“When you see one cockroach, there’s probably more,” said JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon in an Oct. 14 comment referring to cracks he’s seeing in the banking sector. The, now, infamous cockroach quote sparked important debate about the $1.6...
Read MoreDoes quality still matter when it comes to stock picking? After a remarkable run for certain low-quality stocks, ie those without reliable corporate earnings or strong balance sheets, investors could be forgiven for wondering whether...
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As the year winds down, it’s an ideal time to take a closer look at your portfolio through a tax-planning lens. Big stock winners can create unintended concentration risks, while mutual fund outflows may trigger surprise capital gains...
Read MoreMarkets regained their footing in the third quarter, with stocks, bonds, commodities, and real estate all posting gains and nearly every S&P 500 sector ending the period higher. A stable U.S. dollar, new tax legislation, and easing...
Read MoreThe macroeconomic impact of AI may be wide-ranging, but it will depend on how quickly and extensively AI technologies are adopted. At a high level, AI has the potential to boost productivity, reshape labor markets, alter income...
Read MoreThe US is once again facing a potential government shutdown if all sides can’t agree on funding. Because a shutdown can have wide-ranging implications for the economy and markets, we considered a Money with Murphy video explaining some...
Read MoreMergers and acquisitions (M&A) are a key signal for markets — when deal-making is strong, it often reflects confidence and growth, while a slowdown can hint at caution. In 2025, activity is rebounding as companies pursue mega-deals...
Read MoreLooking for a way to grow your portfolio, while minimizing how much you can lose in the market? Who would say no? A growing number of financial products have been designed and adopted by investors over the last few years to do just...
Read MoreIf you’ve driven past half-finished subdivisions or watched apartment buildings rise in your neighborhood, you might assume that the housing market is on a roll. In reality, housing has been one of the weakest areas of the economy for...
Read MoreThis quarter’s earnings results are in—and they’re sending a powerful message. In this week’s Money with Murphy, Kara breaks down one of the strongest earnings seasons in recent years and unpacks how artificial intelligence is...
Read MoreFor over a century, the Federal Reserve has played a central role in shaping the U.S. economy, balancing its dual mandate of promoting maximum employment and maintaining stable prices. Yet, it remains one of the most scrutinized—and...
Read MoreMuch like the legendary “Loong” (Chinese for dragon)—seen only in fragments and misunderstood in full—China’s economy is often perceived through incomplete or misleading lenses. Is it collapsing, slowing, dominating, or transforming?...
Read MoreA new wave of meme stock mania has taken over social media, sending the prices of some surprising companies soaring. But behind the hype lies a cautionary tale—just ask investors who bought AMC at its peak during the 2021 frenzy. In...
Read MoreEarlier this month, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act was signed into effect, introducing a range of incentives aimed at supporting U.S. businesses. Key provisions include expanded bonus depreciation, enhanced credits for manufacturing...
Read MoreThe start of summer often feels like a reset — a time to shed jackets, settle into longer days and look forward to family vacations. This year, the market gave us another reason to feel sunnier in the second quarter, staging a...
Read MoreIn the second quarter, markets took investors on a wild ride—from a sharp selloff that nearly pushed stocks into bear market territory to a powerful rebound that ended with new all-time highs. Bonds also posted gains, while the U.S....
Read MoreMoney with Murphy: Stars, Stripes, and Spending In this Fourth of July edition of Money with Murphy, we explore how Americans celebrate Independence Day—past and present. From fireworks and parades to burgers and multi-billion-dollar...
Read MoreIf the bond market were the NBA, the Bloomberg U.S. Aggregate Bond Index would be your classic old-school center: reliable, predictable, and camped out in the paint. But in a game now dominated by perimeter play, relying on your big...
Read MoreTensions in the Middle East flared last week as Israel launched strikes on Iranian targets, prompting a swift reaction in oil markets and a more modest response in equities. While oil prices surged over 7%, the response in equity...
Read MoreThe “One Big Beautiful Bill” encompasses sweeping changes to tax policy, spending, and regulations. However, according to the CBO, if enacted, these changes would significantly add to the national deficit. In this week’s Money with...
Read MoreThe Debate of Dollar Dominance: What Advisors Need to Know Despite recent weakness, the U.S. dollar retains key structural strengths—such as deep capital markets, global trade dominance, and institutional trust—that continue to support...
Read MoreDespite their long-term track record of strong returns, stocks are losing favor in the eyes of many investors — with more Americans favoring real estate and gold as the best long-term investments, according to a recent Gallup survey....
Read MoreTariff impacts are beginning to show up in the data—from disrupted shipping routes to shifting central bank rhetoric and newly negotiated trade deals. After hearing early concerns on earnings calls, we’re now seeing how businesses,...
Read MoreFrom April 2 to April 8, the S&P 500 declined nearly 13%. A shockingly sharp fall in just six days. But what followed was a rally nearly as sharp such that stocks regained their level before reciprocal tariff rates were announced....
Read MoreInternational markets are off to a strong start in 2025—but the case for global diversification runs deeper than recent outperformance. This week’s Markets in a Minute explores the timeless theory behind diversification and why it...
Read MoreAfter a nearly two years of gains, the broad U.S. equities market stumbled in the first quarter. Policy uncertainty soured investors on the economic outlook and, in particular, the prospects for companies that have led the market...
Read MoreWhen markets drop fast, it’s tempting to hit the eject button. In this episode of Money with Murphy, Kara shares a personal story about her grandfather—his rise, his panic, and the sell decision he came to regret. It's a cautionary...
Read MoreMega-cap tech stumbled hard in Q1, but diversification came through. Kara Murphy breaks down the quarter’s surprises—from market shakeups to rising trade tensions—and why the “boring stuff” might just be your portfolio’s MVP. WATCH HERE
Read MoreFor decades, US policy prioritized free trade as a way of cementing political alliances and allowing consumers and businesses alike to access cheap goods. With the rise in trade came many benefits: lower-priced goods, a wider variety...
Read MoreVolatility can feel unsettling, but it’s not unusual and there are still areas of opportunity, if you know where to look. Despite the recent sell-off, international stocks are thriving, bonds are providing stability, and there are...
Read MoreAfter a rough period for stocks, bonds are proving their value in portfolios once again. While market uncertainty has dragged equities down, the Bloomberg U.S. Aggregate Bond Index is up, highlighting the importance of diversification....
Read MorePerformance of the Magnificent 7 stocks over the last 10 years has many investors convinced that the next decade is set up for a similar experience. In this week’s Markets in a Minute, we explore the risks of letting recent stock...
