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December 6, 2021 - Markets Continue Lower on COVID-19 Variant Fears
Monday, December 6, 2021Read More
November 22, 2021 - Growth Stocks Catch a Bid Amid Renewed COVID-19 Worries in Europe
Monday, November 22, 2021Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities Major Markets Mixed The major equity markets finished the week mixed as inflation worries continued to play a role in investors’ minds amid an excellent third...
Read MoreNovember 15, 2021 - Inflation Concerns Influence Market Results
Monday, November 15, 2021Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities Major Markets Mostly Higher The major equity markets finished the week on a negative note as inflation worries played a role in investors’ minds amid an...
Read MoreNovember 8, 2021 - Markets Continue Higher After Positive Earnings and Economic News
Monday, November 8, 2021Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities Major Markets Mostly Higher The major equity markets finished the week on a positive note. The emerging markets (MSCI EM) was the major outlier, finishing just...
Read MoreNovember 1, 2021 - Market Mixed In A Busy Earnings Week
Monday, November 1, 2021U.S. and International Equities Major Markets Mixed The major equity markets finished the week mixed. In the U.S., all major averages were higher though gains were larger for the S&P 500 and Nasdaq than for the blue chip Dow...
Read MoreOctober 25, 2021 - Markets Continue Higher Amid Positive Earnings
Monday, October 25, 2021Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities Major U.S. and International Markets Finished Higher The major equity markets finished solidly in the green this week as we head into the heart Q3 earnings season....
Read MoreOctober 11, 2021 - Markets Rebound From Last Week's Decline
Monday, October 11, 2021Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities Major U.S. and International Markets Finished Higher The major equity markets reversed course from last week to finish higher. The international markets results...
Read MoreOctober 4, 2021 - Goodbye September
Monday, October 4, 2021Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities Major U.S. and International Markets Finished Lower The major equity markets finished the week, along with the month of September, lower. The international markets...
Read MoreSeptember 27, 2021 - Small Caps and Energy Power This Week's Results
Monday, September 27, 2021Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities Major U.S. Markets Finished higher while International Markets Selloff The major markets finished the week higher, with the Dow Jones Industrials leading the...
Read MoreSeptember 20, 2021 - Markets Pull Back for Second Straight Week
Monday, September 20, 2021Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities Major Markets Finish Lower Amid Delta and Earnings Growth Concerns The major markets finished lower for a second straight week. Friday’s quadruple witching...
Read MoreSeptember 13, 2021 - Markets Down Modestly As Worries Grow
Monday, September 13, 2021U.S. and International Equities Major Indices Show Modest Weekly Declines as Delta Worries Mount All major markets finished lower as the investor concerns over the Delta variant, Federal Reserve (Fed) tapering, and policy risk grew....
Read MoreSeptember 7, 2021 - Markets Stout Amid Weak Jobs Report
Tuesday, September 7, 2021Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities Emerging Markets Rebound The major markets finished mostly higher building on last week’s gains. Emerging markets, as represented by the MSCI EM Index,...
Read MoreAugust 30, 2021 - Markets Rebound Amid Fed Comments
Monday, August 30, 2021Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities Major Markets Rebound The major markets finished higher after last week’s selloff, as an already strong week was capped off with a broad-based rally on Friday...
Read MoreAugust 23, 2021 - Markets Lower as Delta Variant Cases Increase
Monday, August 23, 2021Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities Major Markets Pullback The major markets this week finished lower as value sectors reversed course from last week’s gains. The strength in cyclicals the prior...
Read MoreAugust 16, 2021 - Value Outperforms Growth as Yields Increase
Monday, August 16, 2021Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities Major Markets Mostly Higher The major markets this week finished mostly higher as value sectors materials, industrials, and financialsled the S&P 500 Index to...
Read MoreAugust 9, 2021 - – Markets Rebound on Strong July Jobs Report
Monday, August 9, 2021Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities Markets Finish Marginally Higher The major markets reversed course from last week, finishing the week higher. Overseas markets produced gains, as emerging market...
Read MoreAugust 2, 2021 - Six Straight Monthly Gains for the S&P 500
Tuesday, August 3, 2021Market BlogU.S. and International Equities Markets Reverse Course This Week; Growth Names Pull Back The major markets finished the week lower, reversing course from the previous week. Some disappointing corporate guidance along with...
Read MoreJuly 26, 2021 - Strong Week for Growth Stocks as Earnings Season is Underway
Monday, July 26, 2021Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities Markets Higher as Growth Leads The major markets finished higher this week after starting the week lower, with the Dow Jones off by over 2% after Monday’s...
Read MoreJuly 19, 2021 - Markets Digest First Week of Q2 Earnings
Tuesday, July 20, 2021Market Blog Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities Markets Mostly Lower As Utilities and Real Estate Gain Ground Most major markets sold off this week as Q2 earning season kicks off. Market participants...
Read MoreJuly 12, 2021 - Markets Resilient As We Enter The Second Half of 2021
Tuesday, July 13, 2021Market Blog Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities Most of the U.S. and international markets were fractionally higher this week as traders were concerned about a potential peak in the global recovery,...
Read MoreJune 28, 2021 - Market Rally and Rebound
Monday, June 28, 2021Market Blog Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities The major US markets reversed course from last week and ended the week higher as market participants stepped in to take advantage of last week’s...
Read MoreJune 21, 2021 - Markets Pullback Amid Fed Signaling
Monday, June 21, 2021Market Blog Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities The major US markets ended the week mostly lower on inflation concerns and a hawkish FOMC that signaled an increase in rates may come sooner than...
Read MoreJune 14, 2021 - Value Pulls Back
Monday, June 14, 2021Market BlogIndex Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities The major US markets ended the week mixed with the growth-laden Nasdaq Composite finishing the week higher, while the Dow Jones gave back ground....
Read MoreJune 7, 2021 - Markets Higher During a Shortened Week
Monday, June 7, 2021Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities The major US markets were higher this week, as market participants continue to take inflation concerns in stride. US small cap (Russell 2000) equities were the best...
Read MoreJune 1, 2021 - Commodity Strength
Tuesday, June 1, 2021Market Blog Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities The major US markets were higher this week, as market participants took concerns about inflation in stride. US small caps (Russell 2000) equities were...
Read MoreMay 24, 2021 - Markets Resilient Amid Inflation
Monday, May 24, 2021Market Blog Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities The growth-laden Nasdaq Composite reversed course this week as traders added risk amongst positive earnings results and improved initial jobless claims....
Read MoreMay 17, 2021 - Down Week for the Markets
Monday, May 17, 2021Market BlogIndex Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities The growth-laden Nasdaq Composite was this week’s relative laggard as traders took additional risk off. As we head toward the mid-year, the Nasdaq...
Read MoreMay 10, 2021 - Earnings Edge Lackluster Economic Reports
Monday, May 10, 2021Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities The major US markets were mixed this week, as strong gains in value-oriented sectors were partially offset by continued declines in the growth style. The Dow Jones...
Read MoreMay 3, 2021 - Markets Digest Earnings And Policy Measures
Monday, May 3, 2021Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities The major US markets were mostly lower this week. Some sectors were unable to overcome concerns about higher capital gains tax rates in the wake of positive...
Read MoreApril 26, 2021 - Earnings Momentum Continues
Monday, April 26, 2021Market Blog Index Performance View enlarged chart. Most major United States markets were lower this week. After the run this year, some market participants likely took some profits to lock in gains on concerns that much of the good...
Read MoreApril 19, 2021 - Recovery Signs Emerge
Monday, April 19, 2021Market Blog Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities The major United States markets were higher this week. The S&P 500 Index was this week’s best performing major index while the Nasdaq Composite...
Read MoreApril 12, 2021 - Improving Economic Conditions
Monday, April 12, 2021Market Blog Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities The major United States markets were mostly higher this week. The Nasdaq Composite was the best performing index while the Dow Jones Industrial Average...
Read MoreApril 5, 2021 - Market Steady Into April
Tuesday, April 6, 2021Market Blog Index Performance View enlarged chart. US and International Equities The major United States and international markets were higher this week. The Nasdaq Composite was the best performing index while the Dow Jones Industrial...
Read MoreMarch 29, 2021 - – Stocks Mixed While Treasuries Recover
Monday, March 29, 2021Market Blog Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities Major United States markets were mixed this week. U.S. small caps (Russell 2000 Index) have been the worst performing index for two straight weeks while...
Read MoreMarch 22, 2021 - Markets Reverse Course
Monday, March 22, 2021Index Performance View enlarged chart. U.S. and International Equities All major United States markets declined this week. U.S. small caps (Russell 2000 Index) were last week’s best performing index. This week, they reversed...
Read MoreMarch 1, 2021 - Higher Rates Spook Stocks
Monday, March 1, 2021Market Blog Index Performance View enlarged chart. US and International Equities All major market indexes ended this week lower. The MSCI EM Emerging Markets index was the worst performer, falling over 6% this week. The Dow Jones...
Read MoreFebruary 22, 2021 - Mixed Markets Fueled By Energy
Monday, February 22, 2021Market Blog View enlarged chart. US and International Equities The major market indexes ended this week mixed with the Dow Jones Industrials as the only major average higher. Results were mixed outside the United States as well, with...
Read MoreFebruary 16, 2021 - The Week Belonged to Energy and Emerging Markets
Wednesday, February 17, 2021Index Performance View enlarged chart. US and International Equities The major market indexes ended a second consecutive week in the green with all averages solidlyhigher. The Russell 2000 Small Cap Index, which has been a bright spot...
Read MoreFebruary 8, 2021 - Stocks Reverse Course From Last Week’s Selloff
Tuesday, February 9, 2021Index Performance View enlarged chart. US and International Equities The major market indexes ended this week in the green with all averages solidly higher. The Russell 2000 Small Cap Index, which has been a bright spot in recent...
Read MoreFebruary 1, 2021 - Energy and Small Caps Help Fuel January’s Performance
Monday, February 1, 2021Market Blog Index Performance View enlarged chart. US and International Equities This month provided mixed results for the major market indexes. The Dow Jones and S&P 500 ended the month lower. The Nasdaq Composite continued its run...
Read MoreJanuary 19, 2021 - Small Caps and Energy Continue To Run
Tuesday, January 19, 2021Market Blog US and International Equities The major market indexes finished the week lower. In addition, many international markets followed in lockstep with their US counterparts. Emerging markets (MSCI EM Index) outperformed...
Read MoreJanuary 11, 2021 - Markets Take Senate Surprise in Stride
Monday, January 11, 2021Market Blog Index Performance View enlarged chart. US and International Equities This week, we gained clarity on the makeup of Congress with the Georgia US Senate runoff. Democrats will now have control of both chambers of Congress,...
Read MoreDecember 14, 2020 - Small Caps and Energy Stand Out in a Lackluster Week
Monday, December 14, 2020Market Blog US and International Equities The major market indexes finished the week lower. Vaccine progress was outweighed by concerns over rising COVID-19 cases, a lackluster jobs report, and increasing concerns about whether...
Read MoreDecember 7, 2020 - Markets Headed Higher Coming Into December
Monday, December 7, 2020Market Blog View enlarged chart. US and International Equities After a strong November for the markets due to positive vaccine news, a strong third quarter earnings season, along with prospects for a split Congress, the major market...
Read MoreNovember 23, 2020 - Economic and Market Data Does Not Always Mix
Monday, November 23, 2020Market Blog US and International Equities This week, as some of the economic news was pointing to worries of a potential economic slowdown, some areas of the stock market are looking ahead to a potential economic recovery. Stocks...
Read MoreNovember 16, 2020 - Value vs. Growth; Could the Tides Be Changing?
Monday, November 16, 2020Market Blog US and International Equities Markets received positive vaccine news from Pfizer this week, a very positive sign for the industrials and other value-laden sectors that the end of the pandemic could be on the horizon. Value...
Read MoreNovember 9, 2020 - Post-Election Market Results
Monday, November 9, 2020US and International Equities: US stocks staged one of their biggest election week rallies ever, with all major markets finishing up over 5% this week. Small caps had a particularly big week, with the Russell 2000 up over 8%. Investors...
Read MoreNovember 2, 2020 - The Bears Came Out For Halloween
Monday, November 2, 2020US and International Equities An increase in COVID-19 cases in the United States and Europe and what they could mean for the economic outlook has caused turbulence in this week’s markets. Moreover, Washington gridlock over...
Read MoreOctober 19, 2020 - Markets Higher Amid Positive Retail Sales
Monday, October 19, 2020Market Blog Index PerformanceS&P 500 Index: 0.2%Dow Jones Industrial Average: 0.1%Nasdaq Composite: 0.8% US and International Equities Markets generally finished higher this week, the third straight weekly gain for the S&P 500 Index...
Read MoreOctober 12, 2020 - Markets Optimistic For Stimulus Measures
Monday, October 12, 2020Market Blog Index PerformanceS&P 500 Index: 3.7%Dow Jones Industrial Average: 3.3 %Nasdaq Composite: 4.6% US and International Equities The S&P 500 Index posted its best week in more than three months, boosted by renewed stimulus talks...
Read MoreOctober 5, 2020 - A Volatile Start For October
Monday, October 5, 2020Market Blog Index PerformanceS&P 500 Index: 1.8%Dow Jones Industrial Average: 1.9%Nasdaq Composite: 1.5% US and International Equities As news concerning President Trump affected Friday’s markets, the S&P 500 Index still managed...
Read MoreSeptember 28, 2020 - The Roller Coaster Continues
Monday, September 28, 2020Market Blog Index PerformanceS&P 500 Index: -0.6%Dow Jones Industrial Average: -1.8%Nasdaq Composite: 1.1% US and International Equities The S&P 500 Index moved higher three days this week, but a 2.4% loss Wednesday pushed this index...
Read MoreSeptember 21, 2020 - Markets Show Resilience
Monday, September 21, 2020Market Blog Index PerformanceS&P 500 Index: -0.6%Dow Jones Industrial Average: 0.0%Nasdaq Composite: -0.6% US and International Equities The equity markets attempted to gain marginal ground this week, as the S&P 500 Index tried break a...
Read MoreSeptember 14, 2020 - Rocky September Start for the Markets
Monday, September 14, 2020Market Blog Index PerformanceS&P 500 Index:-2.4%Dow Jones Industrial Average: -1.7%Nasdaq Composite: -4.0% US and International Equities During this shortened trading week, the equity markets sold off following a strong summer advance....
Read MoreSeptember 8, 2020 - Bumpy September Start for the Markets
Tuesday, September 8, 2020Market BlogIndex PerformanceS&P 500 Index: -2.3%Dow Jones Industrial Average: -1.8%Nasdaq Composite: -3.3% US and International Equities The equity markets sold off this week after a strong summer advance. Technology stocks, the...
Read MoreAugust 31, 2020 - Moving Markets
Monday, August 31, 2020Market BlogIndex PerformanceS&P 500 Index: 3.3%Dow Jones Industrial Average: 2.6%Nasdaq Composite: 3.4% Equities Markets continued their trek higher, with the Nasdaq and its technology-oriented names leading the move forward. All...
Read MoreAugust 24, 2020 - Markets Reaching Milestones Amid COVID-19
Tuesday, August 25, 2020Market Blog Index Performance S&P 500 Index: .7% Dow Jones Industrial Average: 0% Nasdaq Composite: 2.7% Equities Markets were mostly higher for the week, with the Nasdaq leading the move forward. The technology, communication services...
Read MoreAugust 17, 2020 - Markets Moving Forward
Monday, August 17, 2020Market Blog Index PerformanceS&P 500 Index: .6%Dow Jones Industrial Average: 1.8%Nasdaq Composite: .1% Equities Markets were broadly higher for the week, with the Nasdaq the laggard as the rotation to cyclical value sectors remained...
