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Revisiting Our 10-Year Treasury Yield Forecast

Revisiting Our 10-Year Treasury Yield Forecast

September 20, 2021 LPL Research
LPL Research examines two key elements that prompted us to slightly lower our year-end forecast for the 10-year Treasury yield.
Policy Risks Loom But Clarity Ahead

Policy Risks Loom But Clarity Ahead

September 13, 2021 LPL Research
LPL Research explores a few policy-related risks that may increase market volatility in the near-term but maintain the fundamental backdrop for the economy remains strong.
Poking The Bear

Poking The Bear

August 30, 2021 LPL Research
LPL Research explores five things that some bears believe that do not worry us.
Why Stagflation Isn’t In the Cards

Why Stagflation Isn’t In the Cards

August 23, 2021 LPL Research
LPL Research shares their current outlook on stagflation, the misery index, and inflation.
Corporate America Does It Again

Corporate America Does It Again

August 16, 2021 LPL Research
LPL Research comments on surprising earnings report numbers as they continue to come in.
COVID Update: Delta Variant Market Impact

COVID Update: Delta Variant Market Impact

August 09, 2021 LPL Research
LPL Research shares some insight into how the Delta variant may impact markets throughout August 2021.
Five Things To Know Heading Into August

Five Things To Know Heading Into August

August 02, 2021 LPL Research
LPL Research shares some insight into what may be on the horizon for markets, policy, and the economy as we head into August 2021.
Six Surprises So Far in 2021

Six Surprises So Far in 2021

July 26, 2021 LPL Research
LPL Research talks about a few things that have surprised them with markets, policy, and the economy in 2021.
Midyear Outlook 2021: Picking Up Speed

Midyear Outlook 2021: Picking Up Speed

July 19, 2021 LPL Research
LPL Research provides an overview of their predictions on the economy, policy, stocks, and bonds for the rest of 2021 and beyond.
Three Things to Watch This Earnings Season

Three Things to Watch This Earnings Season

July 12, 2021 LPL Research
LPL Research anticipates a strong earnings season and outlines the three things investors should keep on their radars this quarter.
Three Things That Worry Us

Three Things That Worry Us

June 28, 2021 LPL Research
LPL Research explores three things that worry us—and could make the market more susceptible to a pullback as we enter the second half of 2021.
Inflation And What the Fed Is Saying

Inflation And What the Fed Is Saying

June 21, 2021 LPL Research
Inflation seems to be on the rise, but LPL Research believes there are good reasons to think it will be transitory.
Sustainable Investing Becoming Mainstream in Fixed Income

Sustainable Investing Becoming Mainstream in Fixed Income

June 14, 2021 LPL Research
Sustainable investing is becoming more mainstream in fixed income markets and companies that recognize that changing dynamic may be able to avoid financially material impacts.
Policy Shifts May Challenge Markets

Policy Shifts May Challenge Markets

June 07, 2021 LPL Research
Policy tailwinds may turn into headwinds in 2022, but economic fundamentals are likely to dominate.
Proceed With Caution in the Bond Market

Proceed With Caution in the Bond Market

June 01, 2021 LPL Research
Long-term interest rates have traded sideways recently, but LPL Research argues that high-quality bonds can play a pivotal role in mitigating equity risk.
Stock Market Gains Likely To Slow

Stock Market Gains Likely To Slow

May 24, 2021 LPL Research
As this bull market gets a little older, the pace of stock market gains will likely slow, but a strong economic recovery lies ahead as the reopening continues.
Economy Picking Up Speed

Economy Picking Up Speed

May 17, 2021 LPL Research
LPL Research explains why inflation is making headlines and why investors should not be overly concerned.
Amazing Earnings Season

Amazing Earnings Season

May 10, 2021 LPL Research
LPL Research raises its year-end S&P 500 Index fair value target range again in the wake of a stunning Q1 2021 earnings season.
Time To Sell In May?

Time To Sell In May?

May 03, 2021 LPL Research
LPL Research notes some possible reasons for a pause in the rally and why any potential pullbacks won’t last very long.
Is All The Good News Priced In?

Is All The Good News Priced In?