Read MoreFourth-quarter earnings are coming in strong, with the S&P 500 on track for its best growth since 2021. As market leadership shifts beyond the Magnificent 7, policy uncertainty—especially around tariffs—remains a key risk. We break...
Read MoreTariff talks topped headlines this week, as Donald Trump implemented this economic policy tool in Canada, Mexico, and China. The status of these policies seems to change by the hour with the range of outcomes varying, but the result is...
Read MoreDonald Trump’s first few days in office have brought a record number of executive orders. Many of these orders will not have economic impacts, and still others may not actually get enacted whether because of court challenges or limited...
Read MoreThe year 2024 brought significant shifts in the economy and markets. Inflation eased but remained uneven, with food and energy prices creating challenges for households. Stocks thrived, buoyed by optimism over rate cuts, while bonds...
Read MoreIn 2024, the stock market showed resilience, with the S&P 500 surging 24%, driven by a strong economy, moderate Fed rate cuts, and AI-driven growth from the "Magnificent 7" tech giants. Bonds, however, faced another challenging year,...
Read MoreAs we close the books on 2024, the financial markets had a remarkable year. The S&P 500 surged 24% driven by stellar performances in tech and communication services as well as the continued dominance of the "Magnificent 7." Looking...
Read MoreAs 2024 winds down, we take a look back at the biggest themes that shaped markets and made headlines this year. From elections and interest rates to the market's growing concentration, we revisit Kara's top insights in this highlight...
Read MoreThe unexpected fall of the Assad regime in Syria has sent shockwaves across the Middle East, reshaping regional alliances and global markets. Kara Murphy examines the winners, losers, and uncertainties in the wake of Assad’s departure,...
Read MoreDespite the U.S. economy's resilience, the manufacturing sector has faced a troubling two-year contraction, raising questions about its future. In this week’s Markets in a Minute, Kara Murphy explores why manufacturing has struggled,...
Read MoreIn this episode of Money with Murphy, Kara Murphy dives into the evolving landscape of U.S. tariffs. From their historic use to Trump's 1.0 and proposed 2.0 plans, she explains their impact on industries, trade deficits, and inflation....
Read MoreThe 2024 election season was one for the books, but despite a dramatic campaign and geopolitical uncertainties, markets showed surprising resilience. Following the decisive outcome, stocks surged, led by financials, crypto, and...
Read MoreLast week was packed with market activity, including key earnings reports, economic data, and a shifting jobs picture. About a third of S&P 500 companies reported their Q3 earnings, with most beating estimates but while...
Read MoreThis week marks one of the busiest periods of the year for markets, with major economic data releases, the final days of the presidential campaign, and a wave of corporate earnings reports from nearly half of the S&P 500. Key players...
Read MoreKara Murphy, CIO, KIM takes a look at the critical role small businesses play in the U.S. economy, making up nearly half of the nation's workforce and 44% of its GDP. While optimism is up from recent lows, small businesses still...
Read MoreThe third quarter of the year was marked by significant market volatility amidst unexpected political events and mixed economic data. Despite these challenges, markets showed resilience, with all major asset classes finishing the...
Read MoreIn this episode of Money with Murphy, we look at drivers of volatility and reasons for resiliency in markets during the third quarter of 2024. From Fed rate cuts and shifts in the Yen to geopolitical tensions and surprising market...
Read MoreAs the 2024 presidential election heats up, investors are eager to understand how the candidates' policies might impact the economy. With Vice President Harris now running against former President Trump, this race has seen plenty of...
Read MoreThe Federal Reserve’s recent rate cut—the first since the pandemic—raises important questions about how it will affect your finances. In this blog, Kara Murphy breaks down the potential impacts on mortgages, auto loans, and credit...
Read MoreSuccess doesn’t happen overnight, whether you’re building a championship football team or a winning investment portfolio. Just like NFL scouts assess potential players, investors must evaluate funds carefully through quantitative and...
Read MoreThe Federal Reserve is close to declaring victory over inflation, but consumers aren’t celebrating. Kara Murphy discusses why the slowdown in price increases isn’t translating to relief for everyday expenses. Watch Video >>
Read MoreFew financial solutions can elicit an emotional response like life insurance. This is understandable as a life policy typically deals with a topic many find unpleasant. But do most of us genuinely understand what life insurance does...
Read MoreAs the world’s top economists and policymakers gather at Jackson Hole, all eyes are on the Federal Reserve and the delicate balancing act they face. This year’s Jackson Hole Economic Symposium will spotlight the difficult trade-offs...
Read MoreQ2 2024 earnings season reveals a mixed but resilient landscape. While 78% of S&P 500 companies surpassed earnings expectations, the magnitude of these surprises is below the 10-year average. The "Magnificent 7" tech giants are driving...
Read MoreInvestors often have their favorite market indicators such as stochastics and Bollinger bands. Well one of Kara’s is what she calls, the Mom Indicator. Yesterday, that indicator was triggered. While on her way home from the office, she...
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When was the last time you reviewed your will or estate strategy? August is National "Make a Will" Month, an excellent annual reminder to update or create your will. A will can outline your wishes and help guide the settlement of your...
Read MoreAs the 2024 Summer Olympics begin, France is not just chasing gold medals but a massive economic gamble. This week's Markets in a Minute uncovers the controversial history of the Olympics' economic impact, asking if the...
Read MoreIn March 1968, when LBJ announced he would not seek re-election, the S&P 500 climbed nearly 13% over the next year, and the Democrats lost the presidential race. After the Reagan assassination attempt in March 1981, the S&P 500 fell...
Read MoreThe S&P 500 continued to march higher with tech stocks leading the charge. However, nearly 80% of S&P 500 companies underperformed the index. While fixed income returns lagged, signs of cooling inflation and a softening consumer hint...
Read MoreIn Q2, the S&P 500 continued its strong performance, gaining 5% for the quarter and 15% year-to-date, driven largely by the technology sector. While emerging and developed market equities outside the US also saw gains, the bond market...
Read MoreInvestors have understandably been fixated on the trajectory of inflation, interest rates and other headline-grabbing economic issues. Over time, though, the economy and markets are at least as impacted by demographic shifts. In this...
Read MoreIn this week’s Money with Murphy, Kara delves into the complexities of inflation, examining its recent trends and future implications. Two years ago, prices were soaring at unprecedented rates, but they've since slowed down thanks in...
Read MoreEarlier this month, I spent a chaotic eight hours in the Austin-Bergstrom airport when severe weather delayed hundreds of flights, stranding thousands of passengers, including myself. Not exactly how I planned to spend a day off. Yet...
