On Investing

Pat Harker, former president of the Philadelphia Fed and current Penn Wharton professor, delves into pressing economic challenges, including the impact of the government shutdown on monetary data. He highlights the importance of private-sector data as complements to traditional stats. Harker also warns of risks to Fed independence amid political pressures and discusses balancing inflation with labor market needs. He shares insights from his tenure, emphasizing pragmatic policymaking and potential solutions for long-term debt challenges.

This week, Liz Ann Sonders and Kathy Jones discuss the implications of the ongoing government shutdown and the impact on key economic indicators and market data. They analyze the current state of the bond and equity markets, the reliance on alternative data sources in the absence of government data, and the upcoming earnings season. Their conversation highlights the bifurcations in market performance, particularly between larger and smaller companies, and the impact of fiscal policy on global bond markets. They also touch on consumer behavior in response to tariffs and the importance of monitoring key economic indicators moving forward.On Investing is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the show, visit schwab.com/OnInvesting. If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.Important DisclosuresThis 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 may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions.All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions. Data contained herein from third party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness or reliability cannot be guaranteed.Past performance is no guarantee of future results.Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. 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.Treasury Inflation Protected Securities (TIPS) are inflation-linked securities issued by the US Government whose principal value is adjusted periodically in accordance with the rise and fall in the inflation rate. Thus, the dividend amount payable is also impacted by variations in the inflation rate, as it is based upon the principal value of the bond. It may fluctuate up or down. Repayment at maturity is guaranteed by the US Government and may be adjusted for inflation to become the greater of the original face amount at issuance or that face amount plus an adjustment for inflation. Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities are guaranteed by the US Government, but inflation-protected bond funds do not provide such a guarantee.All names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security.Indexes are unmanaged, do not incur management fees, costs, and expenses and cannot be invested in directly. Forecasts contained herein are for illustrative purposes only, may be based upon proprietary research and are developed through analysis of historical public data.The policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.(1025-T88J) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Liz Ann Sonders and Kathy Jones begin by discussing the implications of the government shutdown on employment data and the Federal Reserve's dual mandate. They analyze the challenges posed by the potential lack of government data and the reliance on private sector indicators like ADP. Then, Kathy Jones speaks with Joel Levington, who has more than 25 years’ experience in corporate credit research. Kathy and Joel discuss the overall current state of the credit markets, focusing on corporate credit health, the auto industry's challenges, and some of the impacts of economic disparities on consumer credit. They explore the significance of credit ratings, the rise of private credit, and the implications of inflation and government policies on the economic outlook.Finally, Kathy and Liz Ann discuss upcoming economic data and how earnings season could shape market expectations.On Investing is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the show, visit schwab.com/OnInvesting. If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.Important DisclosuresThis 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 may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions.All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions. Data contained herein from third party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness or reliability cannot be guaranteed.Past performance is no guarantee of future results.Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. 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.The comments, views, and opinions expressed in the presentation are those of the speakers and do not necessarily represent the views of Charles Schwab. All names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security.Indexes are unmanaged, do not incur management fees, costs, and expenses and cannot be invested in directly. Forecasts contained herein are for illustrative purposes only, may be based upon proprietary research and are developed through analysis of historical public data.The policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.(1025-NWPB) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kathy Jones and Liz Ann Sonders look at the state of the markets a week after the quarter-point Fed rate cut. They also discuss the implications of the lower rate for the broader market, the particular dynamics of the Federal Reserve's economic projections, and the current state of the labor market. Next, Kathy speaks with Robin Brooks, senior fellow in the Global Economy and Development Program at the Brookings Institution. They discuss the current state of central bank policies, focusing on the recent Fed meeting and its implications for the dollar and global markets. They explore the complexities of market reactions to Fed easing, the long-term outlook for the dollar, and the importance of institutional integrity in maintaining the dollar's status as a reserve currency. Finally, Kathy and Liz Ann discuss which key economic data to watch in the coming weeks.On Investing is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the show, visit schwab.com/OnInvesting. If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.Important DisclosuresThis 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 may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions.All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions. Data contained herein from third party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness or reliability cannot be guaranteed.Past performance is no guarantee of future results.Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. 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.The comments, views, and opinions expressed in the presentation are those of the speakers and do not necessarily represent the views of Charles Schwab. All names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security.Currency trading is speculative, very volatile and not suitable for all investors.Indexes are unmanaged, do not incur management fees, costs, and expenses and cannot be invested in directly. Forecasts contained herein are for illustrative purposes only, may be based upon proprietary research and are developed through analysis of historical public data.The policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.