April 26, 2021 LPL Research
LPL Research believes investors are appropriately optimistic, given the improving economy, the pace of vaccinations, fiscal stimulus, and surging earnings.
Peak Optimism?

Peak Optimism?

April 19, 2021 LPL Research
While optimism surrounding the reopening is certainly understandable, LPL Research takes a look to see if sentiment is flashing a near-term contrarian warning sign for stocks.
The Earnings Boom Is Here

The Earnings Boom Is Here

April 12, 2021 LPL Research
The outstanding fourth-quarter earnings season we had in 2020 is a tough act to follow, but 2021’s first quarter has the makings of another potentially great earnings season.
Raising Forecasts…Again

Raising Forecasts…Again

April 05, 2021 LPL Research
LPL Research revises previous forecasts to better reflect the growing optimism of an economy on the rebound.
Are We on the Brink of an Inflation Crisis?

Are We on the Brink of an Inflation Crisis?

March 29, 2021 LPL Research
LPL Research explains why any upticks in inflation will ultimately prove transitory.
The Second Year Of The Bull Market Begins

The Second Year Of The Bull Market Begins

March 22, 2021 LPL Research
LPL Research discuss the end of the bear market and the trends of a bull market in year two.
March Madness: Stock Market Edition

March Madness: Stock Market Edition

March 15, 2021 LPL Research
LPL Research share their “Final Four Factors” for the stock market in 2021.
Rising Rates And Stock Market Performance

Rising Rates And Stock Market Performance

March 08, 2021 LPL Research
LPL Research discusses the market signals supporting the potential for stock gains in the current rising rate environment.
Here Comes The Earnings Boom

Here Comes The Earnings Boom

March 01, 2021 LPL Research
LPL Research reviews an incredible earnings season and speculates on a potentially strong earnings rebound for 2021 and beyond.
Sustainable Investing Year In Review

Sustainable Investing Year In Review

February 22, 2021 LPL Research
LPL Research reviews the increasing popularity of sustainable investing and how it can be a solid addition to any investor portfolio.
The Search For Income

The Search For Income

February 16, 2021 LPL Research
LPL Research considers some unique income ideas for diversifying investor portfolios & potentially reducing interest rate risk.
Raising GDP And Stock Market Forecasts

Raising GDP And Stock Market Forecasts

February 08, 2021 LPL Research
The resiliency of the US economy continues to exceed expectations, supporting our increased forecast for growth and corporate profits in 2021.
Markets Shrug Off Debt Levels

Markets Shrug Off Debt Levels

February 01, 2021 LPL Research
US debt levels have soared during the pandemic, but the market is taking it in stride, staying focused on reopening the economy.
Small Caps Still Solid

Small Caps Still Solid

January 25, 2021 LPL Research
Small cap stocks have outperformed large cap stocks over the last several months. They’re enjoying strong breadth and the earnings outlook is strong. This is a favorable part of the economic cycle.
Earnings Recession Is Likely Over

Earnings Recession Is Likely Over

January 19, 2021 LPL Research
Fourth quarter 2020 corporate earnings season likely will be the last in this earnings recession. Earnings may grow in the first quarter of 2021 and beyond. The economic recovery can drive a rebound in corporate profits.
Market Policy Projections for 2021

Market Policy Projections for 2021

January 11, 2021 LPL Research
Democratic control of Congress may not impact 2021 policy as much as many believe. The biggest changes may be around taxes, regulation, and stimulus prospects. With the elections behind us, 2021 policy is coming into focus.
10 Economic Lessons from 2020

10 Economic Lessons from 2020

January 04, 2021 LPL Research
2020 was a unique year, from the longest economic expansion ever to the shortest recession on record. Stock markets are forward-looking, and they want clarity on elections, too. Above all else, 2020 showed our ability to persevere.
A New Economic Start in 2021

A New Economic Start in 2021

December 21, 2020 LPL Research
2020 was a tumultuous year. We likely had the shortest recession ever and began a new economic expansion. Small business and effective COVID-19 vaccines hold the key to continued economic growth in 2021.
Stocks and Bonds Outlook for 2021