Read MoreIn this special episode of Money with Murphy, Bobby Gomez, Head of Investment Specialists, KIM, joins Kara Murphy to examine the implications of recent unprecedented political events as the presidential election looms. With...
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Thursday, May 23, 2024
During election season, clients may have concerns about implications on the financial market, which could potentially lead them to asking a chatbot for a brief overview. In my recent article in collaboration with @MDRT and Aspire...
Read MoreLast week, we discussed investing during the presidential election. This week, we delve into political risk beyond US borders, examining recent global conflicts and their potential impact on investment strategies. Despite geopolitical...
Read MoreWhile a party or individual in office can shade economic perceptions, they rarely define the direction of the overall market once a new president is in place. A defining feature of the American political system is the strength of its...
Read MoreLast week, we got the first evidence in months that the job market is weakening. In April, 175,000 new jobs were created. That level of job creation, while still quite robust, was lower than expected and marks the lowest level of new...
Read MoreLast week, we got the first evidence in months that the job market is weakening. In April, 175,000 new jobs were created. That level of job creation, while still quite robust, was lower than expected and marks the lowest level of new...
Read MoreIf you’ve bought a house in the past four years, then you know how difficult it has been to navigate the housing market. In 2021, houses in certain parts of the country were sometimes selling for 20-30% over asking price. While the...
Read MoreFrom Cleopatra’s attempts to use alchemy to turn lead into gold, to California’s gold rush that drew hundreds of thousands of fortune seekers, gold has long been highly sought after. More recently, gold recently reached its all-time...
Read MoreThe US economy continued to show resilience despite elevated inflation and high interest rates, dampening expectations of interest rate cuts. The broad stock market gained more than 10%, its best start to the year since 2019. All but...
Read MoreIn the first quarter of this year, the S&P 500 had an impressive start, ending the quarter up over 10%, its strongest first quarter since 2019. The story surrounding the Magnificent Seven has changed and a variety of other names have...
Read MoreSince the beginning of the year, the average price of a gallon of gas in the US has jumped 14%, denting many consumers’ wallets and complicating the Federal Reserve's inflation control efforts. These increases may trigger memories of...
Read MoreLast week, the Federal Reserve announced no change to interest rates and threw water on any hopes for a rate cut at its next meeting in May. This more-tempered outlook for interest rates stands in contrast to market expectations in...
Read MoreFor the first time in 17 years, the Bank of Japan (“BoJ”) hiked its target interest rate from -0.1% to 0-0.1%, effectively ending its unique policy of maintaining negative interest rates. Despite how nominal this change may seem, the...
Read MoreCorporate earnings grew by 4% compared to the previous year, with nearly 75% of companies reporting earnings that were better than expected. While those beat rates were more or less in line with historic averages, they also confirmed...
Read MoreBeginning in the early days of Covid, supply chains around the world became snarled, making it difficult to find everything from couches to computer chips for automobiles. While inventory levels of most manufactured goods have since...
Read MoreThe Dow Jones Industrial Average, or “The Dow”, is one of the oldest and most widely followed stock indices in the US. First published in 1886 by Charles Dow, the index consisted of 12 industrial companies. Since then, it...
Read MoreOver the course of 2023, seven of the largest stocks in the United States collectively doubled in value, earning the moniker, “The Magnificent 7.” After such impressive performance, what comes next? Read more in this...
Read MoreCan the Super Bowl predict the stock market? The Super Bowl indicator was first introduced in 1978 by sports reporter Leonard Koppett, arguing that a win by a team from the NFC meant the stock market would likely go up that year. The...
Read MoreOne month into the new year, and one thing’s for certain: The presidential election will continue to grab headlines and grip the nation’s attention for the better part of 2024. How might this impact investors in terms of...
Read MoreLet’s talk about bitcoin. On January 10, the SEC approved the long-awaited listing and trading of 11 spot bitcoin exchange traded products. What exactly does this mean for investors? Watch Video >>
Read MoreSeemingly against all odds, 2023 shaped up to be an impressive year for risk assets, especially for the small group of S&P 500 names that drove equity-market returns. As we head into a new year, the question is whether the rally that...
Read More2023 was full of surprises for investors. Some of the most heard predictions for the year actually never materialized at all: a recession in the US and other developed markets, the death of fixed-income as a valid asset class, sticky...
Read More2023 was an eventful year across many areas of the economy and the market. The Fed raised interest rates to the highest we’ve seen since 2001. Oil prices stayed in the conversation for much of the year. Fixed income performance...
Read MoreWhile not true with every turn of the calendar, September tends to have the worst equity returns and October tends to witness more market bottoms than any other month. The good news is that those disappointing returns are often...
Read MoreThe recent bankruptcy filing of office-sharing company WeWork provided a stark example of the toll higher interest rates have taken on real estate, one of the most rate-sensitive sectors of the economy. Yet not all areas of this...
Read MoreHere we go again… a potential government shutdown AND a change to the outlook for US government credit. Kara reviews historical government shutdowns, last week’s Moody’s credit rating downgrade, and what this could...
Read MoreOver a year and a half ago, the Federal Reserve began raising the fed funds rate in an effort to slow inflation, which had reached rates not seen in decades. Since then, inflation has subsided substantially, yet interest rates have...
Read MoreDespite corporate earnings improving over the quarter, stocks are still getting punished. At the end of October, of the nearly 50% of companies in the S&P 500 who had reported quarterly earnings, nearly 80% of those reported...
Read MoreIn contrast with Q2, Q3 performance was lackluster across a variety of asset classes. Read this week’s Markets in a Minute for a performance overview in the equity and fixed income markets and areas of potential opportunity in...
Read MoreAfter a surprisingly strong start to the year, the third quarter was a little less rosy. We saw an additional interest rate increase, lackluster performance by the Big 7, and disappointing returns across a variety of asset classes. For...
Read MoreOn Saturday, October 7, 2023, the world witnessed a dramatic turn of events as the militant group Hamas launched a coordinated attack on Israel by air, land, and sea. As of Monday, the toll of this conflict is already devastating, with...
Read MoreWith the federally mandated pause on student loan repayments expiring this month, borrowers are now responsible for resuming payments on an astonishing $1.7 trillion in outstanding debt. Although one may assume these repayments will...
Read MoreThe price of a gallon of gas has increased by 20% year-to-date. What’s driving the recent price increases, and what impact is costlier gas likely to have on the U.S. consumer, and consequently, the markets? Watch this...