Read MoreAugust 10, 2020 - Markets Advance But Commodities Take the Limelight
Monday, August 10, 2020Market BlogIndex PerformanceS&P 500 Index: 2.5%Dow Jones Industrial Average: 3.8%Nasdaq Composite: 2.5% Equities This week was positive for the markets as some encouraging economic data and well-received earnings eports helped...
Read MoreAugust 3, 2020 - Markets Steadfast Amid Economic and Earnings Reports
Monday, August 3, 2020Market Blog Index PerformanceS&P 500 Index: 1.7%Dow Jones Industrial Average: -.2%Nasdaq Composite: 3.7% Equities This week was another mixed week for the markets, as large cap growth earnings powered tech behemoths and the Nasdaq to...
Read MoreJuly 27, 2020 - Markets and Stimulus Measures
Monday, July 27, 2020Market Blog Index PerformanceS&P 500 Index: -0.3%Dow Jones Industrial Average: -0.8%Nasdaq Composite: -1.3% Equities Large cap US equities pulled back modestly this week, as technology-oriented stocks paused for the second consecutive...
Read MoreJuly 20, 2020 - Markets Move Ahead
Monday, July 20, 2020Market BlogIndex PerformanceS&P 500 Index: 1.3 %Dow Jones Industrial Average: 2.3 %Nasdaq Composite: -1.1 % Equities US equities delivered modest gains this week, with indexes representing both the midcap and small cap spaces faring...
Read MoreJuly 13, 2020 - Markets Steadfast Ahead of Increased COVID-19 Cases
Monday, July 13, 2020Market BlogIndex PerformanceS&P 500 Index: 1.8%Dow Jones Industrial Average: 1.0%Nasdaq Composite: 4.0% Equities US equities delivered positive results this week. In addition, indexes representing both the small and mid-cap space were...
Read MoreJuly 6, 2020 - Markets Rally Ahead of Independence Day
Monday, July 6, 2020Market BlogIndex Performance – As of 1:00 PM, 7/2/20S&P 500 Index: 2.0%Dow Jones Industrial Average: 0.9 %Nasdaq Composite: 2.4 % EquitiesUS equities delivered very strong gains during the shortened trading week. Like their...
Read MoreJune 29, 2020 - Markets Pull Back Amid COVID-19 Challenges
Monday, June 29, 2020Market BlogIndex Performance – Week ending 6/26/20S&P 500 Index: -2.9%Dow Jones Industrial Average: -3.3%Nasdaq Composite: -1.9% EquitiesUS equities pulled back this week in the wake of increased COVID-19 cases in southern and...
Read MoreJune 22, 2020 - Markets Continue Run Amid Strong Economic Data and Fed Support
Monday, June 22, 2020Market BlogIndex Performance – Week ending 6/19/2020S&P 500 Index: 1.9%Dow Jones Industrial Average: 1.0%Nasdaq Composite: 3.7% EquitiesUS equities enjoyed a positive week, as the S&P 500 Index finished solidly over 3100....
Read MoreJune 15, 2020 - Markets Pull Back Amid Solid Two-Month Run
Monday, June 15, 2020Market BlogIndex Performance – Week ending 6/12/2020S&P 500 Index: -4.8%Dow Jones Industrial Average: -5.6%Nasdaq Composite: -2.3% EquitiesUS equities sold off this week, as the S&P 500 Index posted its largest weekly loss since...
Read MoreJune 8, 2020 - Equities Strong As Data Improves
Monday, June 8, 2020Market BlogIndex Performance – Week ending 6/5/2020S&P 500 Index: 4.9%Dow Jones Industrial Average: 6.8%Nasdaq Composite: 3.4% EquitiesThe S&P 500 Index, Dow Jones Industrial Average, and Nasdaq were all higher, with the best...
Read MoreJune 2, 2020 - Equities Continue Run During a Shortened Week
Tuesday, June 2, 2020Market BlogIndex Performance – Week ending 5/29/2020S&P 500 Index: 2.97%Dow Jones Industrial Average: 3.74%Nasdaq Composite: 1.77% EquitiesUS equities delivered positive returns during this abbreviated trading week. All three...
Read MoreMay 18, 2020 - Stocks Sell Off Modestly; Second Wave Concerns
Monday, May 18, 2020Market BlogIndex Performance – Week ending 5/15/2020S&P 500 Index: -2.26%Dow Jones Industrial Average: -2.65%Nasdaq Composite: -1.17% EquitiesUS equities sold off modestly this week. The growth-heavy Nasdaq outperformed among US...
Read MoreMay 11, 2020 - Stocks Rebound Amid Challenging Economic Data
Monday, May 11, 2020EquitiesUS equities exhibited strength this week, as the S&P 500 Index climbed higher and cut year-to-date losses to under 10%. The gains came despite the Friday release of the April jobs report, which showed the unemployment rate...
Read MoreApril 27, 2020 - Stocks Slide As Oil Prices Drop
Monday, April 27, 2020Stocks moved lower on the week as volatility in the oil patch dominated headlines. Prices for the May contracts for WTI crude oil briefly vaulted into negative territory ahead of the settlement date on April 21. Jobless claims...
Read MoreApril 20, 2020 - Solid Gains
Monday, April 20, 2020Stocks posted solid gains for the week on the heels of the largest weekly gain for the S&P 500 Index since 1974. While participation was led mostly by growth stocks early in the week, reports of a drug from Gilead Sciences that showed...
Read MoreApril 13, 2020 - Stocks See Silver Linings
Monday, April 13, 2020Stocks rallied strongly over the holiday-shortened week. Sentiment was boosted earlier in the week following data that showed New York, the hardest-hit part of the country, may be reaching a peak in COVID-19 cases. More Federal Reserve...
Read MoreMarch 30, 2020 - Policy-Driven Rebound
Monday, March 30, 2020Stocks rebounded sharply this week even as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to spread rapidly in the United States. The movement toward passage of the nearly $2 trillion fiscal stimulus package and unprecedented actions from the Federal...
Read MoreMarch 23, 2020 - Historic Volatility
Monday, March 23, 2020Extreme volatility continued as the war against the COVID-19 (coronavirus) global pandemic continues and extreme containment measures caused significant disruption to the US and global economies. The S&P 500 Index has declined more...
Read MoreMarch 9, 2020 - Wild Week
Monday, March 9, 2020U.S. stocks ended the first week of March slightly higher, but the path to get there was extremely volatile. The first four days of the week saw the S&P 500 Index move at least 2.9% each day amid heightened fears around the coronavirus...
Read MoreMarch 2, 2020 - Coronavirus Correction
Monday, March 2, 2020U.S. stocks suffered their worst weekly decline since the 2008–09 financial crisis as COVID-19 outbreak fears intensified and drove a wave of heavy selling. One U.S. case of community transmission plus raised warning levels from...
Read MoreFebruary 24, 2020 - Stocks Fell As China Stayed in Focus
Monday, February 24, 2020U.S. stocks fell during the holiday-shortened week as confirmed cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) continued to rise. The S&P 500 Index still set a fresh record high on Wednesday, partly due to China’s aggressive policy response,...
Read MoreFebruary 18, 2020 - Resilience Amid Outbreak
Tuesday, February 18, 2020U.S. stocks rose for the second straight week, setting more new record highs along way despite the threat of global economic disruption from the coronavirus outbreak. Encouraging commentary about the economic outlook from Federal...
Read MoreFebruary 10, 2020 - Fundamentals Over Fears
Monday, February 10, 2020U.S. stocks broke a two-week losing streak with their best weekly gain in eight months. Good U.S. economic data, well-received fourth-quarter earnings results, news of a possible Coronavirus vaccine, and China tariff reductions helped...
Read MoreFebruary 3, 2020 - Looking At How the Coronavirus Outbreak is Affecting the Markets
Monday, February 3, 2020By now, you’ve probably heard about the coronavirus outbreak in the Chinese city of Wuhan. As of this writing, there have been about 2,900 confirmed cases, with over 80 deaths.1 Most cases have been within China itself, but the...
Read MoreJanuary 27, 2020 - Stocks Pause On Viral Outbreak
Monday, January 27, 2020U.S. stocks fell during the holiday-shortened week, with the S&P 500 notching its third weekly loss since October 2019. A dangerous viral outbreak originating in China spooked investors globally, despite improving global data and...
Read MoreJanuary 21, 2020 - Stocks Rise On Trade, Earnings News
Tuesday, January 21, 2020U.S. stocks rose again this week to fresh record highs, powering the S&P 500 Index to its 13th weekly gain out of the last 15 weeks. A well-received initial batch of earnings results and the signing of the phase-one trade deal with...
Read MoreJanuary 13, 2020 - More Gains Despite Mideast Conflict
Monday, January 13, 2020U.S. stocks weathered the Mideast conflict with the S&P 500 Index posting its 12th weekly gain out of the last 14 weeks. All major averages set fresh record highs during the week, causing some to ask whether stocks had come too far,...
Read MoreDecember 30, 2019 - New 2019 Highs
Monday, December 30, 2019U.S. stocks rose again this week, with the S&P 500 Index gaining for the fifth straight week, setting more record highs. The Nasdaq Composite and the Dow Jones Industrial Average (Dow) joined the party, also breaking to new highs this...
Read MoreDecember 23, 2019 - Seasonal Lift
Monday, December 23, 2019U.S. stocks rose again this week, with the S&P 500 Index gaining for the 10th week out of 11 and setting more record highs. Trade talks with China continued to move forward, buoying sentiment; the “phase one” trade pact...
Read MoreDecember 16, 2019 - Stocks Rise as Uncertainty Clears
Monday, December 16, 2019U.S. stocks rose this week, with the S&P 500 Index gaining for the ninth week out of the past ten. Stocks rallied late in the week in anticipation of a “phase one” trade deal with China and the removal of a tariff hike...
Read MoreDecember 9, 2019 - Jobs Report Sparks Rally
Monday, December 9, 2019U.S. stocks eked out a small weekly gain, based on the S&P 500 Index, thanks to Friday’s rally on the November jobs report. The rise marked the eighth weekly gain for the broad stock market index in the past nine weeks, which...
Read MoreDecember 2, 2019 - More Record Highs
Monday, December 2, 2019U.S. stocks rose for the seventh time in eight weeks as investors took cues from a new batch of optimistic trade headlines. The S&P 500 Index gained 1% during the holiday-shortened week, notching three record high closes along the way....
Read MoreNovember 25, 2019 - Stocks Take a Pause
Monday, November 25, 2019U.S. stocks’ rally paused this week as investors processed another batch of trade headlines. The S&P 500 Index declined for the first time in seven weeks, breaking the benchmark’s longest winning streak since November 2017....
Read MoreNovember 18, 2019 - More Highs on Trade Optimism
Monday, November 18, 2019U.S. stocks rallied for the sixth consecutive week, notching more new record highs along the way. Late week optimism surrounding trade provided most of the spark, as lead U.S. negotiators expressed confidence a “phase one”...
Read MoreNovember 12, 2019 - Market Rally Continues
Tuesday, November 12, 2019U.S. stocks rallied for the fifth consecutive week, notching new record highs along the way. Optimism surrounding trade provided most of the spark, as the United States and China moved closer to signing a “phase one” trade...
Read MoreOctober 28, 2019 - S&P 500 Brushes Record High
Monday, October 28, 2019U.S. stocks gained for a third straight week, and the S&P 500 Index brushed record highs. Stocks rose as discussions around the United Kingdom’s (U.K.) exit from the European Union (EU) (Brexit) led to U.K. lawmakers rejecting a...
Read MoreOctober 21, 2019 - Another Run At Record Highs
Monday, October 21, 2019U.S. stocks gained this week, making another run at all-time highs as investors watched global developments, and third quarter earnings season kicked off. The S&P 500 Index climbed 1% on October 15 amid news that United Kingdom (U.K.)...
Read MoreOctober 14, 2019 - Stocks Rally to End Week
Monday, October 14, 2019Stocks rallied on trade optimism late in the week, erasing the S&P 500 Index’s 2% loss through Tuesday. U.S. markets’ slide began Monday and intensified on Tuesday as the S&P 500 fell 1.5% following renewed reports that the...
Read MoreOctober 7, 2019 - Scary Start to October
Monday, October 7, 2019Stocks fell for a third straight week as investors gauged the health of the U.S. economy and its impact on future monetary policy. The S&P 500 Index climbed on September 30 after the U.S. administration denied claims that the United...
Read MoreSeptember 30, 2019 - Searching for Direction
Monday, September 30, 2019Stocks searched for direction this week as investors digested news of political tensions and signs of trade progress. On Tuesday, the S&P 500 Index posted its biggest drop in a month as an impeachment inquiry was opened against...
Read MoreSeptember 23, 2019 - Markets Take A Punch
Monday, September 23, 2019Markets took several punches this week and have not gone to the mat. Investors woke up Monday, September 16, to news of the attack on Saudi Arabia’s oil facilities and surging crude futures prices. Economic data from China showed...
Read MoreSeptember 16, 2019 - Grinding Higher
Monday, September 16, 2019Equities continued to rise this week, sending the S&P 500 Index back over the 3,000 level and near its record high of 3,027.98 set July 26. Easing trade fears, bold measures from the European Central Bank (ECB), and strong retail sales...
Read MoreSeptember 9, 2019 - Another Up Week On Trade Optimism
Monday, September 9, 2019▪ Equities rose during the holiday-shortened week as investors digested several geopolitical and trade headlines alongside a mixed batch of key economic data. The week started off on a down note, as stocks sold off Tuesday after the...
Read MoreAugust 26, 2019 - Trade, Tweets, and Grand Tetons
Monday, August 26, 2019Equities investors endured another volatile week, book-ended by positive trade vibes Monday, August 19, only to be thrust into negative territory Friday, August 23. White House officials announced they were laying the groundwork for...
Read MoreAugust 19, 2019 - Stocks & Bond Yields: Turn Down for What!
Monday, August 19, 2019Investors endured another volatile five-day stretch as the combination of trade uncertainty, plunging global bond yields, and conflicting messages between the United States and global economies further pressured stock prices. It may...
Read MoreAugust 5, 2019 - Markets Get Skittish after Fed Cut, New Tariffs
Monday, August 5, 2019Markets experienced a jolt of volatility this week, pushing the S&P 500 Index to its largest weekly decline since December 2018 following the much-anticipated Federal Reserve (Fed) meeting on Wednesday. The Fed announced a -25 basis...
Read MoreJuly 29, 2019 - GDP, Trade, and Budget Progress Boost U.S. Stocks
Monday, July 29, 2019U.S. stocks rose during the week amid better-than-expected gross domestic product (GDP) data, progress in trade and budget talks, and hopes for looser monetary policy. The Nasdaq Composite Index led all benchmark indices with a 2.3%...
Read MoreJuly 22, 2019 - Markets Reach New Highs as Earnings Season Picks Up
Monday, July 22, 2019Indices set new all-time highs on Monday, with the S&P 500 Index, Dow Jones Industrial Average, and Nasdaq Composite each reaching records as earnings season heated up. While investors set a low bar heading into second quarter earnings...
Read MoreJuly 15, 2019 - Stocks Reach New Milestones as the Fed Stays Accommodative
Monday, July 15, 2019Overall, U.S. stocks had an uneventful week in terms of volatility, with major indexes gaining less than one percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average did close above 27,000 for the first time, while the S&P 500 Index and Nasdaq...