(0925-KKW0) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kathy Jones and Liz Ann Sonders analyze the market reactions to this week's quarter-point Fed rate cut. They also look at the implications of the lower rate for the broader market, the particular dynamics of the Federal Reserve's economic projections, and the current state of the labor market. Then, Freya Beamish, chief economist for TS Lombard, joins Liz Ann in a discussion focused on tariffs and labor market conditions. She emphasizes the complexities of the labor market, particularly in relation to immigration and job creation. The discussion also touches on the legal aspects of tariffs and the potential reactions from the Federal Reserve. Beamish concludes with an optimistic outlook on productivity growth and the influence of AI on the economy.Finally, Kathy and Liz Ann discuss which key economic data to watch in the coming weeks.You can keep up with Freya Beamish and follow her podcast Perkins Vs Beamish.On Investing is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.Important DisclosuresThis 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 may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions.All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions. Data contained herein from third party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness or reliability cannot be guaranteed.Past performance is no guarantee of future results.Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. 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.The comments, views, and opinions expressed in the presentation are those of the speakers and do not necessarily represent the views of Charles Schwab. All names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security.Currency trading is speculative, very volatile and not suitable for all investors.Forecasts contained herein are for illustrative purposes only, may be based upon proprietary research and are developed through analysis of historical public data.The policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.(0925-GCNT) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This week, Liz Ann Sonders and Kathy Jones discuss the recent downward revision in job market statistics, the implications for the economy, and the likelihood of a rate cut next week. They analyze the broader economic context of the job revisions, the importance of indicators like the Producer Price Index, and the impact of global market volatility. Then, Steven Meier joins the show. He is the Deputy Comptroller and Chief Investment Officer for the New York City retirement systems. Liz Ann and Kathy discuss his role, the importance of education for retirement plan participants and trustees, the convergence of public and private markets, and the challenges of inflation and liquidity management. Meier shares his thoughts on particular investment strategies, mainly in private equity and fixed income, while also addressing the current state of the public markets and the impact of AI on future investments. The discussion highlights the complexities of asset allocation and the importance of understanding market dynamics.Finally, Kathy and Liz Ann discuss which key economic data to watch in the coming weeks.On Investing is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the show, visit schwab.com/OnInvesting. If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.Important DisclosuresThis 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 may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions.All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions. Data contained herein from third party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness or reliability cannot be guaranteed.Past performance is no guarantee of future results.Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. 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.The comments, views, and opinions expressed in the presentation are those of the speakers and do not necessarily represent the views of Charles Schwab. All names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Currency trading is speculative, very volatile and not suitable for all investors.Treasury Inflation Protected Securities (TIPS) are inflation-linked securities issued by the US Government whose principal value is adjusted periodically in accordance with the rise and fall in the inflation rate. Thus, the dividend amount payable is also impacted by variations in the inflation rate, as it is based upon the principal value of the bond. It may fluctuate up or down. Repayment at maturity is guaranteed by the US Government and may be adjusted for inflation to become the greater of the original face amount at issuance or that face amount plus an adjustment for inflation. Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities are guaranteed by the US Government, but inflation-protected bond funds do not provide such a guarantee.Diversification and asset allocation do not ensure a profit and do not protect against losses in declining markets.Forecasts contained herein are for illustrative purposes only, may be based upon proprietary research and are developed through analysis of historical public data.The policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.(0925-CPRL) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this conversation, Kathy Jones and Liz Ann Sonders discuss the current state of the housing market, the implications of potential Fed policy changes, and the broader economic indicators that could affect market expectations. They explore the complexities of housing affordability, the yield curve, and the potential impact of this week's job reports on both the equity and bond markets. The discussion highlights the interconnectedness of various economic factors and the uncertainty surrounding future market movements.Check out Liz Ann Sonders's and Kevin Gordon's recent housing article "Take the Long Way Home: Is Housing Bottoming?" On Investing is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the show, visit schwab.com/OnInvesting. If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.Important DisclosuresThis 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 may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions.All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions. Data contained herein from third party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness or reliability cannot be guaranteed.Past performance is no guarantee of future results.Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. 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.All names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security.Forecasts contained herein are for illustrative purposes only, may be based upon proprietary research and are developed through analysis of historical public data.The policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.(0925-9RZJ) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kevin Gordon, Director and senior investment strategist at Schwab Center for Financial Research, joins the discussion on the Federal Reserve's independence amid political pressure. He highlights the potential risks of increased control over monetary policy and explores how sectors like housing are reacting to interest rate changes. The conversation dives into the state of bond and stock markets, emphasizing the importance of labor market reports and inflation metrics to anticipate economic shifts. Healthcare investments are also explored as emerging opportunities.

Cooper Howard, Director and fixed income strategist at the Schwab Center for Financial Research, dives deep into the muni bond market. He examines why munis have lagged behind other fixed income options this year and highlights the appeal of high-yield municipal bonds. The conversation also explores the benefits of investing in individual bonds versus mutual funds or ETFs. Listeners will gain insights into the dynamics at play in the muni market, offering potential opportunities for savvy investors.

Kathy Jones and Liz Ann Sonders dissect the latest Consumer Price Index data, raising concerns about inflation and the threat of stagflation. They analyze the Federal Reserve’s tricky position on interest rate cuts while navigating a stable labor market. The duo emphasizes the importance of diversification in investments, especially with international assets. They also preview crucial upcoming economic indicators that could shape market trends, alongside a fascinating debate on differing views regarding impending rate cuts within the Fed.