Read MoreWith car prices already high, energy prices climbing, and wages in aggregate already rising faster than the Federal Reserve is comfortable with, what impact will the United Auto Workers strike have on the broader economy? Read more in...
Read MoreRecent labor market data has told a somewhat conflicted story. On the one hand, the number of new job listings last month was higher than expected, suggesting more jobs available. On the other, the unemployment rate rose notably from...
Read MoreToday we so often hear central bankers discuss “long and variable lags” in monetary policy that it almost appears cliché. Despite extraordinarily steep increases in rates over the past eighteen months, the economy...
Read MoreLate last year, China swiftly ended its zero-Covid policy, reopening an economy that had been caught in a quarantine stranglehold for years. With that, many Chinese and foreigners alike predicted a swift resumption of economic growth....
Read MoreThough still over a year away, next year’s presidential election is already feeding into news stories and advertisements. Like every previous election, the state of the economy and financial markets will be a hot topic of debate...
Read MoreLast week’s Fitch Ratings downgrade and shift in interest rates brought the ten-year Treasury yield to almost 4.2%. While the Federal Reserve controls very short-term interest rates, long-term interest rates have more freedom to...
Read MoreWith the introduction of ChatGPT and other tools that harness artificial intelligence, a new technological revolution has begun, like it or not. How might recent AI innovations impact the markets, for better or for worse? Read this...
Read MoreIn 2022, fixed income had one of the worst years in memory with one broad benchmark of bonds dropping 11%. Let’s talk about what’s happening with bonds this year in this week's Money with Murphy. Watch Video >>
Read MoreStocks enjoyed a strong rebound, the S&P rose 17% in the first half of the year, and tech stocks outperformed while the financial and energy sectors lagged. Check out this week’s Markets in a Minute for a quick read on what drove...
Read MoreStocks enjoyed a strong rebound, the S&P rose 17% in the first half of the year, and tech stocks outperformed while the financial and energy sectors lagged. Watch this week’s Money with Murphy to get a quick take on what drove...
Read MoreOver the weekend, Russian president Vladimir Putin faced a rebellion from one of his closest allies, Yevgeny Prigozhin. What does this mean for the global economy and markets? Hear Kara’s view in this week’s Money...
Read MoreA couple of weeks ago we talked about how size had become an important determinant of winners in the market, with mega caps leading the charge. Yet, this month, small caps have taken the stage. Watch this week’s Money with Murphy...
Read MoreStaying disciplined and sticking to a financial plan during a bubble's upswing can take extraordinary discipline - even Isaac Newton couldn't do it! Read this week's How to Survive and Thrive During Financial Bubbles, part of our...
Read MoreOver the last three months, the ten largest stocks in the index have gained over 9% (percent) while the ten smallest have declined by 10% (percent) – an enormous disparity. What does this unusual market concentration mean...
Read MoreDespite access to investment platforms and educational resources being easier than ever, many investors are finding themselves more anxious about their financial situations. Read (or share) this client-ready article to learn how to...
Read MoreWith the Fed rate hiking cycle potentially over, what’s happening elsewhere in the world? Kara takes a look at developed and frontier markets in this week’s Money with Murphy. Watch Video
Read MoreCould this be the first time in history that the U.S. defaults on its payments and challenges Hamilton’s legacy? How does the economic landscape shift if we do default? Let’s find out in this week’s Markets in a...
Read MoreAs of May 1, about half of companies in the S&P 500 have reported earnings for the first calendar quarter of the year and we’ve seen some interesting developments. Watch this week’s Money with Murphy for more. Watch Video...
Read MoreIn this third installment of the “Fables” series, we look to Goldilocks for guidance on how to build the “just right” portfolio for clients. Read more in this week’s Markets in a Minute.Read Markets in a...
Read MoreThe stories we learned as children are still helpful in navigating the wild world of stocks and bonds. Last week we explored how “The Tortoise and the Hare” demonstrates the value of consistency and time, and so too can...
Read MoreAlthough the allure of making money overnight is incredibly hard to resist, in the long run, slow and steady wins the race. Read more about how time and patience are on investors’ side in this week’s Markets in a Minute...
Read MoreOil prices plummeted in the early days of Covid, then soared and more recently stabilized. Yet, over the weekend, there was another twist in the oil story. Kara shares how recent production cuts differ from past ones and...
Read MoreAfter many years of accelerated growth backed by low-interest rates, easy credit, and competitive lending, commercial real estate has become the latest area of concern for investors. Read more about how unfolding events could impact...
Read MoreKara draws on her experience as a bank analyst during the global financial crisis and reviews lessons learned 15 years ago and what makes this time different in this week’s Money with Murphy.Watch Video >>
Read MoreOn March 10, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporate (FDIC) officially took over Silicon Valley Bank in order to protect depositors, marking a remarkably swift end to a bank that had been in business for four decades. Then on March 12,...
Read MoreChina is finally reopening after years of rolling lockdowns. What impact will this have on the global economy? Watch this week’s Money with Murphy to get Kara’s take. Watch Video >>https://vimeo...
Read MoreInflation is looking stubbornly persistent, and the economy is stronger than expected. How much longer can the Fed stick with its current plan of attack? Kara breaks down recent inflation stats and shares her outlook in this...
Read MoreOur original outlook for this year was titled “landing in turbulence.” More recently, though, some have suggested that we are headed for no landing – simply continued economic growth. Kara parses apart what the...
Read MoreWith the Federal Reserve slowing its interest rate increases and inflation slowing to a tolerable level, the question remains: what can companies earn in this softer economic environment? Now that we are halfway through companies...
Read MoreHere we go again. Democrats and Republicans are locked in a pitched battle over what used to be a fairly routine matter: raising the debt ceiling. Read more to learn about how the debt ceiling works, how previous raises have played out...
Read MoreThe Fed appears to be winning the battle against inflation, but with the potential side effect of lower economic demand. Slower economic activity may cause companies to struggle to maintain earnings, but lower valuations may benefit...
Read MoreMarkets in a Minute: Market Review and OutlookNear-record inflation and both stock and bond market declines in 2022. An inverted yield curve and declining manufacturing activity in early 2023. How did we get here, Where do we go next...
Read MoreIn 2022, the S&P 500’s bear market reached eleven months old, the Fed continued to tighten monetary policy as inflation accelerated, and recession predictions filled news headlines. With stocks and bonds down roughly 20% and 15%,...