Read MoreJuly 1, 2019 - Stocks in a Holding Pattern Ahead of G-20
Monday, July 1, 2019Markets were modestly lower this week, but U.S. equities have consolidated just below all-time highs as market participants paused in anticipation of the G20 Summit in Osaka, Japan, this weekend. While investors are not anticipating an...
Read MoreJune 24, 2019 - Dovish Central Banks Propel Stocks to New Highs
Monday, June 24, 2019Monetary policy was back in the spotlight as global central banks dominated the headlines this week. On Wednesday, the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) convened to discuss the future of monetary policy amid increasing pressure from...
Read MoreJune 17, 2019 - Stocks Take a Breather After Strong Start to June
Monday, June 17, 2019U.S. stocks stalled this week after posting their biggest weekly gain since November. The S&P 500 Index rose modestly in the week as investors struggled to find direction in trade headlines and conflicting economic reports. The U.S....
Read MoreJune 10, 2019 - Markets Show Resilience After Tough Month
Monday, June 10, 2019Stocks rebounded firmly this week, brushing off a rough May in which the S&P 500 Index declined for four straight weeks. While trade policy has been the common theme in markets recently, monetary policy has re-entered the spotlight as...
Read MoreJune 3, 2019 - Stocks Tumble as Trade Front Moves to Mexico
Monday, June 3, 2019U.S. stocks fell 2% in the week, weighed down by a constant stream of trade-related headlines. The White House announced it would impose a 5% tariff on all imports from Mexico, set to take effect June 10. The announcement also noted...
Read MoreMay 28, 2019 - Trade Continues to Simmer, Brexit Has a New Wrinkle
Tuesday, May 28, 2019Markets continue to digest recent escalations in the trade negotiations between the U.S. and China, as the White House moved to blacklist Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei from conducting business in the U.S. The developments...
Read MoreMay 20, 2019 - Markets Pare Early Losses, Trade Dominates Headlines
Monday, May 20, 2019Markets closed slightly down for the week, as the S&P 500 Index showed resilience in a three-day winning streak after one of the worst days of the year. On May 13, the S&P 500 fell 2.4%, its biggest one-day loss since January. The...
Read MoreMay 13, 2019 - Markets Hiccup as Trade Negotiations Escalate
Monday, May 13, 2019Markets encountered their first bout of volatility in 2019 after the U.S. announced it would increase tariffs from 10% to 25% on $200 billion of Chinese imports. The developments renewed concerns of slowing global growth, as a...
Read MoreMay 6, 2019 - Stocks Slightly Higher After Friday Rally
Monday, May 6, 2019Modest gains gave way to mid-week selling pressure after the Federal Reserve (Fed) concluded its two day monetary policy meeting. Then, a strong jobs report on Friday pushed the S&P 500 Index higher for the week. The S&P 500 notched a...
Read MoreApril 29, 2019 - S&P 500 Notches Fresh Record High After Seven Month Drought
Monday, April 29, 2019After more than seven months, the S&P 500 Index closed at new record high last week, powered bystrength in healthcare and financials stocks, sectors that have significantly lagged the broader market inrecent months. The new record...
Read MoreApril 22, 2019 - Stocks Meander Through Holiday-Shortened Week
Monday, April 22, 2019Major U.S. indexes continue to hover near all-time highs, but finished little changed last week amidsustained weakness in healthcare stocks and as investors shrugged off indications that a U.S.-China trade deal may soon come to...
Read MoreApril 15, 2019 - Late-Week Gains Push U.S. Equities Into Positive Territory
Monday, April 15, 2019U.S. stocks traded in a tight range this week before a string of bank earnings on Friday boosted the S&P500 Index comfortably into positive territory. Solid labor market data and indications that the U.S.-China may have made progress...
Read MoreApril 8, 2019 - Second Quarter Kicks Off With Flowers, Not Showers
Monday, April 8, 2019Global equities got off to a strong start in the second quarter, so far continuing the seasonal trend we’veseen in April in recent years. Renewed U.S.-China trade optimism, (relatively) upbeat economic data,and some easing of the...
Read MoreApril 1, 2019 - Stocks Rebound Despite Continued Downward Pressure on Rates
Monday, April 1, 2019A choppy week of trading capped off a strong first quarter of 2019. In the end, the S&P 500 Index posted its best quarterly price return since the third quarter of 2009. Still, stock market activity was again overshadowed by the...
Read MoreMarch 25, 2019 - Stocks Drop, Yield Curve Inverts on Renewed Global Growth Concerns
Monday, March 25, 2019A topsy-turvy week for global financial markets saw U.S. and European stocks shed early-week gains and several measures of the Treasury yield curve invert for the first time since 2006 following a resurgence in global growth concerns....
Read MoreMarch 18, 2019 - Stocks Resume Upward Momentum, Dow Lags on Boeing’s Woes
Monday, March 18, 2019U.S. equities rebounded from last week’s losses on the back of generally upbeat economic data and a lack of negative headlines. Developments on the U.S.-China trade front were modest, though early-week headlines indicating that...
Read MoreMarch 11, 2019 - Global Growth Concerns Outweigh Positive Trade Developments, Sending Stocks Deep
Monday, March 11, 2019Investors largely ignored further progress in U.S.-China trade negotiations this week, instead focusing on economic data and cuts to gross domestic product growth forecasts from the European Central Bank and the OECD, which provided...
Read MoreMarch 4, 2019 - Nasdaq, Dow Win Streaks Reach Double-Digits Amid Spat of Geopolitics
Monday, March 4, 2019A series of geopolitical events and top-tier economic data kept U.S. stocks in a narrow trading range this week, while overseas indexes were more of a mixed bag. Traders kicked off the week on a positive note after President...
Read MoreFebruary 25, 2019 - Trade Progress Buoys Markets Amid Lackluster Economic Data
Monday, February 25, 2019Meaningful progress in U.S.-China trade negotiations kept stocks out of the red this week despite a series of disappointing, key economic data. Major U.S. indexes gyrated this week, though an undercurrent of optimism around high-level...
Read MoreFebruary 19, 2019 - Positive Trade, Budget Negotiations Offset Mixed Economic Data
Tuesday, February 19, 2019Positive developments on the U.S. budget and trade negotiations underpinned a solid week of gains, though mixed economic data tempered investors’ enthusiasm. Investors found reason to add risk to their portfolios after early-week...
Read MoreFebruary 11, 2019 - Stocks Derailed After Promising Start
Monday, February 11, 2019Trade talk comments from President Trump helped spur a selloff that left U.S. equities near flat on the week. Stocks gained on Monday and Tuesday as investors continued to ride the tailwind provided by Federal Reserve Chair Jerome...
Read MoreJanuary 28, 2019 - Stocks Stage Late Week Rebound
Tuesday, January 29, 2019Solid gains on Friday helped major U.S. indexes overcome early-week losses, though the S&P 500 Index came up just short of notching its fifth straight weekly gain. The slow start came on the heels of reports that the White House...
Read MoreJanuary 22, 2019 - Rebound Continues on Trade Talk Optimism, Fedspeak
Tuesday, January 22, 2019Global stocks’ rebound continued for a third straight week, underpinned by optimism that the U.S. and China made progress in their first face-to-face negotiations in over a month, as well as speeches from several Federal Reserve...
Read MoreJanuary 7, 2019 - Investor’s Whiplashed, but Stocks up for Second Week
Monday, January 7, 2019A Friday rally that saw the U.S. equities spike more than 3% helped the S&P 500 Index kick off the New Year with its second straight weekly advance. The energy sector outperformed as oil continued to rise off its December 24 low, while...
Read MoreDecember 17, 2018 - Global Growth Anxiety Overshadows Trade Progress
Monday, December 17, 2018Stocks appeared headed for weekly gains after some headway was made in U.S.-China trade negotiations, but a Friday selloff erased the advances. The trade progress, which included a resumption of Chinese soybean purchases, a decrease in...
Read MoreDecember 10, 2018 - Stocks Retrace Prior Week Gains
Monday, December 10, 2018Mounting anxiety over a potential slowdown in global growth tied to trade, an inversion in the yield curve, and wild swings in the price of oil dragged the S&P 500 Index down more than 4% this week, erasing most of last week’s...
Read MoreDecember 3, 2018 - Stocks Rally on Fed Comments
Monday, December 3, 2018Global stock indexes closed out November with solid weekly gains amid a busy stretch that included a key policy speech from Federal Reserve (Fed) Chair Jerome Powell, a plethora of economic data, and several geopolitical headlines that...
Read MoreNovember 19, 2018 - Brexit Back in the Spotlight
Monday, November 19, 2018U.S. equities moved lower for the week, but ended on a high note as the S&P 500 Index broke a five-day losing streak on Thursday and then closed higher Friday as well, partly boosted by positive comments on U.S.-China trade talks. Oil...
Read MoreNovember 5, 2018 - Stocks Take a Breather After a Tough Month
Monday, November 5, 2018U.S. stocks’ best week in six months capped an otherwise rough October for U.S. equity investors. The S&P 500 Index climbed 2.4% during the week, its biggest weekly gain since May, as the benchmark rebounded to close the month...
Read MoreOctober 29, 2018 - Stocks Sharply Lower in Another Volatile Week
Monday, October 29, 2018Major U.S. indexes, with the exception of the Nasdaq, turned negative on the year and entered correction territory this week—falling more than 10% from their most recent highs. The S&P 500 Index snapped a six-day losing streak on...
Read MoreOctober 22, 2018 - Geopolitics Overshadow Earnings, Economic Data
Monday, October 22, 2018So far, October continues to live up to its reputation for being a volatility-laden month, with stocks again failing to sustain early-week gains as investors mostly shrugged off a strong start to third-quarter corporate earnings season...
Read MoreOctober 15, 2018 - Volatility Spike Sends Global Stocks Sharply Lower
Monday, October 15, 2018Two days of benign moves to start the week gave way to another spike in volatility—larger than last week—that saw global equities tumble and defensive investments like gold move notably higher. U.S. stocks led the mid-week...
Read MoreOctober 8, 2018 - Global Equities Decline Amid Yield Surge, Italy's Political Turmoil
Monday, October 8, 2018U.S. equity volatility picked up this week, thanks to a bout of selling in U.S. stocks on Thursday and Friday. The S&P 500 Index posted its worst week since June as the 10-year Treasury yield climbed to its highest level since 2011,...
Read MoreOctober 1, 2018 - Fed Meeting in Focus, Italy Rattles Europe
Monday, October 1, 2018Global equities failed to gain traction, with major regional indexes moving in and out of positive territory throughout the week, as investors digested the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) monetary policy meeting and Italy’s budget...
Read MoreSeptember 24, 2018 - Dow Catches Up With its Peers
Monday, September 24, 2018Traders followed the path of least resistance this week, pushing risk assets higher and U.S. Treasuries lower (yields higher) despite another round of tariff announcements in the U.S.-China trade spat, no progress in NAFTA negotiations...
Read MoreSeptember 17, 2018 - Central Bank Meetings Abound, But Trade Still the Focus
Monday, September 17, 2018It was a mostly upbeat week for global markets as investors moved back into the market, pushing regional equity indexes up and bond prices down. Monetary policy meetings were held by the central banks of Europe, England, Russia, and...
Read MoreSeptember 4, 2018 - Trade Returns to the Spotlight
Tuesday, September 4, 2018Trade negotiations between the U.S. and several of its key trading partners returned to center stage this week. Progress was mixed, as were global stocks’ performance. Investors had an appetite for risk early in the week when an...
Read MoreAugust 27, 2018 - Bull Breaks Record
Monday, August 27, 2018The S&P 500 Index notched a new record close yesterday, just two days after it officially became the longest bull market on record when it surpassed the market run-up seen in the 1990’s. Gains coincided with a wave of central...
Read MoreAugust 20, 2018 - Turkey’s Woes Continue, U.S. Holds up Relatively Well
Monday, August 20, 2018Global equities sold off this week, though major U.S. indexes held up relatively well, as investors' continued focus on Turkey, coupled with mixed economic data and commodity price weakness, stoked a resurgence in volatility. Concerns...
Read MoreAugust 13, 2018 - Indexes Falter Late in Week as Dollar Surges
Monday, August 13, 2018Global markets moved lower this week, as overseas turmoil on Friday erased the week’s earlier gains. The Turkish lira fell more than 10% vs. the U.S. dollar Friday after a series of speeches from Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan...
Read MoreAugust 6, 2018 - U.S. Outperforms in Busy Week
Monday, August 6, 2018It was a busy week for investors on multiple fronts with several major central banks holding monetary policy meetings, earnings reports from 141 S&P 500 companies, and new developments in the U.S.—China trade skirmish. Add to all...
Read MoreJuly 30, 2018 - Earnings and Economics
Monday, July 30, 2018July 30, 2018 Earnings season rolls along. The current earnings season has been marked by very strong growth, limited upside, and resilient estimates. With 265 S&P 500 index companies having reported, earnings growth is tracking to a...
Read MoreJuly 23, 2018 - Tariffs and Trade
Monday, July 23, 2018The full $500 billion? In an interview aired this morning, President Trump said he is ready to go with tariffs on $500 billion in Chinese imports in an effort to drive an agreement. Tariffs on just $34 billion in Chinese goods have...
Read MoreJuly 17, 2018 - Macro View
Tuesday, July 17, 2018Retail sales gain in June. Retail sales grew for a fifth straight month, rising 0.5% in June to match consensus expectations. Initial figures for May reported last month were revised higher, from 0.8% to 1.3% to mark the largest...
Read MoreJuly 9, 2018 - Tariff Turbulence
Tuesday, July 10, 2018President Trump’s planned imposition of tariffs on steel (25%) and aluminum (10%) rocked an already wobbly stock market yesterday as worries over a potential trade war heated up. Amid the headline noise, there a few key pieces of...
Read MoreJuly 2, 2018 - Trade and Tariffs Rattle Markets
Monday, July 2, 2018International trade concerns continue to create uncertainty in markets around the world.[1] Despite the markets' slight rises on Friday, June 29, they recorded losses for the week.[2] The S&P 500 fell 1.33%, the Dow gave back 1.26%,...
Read MoreJune 25, 2018 - The Power of Corporate Earnings
Monday, June 25, 2018Stocks stumbled across the globe last week as trade tensions continued to escalate. Despite rebounding somewhat on Friday, the S&P 500 experienced its first weekly loss in a month, and the Dow posted its worst week since March.[1] The...
Read MoreJune 18, 2018 - Trade and Interest Rates
Monday, June 18, 2018Last week stocks showed mixed results as political headlines continued to dominate the news. The Dow lost 0.89% and the S&P 500 was almost flat with a 0.02% gain.[1] The NASDAQ, on the other hand, reached a record high on Thursday and...
Read MoreJune 11, 2018 - Strength, Growth, and Tension
Monday, June 11, 2018As last week ended, tension between the U.S. and some of its greatest allies was on the rise. Trade remained a hot-button topic ahead of the G-7 meeting in Canada, but investors seemed largely unfazed by the drama.[1] In fact, all 3...
Read MoreJune 4, 2018 - Jobs Report Calms Volatility
Monday, June 4, 2018Markets experienced heightened volatility this week, with the S&P 500 rising 0.49% and Dow dropping 0.48%. Meanwhile, the NASDAQ rose 1.62%, as international markets took a small dip, with the MSCI EAFE losing 1.10%.[1,2] The markets'...
Read MoreMay 29, 2018 - Stocks Up, Signals Mixed
Tuesday, May 29, 2018Geopolitical uncertainty affected stocks last week, as the historic summit between the U.S. and North Korea began to look less likely. On Thursday, May 24, President Trump announced that the summit was off, and stocks stumbled in...
