Markets and Economy
Read our latest market commentary on of-the-moment trends so you can make informed investment decisions
Markets and Economy content
Washington Watch
This report is current as of May 8, 2026
To a surprising degree, 2026 has been dominated by geopolitical developments. From the brief military action to remove the president of Venezuela to the kerfuffle over Greenland to the war in Iran, foreign policy has been in the headlines on an almost daily basis. The uncertainty around these events has produced a roller-coaster market that saw a first-quarter decline in all the major indexes, followed by a relief rally in which the S&P 500 and Nasdaq not only recovered—but set new all-time highs by late April.
Market Outlook
S&P 500 first quarter 2026 earnings are tracking at nearly 28% year-over-year, with rising profit margins suggesting the strong run could persist.
On Investing
Winnie Cisar of CreditSights joins Collin Martin to break down today's corporate credit landscape, from inflation and ratings trends to AI spending and private credit risks.
Bond Insights
Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities, or TIPS, can help buffer a portfolio against inflation. However, it's important to understand their unique characteristics and complex nature.
On Investing
Liz Ann Sonders and Collin Martin break down investor concerns around war, inflation, deficits, and the Federal Reserve.
Bond Insights
Higher oil prices have both positive and negative effects on the municipal bond market. Investors may want to evaluate their concentration risk.
On Investing
As earnings season begins, Liz Ann Sonders and Collin Martin assess what corporate profits signal for both stocks and bonds. They also cover how geopolitics, tariffs, inflation, and a "Fed on hold" backdrop are shaping the outlook for markets.
Bond Insights
Rising oil prices and the historically inflationary aspects of war have changed expectations for Federal Reserve interest rate policy and have pulled Treasury yields higher.
While infrastructure companies are not immune to a potential economic slowdown, they may provide a longer-term investment opportunity amid an uncertain macroeconomic backdrop.