Read MoreWhile there are still a few days left in the year, 2022 is likely to go down in the history books as one of the toughest years for investors. Watch Kara put 2022 in its historical context in this week’s Money with Murphy.Watch...
Read MoreWe all know that Santa Claus is real, but what about the Santa Claus Rally? Read more about this mysterious phenomenon and our odds of seeing one this year in this week’s Markets in a Minute. Read Markets in a...
Read MoreAfter three years of COVID concerns and supply chain disruptions, Americans are finally eager to spend this holiday season. What does this say about the health of the US consumer – and the market? Learn more in this week’s...
Read MoreThe recent failure of crypto-related business such as FTX has highlighted a void in regulatory oversight in the digital currency world. Read more about why a back to basics approach may serve investors best in our latest Markets in a...
Read MoreWith lower-than-expected inflation in the month of October, we may all be wondering if there are brighter economic days ahead. Read more about the impact of inflation and Fed rate increases on the economy in this week’s Markets...
Read MoreIn the 19 mid-term elections since World War II, the S&P 500 has risen by more than 14% in the subsequent year. Check out this week’s Money with Murphy to learn more. https://vimeo.com/768700645/ce868b14fb
Read MoreIs investing in the stock market just like gambling in Las Vegas? While the answer to that question is a hard “no,” most investors don’t make the best of their investment odds. Read the latest Markets in a Minute to...
Read MoreThis quarter, 72% of companies reported earnings higher than analysts’ expectations – but this rate is actually below average for the past 5 and 10 years. Hear Kara’s thoughts on Q3 earnings reports in the latest...
Read MoreIn the third quarter of 2022, the S&P 500’s bear market reached ten months old, the Fed continued to tighten monetary policy as inflation accelerated, and recession predictions fill news headlines. In fact, with stocks down more...
Read MoreRecent headlines have been grim with the S&P 500 down more than 20% so far this year, having recently touched new lows. The Bloomberg Aggregate bond index, while not down quite as much, has wiped out several years’ worth of gains...
Read MoreAre we headed toward a recession? The answer is, we’ll get there… eventually. Read on for the “road signs” that can help us estimate when we might arrive and what we can do before we get there. https://www...
Read MoreWith some of the highest levels of volatility in many decades, bonds are having an existential crisis. Can bonds still play a valuable role in a portfolio? Find out more with this week's Money with Murphy.https://vimeo...
Read MoreAs the S&P 500’s bear market completes its ninth month, two areas of the economy have experienced rapid changes: commodity price spikes coupled with impending shortages and a housing boom that is quickly petering out. How serious...
Read MoreAs we close out the summer months, we take a look at seasonality in the markets. How much should this matter to your portfolio? Watch the latest Money with Murphy to find out more. Watch Video >>https://vimeo...
Read MoreWith a war in Europe, sky-high energy prices, recession fears, intensifying political divisions, and an on-going global pandemic, it’s no wonder that both stocks and bonds have experienced large gyrations so far this year. In...
Read MoreEven though we are entering the dog days of summer, the market is still open and can be subject to large price swings on low trading volumes. Watch the latest Money with Murphy discussing a few important events we’re focusing on...
Read MoreThe Inflation Reduction Act about to pass the House has been heralded as a major legislative victory for the president and his party. But will it really matter for the economy or the markets? Read the latest Markets in a Minute to...
Read MoreLast week we got word that the U.S. economy had contracted for the second quarter in a row. With a weaker economy, the next question is, what will happen to earnings? In this week’s Money with Murphy, I talk about corporate...
Read MoreAs economic growth cools and inflation heats up, we are hearing more about recessions. Let’s talk recession and what’s happening with the latest GDP report. Read Markets in a Minutehttps://www.kestrafinancial...
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Stocks rallied last week as investor spirits lifted thanks to a better-than-expected start to the second-quarter earnings season.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.95%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 added 2.55%. The...
Read MoreSo far, 2022 has brought surges in inflation fueled by war in Europe, monetary tightening and slower economic growth. As we pass midyear, many of us may be more than a little ready to forget about the first half. Our 2022 theme of...
Read MoreOur 2022 theme of downshifting, or slowing of growth, is certainly coming to fruition as we close out the first half of the year. Watch the latest Money with Murphy for some insight into what we are watching and what to keep in mind...
Read MoreMarkets have had a damaging start to the year, with stocks and bonds both down year-to-date. What has driven this latest bout of negativity? In a word: inflation. Watch my latest Money with Murphy for more. Watch Video >>
Read MoreLofty prices and higher mortgage rates are beginning to shake the foundation of the single-family housing market. Are we headed for a 2008-style correction? Read the latest Markets in a Minute for our take on what’s next...
Read MoreThe S&P 500 is now officially in a bear market. Listen to the latest Money with Murphy about what not to do. Watch Video...
Read MoreWhat’s there to like about a down market? Several things, actually. Read the latest Markets in a Minute to learn about opportunities to potentially enhance long-term returns, reduce portfolio risk and lower your tax bill when...
Read MoreAfter a long stretch of torrid price appreciation, the U.S. market is at a crossroads. Where does it go from here? Watch the latest Money with Murphy for our take on that question.Watch Video>> https://vimeo...
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News of a new, highly virulent COVID variant triggered a market sell-off on Friday, sending stocks into negative territory for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 1.97%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 slumped 2...
Read MoreMoney with Murphy – Housing There is a big discrepancy between different measures of house prices. Watch this short video to learn more about the indices that track these measures and what’s going on in the housing market....
Read MoreMarkets in a Minute: BondsDespite low rates, rising inflation fears and tight credit spreads, bonds still play an important role in investors’ portfolios. Certain types of fixed-income instruments are actually designed to protect...
Read MoreMoney with Murphy – Energy Prices Crude oil, heating oil, natural gas, propane – are all at levels not seen since 2014. To learn more about what’s driving the increase in energy prices watch this short video. Watch Video
Read MoreMarkets in a Minute: Supply ChainsThe pandemic has been blamed for disrupting the global supply chain and stoking inflationary pressures. But other issues have contributed to our supply-chain woes. Read about the reasons for supply...
Read MoreWhat do Octoberphobia, bear killer, and Santa Claus all mean for your portfolio? Watch this short video to learn more about the seasonal patterns of the fourth quarter. Watch Video >>
Read MoreMarkets in a Minute: Cryptocurrencies Cryptocurrencies have generated a lot of interest among investors, yet they're still something of an enigma. They're also a controversial asset class with a wide range of potential outcomes for...
Read MoreWith over $300 billion in debt, the Evergrande Group is the second largest real estate developer in China. After missing a bond payment and the fear of continued distress, how will this effect the global market? Watch this short video...