Read MoreMay 21, 2018 - Tackling Trade & Treasuries
Monday, May 21, 2018Major domestic indexes went down last week after all three gained more than 2% the previous week.[1] The S&P 500 dropped 0.54%, the Dow gave back 0.47%, and the NASDAQ lost 0.66%.[2] International stocks also stumbled; the MSCI EAFE...
Read MoreMay 14, 2018 - Markets Post Week of Growth
Monday, May 14, 2018On Friday, the markets closed the week gaining traction. The Dow had 7 days of consecutive growth, rising 2.34% - its largest weekly gain since March.[1] Meanwhile, the S&P 500 rose 2.41%, the NASDAQ jumped 2.68%, and the MSCI EAFE...
Read MoreMay 7, 2018 - Examining Employment
Monday, May 7, 2018Domestic indexes posted strong results on Friday, May 4, as the latest labor report data lessened investors' concerns about inflation and interest rates. Nonetheless, stocks had mixed results last week.[1] The S&P 500 dropped 0.24%...
Read MoreApril 30, 2018 - Earnings Rise, Stocks Stumble
Monday, April 30, 2018We just finished the busiest week of 1st quarter earnings season, and although many companies shared positive results, stock indexes experienced modest declines.[1] The S&P 500 lost 0.01%, the Dow dropped 0.62%, and the NASDAQ gave...
Read MoreApril 23, 2018 - Examining Earnings & Yields
Monday, April 23, 2018Stocks posted moderate gains last week, as the S&P 500 added 0.52%, the Dow increased 0.42%, and the NASDAQ rose 0.56%.[1] International stocks in the MSCI EAFE followed suit, gaining 0.41%.[2] We received numerous new data updates...
Read MoreApril 16, 2018 - Earnings Season Begins
Monday, April 16, 2018Market volatility continues. Stocks slid on Friday, April 13, but still held on to gains for the week.[1] The S&P 500 increased 1.99%, the Dow added 1.79%, and the NASDAQ was up 2.77%.[2] International stocks in the MSCI EAFE also...
Read MoreApril 9, 2018 - Special Update: Quarterly Report
Monday, April 9, 2018Domestic stocks lost ground last week as trade war concerns continued to rattle investors. With these declines, the Dow officially moved back into correction territory.[1] For the week, the S&P 500 lost 1.43%, the Dow dipped 0.95%,...
Read MoreApril 2, 2018 - Markets Increase
Monday, April 2, 2018Markets were closed on March 30 for Good Friday, but in the four days of trading, stocks recovered some of this year's losses.[1] For the week, the S&P 500 added 2.09%, the Dow gained 2.67%, and the NASDAQ increased by 1.03%.[2]...
Read MoreMarch 26, 2018 - Stocks Drop as Tariffs Rise
Monday, March 26, 2018Markets experienced significant declines last week. The S&P 500 lost 5.95%, the Dow dropped 5.66%, and the NASDAQ declined 6.54%.[1] With these losses, all 3 domestic indexes had their worst weekly performance in more than 2 years.[2]...
Read MoreA Look Back - March 19, 2018
Monday, March 19, 2018Markets were up on Friday, but domestic stocks lost ground for the week as political turmoil and potential trade wars weighed on investors' minds.[1] The S&P 500 dropped 1.24%, the Dow gave back 1.54%, and the NASDAQ decreased 1.04%...
Read MoreMarch 12, 2018 - Goldilocks Returns
Monday, March 12, 2018Domestic stocks leapt ahead last week as the latest jobs report inspired renewed confidence in our economic standing. The S&P 500 added 3.54%, and the Dow gained 3.25%.[1] The NASDAQ erased its losses from February's market correction...
Read MoreMarch 5, 2018 - Volatile Markets Continue
Monday, March 5, 2018Volatility continued last week as markets posted their 1st weekly loss in 3 weeks.[1] Despite some recovery on Friday, the S&P 500 dropped 2.04%, the NASDAQ slipped 1.12%, and the Dow lost 3.05% for the week.[2] Internationally, the...
Read MoreFebruary 26, 2018 - Interest Rates, Treasuries, and Inflation
Monday, February 26, 2018Last week, the Presidents' Day holiday meant markets were only open for 4 trading days, and during that time, we received comparatively few economic reports. Nonetheless, major domestic indexes showed considerable volatility and...
Read MoreFebruary 20, 2018 - Stocks Rebound
Tuesday, February 20, 2018Markets rebounded last week, posting sizable gains and moving back into positive territory for the year. All three domestic indexes experienced their largest weekly growth in years, despite losing some ground on Friday after news of...
Read MoreFebruary 12, 2018 - Special Update: Understanding Volatility
Monday, February 12, 2018After months of relative calm, market fluctuations are causing many investors to wonder what is happening to the economy. Last week, the S&P 500 lost 5.16%, the Dow dropped 5.21%, and the NASDAQ declined 5.06%.[1] The MSCI EAFE also...
Read MoreFebruary 5, 2018 - Markets Slide as Bond Yields Rise
Monday, February 5, 2018After 4 straight weeks of gains, the markets have slipped. As of Friday, the S&P 500 lost 3.85%, the Dow dropped 4.12%, and the NASDAQ decreased by 3.53%.[1] International stocks in the MSCI EAFE also took a 2.78% hit.[2] Domestically...
Read MoreJanuary 22, 2018 - Stocks Up as Shutdown Looms
Monday, January 22, 2018We're only a few weeks into 2018, and stocks are showing quite a strong performance so far. Last week, major domestic indexes posted gains yet again, with all 3 up at least 5% this year. By Friday, the S&P 500 had added another 0.86%,...
Read MoreJanuary 16, 2018 - Equities and Inflation Climb
Tuesday, January 16, 2018Domestic markets continued their strong start to 2018, posting gains across the board for their 2nd week. The S&P 500 added 1.57% and closed at a new record high on Friday. The index just posted its best 10-day beginning to a year...
Read MoreDecember 26, 2017 - A Tax Bill Before the Holiday
Tuesday, December 26, 2017As we headed into the long holiday weekend, the markets continued to climb as tax reform moved forward.up>[1] For the week, the S&P 500 closed up 0.29%, the Dow rose 0.43%, and the NASDAQ gained 0.35%.[2] International stocks in the...
Read MoreDecember 18, 2017 - Tax Plan Boosts Stocks
Monday, December 18, 2017Domestic markets were up last week as tax reform became more likely. On Friday, multiple previously undecided Senators announced they would back the combined House and Senate bill, and stocks reacted by hitting new record highs.[1]...
Read MoreDecember 11, 2017 - Strong Markets for the Holidays
Monday, December 11, 2017As the holiday season progresses, the markets continue to impress. Last week, many energy, financial, and industrial sector stocks helped drive performance.[1] Hitting record highs yet again, the S&P gained 0.35%, and the Dow jumped 0...
Read MoreDecember 4, 2017 - Looking Beyond Politics
Monday, December 4, 2017Markets went for a wild ride last week - especially on Friday. In fact, on December 1, the S&P 500 had its largest fluctuations since the day after the 2016 presidential election.[1] Nonetheless, two of the major domestic markets hit...
Read MoreNovember 27, 2017 - Black Friday Brings Gains
Monday, November 27, 2017Last week was a relatively quiet time in the domestic markets. We did not receive a tremendous amount of economic data, and trading halted Thursday for the Thanksgiving holiday. Nonetheless, all 3 of the major domestic indexes...
Read MoreNovember 20, 2017 - Stocks Mixed, Data Up
Tuesday, November 21, 2017Domestic stock performance varied last week, with the S&P 500 and Dow losing ground for the 2nd straight week, while the NASDAQ posted gains.[1] By Friday, the S&P 500 had dropped 0.13%, the Dow gave back 0.27%, and the NASDAQ gained...
Read MoreNovember 13, 2017 - Stocks Slide as Uncertainty Rises
Monday, November 13, 2017After posting gains every week since September, U.S. stocks declined by market's close on Friday. The S&P 500 and Dow ended their longest stretch of weekly increases since 2013, and the NASDAQ ended its own 6-week streak.[1] By...
Read MoreNovember 7, 2017 - Stocks End Up After Busy Week
Monday, November 6, 2017Once again, the markets ended the week in positive territory - and all 3 major domestic indexes hit new record highs. The S&P 500 added 0.26%, and the Dow was up 0.45%, with both indexes notching their 8th straight week of growth. The...
Read MoreOctober 30, 2017 - Data Drives More Growth
Monday, October 30, 2017Another week, another round of positive market performance. The 3 major domestic indexes again ended the week with gains and new record highs. The S&P 500 rose 0.23% and marked a 7th-straight week of increases - its longest string of...
Read MoreOctober 23, 2017 - Another Banner Week for Markets
Monday, October 23, 2017Last week, all 3 major U.S. markets hit record highs once again.[1] The Dow added 2.00% to notch both intraday and closing records, the S&P 500 rose 0.86%, and the NASDAQ gained 0.35%.[2] International stocks in the MSCI EAFE dipped...
Read MoreOctober 16, 2017 - More Record Highs
Monday, October 16, 2017Last Friday, all 3 major domestic indexes continued their streak of weekly gains and record highs. The S&P 500 added 0.15%, and the Dow was up 0.43%. Meanwhile, both indexes posted their 5th weekly gain in a row. In addition, the S&P...
Read MoreOctober 9, 2017 - Third Quarter Review
Monday, October 9, 2017This Monday, October 9, marks the 10-year anniversary of the S&P 500's highest point before the Great Recession. While the ensuing decade has provided quite a rocky road for the markets at times, the recovery is undeniable.[1] In fact...
Read MoreOctober 2, 2017 - Another Week of Highs
Monday, October 2, 2017Before we begin our usual weekly commentary, we wanted to take a moment to honor the victims of Sunday's terrible attack in Las Vegas. Though details are still scarce, it is the most devastating mass shooting in U.S. history. Our...
Read MoreSeptember 25, 2017 - Stocks Mixed, Fed Changes Policy
Monday, September 25, 2017Domestic indexes were mixed last week, as the Dow gained 0.36%, the S&P 500 eked out a 0.08% increase, and the NASDAQ lost 0.33%.[1] International stocks in the MSCI EAFE added a solid 0.68%.[2] Three stories that have dominated...
Read MoreSeptember 18, 2017 - Understanding Record Highs
Monday, September 18, 2017After briefly stumbling the week of September 4, domestic indexes notched significant gains last week and hit record highs. By Friday, the S&P 500 exceeded 2,500 for the first time, the Dow closed at its highest level ever, and the...
Read MoreSeptember 12, 2017 - Could Weather Cause Headwinds?
Tuesday, September 12, 2017Last week, the markets closed for Labor Day, and in the subsequent four trading days, all three domestic indexes gave back some recent gains. The S&P 500 declined 0.61%, the Dow lost 0.86%, and the NASDAQ slid 1.17%.[1] International...
Read MoreSeptember 5, 2017 - The Economy Picks Up Speed
Tuesday, September 5, 2017Last week gave a number of things for both investors and non-investors to think - and worry - about. From North Korea's missiles to Hurricane Harvey's devastation to an unemployment uptick, the headlines were busy. Yet, despite these...
Read MoreAugust 28, 2017 - Markets Bounce Back
Monday, August 28, 2017After several weekly losses, the major domestic indexes all ended in positive territory on Friday, August 25. The S&P 500 gained 0.72%, the Dow was up 0.64%, and the NASDAQ added 0.79% for the week.[1] International stocks in the MSCI...
Read MoreAugust 21, 2017 - Markets Cautious But Resilient
Tuesday, August 22, 2017From domestic unrest to international terrorism, last week provided many headlines that could easily rattle the markets. While we did see days with volatility and declines, the major indexes remained relatively flat.[1]sup> For the...
Read MoreAugust 14, 2017 - Markets Turn Jittery
Monday, August 14, 2017Last week, rising tension between North Korea and the U.S. rattled the world's markets. As the two countries traded tough words, concerns escalated and markets reacted emotionally to the news.[1] Though stress is building...
Read MoreAugust 7, 2017 - Markets Remain Bullish
Monday, August 7, 2017Another week of economic performance brought more news that the markets continue their bullish streak. After eight consecutive record-high closings, the Dow rose above 22,000 for the first time ever and finished the week up 1.20%.[1]...
Read MoreJuly 31, 2017 - Markets March Ahead
Monday, July 31, 2017Last week, markets marched ahead within a busy reporting week. The Dow rose 1.16% to close Friday on another new high.[1] The S&P 500 notched a record high during the week, despite closing the week slightly down 0.02%.[2] Meanwhile,...
Read MoreJuly 24, 2017 - Strong Stocks & A Falling Dollar
Monday, July 24, 2017Last week, the Dow, S&P 500, and NASDAQ again hit record highs. The midweek peaks fell by Friday, though market performance remained strong.[1] By week's end, the Dow dropped 0.27%, and the S&P 500 and NASDAQ dipped on Friday but...
Read MoreJuly 17, 2017 - Special Quarterly Update: Q2 Coming Into Focus
Monday, July 17, 2017Last Friday, stocks closed on more record highs. The S&P 500 rose 1.41% and the Dow climbed 1.04% - both closing at new peaks.[1] The NASDAQ reported a 2.58% gain and the MSCI EAFE posted a 2.38% increase.[2] Despite continuing...
Read MoreJuly 10, 2017 - Markets Start Second-Half Slow
Monday, July 10, 2017As the country celebrated the Fourth of July last week, the markets experienced some volatility, though they finished a bit flat overall.[1] The Dow fell then rose to close the week up 0.30%.[2] The S&P 500 climbed a modest 0.07% for...
Read MoreJuly 3, 2017 - Market Volatility Returns
Monday, July 3, 2017As Q2 ended, markets hit a six-week volatility high.[1] While the tech sector declined during the week, consumer discretionary and industrial sectors drove stocks higher on Friday.[2] On Friday, the tech-heavy NASDAQ slumped 1.99%.[3]...
Read MoreJune 26, 2017 - Markets Slide Sideways
Monday, June 26, 2017Last week, markets kept relatively quiet despite the continuing drop in oil prices. The S&P 500 rose by 0.21%, the Dow increased by 0.05%, and the NASDAQ - the week's best performer - jumped 1.84%.[1] Internationally, the MSCI EAFE...
Read MoreJune 26, 2017 - Markets Slide Sideways
Monday, June 26, 2017Last week, markets kept relatively quiet despite the continuing drop in oil prices. The S&P 500 rose by 0.21%, the Dow increased by 0.05%, and the NASDAQ - the week's best performer - jumped 1.84%.[1] Internationally, the MSCI EAFE...
Read MoreJune 19, 2017 - Mixed Markets Continue
Monday, June 19, 2017Markets remained mixed last week as the Dow closed at another record high, while the NASDAQ fell and the S&P 500 held steady.[1] By Friday, the Dow gained 0.52%, the NASDAQ fell -0.92%, and the S&P 500 gained a slight 0.05%.[2]...
Read MoreJune 12, 2017 - Mixed Markets. Mixed News.
Monday, June 12, 2017Markets last week were mixed with leading tech stocks falling dramatically as some investors pulled profits.[1] The NASDAQ took the biggest hit, finishing 1.55% down on the week - its worst week of the year.[2] Meanwhile, the Dow rose...
Read MoreJune 5, 2017 - Stocks Advance, Economy Softens
Monday, June 5, 2017Last week, the S&P 500, Dow, and NASDAQ closed at all-time record highs.[1] The S&P 500 rose 0.96%, the Dow gained 0.6%, and the NASDAQ grew by 1.54%.[2] Meanwhile, the MSCI EAFE gained 1.64% for the week.[3] Despite strong equity...
