Is the economy too strong for rate cuts?

October's jobs report showed 165,000 new jobs, far above the 59,000 expected, along with stronger wage growth and a 4.1% unemployment rate. That resilience eases recession concerns, but it could also keep inflation sticky and interest rates higher for longer.

Our latest Market Minute looks at what's driving the labor market and what investors should watch as the new policy agenda takes shape.

October brought strong corporate earnings, continued AI investment, and ongoing uncertainty around interest rates and geopolitics. Explore the trends shaping global markets and the outlook heading into 2027.

With inflation above the Fed’s target and economic growth showing strength, we examine the outlook for interest rates, next week’s elections, and how a potential deal with Iran could affect energy prices.

Will AI replace jobs, or just slow hiring? Barclays’ plan to cut 5,000 positions brings that question closer to home, and with consumer spending driving about 70% of the U.S. economy, it’s one worth watching.

Retiring early takes more than reaching a savings goal. This practical guide explores how to build a sustainable plan around your lifestyle, income, healthcare, taxes, and investment withdrawals—and prepare for the unexpected along the way.

Stocks and bonds diverged sharply in Q3: AI-driven earnings lifted U.S. equities (S&P 500 up 2.3%), while the 10-year Treasury yield topped 5% and bonds fell 3.5%. We expect continued growth with elevated volatility in Q4, and favor high-quality U.S. large-cap equities and short- to intermediate-duration fixed income.

Rising Treasury yields, persistent inflation, and higher oil prices are putting pressure on markets. Here’s a look at what could shape the Fed’s next move and why patience may be valuable amid the volatility.

Higher interest rates create challenges for borrowers, businesses, and the broader economy—but continued business investment and easing inflation could help sustain economic growth. We examine whether today’s rate environment represents a temporary speed bump or a broader change in trend.

A Test Drive Retirement lets you put your retirement plan into practice before leaving the workforce. Learn how testing your projected income, spending, and lifestyle can uncover gaps, refine your financial plan, and help you retire with greater confidence.

August 2026 brought resilient equity markets alongside rising interest rates, inflation concerns, and continued geopolitical uncertainty. This month’s market recap examines key trends across stocks, bonds, commodities, and the global economy, along with the risks investors should be watching heading into September.

July brought a shift in market leadership as investors rotated out of high-growth AI and semiconductor stocks and into energy, financials, and other value-oriented sectors. Rising Treasury yields, persistent inflation, and geopolitical tensions added volatility, while corporate earnings and economic fundamentals remained supportive. Read our July 2026 Market Insights for a recap of the month's key developments and what they could mean for investors going forward.

Roth conversions can be a powerful strategy for reducing taxes in retirement, but they're not the right choice for everyone. Learn how Roth conversions work, when they make the most sense, and how they can affect Medicare premiums, Social Security benefits, and required minimum distributions (RMDs). With thoughtful planning and guidance from your accountant and financial adviser, a Roth conversion can become an important part of a tax-efficient retirement strategy.

Markets continue to navigate geopolitical tensions, inflation concerns, and evolving economic data. While recent inflation reports offered encouraging signs, uncertainty surrounding global events and the upcoming midterm elections may contribute to continued market volatility. Here's what investors should know.

A financial plan is more than a budget or an investment portfolio - it's a roadmap for your financial future. Learn why financial planning matters, the essential components every plan should include, and how often you should review it to stay aligned with your goals through every stage of life.

Dollar cost averaging is a simple investment strategy that can help reduce the impact of market volatility while removing emotion from the investing process. Learn how investing a fixed amount on a regular schedule can support long-term financial goals and why consistency often matters more than timing the market.

The second quarter of 2026 was marked by strong market performance, resilient economic growth, and continued momentum in artificial intelligence investment. In this quarterly market recap, we review how U.S. equity markets reached new highs, why fixed income experienced heightened volatility, and the economic forces shaping the outlook for the third quarter. We also examine key risks, including inflation, geopolitical developments, and elevated market valuations.

Can you retire at 60? The answer depends on more than reaching a certain savings goal. Early retirement requires careful planning around income needs, health care costs, Social Security timing, taxes, and portfolio sustainability. In this article, we explore the key financial and lifestyle factors that determine whether retiring at 60 is realistic and how to build a plan designed to support a secure and fulfilling retirement for decades to come.

Asset allocation is one of the most important decisions investors make. Learn how the right mix of stocks, bonds, cash, and other investments can help manage risk, improve long-term outcomes, and keep your portfolio aligned with your financial goals.

A U.S.-Iran peace deal announced Sunday evening sent stock futures higher and oil prices sharply lower. But the real story is what happens next in the bond market. Unlike past geopolitical conflicts, Treasuries failed to rally this time, a sign that inflation concerns are overriding the traditional flight-to-safety trade. We break down what the market moves are telling us, and why we don't expect a straight line from here.