Read MoreMarkets in a Minute: Debt Ceiling As many of us know, regularly spending more than you earn is an easy way to jeopardize your financial health by amassing too much debt. So, it can be hard to watch the national debt grow at a rate that...
Read MoreMoney with Murphy: Are We in the Midst of a Housing Bubble? Watch the latest "Money with Murphy" video for insight on what caused the increase in home prices and what we can expect, presented by Kara Murphy, CFA, Chief Investment...
Read MoreEven with its September slump, the equity market has staged a remarkable comeback from its pandemic lows. But, with equity valuations near historic highs, many investors are asking: Is this as good as it gets? Not likely, given the...
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Stocks were mixed last week amid conflicting economic data and continued spread of Delta variant infections.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.24% during the five trading days. But the Standard & Poor’s 500 tacked on...
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The stock market powered to record levels last week amid talk of Fed tapering and a deceleration in new Delta variant cases.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.96%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 increased 1.52%. The...
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Stocks turned lower last week amid the increasing probability of a Fed tapering, mixed economic data, and growing concerns about the economic impact of the Delta variant.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slumped 1.11%, while the...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Shrugging off COVID-19 infections and the disruption at the Capitol on January 6, stocks powered higher to kick off a new year of trading.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.61%, while the Standard &...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks moved higher during a holiday-shortened week of trading, capping off a turbulent, but otherwise strong year for equity investors. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.35%, while the Standard &...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks climbed higher amid the COVID-19 vaccine rollout and an improving outlook for a fiscal stimulus bill.The Dow Jones Industrial Average, which has lagged all year, gained 0.44%. The Standard & Poor’s 500...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks retreated last week on rising COVID-19 infections and slow progress on an economic relief bill. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped 0.57%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 dropped 0.96%. The Nasdaq...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks marched higher last week on an improving outlook for the passage of a fiscal stimulus package. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.03%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500 tacked on 1.67%. The Nasdaq...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks surged last week, ignited by another COVID-19 vaccine announcement, encouraging economic data, and the easing of political uncertainty.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 2.21%, while the Standard &...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetDespite news of another COVID-19 vaccine candidate, stocks were mixed amid investor anxiety over an increase in new infections and economic lockdowns.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.73%, while the...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street News of a COVID-19 vaccine ignited a rally in economically sensitive stocks and a broad retreat in technology companies last week, though enthusiasm was tempered by reports of rising new infections and fresh...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks soared last week as investors anticipated that a split Congress would raise legislative hurdles to changing corporate taxes and adjusting regulatory oversight of big technology companies.The Dow Jones...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stock prices dropped last week as hopes for a fiscal stimulus bill faded and investors focused on rising COVID-19 infections, here and abroad. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 6.47%, while the Standard &...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street The failure to reach an agreement on a new fiscal stimulus bill soured investor sentiment and sent stocks modestly lower for the week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.95%, while the Standard & Poor’s...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks treaded water last week amid fading prospects for a stimulus bill, fears of a second wave of COVID-19 cases, and increasing political and regulatory pressures on Big Tech companies.The Dow Jones...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks staged a powerful rally last week, riding a wave of optimism over the prospect of the passage of a new fiscal stimulus bill.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.27%, while the Standard & Poor’s 500...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks advanced last week, propelled by hopes that legislators may reach an agreement for a new fiscal stimulus package and optimism generated by a few corporate deal announcements and initial public offerings....
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks were mixed last week as worries that stretched from Washington D.C., where prospects of a new fiscal stimulus bill dimmed, to Europe, which saw an increase of new COVID-19 cases.The Dow Jones Industrial...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks slipped as the technology sector remained under pressure and a mid-week announcement by the Federal Reserve failed to inspire investors.The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 0.03%, while the Standard...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks traveled a volatile path last week as investors appeared concerned about the upcoming elections, an uncertain economy, and more delays with additional fiscal stimulus. The Dow Jones Industrial Average...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street A late week sell-off sent stocks broadly lower as investors took some profits after stocks reached all-time highs earlier in the week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 1.82%, while the Standard & Poor’s...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks advanced relentlessly last week on positive COVID-19 developments, encouraging economic data, and a supportive policy shift in the Fed’s approach to its target inflation rate. The Dow Jones Industrial...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks powered to another week of gains as the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite set multiple new record highs along the way.The Dow Jones Industrial Average was essentially unchanged while the Standard & Poor’s 500...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetOverlooking stalled efforts by Congress to pass a new fiscal stimulus bill, stocks marched higher last week with the Dow Jones Industrials leading the way and the NASDAQ Composite setting multiple fresh record...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks were mixed last week amid a busy week of earnings, some troubling economic data, and seemingly little progress on a new fiscal stimulus package.The Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.16%, while the...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks slipped in the final days of trading last week on higher jobless claims and rising tensions in the U.S.-China relationship. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 0.76%, while the Standard & Poor's 500...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetStocks were mixed last week as investors reacted to positive economic data, progress on a COVID-19 vaccine, and the continued nationwide increase in COVID-19 cases. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 2.29%,...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetStock prices notched solid gains last week, looking past an increase in COVID-19 cases and any potential economic concerns raised by the trend. The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased by 0.96%, while the...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetIn a holiday-shortened week, stock prices turned higher as encouraging economic data outweighed an increase in COVID-19 cases and a rollback in economic re-openings.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.25%,...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetA jump in COVID-19 cases dampened investor enthusiasm last week, sending stock prices lower on worries that rising infections could derail the economic recovery. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slumped 3.31%,...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetStocks moved higher last week on news of more Federal Reserve market support and diminished concerns that new COVID-19 cases might lead to another economic shutdown. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 1.04%,...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetInvestor sentiment turned negative last week, amid an increasing number of COVID-19 cases in states where reopening has been underway as well as a subdued economic forecast from the Federal Reserve. The Dow Jones...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetA positive jobs report sent stocks soaring last Friday, capping a solid week as evidence of a global economic recovery outweighed concerns over civil unrest and tensions with China.The Dow Jones Industrial...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetThe shortened week, which began with a powerful two-day rally of trading, was enough to drive the markets into another week of solid gains. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.75%, while the Standard &...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetUpbeat comments by the Federal Reserve Chairman and more signs of an economic turnaround combined to help fuel a powerful rally in the stock market last week.The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 3.29%, while...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetStocks drifted lower last week, weighed down by Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell's unsettling comments on the economy and signs of renewed tensions with China.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 2.65%,...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetDespite a historic downturn in employment, stocks managed to climb higher last week as investors were emboldened by the pace of economic re-openings, both here and abroad.The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 2...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetStock prices ended the week slightly lower, despite news of positive results from a test trial of a COVID-19 drug treatment and several states easing their economic lockdowns. The Dow Jones Industrial Average...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetStock prices bounced around last week as investors reacted to wild swings in the price of oil and reports that called into question the efficacy of two potential virus treatments.The Dow Jones Industrial Average...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetStock prices pushed higher last week as news of a White House plan to reopen the economy and reports of a potential COVID-19 treatment helped the market overcome weak economic data and an ugly start to the...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetThe stock market staged a broad rally this week, buoyed by the prospect that COVID-19's grip on the nation may be easing and news of another Federal Reserve program to help stabilize businesses.The Dow Jones...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetModest declines in stock prices this week masked the volatile inter- and intraday price swings as investors digested poor economic data and a warning from the president that the worst days of the COVID-19...