Read MoreMay 30, 2017 - Strong and Steady Markets
Wednesday, May 31, 2017The markets marched ahead last week with the S&P 500 and the NASDAQ reporting all-time records, albeit just slightly above previous highs.[1] The S&P rose 1.43% over last week, while the NASDAQ was up 2.08%.[2] The Dow gained 1.32%...
Read MoreMay 22, 2017 - Volatility Returns to Markets
Monday, May 22, 2017Early last week, both the S&P and NASDAQ recorded all time highs before tumbling along with the Dow as political concerns rose.[1] By Friday, though, the markets had largely rebounded and steadied. The S&P 500 closed the week down 0...
Read MoreMay 15, 2017 - Markets Ignore the Politics
Monday, May 15, 2017Markets tuned out noise from Washington last week and continued to focus on economic fundamentals. Mildly rebounding retail sales and strong consumer sentiment seem to point toward a modestly stronger second quarter.[1]After a...
Read MoreMay 8, 2017 - Markets Stay Steady
Monday, May 8, 2017Last week, stocks rose but floated within a narrow trading range. By Friday, however, both the S&P 500 and the NASDAQ reached record highs.[1] For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.63%, the Dow finished up 0.32%, and the NASDAQ rose 0...
Read MoreMay 1, 2017 - Strong Markets and Slow Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
Tuesday, May 2, 2017Stocks continued their advance on generally strong earnings reports this week despite the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) report showing a slow first quarter economy. The S&P 500 rose 1.51%, the Dow gained 1.91%, and the NASDAQ added 2...
Read MoreApril 24, 2017 - Stocks Gain. Questions Remain.
Monday, April 24, 2017Domestic stocks posted losses on Friday, April 21, largely due to investor concerns about the French election.[1] Despite these daily losses, U.S. indexes broke their two-week losing streak, with the S&P 500 adding 0.85%, the Dow...
Read MoreApril 17, 2017 - Stocks Slip for Second Week
Monday, April 17, 2017Last week, major indexes experienced losses for the second week in a row, with the S&P 500 falling 1.21%, the Dow giving back 1.01%, the NASDAQ dropping 1.26%, and the MSCI EAFE declining 0.14%.[1] Markets closed on April 14 for the...
Read MoreApril 10, 2017 - Special Quarterly Update: Stocks Post Strong Gains in Q1
Monday, April 10, 2017The first quarter of 2017 is now behind us, and although we won't have complete economic data for a while, we do know that domestic stocks had a solid start to the year. Last week, major indexes took a pause from some recent gains and...
Read MoreApril 3, 2017 - Stocks Up, More Data In
Monday, April 3, 2017With the first quarter of 2017 now behind us, we have seen the three major indexes all gain more than 4.5% so far this year.[1] In fact, the NASDAQ just experienced its best quarter since 2013 due to tech stocks driving growth.[2]...
Read MoreMarch 27, 2017 - Markets Stumble. What Does Data Say?
Monday, March 27, 2017Last week, all four of the indexes we discuss in these market updates saw their performance stumble. The S&P 500 lost 1.44%, the Dow was down 1.52%, the NASDAQ gave back 1.22%, and the MSCI EAFE declined 0.07%.[1] On Tuesday, March 21...
Read MoreMarch 20, 2017 - Fed Raises Rates Again
Monday, March 20, 2017For the fifth time in six weeks, domestic stock indexes ended last week in positive territory. The S&P 500 gained 0.24%, the NASDAQ added 0.67%, and the Dow eked out a 0.06% increase.[1] International equities in the MSCI EAFE grew by...
Read MoreMarch 13, 2017 - What a Difference Eight Years Makes
Monday, March 13, 2017After at least four consecutive weeks of growth, the three major domestic indexes all lost ground this week. The S&P 500 was down 0.44%, the Dow lost 0.49%, and the NASDAQ declined 0.15%.[1] Meanwhile, international stocks in the MSCI...
Read MoreMarch 6, 2017 - Is a Rate Hike Coming?
Monday, March 6, 2017On Wednesday, March 1, the three major domestic indexes all had their best performance in 2017 and reached record highs yet again.[1] In fact, the S&P 500 hit 2,400 for the first time ever on the same day the Dow went above 21,000 for...
Read MoreFebruary 27, 2017 - Markets Up, New Data on the Horizon
Monday, February 27, 2017Once again, domestic markets reached record highs last week. The S&P 500 was up by 0.69% and the NASDAQ increased by 0.12%.[1] With its 0.96% week-over-week growth, the Dow has posted gains for 11 straight days and is currently...
Read MoreFebruary 21, 2017 - More Record Highs and New Data
Tuesday, February 21, 2017Another week, another round of record highs. Despite concerns about how France's upcoming presidential election could affect the European Union's stability, U.S. stocks ended the week up yet again.[1] The S&P 500 gained 1.51%, the Dow...
Read MoreFebruary 13, 2017 - Taxes, Trade, and Record Highs
Monday, February 13, 2017The political world has presented many topics of conversation lately. But one discussion has been relatively quiet: tax reform. Last week, however, the president announced that a "phenomenal" tax plan is forthcoming, and domestic...
Read MoreFebruary 6, 2017 - Looking at Labor
Monday, February 6, 2017Political headlines continued to fill the news last week, and while domestic markets declined during mid-week trading, they rebounded on Friday, February 3.[1] Overall, the week showed only modest movement, as the S&P 500 added 0.12%,...
Read MoreJanuary 30, 2017 - Stocks Up, GDP Down
Monday, January 30, 2017After a brief pause during inauguration week, stocks continued to climb last week. The S&P 500 added 1.03%, the NASDAQ was up 1.90%, and the MSCI EAFE increased by 1.29%.[1] The Dow also grew, adding 1.34%, ending the week above while...
Read MoreJanuary 23, 2017 - Markets Pause in Search for Clarity
Monday, January 23, 2017A new presidential era began last Friday with Donald Trump's inauguration, and the market reaction was far more restrained than its response to his election. For weeks after the presidential election, we saw markets defy expectations...
Read MoreJanuary 17, 2017 - Financials Up, Indexes Mixed
Tuesday, January 17, 2017As we look back on markets last week, we see mixed results, with none of the major domestic indexes gaining or losing more than 1%.[1] The S&P 500 was down 0.10% for the week, and the Dow gave back 0.39%, once again failing to reach...
Read MoreJanuary 9, 2017 - New Year Starts With Record Highs
Monday, January 9, 2017The first trading week of 2017 is over, and during this time, all three major domestic indexes hit record highs. The DOW reached 19,999.63 in intra-day trading on Friday, January 6 - just 0.37 away from achieving 20,000 for the first...
Read MoreJanuary 3, 2017 - Special Update: 2016 in Review
Tuesday, January 3, 2017Looking back on the final trading week of a very eventful year, we saw low volume and a break from the recent rallies for domestic indexes. While international stocks in the MSCI EAFE added 0.56%, all major U.S. indexes declined.[1]...
Read MoreDecember 27, 2016 - Slow, But Positive, Trading Week
Tuesday, December 27, 2016In the last full trading week of 2016, domestic markets were relatively quiet, with many people out of the office for the holidays. Nonetheless, all three major domestic indexes ended the week in positive territory. The S&P 500 was up...
Read MoreDecember 19, 2016 - Fed Raises Rates
Monday, December 19, 2016Last week was mixed for the markets, as the Dow increased by 0.44%, while the S&P 500 lost 0.06%, the NASDAQ dropped 0.13%, and the MSCI EAFE gave back 0.55%.[1] We also saw a variety of data released, giving a similarly mixed view of...
Read MoreDecember 12, 2016 - Rational Exuberance?
Monday, December 12, 2016On Friday, December 9, all three major U.S. stock indexes ended at record highs. For the first time in five years, they each posted gains every day of the trading week.[1] The S&P 500 was up 3.08%, the Dow added 3.06%, and NASDAQ...
Read MoreDecember 5, 2016 - A Mixed View
Monday, December 5, 2016After a three-week run where all major U.S. indexes posted significant gains, we saw more mixed results last week. The Dow was up 0.10%, but the S&P 500 lost 0.97% and the NASDAQ was down 2.65%. The MSCI EAFE's measure of...
Read MoreNovember 28, 2016 - Many Reasons to Give Thanks
Monday, November 28, 2016During a week while many were thankful, the markets gave us much to be thankful for. Through the four-day trading week, the S&P 500 was up 1.44%, the Dow gained 1.51%, the NASDAQ added 1.45%, and the MSCI EAFE increased 1.26%.[1] What...
Read MoreNovember 21, 2016 - Stocks Up, Fed Increase Likely
Monday, November 21, 2016For the second straight week, the major domestic indexes all ended in positive territory: The S&P 500 was up 0.81%, the Dow increased 0.11%, and the NASDAQ added 1.61%.[1] While American indexes performed well, MSCI EAFE's...
Read MoreNovember 14, 2016 - A Week of Surprises
Monday, November 14, 2016Last Tuesday, many Americans watched in great surprise as Donald Trump won the presidential election. Just that day, the New York Times had placed Hillary Clinton's odds of winning at 85%,[1] based on a range of state and national...
Read MoreNovember 7, 2016 - Stocks Down but Long-Term View Up
Monday, November 7, 2016We're in the middle of an interesting moment for the markets, where short-term volatility and uncertainty might lead you to believe that the economy is faltering. After all, the major stock indexes lost ground this week, with the S&P...
Read MoreOctober 31, 2016 - Big Headlines Drive the Markets
Monday, October 31, 2016At first glance, last week's headlines may lead you to think that the markets are fluctuating more than they actually are. Yes, Hillary Clinton's emails are in the news again (more on that below), but despite that surprise, the major...
Read MoreOctober 24, 2016 - A Quiet Week Ends With Indexes Up
Monday, October 24, 2016After a two-week losing streak, U.S. indexes ended in positive territory across the board. The S&P 500 increased by 0.38%, the Dow was up 0.04%, and the NASDAQ gained 0.83%. The MSCI EAFE, a measure of international developed nations'...
Read MoreOctober 17, 2016 - How Much Will Hurricane Matthew Cost?
Monday, October 17, 2016Though stocks rose Friday after statements from Federal Reserve officials, the major indexes ended the week lower amid choppy trading. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.96%, the Dow fell 0.56%, the NASDAQ dropped 1.48%, and the MSCI...
Read MoreOctober 10, 2016 - Special Quarterly Update: Stocks See Strong Gains in Q3
Monday, October 10, 2016After a volatile September, stocks ended the third quarter of 2016 resoundingly in the black. In the third quarter, the S&P 500 gained 3.31%, the Dow grew 2.11%, the NASDAQ added 9.69%, and the MSCI EAFE gained 5.80%.[1] What drove...
Read MoreOctober 3, 2016 - Why Deutsche Bank Isn't Lehman
Monday, October 3, 2016Though the final week of the third quarter ended positively for the major indexes, stocks took a rocky path to get there. A presidential debate, surging oil prices, and concerns about a global bank all took their toll on the market...
Read MoreSeptember 26, 2016 - Stocks Rally After Fed Stands Pat
Monday, September 26, 2016Stocks rallied again last week after the Federal Reserve voted not to raise interest rates this month. While few expected the Fed to act last week, official statements suggest the path to higher rates looks clearer. For the week, the...
Read MoreSeptember 19, 2016 - After Summer Slumber, Volatility is Back
Monday, September 19, 2016Volatility picked up last week due to pressures from lower oil prices and speculation about the timing of the Federal Reserve's next rate hike. This summer has been historically calm for markets, leading markets to trade without big...
Read MoreSeptember 12, 2016 - Stocks Drop on Interest Rate Worries
Monday, September 12, 2016After trading flat for most of the week, stocks broadly sank Friday on fears of a future rate hike. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 2.39%, the Dow fell 2.20%, the NASDAQ dropped 2.36%, and the MSCI EAFE lost 0.16%.[1] Monetary policy...
Read MoreSeptember 6, 2016 - Stocks Surge on August Jobs Miss
Tuesday, September 6, 2016After losing steam the previous week, stocks rose last week as investors cheered a weak jobs report and the declining probability of a September interest rate increase by the Federal Reserve. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.50%, the...
Read MoreAugust 29, 2016 - LIBOR Surge May Rule Out September Fed Rate Hike
Monday, August 29, 2016After rallying for weeks, the major indexes fell last week ahead of key remarks by Federal Reserve officials and turbulence in money markets.[1] For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.68%, the Dow fell 0.85%, the NASDAQ dropped 0.37%, while...
Read MoreAugust 22, 2016 - NASDAQ Posts Eighth Week of Gains
Tuesday, August 23, 2016The S&P 500 and Dow ended last week slightly lower, but the NASDAQ posted an eighth straight week of gains for the first time since 2010.[1] For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.01%, the Dow fell 0.13%, the NASDAQ gained 0.10%,and the...
Read MoreAugust 15, 2016 - S&P 500, Dow, and NASDAQ Post New Records
Monday, August 15, 2016Stocks ended last week mostly flat, falling slightly on Friday after the major U.S. indexes set new record highs on Thursday on positive earnings surprises. The NASDAQ also notched a seventh week of gains, its longest winning streak...
Read MoreAugust 8, 2016 - S&P 500 at New High After Jobs Blowout
Monday, August 8, 2016Stocks bounced last week, ending sharply higher after a better-than-expected jobs report. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.43%, the Dow rose 0.60%, the NASDAQ added 1.14%, but the MSCI EAFE lost 1.41%.[1]Among last week's major...
Read MoreAugust 1, 2016 - Stocks Close Mixed on GDP Disappointment
Monday, August 1, 2016Stocks broke their four-week winning streak, closing mixed after the release of a surprisingly low estimate of second-quarter economic growth. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.07%, the Dow fell 0.75%, the NASDAQ grew 1.22%, and the...
Read MoreJuly 25, 2016 - S&P 500 Closes at Another New Record
Monday, July 25, 2016Stocks ended a fourth straight week of gains, sending the S&P 500 index to another record high.[1] For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.61%, the Dow grew 0.29%, the NASDAQ added 1.40%, and the MSCI EAFE closed flat.[2] Second-quarter...
Read MoreJuly 18, 2016 - Stocks Set New Records
Monday, July 18, 2016Stocks were up for the third week in a row, posting record highs on better-than-expected earnings results and solid domestic economic data.[1] Since the bottom of the post-Brexit selloff, the S&P 500 has gained 8.06%.[2] For the week,...
Read MoreJuly 11, 2016 - S&P Tests New High on Jobs Surge
Monday, July 11, 2016Markets surged last week after a surprising June jobs report buoyed investor sentiment. The S&P 500 came within a hair of a new record close on the news. For the week, the S&P 500 grew 1.28%, the Dow gained 1.10%, the NASDAQ added 1...
Read MoreJuly 5, 2016 - Stocks End Q2 With a Bang
Tuesday, July 5, 2016After the previous week's post-Brexit selloff, stocks closed out last week with one of the best performances of 2016 as investors bought the dip. In the first half of the year, the S&P 500 was up 2.69%, the Dow was up 2.90%, the...
Read MoreJune 27, 2016 - Britain's Messy Divorce: How Brexit May Affect U.S. Investors
Monday, June 27, 2016Stocks fell sharply last week in response to Britain's vote to leave the European Union (EU), putting major indices in the red for 2016. Why did markets react so badly? The vote to leave was a surprise to most, and markets hate...