Stocks and Bonds Outlook for 2021

December 14, 2020 LPL Research
Stocks and bonds posted strong returns in 2020, and we believe this early-stage bull market may be set for more strong performance in 2021. Opportunities for bond investors may require more patience.
A Positive Outlook for 2021

A Positive Outlook for 2021

December 07, 2020 LPL Research
As 2020 comes to a close and we look forward to 2021, we take a look at what we can expect in the stock and bond markets, the economy, and a new post-election policy environment in 2021.
COVID-19 may threaten the economic recovery

COVID-19 may threaten the economic recovery

November 30, 2020 LPL Research
Increasing COVID-19 cases in Europe and the United States have brought new restrictions. The stock market doesn’t appear fazed by the recent outbreaks, but underlying economic data is beginning to reflect the latest government and consumer shutdowns.
Frothy Sentiment Rides Bullish Technicals

Frothy Sentiment Rides Bullish Technicals

November 23, 2020 LPL Research
The reaction from stocks since the US election has been strong. The S&P 500 Index is up, and small caps have soared. Sentiment could be getting a little frothy as well, which may increase the odds of a pullback.
Q3 Results Brighten 2021 Picture

Q3 Results Brighten 2021 Picture

November 16, 2020 LPL Research
Corporate earnings results were surprisingly good in the third quarter, with 84% of companies beating earnings expectations. Stocks most likely are in a new bull market, potentially supported by a durable economic expansion.
Market-Friendly Election Outcome

Market-Friendly Election Outcome

November 09, 2020 LPL Research
Equity returns have been strongest under a split Congress, a likely scenario in 2021. Big tax increases are likely off the table, but passing another stimulus bill will probably be a priority for both parties.
Record GDP on the Eve of the Election

Record GDP on the Eve of the Election

November 02, 2020 LPL Research
2020 has been a year of records, including the sharpest rebound in GDP since WWII. Plus, consumer spending rebounded mightily after the second quarter contraction. What does this signal for the election?
Are the Polls Wrong Again?

Are the Polls Wrong Again?

October 26, 2020 LPL Research
As the race for the White House enters the homestretch, some indicators suggest the election may be closer than polls are saying. GDP, stock performance, and the US dollar all have a history of picking the winner.
Three Reasons We Like Small Caps

Three Reasons We Like Small Caps

October 19, 2020 LPL Research
Markets have come a long way since March lows, and we see further gains ahead for stocks. We think small cap stocks in particular may have attractive growth potential.
Earnings Growth is Approaching

Earnings Growth is Approaching

October 12, 2020 LPL Research
Corporate America will get closer to the return of earnings growth this earnings season. Investors will need to watch for continued impact from COVID-19, policy changes based on the election outcome, and winners that keep winning.
Market Responses to Election Uncertainty

Market Responses to Election Uncertainty

October 05, 2020 LPL Research
November presidential election results may be delayed or disputed, or both, and President Donald Trump’s COVID-19 diagnosis adds to the noise. How will the markets react to this election uncertainty?
What Technology’s Correction Means

What Technology’s Correction Means

September 28, 2020 LPL Research
Technology has mitigated downside during bouts of pandemic-inspired market volatility, while also posting considerable outperformance. In September, however, it has corrected more than 12% from its prior highs. What does this correction mean?
Central Bank Season

Central Bank Season

September 21, 2020 LPL Research
The Federal Reserve, European Central Bank, and Bank of Japan met in September to discuss the economy and monetary policy. Their policies remain focused on economic recovery, with an eye on COVID-19 developments.
The Bull Case for Stocks

The Bull Case for Stocks

September 14, 2020 LPL Research
Markets have been on a wild ride in September so far, with early strong days followed by one of the sharpest 10% corrections ever for the NASDAQ. Where will stocks go from here?
Top 10 Investor Questions

Top 10 Investor Questions

September 08, 2020 LPL Research
Why have stocks done so well in such a challenging economic environment and with COVID-19 still an ongoing threat? We answer that and other top questions from investors.
Election Preview Part II: A Trump Second Term—Upside and Risks

Election Preview Part II: A Trump Second Term—Upside and Risks

August 31, 2020 LPL Research
In Part II of our two-part election preview series, we look at the potential market impact if President Donald Trump is elected to a second term as president. We cover what we may expect in taxes, deregulation, jobs, trade, and initiatives.
Election Preview Part I:  A Biden Presidency—Upside and Risks