Read MoreAn open-ended commitment by the Federal Reserve to support American businesses and capital markets along with the passage of a $2 trillion aid package improved investor sentiment and drove a strong rally in stock prices. The Dow Jones...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetThe stock market suffered through another volatile week as it wrestled with the health and economic fallout of the domestic spread of the coronavirus. Swift and decisive actions by the Federal Reserve and policy...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetMarkets remained exceptionally volatile, buffeted by the spreading impact of coronavirus, uncertain responses from federal policymakers, and the sudden drop in oil prices.The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 10...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetHeightened coronavirus fears, falling yields, and Super Tuesday primary results sent stocks on a rollercoaster ride of sharp price swings, leaving stocks marginally higher for the week.The Dow Jones Industrial...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetStocks fell sharply last week as Wall Street considered how the coronavirus outbreak might influence global business activity and household spending.The selloff became a correction for the U.S. markets. The S&P...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetTraders paid close attention to coronavirus developments and earnings last week, while wondering how the former might eventually impact the latter. Concern over updated infection numbers moderated risk appetite.A...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetDaily headlines about the coronavirus had little impact on stock market averages last week. Earnings and mergers had more influence. All three Wall Street benchmarks improved. The Nasdaq Composite rose 2.21%,...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetStocks advanced four days out of five during the past market week, erasing the losses of the week before. The Nasdaq Composite surged 4.04%, the S&P 500 3.17%, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average 3.00%. Foreign...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetStock benchmarks declined for a second straight week as coronavirus news tempered risk appetite.The S&P 500 fell 2.14% on the week. The Nasdaq Composite dipped 1.76%, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average, 2.55%....
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetStock prices fell last week as investors considered the potential health and economic risks of the flu-like coronavirus.Foreign stock markets, as tracked by the broad MSCI EAFE index, fell 1.03% for the week....
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetTraders were in an upbeat mood last week, reacting to news out of Washington: the signing of the phase-one trade deal between the U.S. and China as well as the Senate passage of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetThe market had a choppy five days, with traders reacting to geopolitical developments and weaker-than-expected jobs data. Even so, the three major U.S. equity indices posted weekly gains and continued their...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetThe market had a choppy five days, with traders reacting to geopolitical developments and weaker-than-expected jobs data. Even so, the three major U.S. equity indices posted weekly gains and continued their...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks descended from record highs Friday, as traders reacted to a U.S. drone strike that killed Iran's top military officer. Oil prices rose more than 3% following the breaking news.[1] Wall Street benchmarks...
Read MoreWhat Drove the Markets? Four factors influenced investment performance in 2019: a shift in U.S. monetary policy, the ongoing trade dispute between the U.S. and China, earnings, and the economy. Stocks reached record highs in 2019. The...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street The U.S. and China announced a limited trade agreement last week. That news lifted U.S. and foreign stocks, leading to weekly gains. Advancing 0.91% on the week, the Nasdaq Composite outperformed the S&P 500...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Key Wall Street benchmarks were up and down last week – or rather down and then up. A Tuesday retreat was offset by a Friday rally spurred by the Department of Labor’s November jobs report. While the S&P 500...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street As November wrapped up, U.S. equity benchmarks advanced. Stocks were again aided by a sense of optimism that a preliminary U.S.-China trade deal could be near. For the week, the Nasdaq Composite added 1.87%;...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks declined last week as mixed signals emerged about the progress of U.S.-China trade negotiations. The three major Wall Street benchmarks all took weekly losses. The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 0...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetStock benchmarks were little changed for much of last week, but a rally occurred Friday after news broke that the U.S. and China could be closing in on the first phase of a new trade pact. At Friday's close, the...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Domestic and international stocks rose last week. Risk appetite outweighed concerns about the state of U.S.-China trade discussions. The Dow Jones Industrial Average, Nasdaq Composite, S&P 500, and MSCI EAFE...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street A better-than-forecast jobs report prompted a stock market rally Friday, two days after traders witnessed another interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve. Both the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite ended the week...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street The S&P 500 came within 0.1% of a record close Friday. Stocks were lifted last week by positive news on U.S.-China trade negotiations, plus earnings announcements. The Nasdaq Composite posted the largest weekly...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Earnings helped give the Nasdaq Composite and S&P 500 a slight lift last week, offsetting investor disappointment over the small scope of the preliminary U.S.-China trade deal reached on October 11. Blue chips...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stock prices pushed higher last week, as investors remained hyper-focused on any new developments with the U.S. trade negotiations with China. The Dow Jones Industrial Average picked up 0.91%, while the...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street The fourth quarter started with a mixed week for equities. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 0.92% for the week; the S&P 500, 0.33%. In contrast, the Nasdaq Composite improved 0.54%. Overseas stocks pulled...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks retreated last week. Traders worried that the formal impeachment inquiry of President Donald Trump might distract White House officials from their pursuit of a trade deal with China, and shift the focus...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Investors reacted to two major news items last week, one far more of a surprise than the other. The Federal Reserve did indeed make a rate cut, matching Wall Street expectations. Drone strikes on two of the...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks edged toward all-time peaks during a relatively calm week marked by easing trade tensions. Friday marked the eighth straight daily advance for the Dow Jones Industrial Average.[1] Small-cap shares, as...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks rose last week, with help from two developments: the announcement of further U.S.-China trade talks as well as August hiring and manufacturing numbers that seemed to bolster the argument for a rate cut...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Fears of an impasse in the U.S.-China trade dispute lessened last week. While additional U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports were scheduled to take effect on September 1, China's government communicated that it...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Traders assumed that the week's biggest news event would be Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell's speech at the annual Jackson Hole banking conference. Instead, China seized the headlines by announcing new...