Read MoreJune 20, 2016 - Fed Blinks on Brexit Fears
Monday, June 20, 2016Markets fell on Brexit fears and concerns about the Fed's dovish statements, giving the Dow its worst week in a month.[1] For the week, the S&P 500 slipped 1.19%, the Dow fell 1.06%, the NASDAQ dropped 1.92%, and the MSCI EAFE lost 2...
Read MoreJune 13, 2016 - Is Britain Really Going to Leave the EU?
Monday, June 13, 2016Before we begin our usual weekly commentary, we wanted to take a moment to honor the victims of Sunday's terrible attack in Orlando. Though details are still scarce, it is the most devastating mass shooting in U.S. history. Our...
Read MoreJune 6, 2016 - What Did the May Jobs Report Show Us?
Monday, June 6, 2016Stocks closed the holiday-shortened week mixed, with some sectors losing ground while others gained after a disappointing May jobs report signaled that the economy may not be strong enough for the Federal Reserve to raise rates this...
Read MoreMay 31, 2016 - Dow, S&P 500 Post Best Week Since March
Tuesday, May 31, 2016Stocks ended a solid week on a high note ahead of the Memorial Day weekend after statements by Federal Reserve officials boosted expectations of a rate hike this summer. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 2.28%, the Dow rose 2.13%, the...
Read MoreMay 23, 2016 - Fed Changes Tune On Interest Rates
Monday, May 23, 2016Stocks closed out a bumpy week mixed, ending a three-week stretch of losses for the S&P 500 and NASDAQ. The Dow, however, extended losses for a fourth straight week for the first time since 2014.[1] For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0...
Read MoreMay 16, 2016 - Stocks Drop on Retail Earnings Woes
Monday, May 16, 2016Stocks fell again for the third week in a row, driven lower by poor earnings reports from some major department store retailers. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.51%, the Dow fell 1.16%, the NASDAQ dropped 0.39%, and the MSCI EAFE...
Read MoreMay 9, 2016 - April Jobs Report Shows Slower Pace of Growth
Monday, May 9, 2016Markets slumped for the third week as global concerns pressured investors again, and domestic data painted a modest picture. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.40%, the Dow fell 0.19%, the NASDAQ dropped 0.82%, and the MSCI EAFE fell 3...
Read MoreMay 2, 2016 - Is the Bull Market Too Old?
Monday, May 2, 2016As of Friday, the S&P 500 is on the second-longest bull market run in history, surpassing the 1949-1956 bull market that lasted 2,607 days. The longest bull market in history ran between 1987 and 2000, lasting nearly 4,500 days.[1]...
Read MoreApril 25, 2016 - Stocks End Mixed as Tech Falls on Earnings
Monday, April 25, 2016Stocks ended last week mixed on earnings that were largely better than expected, though the tech sector disappointed. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.52%, the Dow grew 0.59%, and the NASDAQ lost 0.65%.[1] First-quarter earnings...
Read MoreApril 18, 2016 - Dow Ends Best Week in a Month
Monday, April 18, 2016Stocks rallied again last week on better-than-expected earnings and some reassuring news about China's economy, giving the Dow its best weekly performance since mid-March.[1] For the week, the S&P 500 gained 1.62%, the Dow added 1.82%...
Read MoreApril 11, 2016 - Stocks Post Worst Week Since February
Monday, April 11, 2016Stocks tumbled last week on downward revisions to U.S. economic growth and worries about global growth.[1] For the week, the S&P 500 fell 1.21%, the Dow lost 1.21%, and the NASDAQ gave up 1.30%.[2] After a rosier-than-expected fourth...
Read MoreApril 4, 2016 - Special Quarterly Update: Roller Coaster Q1 Ends Mixed
Tuesday, April 5, 2016After a rocky start to the year, most stocks ended the first quarter slightly higher, which is remarkable considering the negative sentiment that caused stocks to selloff in the early weeks of 2016. For the quarter, the S&P 500 gained...
Read MoreMarch 28, 2016 - Q4 GDP Revised Upward by Strong Consumer Spending
Monday, March 28, 2016Stocks ended the holiday-shortened week down, snapping their five-week winning streak. However, losses were mild amid low trading volume before the Easter weekend. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.67%, the Dow fell 0.49%, and the...
Read MoreMarch 21, 2016 - Dow and S&P 500 Green for 2016
Monday, March 21, 2016After a historically rough start to the year, stocks finally rallied enough to put the S&P 500 and Dow in the green for the year. Extended weakness in the dollar-which investors hope could boost economic growth and corporate...
Read MoreMarch 14, 2016 - Bull Market Anniversary: What's Changed in 7 Years?
Monday, March 14, 2016Stocks closed out their fourth week of gains as investors gained confidence from higher oil prices and aggressive moves by the European Central Bank. For the week, the S&P 500 rose 1.11%, the Dow grew 1.21%, and the NASDAQ added 0.67%...
Read MoreMarch 7, 2016 - Stocks Rally for Third Week
Monday, March 7, 2016Markets closed out a third week of gains, putting the Dow at a two-month high and erasing much of the year's losses. Higher oil prices and an upbeat February jobs report contributed to the rally.[1] For the week, the S&P 500 increased...
Read MoreFebruary 29, 2016 - Stocks End Higher for Second Week
Monday, February 29, 2016Markets closed out another solid week of gains on the back of higher oil prices and some positive economic data. For the week, the S&P 500 increased 1.58%, the Dow grew 1.51%, and the NASDAQ added 1.91%.[1] Investors got their second...
Read MoreFebruary 16, 2016 - Are Recession Fears Just Hype?
Tuesday, February 16, 2016Markets ended another volatile week lower despite a bounce in oil prices. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.81%, the Dow fell 1.43%, and the NASDAQ dropped 0.59%.[1] Amid volatile stock prices and disappointing global economic news,...
Read MoreFebruary 8, 2016 - Is This What Full Employment Looks Like?
Monday, February 8, 2016Markets dropped last week on mixed economic data and a big selloff in the tech sector amid weak earnings. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 3.10%, the Dow fell 1.59%, and the NASDAQ dropped 5.44%.[1] In this week's update, we wanted to...
Read MoreFebruary 1, 2016 - Stocks Drive Higher Amid Uncertainty
Monday, February 1, 2016Stocks experienced another volatile week with high daily swings in value. Despite the lingering uncertainty, stocks ended the week higher on the back of better-than-expected earnings reports and higher oil prices. For the week, the...
Read MoreJanuary 25, 2016 - Stocks End Choppy Week Higher
Monday, January 25, 2016After a volatile week, markets regained some steam, helped by a recovery in oil prices and some upbeat earnings reports. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 1.41%, the Dow grew 0.66%, and the NASDAQ added 2.29%.[1] Though the headwinds...
Read MoreJanuary 19, 2016 - Stocks End Rocky Week Down
Tuesday, January 19, 2016Stocks closed down again Friday ahead of the long holiday weekend after disappointing earnings, more China worries, and plunging oil prices added to fears about slowing global growth. For the week, the S&P 500 dropped 2.17%, the Dow...
Read MoreJanuary 11, 2016 - Markets Tumble on China Fears
Monday, January 11, 2016U.S. equities experienced a brutal tumble last week after more bad news emerged from China. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 5.96%, the Dow dropped 6.19%, and the NASDAQ fell 7.26%.[1] China's ongoing economic woes are causing major...
Read MoreJanuary 4, 2016 - Special Update: 2015 in Review
Monday, January 4, 2016Now that 2015 is in the rear-view mirror, let's take a look at some of the factors that influenced markets last year. Though markets closed essentially flat, it's important to realize what a small miracle that is, given the many...
Read MoreDECEMBER 28, 2015 - Stocks End Holiday Week Positive
Monday, December 28, 2015Markets ended the holiday week on an upbeat note, giving stocks their best week since late November.[1] For the week, the S&P 500 gained 2.76%, the Dow Jones grew 2.47%, and the NASDAQ rose 2.55%.[2] On the economic front, final data...
Read MoreDecember 21, 2015 - The Fed Raised Interest Rates. Now What?
Monday, December 21, 2015After a brief rally after the Federal Reserve announced its historic decision, markets ended another choppy week in the red, battered by plummeting oil prices and rocky investor sentiment. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.34%, the Dow...
Read MoreDecember 14, 2015 - Global Growth Worries Weigh on Markets
Monday, December 14, 2015Markets ended a volatile week sharply down after oil hit near-seven-year lows and a major corporate merger highlighted global growth woes. For the week, the S&P 500 fell 3.79%, the Dow dropped 3.26%, and the NASDAQ lost 4.06%.[1]...
Read MoreDecember 7, 2015 - Jobs Report Gives Fed Green Light for December Rate Hike
Monday, December 7, 2015Markets shrugged off a volatile week Friday to close positive, buoyed by a strong jobs report and an easing of uncertainty around the Federal Reserve's next interest rate decision. For the week, the S&P 500 grew 0.08%, the Dow gained...
Read MoreNovember 30, 2015 - Stocks Close Mixed on Low Holiday Volume
Monday, November 30, 2015Stocks closed out the short week mixed on very low volume as investors stayed home for the holidays. For the week, the S&P 500 grew 0.04%, the Dow lost 0.14%, and the NASDAQ gained 0.44%.[1] The data we got last week suggests that the...
Read MoreNovember 23, 2015 - Investors Keep Cool Despite Recent Events
Monday, November 23, 2015The major averages ended last week on a high note despite ongoing concerns about terrorism. Investors kept their cool and gave the S&P 500 its best week of the year.[1] For the week, the S&P 500 gained 3.27%, the Dow rose 3.35%, and...
Read MoreNovember 16, 2015 - How Will the Paris Attacks Affect Markets?
Monday, November 16, 2015Markets gave up gains last week and closed lower, ending the worst week since mid-August. Nerves about a possible December rate hike and faltering commodity prices contributed to selling pressure. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 3.63%,...
Read MoreNovember 9, 2015 - Stocks Finish Strong on Surprising Jobs Report
Monday, November 9, 2015Markets ended last week on a high note, marking the sixth straight week of gains and the longest winning streak for the major averages since late 2014.[1] For the week, the S&P 500 grew 0.95%, the Dow gained 1.40%, and the NASDAQ grew...
Read MoreNovember 2, 2015 - Special Update: New Budget Deal Affects Social Security Strategies
Monday, November 2, 2015Facing down another government shutdown, the House and Senate passed a new budget deal last week that suspends the debt limit until 2017 and increases funding levels for a number of federal programs. President Obama is expected to sign...
Read MoreOctober 26 2015 - Why Do We Care About Earnings?
Monday, October 26, 2015Stocks rallied again last week on a strong Tech sector showing, bringing the S&P 500 positive for the year again. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 2.07%, the Dow grew 2.50%, and the NASDAQ rose 2.97%.[1] Every quarter, financial pages...
Read MoreOctober 19, 2015 - Stocks Post Third Weekly Gain on Hopes of Fed Delay
Monday, October 19, 2015Stocks ended last week on another strong note as markets surged on the strong possibility that the Fed won't raise rates this year. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.90%, the Dow grew 0.77%, and the NASDAQ rose 1.16%.[1] Investors...
Read MoreOctober 12, 2015 - S&P Posts Biggest Weekly Gain of 2015
Monday, October 12, 2015Stocks ended last week on a strong note, regaining a lot of lost ground and giving the S&P 500 its best week of the year. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 3.26%, the Dow grew 3.72%, and the NASDAQ rose 2.61%.[1] Markets started off...
Read MoreOctober 5, 2015 - Quarterly Edition: Top News for Q3
Monday, October 5, 2015Stocks ended the final days of the third quarter on a positive note, even though stocks were still down for the quarter. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 1.04%, the Dow added 0.97%, and the NASDAQ grew 0.45%.1 After hovering around...
Read MoreSeptember 28, 2015 - Markets Fall Amid Additional Turmoil
Monday, September 28, 2015Stocks continued their rollercoaster ride last week, dogged by worries from Washington and a plunge in biotechs that pushed the major indexes lower. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 1.36%, the Dow fell 0.43%, and the NASDAQ dropped 2...
Read MoreSeptember 21, 2015 - Fed Cites These 3 Factors Behind Last Week's Decision
Monday, September 21, 2015Uncertainty about the Federal Reserve's decision on interest rates weighed on markets last week, pushing the Dow and the S&P lower. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.15%, the Dow fell 0.29%, while the NASDAQ gained 0.10%.[1] On...
Read MoreSeptember 14, 2015 - Will Interest Rates Go Up for the First Time in Nearly a Decade?
Monday, September 14, 2015Stocks rebounded during the holiday-shortened week as gains in overseas stock markets spurred buying activity, giving the Dow its best week since March. Despite the buying pressure, investors curbed their enthusiasm ahead of the...
Read MoreSeptember 8, 2015 - What Choice Could Signal Fed Faith in Economy?
Tuesday, September 8, 2015Stocks slid after another turbulent week, buffeted by more worries about China. Investors chose to remain cautious ahead of the long Labor Day weekend and a raft of fresh data out of China. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 3.40%, the...
Read MoreAugust 31, 2015 - Thriving During Volatility
Monday, August 31, 2015After a tumultuous week with many ups and downs, markets regained ground to close in the black. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.91%, the Dow grew 1.11%, and the NASDAQ added 2.60%.[1] It's hard to watch your portfolio value...
Read MoreAugust 25, 2015 - Global Stock Markets Slide on China Fears
Tuesday, August 25, 2015U.S. stocks ended a defensive week in the red as investor sentiment deteriorated in the face of fresh worries out of China. For the week, the S&P 500 fell 5.77%, the Dow lost 5.82%, and the NASDAQ slid 6.78%.[1]Much of last week's...
Read MoreAugust 24, 2015 - 4 Things You Shouldn't Do Right Now
Monday, August 24, 2015U.S. stocks ended a defensive week in the red as investor sentiment deteriorated in the face of fresh worries out of China. For the week, the S&P 500 fell 5.77%, the Dow lost 5.82%, and the NASDAQ slid 6.78%.[1]When markets take a dive...
Read MoreAugust 17, 2015 - Stocks Gain on Greek Deal & Data
Monday, August 17, 2015Despite significant volatility, stocks ended last week higher after a finalized Greek bailout deal and some upbeat domestic economic data. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.67%, the Dow grew 0.60%, and the NASDAQ added 0.09%.[1]...
Read MoreAugust 10, 2015 - Stocks Fall on Oil Woes
Monday, August 10, 2015Stocks gave in to gloom about low global oil prices and fell again last week, erasing the previous week's gains. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 1.25%, the Dow fell 1.79%, and the NASDAQ dropped 1.65%.[1] Domestically, the data looks...
Read MoreAugust 3, 2015 - Stocks End Week Up
Monday, August 3, 2015Stocks snapped their losing streak and regained steam last week despite some soft data, posting weekly and monthly gains. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 1.16%, the Dow rose 0.69%, and the NASDAQ grew 0.78%.[1] July was a volatile...
Read MoreJuly 27, 2015 - Markets Drop on Global Growth Worries
Monday, July 27, 2015Stocks were unable to maintain the momentum and gave up ground in another roller coaster week. Though earnings week marched onward, investors seemed more concerned about global growth and falling commodity prices. For the week, the S&P...
Read MoreJuly 20, 2015 - Stocks Rise on Earnings & Greece
Monday, July 20, 2015Stocks surged in an action-packed week, giving the NASDAQ two record closes in a row. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 2.41%, the Dow rose 1.84%, and the NASDAQ soared 4.25%.[1] Investors around the world breathed a sigh of relief when...
Read MoreJuly 13, 2015 - Why Are Greece and China Worries Fading?
Monday, July 13, 2015Markets finally broke the losing streak, closing up for the week as worries about Greece and China faded. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.88%, the Dow rose 1.11%, and the NASDAQ grew 0.69%.[1] Though a deal with Greece wasn't...
