WashingtonWise

Host Mike Townsend focuses a non-partisan eye on news and policies from Washington that impact investors, and his guests offer actionable ideas for your portfolio.

Government Policy

Strong Economy But Investor Uncertainty Lingers

Even with a growing economy, falling inflation, and record low unemployment, investors can’t shake concerns about interest rates, the election, and the U.S. debt and deficit.

June 13, 2024 • Michael Townsend

Government Policy

Income Is Back in Fixed Income

Investors looking for solid returns with lower risk and less volatility are finding a bright spot in today’s bond market.

May 16, 2024

Government Policy

Global Issues: Risks & Rewards

International markets continue to outperform U.S. markets, but not without obvious concerns. How do you weigh the risk-reward ratio when adding foreign stocks to your portfolio?

May 02, 2024

Government Policy

Good News for Data-Driven Fed?

The flood of economic data can be overwhelming, confusing, and often contradictory. So what data is the Fed tracking as it battles inflation and considers rate cuts?

April 18, 2024

Government Policy

Medicare Planning Starts Now

For nearly everyone, part of every paycheck you earn goes straight to Medicare. It’s a big and confusing investment that needs to be managed wisely—but when and how do you start?

March 21, 2024

Government Policy

Election Year Investing Fears

The hype is always high in a presidential election year, fueling investor emotions and worry over the markets. So how do you prepare yourself and your portfolio for a bumpy ride?

March 07, 2024

Government Policy

What to Know Before Buying Bonds

After a rough couple of years, there are real opportunities in bonds. What do you need to know to make better decisions on when and what to buy?

February 22, 2024

Government Policy

Will Geopolitical Risks Bite?

Global hotspots are constantly generating headlines. But investors need a balanced perspective, or they could miss out on potentially strong performance in international markets.

February 08, 2024

Government Policy

Is Record Rally Sustainable?

Investors are feeling pretty good as key indexes hit record highs, but there are questions about cracks in the underlying economic data that could derail the momentum.

January 25, 2024

Government Policy

Navigating the 2024 Markets

Uncertainty is the watchword for 2024. As investors, can we learn to handle uncertainty and the volatility it brings while keeping emotions in check and our portfolios on track?

January 11, 2024

Government Policy

Shape Up Your Financial Plan for 2024

From polishing up your portfolio, to checking on your estate plan, to making tax-efficient choices, now is the time to get your financial plan on sound footing for the new year.

December 07, 2023

Government Policy

Financial Fraud: No One Is Immune

Financial fraudsters are getting smarter, and their tools, like AI, are getting better. So how do you identify a scam and protect yourself from becoming a fraud statistic?

November 16, 2023

Explore more topics

Markets and Economy Government Policy US

Information on this site is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered individualized recommendations or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned here 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 decision.

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.

All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic and 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.

The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.

Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.

This information does not constitute and is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax, legal, or investment planning advice. Where specific advice is necessary or appropriate, Schwab recommends consultation with a qualified tax advisor, CPA, financial planner, or investment manager.

Apple Podcasts and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

Google Podcasts and the Google Podcasts logo are trademarks of Google LLC.

Spotify and the Spotify logo are registered trademarks of Spotify AB.

0222-1WJ8