Purpose and format of the 2026 outlook

What should investors expect from the U.S. economy next year? What will happen in the equities markets and fixed income markets? On this 2026 Market Outlook episode,  Liz Ann Sonders, Schwab's chief investment strategist, speaks with Kevin Gordon, head of macro research. Liz Ann and Kevin discuss their perspective on the direction of the U.S. economy and stock market. She and Kevin cover the K-shaped recovery, inflation trends, the impact of AI on capital expenditure, and the implications of fiscal stimulus on federal debt.

Then, Liz Ann Sonders discusses the equities outlook for 2026, focusing on consumer confidence, the impact of the presidential election cycle, and the potential for volatility. Finally, Kathy Jones is joined by Cooper Howard and Collin Martin for the outlook on municipal bonds, corporate bonds, U.S. Treasuries, and the overall fixed income markets.

You can read all of Schwab's 2026 Market Outlook reports on our website:

• Read Cooper Howard's 2026 Municipal Bond Outlook.
• Read Collin Martin's 2026 Corporate Credit Outlook.
• Read Kathy Jones's 2026 Treasury Bonds and Fixed Income Outlook.
• Read Liz Ann Sonders and Kevin Gordon's 2026 Stocks & Economic Outlook.
• Read Michelle Gibley's 2026 International Stocks & Economy Outlook.

On Investing is an original podcast from Charles Schwab.

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Important Disclosures 

This material is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. This should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned are not suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions.

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Performance may be affected by risks associated with non-diversification, including investments in specific countries or sectors. Additional risks may also include, but are not limited to, investments in foreign securities, especially emerging markets, real estate investment trusts (REITs), fixed income, municipal securities including state specific municipal securities, small capitalization securities and commodities. Each individual investor should consider these risks carefully before investing in a particular security or strategy.

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