Read MoreJuly 6, 2015 - Special Edition Quarterly Update
Monday, July 6, 2015Markets lost ground again last week after Greece technically defaulted on loan payments and edged closer to an exit from the Euro. For the week, the S&P 500 dropped 1.29%, the Dow lost 1.24%, and the NASDAQ fell 1.92%.[1] What...
Read MoreJune 29, 2015 - The Stakes Have Gotten Higher for Greece
Monday, June 29, 2015Markets lost ground last week, giving in to nerves about Greece and some early second-quarter earnings reports. For the week, the S&P 500 dropped 0.40%, the Dow fell 0.37%, and the NASDAQ lost 0.71%.[1] Crumbling Greek debt talks were...
Read MoreJune 22, 2015 - What Did the Fed Announce on Wednesday?
Monday, June 22, 2015Last week, markets shrugged off concerns about deadlocked Greek negotiations and rallied on strong economic data, sending the NASDAQ to a new historic high. For the week, the S&P 500 grew 0.76%, the Dow rose 0.64%, and the NASDAQ...
Read MoreJune 15, 2015 - The Greece Problem Explained
Monday, June 15, 2015Markets ended last week mixed, falling on Friday as concerns about the debt impasse in Greece outweighed upbeat domestic data. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.06%, the Dow grew 0.28%, and the NASDAQ fell 0.34%.[1] So, what's going...
Read MoreJune 8, 2015 - 5 Things We Learned From The May Jobs Report
Monday, June 8, 2015Markets ended lower last week as investors balanced an optimistic jobs report against renewed concerns about a Greek debt default. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.69%, the Dow fell 0.90%, and the NASDAQ slid 0.03%.[1] On Friday, we...
Read MoreJune 1, 2015 - GDP, Revisions, and Greece
Monday, June 1, 2015U.S. markets ended the week on a down note as investors struggled with weak economic data and concerns about Greek debt negotiations. However, markets were able to end the month of May in the black. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.88%...
Read MoreMay 26, 2015 - Fed Too Upbeat About Economic Recovery?
Tuesday, May 26, 2015Despite flirting with new records, markets weren't able to hold on to gains last week and closed mixed after comments about interest rates were made by Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.16%, the Dow...
Read MoreMay 18, 2015 - What's Going On With The Economy and Interest Rates?
Monday, May 18, 2015Markets ended on a high note with the S&P 500 setting a new record though economic data was lukewarm.[1] For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.31%, the Dow grew 0.45%, and the NASDAQ rose 0.89%.[2] Months of tepid economic data and...
Read MoreMay 11, 2015 - Remember What Happened May 6, 2010?
Monday, May 11, 2015In this week's commentary, we want to draw your attention to a significant market anniversary. Five years ago, on May 6, 2010, the U.S. stock market experienced a "flash crash" when the Dow Jones Industrial Average plummeted nearly 1...
Read MoreMay 4, 2015 - First Look at Q1 Economic Growth
Monday, May 4, 2015Markets fell last week as investors digested lukewarm economic data and considered future economic growth prospects. However, stocks bounced back on Friday and trimmed their losses. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.44%, the Dow slid 0...
Read MoreApril 27, 2015 - How a Few Key Players Boosted Performance This Week
Monday, April 27, 2015Markets rallied last week, lead by a surge in tech stocks that brought the NASDAQ and S&P 500 to new record closes. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 1.75%, the Dow grew 1.42%, and the NASDAQ added 3.25%.[1] After weeks of uncertainty,...
Read MoreApril 20, 2015 - Earnings Season Is Still Young: Here Are The Facts
Monday, April 20, 2015Events in China and Europe triggered a modest worldwide sell-off last week, and lackluster corporate earnings in the U.S. contributed to market doldrums. For the week, the S&P 500 fell 0.99%, while the Dow and the NASDAQ both lost 1...
Read MoreApril 13, 2015 - Fresh Data Suggestions: Economy Still Uncertain
Monday, April 13, 2015Stocks ended the second week of the new quarter on a high note, giving the Dow its first close over 18,000 for the month. Investors took confidence from some major corporate deals as well as fresh data that suggests the economy is...
Read MoreApril 6, 2015 - Stocks End Q1 Flat
Monday, April 6, 2015After a volatile winter, stocks ended the quarter about where they started. Oil prices, a strong dollar, and concerns about interest rates contributed to the volatility and uncertainty remains as we enter the second quarter. For the...
Read MoreMarch 30, 2015 - Stocks Retreat Ahead of Earnings
Monday, March 30, 2015Markets lost ground again last week, giving up most of the previous week's gains as investors tread water ahead of earnings season. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 2.23%, the Dow fell 2.29%, and the NASDAQ dropped 2.69%.[1] Though...
Read MoreMarch 23, 2015 - What Will the Fed Do Gradually?
Monday, March 23, 2015Markets finally snapped their three-week losing streak and rebounded as investors bought the dip and rallied after a Fed meeting. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 2.66%, the Dow rose 2.13%, and the NASDAQ added 3.17%.[1] The Federal...
Read MoreMarch 16, 2015 - We've Come a Long Way
Monday, March 16, 2015Markets ended another week down after mixed economic data, lower oil prices, and a strengthening dollar made investors nervous ahead of the next Federal Reserve meeting. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.86%, the Dow fell 0.60%, and the...
Read MoreMarch 9, 2015 - Markets Slide on Fed Fears
Monday, March 9, 2015Markets closed Friday with losses after a turbulent week as investors began to worry that strong labor market growth might signal rate hikes next quarter. For the week, the Dow fell 1.52%, the S&P 500 dropped 1.58%, and the NASDAQ lost...
Read MoreMarch 2, 2015 - What's Grown At the Fastest Pace in 4 Years?
Monday, March 2, 2015Stocks ended the week mixed after losses related to a lower fourth-quarter Gross Domestic Product estimate. However, after a lackluster January, the major indices ended February on an upbeat note, with the S&P 500 posting a 5.5% gain...
Read MoreFEBRUARY 23, 2015 - Dow Sets First Record Close of 2015
Tuesday, February 24, 2015Stocks rallied on the news that Greece reached a new deal with its creditors, sending the Dow and the S&P 500 to new record closes and bringing the Nasdaq close to its own record set in March 2000.[1]For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0...
Read MoreFebruary 17, 2015 - What Pushed the Major Indexes Up?
Tuesday, February 17, 2015Stocks ended another positive week at record highs, sending the Dow above 18,000 and the S&P 500 to a new record close. Investors reacted positively to firming oil prices and news of a possible peace deal in Ukraine. For the week, the...
Read MoreFebruary 9, 2015 - Prices At Pump Help Drive Savings
Monday, February 9, 2015Markets shook off losses last week and ended with strong weekly gains on the back of a positive January jobs report. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 3.03%, the Dow rose 3.84%, and the Nasdaq grew 2.36%.[1] January's monthly Employment...
Read MoreFebruary 2, 2015 - What Clues Did the First Month of the Year Leave Us?
Monday, February 2, 2015Markets were driven lower in another volatile week of trading, ending the first month of 2015 in the red. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 2.77%, the Dow fell 2.87%, and the Nasdaq dropped 2.58%.[1] One of the major contributors to the...
Read MoreJanuary 26, 2015 - What Are These Central Banks Doing?
Monday, January 26, 2015Markets ended the week in the black for the first time in 2015 on the back of major moves by multiple central banks. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 1.60%, the Dow grew 0.92%, and the Nasdaq added 2.66%.[1] Central banks ruled market...
Read MoreJanuary 20, 2015 - Friday's "Relief Rally"
Tuesday, January 20, 2015Stocks experienced another rollercoaster week, pummeled by a dismal global growth forecast and missed earnings reports. However, markets ended a four-day losing streak on Friday with a "relief rally" as energy prices rebounded slightly...
Read MoreJanuary 12, 2015 - Perspectives On a Volatile Week
Monday, January 12, 2015Stocks ended the first full week of 2015 in the red, pulled in different directions by a mixed December jobs report, fresh oil declines, and renewed terrorist fears in the West. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.65%, the Dow fell 0.54%,...
Read MoreJanuary 5, 2015 - Special Update: 2014 in Review
Monday, January 5, 2015With 2014 behind us, let's take a look at some of the factors that influenced markets last year. With the economic recovery in its fifth year, 2014 was the year in which Americans finally became confident in the economy and their...
Read MoreS&P 500 Gain: Biggest In Nearly 2 Years. Erases December Losses.
Monday, December 22, 2014Markets ended a rollercoaster week on an upbeat note, giving the S&P 500 its biggest weekly gain in nearly two years and erasing December losses.[1] Markets were pulled in different directions by several factors, including central bank...
Read MoreDecember 15, 2014 - Special Update: The Oil Price Decline in 4 Charts
Monday, December 15, 2014Markets were jarred by plummeting oil prices last week, giving the Dow and S&P 500 their worst weeks of 2014.[1] For the week, the S&P 500 lost 3.52%, the Dow fell 3.78%, and the Nasdaq dropped 2.66%.[2] Markets reacted badly to crude...
Read MoreThe Clues Within November Jobs Report - December 08, 2014
Monday, December 8, 2014Markets ended the first week of December with a bang, rallying for the seventh straight week, though the Nasdaq gave in to selling pressure and closed slightly down. Investors used an upbeat November jobs report as an excuse to rally,...
Read MoreDecember 01, 2014 - Holiday Season Kicks Off With Bang
Monday, December 1, 2014After a choppy October, November was a very good month for stocks. Falling oil prices, new moves by central banks, and solid domestic fundamentals gave both the Dow and the S&P 500 new record highs. For the month, the S&P 500 gained 4...
Read MoreNovember 24, 2014 - Assertive Moves By Major Players
Monday, November 24, 2014Markets rallied for the fifth week in a row on global and domestic good news, sending the Dow and S&P 500 to new record highs. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 1.15%, the Dow grew 0.99%, and the Nasdaq added 0.52%.[1]Investors cheered...
Read MoreNovember 17, 2014 - A Slow Week Ends in New Highs
Tuesday, November 18, 2014Markets ended a sluggish week of trading slightly up, notching another record close for the S&P 500. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.39%, the Dow grew 0.35%, and the Nasdaq added 1.21%.[1]Though last week's data was sparse, several...
Read MoreNovember 10, 2014 - Why Do We Care About Vehicle Sales?
Monday, November 10, 2014Investors doubled down on the market rally, sending the Dow and S&P 500 to new highs after Friday's October employment situation report showed that the unemployment rate dropped again.[1] For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.69%, the Dow...
Read MoreNovember 3, 2014 - Upside After A Turbulent Month
Monday, November 3, 2014Investors took advantage of a data-heavy week and rallied strongly, raising the Dow and the S&P 500 to new records. Upbeat economic reports and fresh hope for the global economy contributed to the market's optimism. For the week, the...
Read MoreOctober 27, 2014 - Signal, Noise & Fundamental Factors
Monday, October 27, 2014After several weeks of dismal performance, equities shook off their worries and rallied enthusiastically on solid quarterly earnings giving the S&P 500 its biggest weekly gain of the year. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 4.12%, the...
Read MoreOctober 20, 2014 - Special Edition: Putting Market Corrections Into Perspective
Monday, October 20, 2014October 20, 2014 - Special Edition: Putting Market Corrections Into Perspective Markets posted another week of losses amid continued fears, though markets trimmed losses on Friday on better-than-expected earnings results from top...
Read MoreOctober 13, 2014 - Goal-based Investors Know Where to Focus
Monday, October 13, 2014Concerns about global growth caused markets to hit the brakes last week in a cloud of smoke and volatility, giving the S&P 500 and Nasdaq their worst week since May 2012. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 3.14%, the Dow slid 2.74%, and...
Read MoreOctober 6, 2014 - Gains and Growth: Contributions to a Strong Q3
Monday, October 6, 2014After some market stumbles in recent weeks that erased earlier gains, stocks ended about where they started at the beginning of the quarter. However, broad economic gains mean that solid fundamentals could contribute to market upside...
Read MoreSeptember 29, 2014 - Why Do These Fed Decisions Matter?
Monday, September 29, 2014Markets lost ground last week, though a Friday rally on positive economic data helped trim losses. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 1.37%, the Dow dropped 0.96%, and the Nasdaq fell 1.48%.[1] Last week, a lot of market focus was on the...
Read MoreSeptember 22, 2014- Coming Up! Earnings, Elections, & the End of the Year
Monday, September 22, 2014Markets regained steam last week, pushed higher by a reassuring Federal Reserve meeting and a referendum on Scottish independence. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 1.25%, the Dow grew 1.72%, reaching a new record, and the Nasdaq rose 0...
Read MoreMarkets Slide Before Key Fed Meeting - September 15, 2014
Monday, September 15, 2014Markets closed last week on a down note - breaking five straight weeks of gains - as investors hedged their bets ahead of a pivotal Federal Reserve Open Market Committee Meeting. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 1.10%, the Dow dropped 0...
Read MoreSeptember 8, 2014 - Why Another Uptick in Spite of Bad News?
Monday, September 8, 2014Markets chalked up another win last week, pushing the S&P 500 to another record close. After several days of cautious trading, Friday's August jobs report finally gave investors the push they needed to extend gains for a fifth week....
Read MoreSeptember 2, 2014 - S&P 500 Tops 2,000 - May Slow Down
Tuesday, September 2, 2014Despite volatility around geopolitical concerns and sluggish growth in Europe, U.S. stocks had a phenomenal week, lifting the S&P 500 to a new record close, and giving the index its best August performance since 2000.[1] For the week,...
Read MoreAugust 25, 2014 - Economists: Labor Market is Growing Less "Fluid"
Monday, August 25, 2014Despite lingering concerns about the Ukrainian crisis, markets picked up steam last week, giving the Dow and S&P 500 their best weekly performance since April. For the week, the S&P 500 grew 1.71%, the Dow gained 2.03%, and the Nasdaq...
Read MoreAugust 19, 2014 - Markets Fall on Ukraine Fears, Still End Positive
Tuesday, August 19, 2014Markets Fall on Ukraine Fears, Still End Positive WEEKLY UPDATE - AUGUST 19, 2014 Despite a late-week selloff due to renewed concerns about the situation in Ukraine, the major indices ended the week on a positive note. For the week,...
Read MoreAugust 11, 2014 - Markets Fired Up
Tuesday, August 12, 2014Markets regained steam and ended the first full week of August on a strong note. Solid jobs data and hopes that Russia may be de-escalating the Ukrainian conflict contributed to the gains. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.33%, the...
Read MoreAugust 4, 2014 - Markets Tumble on Fed Fears
Monday, August 4, 2014Caution was the name of the game last week as equities tumbled, marking the worst weekly loss for the S&P 500 in two years. Though the week was packed with market moving events, most of the week's losses can be attributed to worries...
Read MoreJuly 28, 2014 - Mixed Growth Expectations Stoke Volatility
Monday, July 28, 2014Markets ended another volatile week mixed, pummeled by concerns about global growth but buoyed by better-than-expected earnings results. For the week, the S&P 500 ended flat, the Dow lost 0.82%, and the Nasdaq gained 0.39%.[1] As of...
Read MoreJuly 21, 2014 - Markets Shake Off Global Worries
Monday, July 21, 2014Despite a tumultuous week that had it all - earnings, volatility, geopolitical shock, and monetary policy news - markets were still able to chalk up a win. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.54%, the Dow grew 0.90%, and the Nasdaq...