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street U.S. stock indices saw significant ups and downs last week, with traders looking for economic cues from Treasury yields and also developments in the tariff fight between the U.S. and China. The S&P 500 lost 1...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks spent much of last week rebounding from a Monday drop that reflected nervousness about the U.S.-China trade fight. By Thursday's closing bell, the S&P 500 had regained all its Monday losses - but it...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Last week, the Federal Reserve cut interest rates for the first time in more than a decade, in line with Wall Street's expectations. Ironically, stocks had their worst week of 2019. The S&P 500 finished the...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Last week, investors assessed earnings and the initial estimate of second-quarter economic growth, while awaiting the Federal Reserve's next announcement about interest rates. Stocks rose for the week;...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stock benchmarks retreated during the first week of the second-quarter earnings season. As some big names shared quarterly results, investors seemed more interested in what might happen at the Federal Reserve's...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Friday, the S&P 500 settled above 3,000 for the first time, after rising 0.78% for the week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average chalked up a milestone of its own: the blue chips ended the week above 27,000,...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street U.S. stock benchmarks opened a new quarter positively. The S&P 500 gained 1.65% in the opening week of July; the Dow Jones Industrial Average, 1.21%; the Nasdaq Composite, 1.94%. Overseas, stocks in developed...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street A month of gains for stocks ended with a weekly retreat. The S&P 500 lost 0.30%; the Nasdaq Composite, 0.32%; the Dow Jones Industrial Average, 0.45%. In contrast, overseas shares, tracked by the MSCI EAFE...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street The S&P 500 hit an all-time peak of 2,964.03, in intraday trading Friday, while improving 2.20% across five market days. The Dow Jones Industrial Average and Nasdaq Composite posted respective, 5-day advances...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks advanced for a second straight week. The S&P 500 benchmark rose 0.47%; the Nasdaq Composite, 0.70%; the Dow Jones Industrial Average, 0.41%. Overseas shares, as tracked by the MSCI EAFE developed markets...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks rallied during a week in which Wall Street was buffeted by headlines. The S&P 500 rose 4.41%. The Nasdaq Composite and Dow Jones Industrial Average respectively added 3.88% and 4.71%. The MSCI EAFE index...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks struggled during a 4-day market week as the U.S.-China trade standoff continued to weigh on the minds of market participants. From the Friday, May 24 close to the Friday, May 31 close, the S&P 500...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall StreetStocks drifted lower last week as investors considered the possibility that the world's two largest economies might take some time to resolve key trade issues. The S&P 500 retreated 1.17%; the Nasdaq Composite,...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks fell sharply at the start of last week over trade tensions, then recovered with help from strong earnings and indications that U.S.-China trade talks would continue. Even so, the major indices had a down...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street As we noted recently, Wall Street has a wandering eye. Last week, it focused on the new tariff threats in the ongoing U.S.-China trade dispute. Stocks fell across five trading sessions: the Dow Jones Industrial...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks were up and down last week, and the three major benchmarks ended up little changed after five trading days. The S&P 500 rose 0.20% for the week; the Nasdaq Composite, 0.22%. The Dow Jones Industrial...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks returned to record territory, with both the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq Composite closing at historic highs. The S&P gained 1.20% for the week; the Nasdaq, 1.85%. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lagged,...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street A short and relatively placid trading week wrapped up Thursday, with the major indices turning in mixed performances. The S&P 500 retreated 0.08%, the Nasdaq Composite advanced 0.17%, and the Dow Jones...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks broke out of a narrow range on Friday following news that two major banks grew their bottom line in the first quarter. For the week, the S&P 500 rose 0.79%; the Nasdaq Composite, 0.91%. The Dow Jones...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks just posted their second straight weekly gain. Investors were encouraged by the latest jobs report and new signs of progress on a U.S.-China trade deal. The Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 1.17% in...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks ended last week higher as volatility slowed, completing their best quarter since 2009. A Friday tweet from Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin encouraged investors, referring to "constructive" discussions...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Friday, the yield of the 3-month Treasury bill exceeded the yield of the 10-year Treasury note for the first time in 12 years. For some analysts, this "inverted yield curve" may imply a short-term lessening of...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street The big story last week was the sudden grounding of Boeing 737 Max 8 and 9 passenger jets in dozens of countries. The financial effects of this ban could potentially impact the airline industry and segments of...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street As in February, investors spent most of the first full trading week of March hoping for new details in U.S.-China trade negotiations. While they waited, stock benchmarks drifted downward. From Monday's open to...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks lost a little ground as February gave way to March. While domestic and overseas political developments made headlines, the market stayed relatively calm: from Monday's open through Friday's close, the...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks rallied last week as optimism about a potential U.S.-China trade deal grew. The S&P 500 advanced 0.80% during the 4-day trading week to 2,792.67. The Nasdaq Composite improved 0.86% to 7,527.54, and the...
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Stocks ended a good week on a high note, as hints of progress in U.S.-China trade talks encouraged investors. When the closing bell rang Friday, the S&P 500 settled at 2,775.60, after rising 2.50% in five days....
Read MoreThe Week on Wall Street Major U.S. stock benchmarks eked out slight gains last week, with corporate profit reports and news about U.S.-China trade negotiations vying for investor attention over five trading sessions. The big three...
Read MoreLast week closed out one of stocks' top January performances in years. In fact, both the S&P 500 and Dow posted their best January results in at least 3 decades.[1] For the week, major domestic indexes were also up. The S&P 500 gained...
Read MoreFor the first time in months, U.S. markets experienced little movement last week.[1] The Dow and NASDAQ did have their 5th week of gains in a row, but their increases were small: 0.12% and 0.11%, respectively. Meanwhile, the S&P 500...
Read MoreU.S. markets were up again last week, as major domestic indexes posted their 4th weekly gains in a row.[1] In fact, the S&P 500 was no longer in correction territory at Friday's close - and was in the middle of its best yearly start...
Read MoreAfter months of volatility, markets relaxed a bit last week. For the first time since October, the S&P 500 went 5 days without a 1% gain or loss.[1] The Cboe Volatility Index, or VIX, also fell to lower than 20 - in December, it...
Read MoreMost understand that waiting to claim Social Security benefits can result in higher monthly payments. However, many don’t know that there are other ways to maximize their benefits, some of which depend on their marital status....
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