Read MoreJuly 14, 2014 - Markets Slump As Investors Wait for Earnings
Monday, July 14, 2014Stocks checked their advance last week as investors weighed earnings reports and waited for more news. Worries at one of Portugal's largest banks also contributed to mid-week losses. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.90%, the Dow fell 0...
Read MoreJuly 7, 2014 - Markets End Quarter on High Note
Monday, July 7, 2014After a slow start to the year, the second quarter of 2014 may be a redemption story. Multiple indices reached new records and the S&P 500 logged its longest quarterly rally since 1998.[1] For the quarter, the S&P 500 gained 4.66%, the...
Read MoreJune 30, 2014 - Markets Close Mixed
Monday, June 30, 2014Markets lost some momentum on slow trading and ended the week mixed. Despite the sluggish behavior, equities are up strongly for the quarter and the S&P 500 is poised for its longest rally since 1998.[1] While the S&P lost 0.10% and...
Read MoreJune 23, 2014 - Is the Bull Market Over?
Monday, June 23, 2014Markets rallied strongly last week and closed at new records for the S&P 500 and Dow. Though stocks ran in circles early in the week, they picked up the pace after Wednesday's reassuring Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting...
Read MoreJune 16, 2014 - Markets End Slow Week Lower
Monday, June 16, 2014Markets snapped their winning streak and ended the week down slightly as investors decided to take some profits off the table. The light economic calendar led to sluggish activity since investors were reluctant to commit to positions...
Read MoreJune 9, 2014 - U.S. Economy Regains All Jobs Lost in the Recession
Monday, June 9, 2014Markets rallied for the third week in a row, sending stocks to new all-time highs on the back of a strong May jobs report.For the week, the S&P 500 rose 1.34%, the Dow gained 1.24%, and the Nasdaq grew 1.86%.[1] Markets shot up on...
Read MoreJune 2, 2014 - Markets End May at New Highs
Monday, June 2, 2014Markets rallied for most of last week, pushing the S&P 500 and the Dow to new record closes. For the week, the S&P 500 rose 1.21%, the Dow gained 0.67%, and the Nasdaq grew 1.36%.[1] Despite some volatile weeks, markets ended May on an...
Read MoreMay 26, 2014 - Markets Rally on Housing Data
Tuesday, May 27, 2014Despite some volatility, markets rallied on better-than-expected housing numbers, putting the S&P 500 above 1900 for the first time.[1] For the week, the S&P 500 gained 1.21%, the Dow gained 0.70%, and the Nasdaq grew 2.33%. The...
Read MoreMay 19, 2014 - Why Are Bond Yields So Low?
Monday, May 19, 2014After several days of negative performance, stocks rallied in the last two days to close generally flat. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.03%, the Dow fell 0.55%, and the Nasdaq gained 0.46%.[1] Economic data last week was generally...
Read MoreMay 12, 2014 - Choppy Week Ends Mixed
Monday, May 12, 2014The major indices closed out a volatile week on a mixed note, though the Dow was able to notch another all-time closing record on Friday.[1] Though stocks showed some momentum mid-week as investors bought the dip, they lost conviction...
Read MoreMay 5, 2014 - Special Update: The Labor Market in 4 Charts
Monday, May 5, 2014Markets ended another volatile week on an upbeat note after a wave of economic data showed that the economy is still on the right track. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.95%, the Dow grew 0.93%, and the Nasdaq gained 1.19%.[1] One of...
Read MoreApril 28, 2014 - Markets Retreat Amid Volatility
Monday, April 28, 2014Earnings seasons is halfway over, and thus far, among the 240 S&P 500 firms that had reported as of last Friday, total revenues are up 3.7%, and earnings results are up 2.0% from the same period last year. Overall, while growth remains...
Read MoreApril 21, 2014 - The Rebound
Monday, April 21, 2014Markets closed out the holiday-shortened week on an upbeat note, with the S&P 500 posting its best week since July. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 2.71%, the Dow grew 2.38%, and the Nasdaq rose 2.39%.[1] Markets shook off the...
Read MoreApril 14, 2014 - Learning From A Market Drop
Monday, April 14, 2014Markets closed a volatile week on a bearish note as the first earnings reports trickled in. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 2.65%, the Dow fell 2.35%, and the Nasdaq dropped 3.10%.[1] One bright spot: Despite the dismal stock...
Read MoreApril 7, 2014 - Quarterly Edition: Winter Chill Causes Volatile First Quarter
Monday, April 7, 2014Equities closed out a lackluster quarter basically flat, as investors grappled with the effects of the chilly winter and widespread volatility. Though the major indices approached new highs in March, stocks gave in to selling pressure...
Read MoreMarch 31, 2014 - Stocks Fizzle Before Quarter's End
Monday, March 31, 2014Despite some positive economic news, the major indices ended the week mixed as investors prepared for the end of the quarter and continued to worry about Russia. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.48%, the Dow gained 0.12%, and the...
Read MoreMarch 24, 2014 - Markets Shake Off Global Gloom
Monday, March 24, 2014Stocks shook off their global worries and advanced on some upbeat data that suggests the economy may be picking up steam as the weather warms. Despite losing some ground on Friday in pre-weekend jitters, the major averages all closed...
Read MoreGlobal Concerns Weigh on Markets - March 17, 2014
Monday, March 17, 2014Equities experienced a rocky week as worries mounted about China's economic state and tensions escalated in Ukraine. While investors were not panicking, the pessimistic mood contributed to the Nasdaq posting its first drop in six weeks...
Read MoreMarch 10, 2014 - SPECIAL UPDATE: 5 Years Later...
Monday, March 10, 2014March 9, 2014 marked the five-year anniversary of the lowest point of the S&P 500 after the financial crisis, and we are taking this opportunity to highlight just how far markets have come since those dark days. As of Friday's close,...
Read MoreMarch 3, 2014 - Russia, Ukraine, Yellen, and Your Investments
Monday, March 3, 2014Stocks shook off the winter gloom and rallied for most of last week, ending February with another record high for the S&P 500. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 1.3%, the Dow rose 1.4%, and the Nasdaq grew 1.1%.[1] The market rally...
Read MoreFebruary 24, 2014 - Cold Weather Freezes Economic Data
Monday, February 24, 2014The major indices finished a choppy week on a mixed note as stocks sagged on chilly economic data. While the S&P 500 and Dow moved lower, the Nasdaq Composite posted its third weekly gain on upbeat news in the tech sector. For the week...
Read MoreFebruary 18, 2014 - Special Commentary On Janet Yellen And The Federal Reserve
Tuesday, February 18, 2014The stock market ended an upbeat week on a positive note, buoyed by reassuring remarks by new Fed chairman Janet Yellen. Though the week saw reduced volume as some investors sat on the sidelines, stocks rallied impressively, giving us...
Read MoreFebruary 10, 2014 - Markets Rally To Erase Some Losses
Monday, February 10, 2014After several weeks of gloom, U.S. stocks rallied last week to erase some losses and post the best two-day gain in four months. Both the Dow and the S&P 500 had their best week of the year thus far, gaining 0.6% and 0.8% respectively,...
Read MoreFebruary 3, 2014 - Markets Sag On Emerging Market Currency Crisis
Monday, February 3, 2014Markets had another rough week, with stocks driven lower by fears about the growing emerging market currency crisis. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.43%, the Dow fell 1.14%, and the Nasdaq declined 0.59%.[1] The month of January also...
Read MoreJanuary 27, 2014 - Rough Week. Now What?
Monday, January 27, 2014Rough Week. Now What? Weekly Update - January 27, 2014 Markets slid considerably last week after investors were rattled by a confluence of events in emerging markets. For the week, the S&P 500 fell 2.63%, the Dow sank 3.52%, and the...
Read MoreJanuary 21, 2014 - Earnings Reversal Sparks Volatility
Tuesday, January 21, 2014Earnings Reversal Sparks VolatilityWeekly Update - January 21, 2014Markets ended the week mixed as markets responded to some lackluster Q4 earnings reports. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 0.20%, the Dow gained 0.13%, and the Nasdaq...
Read MoreJanuary 13, 2014 - Stocks Stall on Jobs Data
Monday, January 13, 2014Stocks Stall on Jobs Data Weekly Update - January 13, 2014 Markets stalled in the first full week of 2014, with major indices ending on a mixed note. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.6%, the Dow lost 0.2%, and the Nasdaq rose 1.03%...
Read MoreJanuary 06, 2014 - SPECIAL EDITION: 2013 In Review
Monday, January 6, 2014SPECIAL EDITION: 2013 In Review Weekly Update - January 06, 2014 Now that 2013 is behind us, let's take a look at the events that shaped markets last year and consider what may lie ahead in 2014. 2013 was the year that investors...
Read MoreDecember 30, 2013 - 2013: Good to the Last Drop?
Monday, December 30, 20132013: Good to the Last Drop?Weekly Update - December 30, 2013Stocks closed out their second week of gains despite the short trading week with the Dow and S&P 500 hovering near record highs. The S&P 500 gained 1.27%, the Dow grew 1.59%,...
Read MoreDecember 23, 2013 - Taper's Here, But The Party's Not Over
Monday, December 23, 2013Taper's Here, But The Party's Not Over Weekly Update - December 23, 2013 Stocks broke their losing streak and rallied on the long-awaited Fed taper and positive economic news. The S&P 500 and Dow both finished out the week at record...
Read MoreDecember 16, 2013 - Second Weekly Loss on Low Volume, Federal Open Market Committee Concerns
Monday, December 16, 2013Second Weekly Loss on Low Volume, Federal Open Market Committee ConcernsWeekly Update - December 16, 2013Stocks experienced another down week, driven largely by low volume, anticipation of a budget deal, and investor caution before the...
Read MoreDecember 09, 2013 - Markets Snap Winning Streak by "This Much"
Monday, December 9, 2013Markets Snap Winning Streak by "This Much" Weekly Update - December 9, 2013 Stocks ended their winning streak, preoccupied by the Friday jobs report, but quickly regained steam after data revealed a rosy jobs picture. For the week, the...
Read MoreDecember 02, 2013 - Markets Continue 8th Week of Rally
Monday, December 2, 2013Markets Continue 8th Week of Rally Weekly Update - December 2, 2013 Markets continued the rally through the holiday-shortened week, giving the S&P 500 and Dow their eighth straight week of gains. Markets are up for the third month in a...
Read MoreMarkets Red Hot or Overheated?
Monday, November 25, 2013Markets Red Hot or Overheated? Weekly Update - November 25, 2013 Stocks climbed again as the S&P 500 and Dow notched their seventh straight week of gains on positive economic data. The S&P 500 and Dow both hit new record closes, and...
Read MoreNovember 18, 2013 - Markets Rally For Sixth Week
Monday, November 18, 2013Weekly Update - November 18, 2013 Stocks climbed again this week with the S&P 500 and Dow closing out a sixth straight week of gains despite some volatility. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 1.56%, the Dow rose 1.27%, and the Nasdaq...
Read MoreNovember 11, 2013 - Economic Data Stokes Volatility
Monday, November 11, 2013Despite some volatility, the S&P 500 and Dow hit their fifth straight week of gains, boosted by an unexpected jobs report and a rosy Q3 GDP (Gross Domestic Product) estimate. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.51%, the Dow gained 0.94%...
Read MoreNovember 4, 2013 - Markets End Mixed on Earnings
Monday, November 4, 2013Markets ended a fairly bullish week mixed, gaining in some sectors, while others fell to earnings jitters. The S&P 500 notched a new high, while the Dow finally reached a record close.[1] For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.11%, the Dow...
Read MoreOctober 28, 2013 - The Rally Continues
Monday, October 28, 2013Markets extended their post-deal rally for another week, putting up several new records: the S&P 500 closed out the week at another all-time high, while the Nasdaq ended at a 13-year high. No records yet for the Dow, but it’s putting...
Read MoreOctober 21, 2013 - Markets Soar on Washington Deal
Monday, October 21, 2013Markets experienced one of the best weeks in months, with the S&P 500 setting a new high after lawmakers finally struck a deal to reopen the government and raise the debt ceiling. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 2.42%, the Dow gained...
Read MoreOctober 14 2013 - Upbeat Finish on Deal Hopes
Monday, October 14, 2013The market experienced another tumultuous week as investors responded to fear about the looming debt ceiling and hope about a possible resolution. Despite the volatility, markets rebounded on Friday as hopes of a deal circulated in the...
Read MoreShutdown And Budget Concerns - October 7, 2013
Monday, October 7, 2013The big news last week was that the federal government shut down on Tuesday, October 1 when Congress would not pass a 2014 budget bill. Since many federal agencies require their funding to be renewed each fiscal year, they were forced...
Read MoreSeptember 30, 2013 - Special Quarterly Edition: Volatility, Volatility, & More Volatility
Monday, September 30, 2013Though stocks fell again last week, weighed down by worries about a budget impasse in Washington, the major indices are still up for the month and the quarter. Through Friday, September 27, the S&P 500 grew 5.32% for the quarter, while...
Read MoreSeptember 23, 2013 - Special Update
Monday, September 23, 2013Markets moved up last week on news that the Federal Reserve will delay tapering until economic data improves. Despite some end-of-week jitters about Washington's debt ceiling debates, the major indices all closed in the black. For the...
Read MoreSeptember 16, 2013 - Markets up on Syria Resolution and Tapering Hopes
Monday, September 16, 2013Markets closed out a solid week, boosted by a diplomatic solution in Syria and hopes that a big tapering move by the Fed may be avoided. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 1.98%, the Dow rose 3.04%, and the Nasdaq grew 1.70%.[1]Tensions...
Read MoreSeptember 9, 2013- Markets Edgy Over Syria & Tapering
Tuesday, September 10, 2013Markets ended the short week in the black despite sustained volatility as traders worried about escalating tensions in Syria and the prospect of an end to the Federal Reserve's economic stimulus. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 1.36%,...
Read MoreSeptember 3, 2013- Not A Great Month For Stocks
Tuesday, September 3, 2013Markets ended the last trading day of August in the red, with the Dow and S&P 500 posting their worst monthly declines since May 2012. Trading was slow on Friday as worries about the escalating Syria situation and the Fed appear to...
Read MoreAugust 26, 2013 - Markets Mixed Over Tapering Fears
Monday, August 26, 2013Markets ended the week mixed, showing an upward trend after the previous week's losses, but still subject to investor nerves. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 0.46%, the Dow lost 0.47%, and the Nasdaq gained 1.53%.[1] Uncertainty...
Read MoreAugust 19, 2013 - Renewed Tapering Fears Push Down Markets
Monday, August 19, 2013Markets ended another week in the negative, pushed lower by mixed economic data and underlying fears about future Fed tapering. For the week, the S&P 500 lost 2.1%, the Dow lost 2.23% and the Nasdaq lost 1.57%.[1] Some strong economic...
Read MoreAugust 12, 2013 - Slow Week Ends Lower On Fed Fears
Monday, August 12, 2013Markets ended a slow trading week in the red, posting the biggest weekly decline since June. Stocks were pushed down by low volume and investor concerns about when the Federal Reserve will wind down its stimulus program. For the week,...
Read MoreAugust 5, 2013 - Jobs, GDP and the Fed
Monday, August 5, 2013Markets closed out another positive week, driven upward by a better-than-expected GDP report and a reminder that the Fed won't be pulling the plug on bond purchases this month. Nervousness ahead of a Fed policy meeting and the monthly...
Read MoreJuly 29, 2013 - A Slow and Mixed Week
Monday, July 29, 2013Markets closed mixed this week as stocks experienced a period of lackluster trading. While the Dow and Nasdaq indexes eked out gains, the S&P 500 notched its first loss in five weeks, driven lower by some earnings misses. For the week,...
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