Election Preview Part I: A Biden Presidency—Upside and Risks

August 24, 2020 LPL Research
In Part 1 of a two-part election preview series, we look at the potential market impact if former Vice President Joe Biden is elected president, including what to expect in taxes, regulation, initiatives, and governance. Next week, we cover the same for President Donald Trump.
5 Earnings Season Takeaways

5 Earnings Season Takeaways

August 17, 2020 LPL Research
Corporate earnings blew away expectations this quarter, with an average upside surprise of 22%. There are a number of reasons estimates were off, and we have five key takeaways from this earnings season.
Dissecting the Disconnect

Dissecting the Disconnect

August 10, 2020 LPL Research
The US economy is struggling at the same time the stock market keeps churning higher. We highlight differences between the stock market and the economy to explain the disconnect between the S&P 500 and GDP.
Calendar Concerns and Gold Gains

Calendar Concerns and Gold Gains

August 03, 2020 LPL Research
August and September historically have been troublesome for stocks. Meanwhile, gold is breaking out to new all-time highs. Stocks may be ready for a break, but it’s still possible gold and stocks could trend higher together.
Stalling Economic Recovery May Slow Stock Market Rally

Stalling Economic Recovery May Slow Stock Market Rally

July 27, 2020 LPL Research
The stock market has shown some weakness recently, and timely data indicates the economic recovery may have stalled. Weekly jobless claims have increased, too. Investors are asking if the long-awaited market pullback is here.
An Earnings Season To Forget

An Earnings Season To Forget

July 20, 2020 LPL Research
COVID-19 lockdowns and widespread withdrawal of corporate guidance have set up an unpredictable earnings season. The magnitude of the decline we may see may make this an earnings season to forget. But it may not all be negative.
Election Preview

Election Preview

July 06, 2020 LPL Research
2020 is an election year, and history shows that the US economy has had major bearings on presidential election. How stocks and the economy are performing prior to the election may forecast the winner.
The Future of Fixed Income

The Future of Fixed Income

June 29, 2020 LPL Research
The US economic recovery has picked up, and we expect Treasury yields to rise later in 2020, but structural pressure from the Fed, pandemic-driven demand, and inflation may limit the increase. Investors seeking income are in a tough spot.
5 Reasons We Favor US Stocks

5 Reasons We Favor US Stocks

June 22, 2020 LPL Research
Among developed markets, we maintain our preference for US equities over international. We also reiterate our positive emerging markets view. Recent weakness in the US dollar is noteworthy as well.
Potential Paths for Stocks in the Second Half

Potential Paths for Stocks in the Second Half

June 15, 2020 LPL Research
Stocks staged perhaps the strongest rally in history—a more than 44% gain for the S&P 500 Index from March 23 through June 8—before pulling back about 3% late last week. With so much economic healing ahead of us and a still-uncertain path for COVID-19, the key question for investors is whether stocks are pricing in an overly optimistic scenario for the recovery in economic activity and corporate profits.
Prospects for a Swoosh-Shaped Recovery

Prospects for a Swoosh-Shaped Recovery

June 08, 2020 LPL Research
The strongest 50-day rally in the S&P 500 in over 70 years has sent a signal that the economic recovery is gaining steam and may look more like a “V” than a “U,” a square root, checkmark, or swoosh. We assess the probabilities of these various scenarios for recovery and reiterate our 2020 economic growth forecasts.
Stocks Rally and Roll

Stocks Rally and Roll

June 01, 2020 LPL Research
Stocks rallied to close May on the positive side. There’s still a disconnect between the market and the economy, while reopening optimism and massive stimulus compete with COVID-19 concerns and US-China tensions.
Earnings Season's Mixed Results

Earnings Season's Mixed Results

May 26, 2020 LPL Research
First quarter earnings season offered a mixed bag. Corporate America produced solid results outside of the COVID-19 pandemic trouble spots, while 2020 earnings estimates have plunged. A return to “normal” earnings could be two years or more away.
Downside Risk Remains

Downside Risk Remains

May 18, 2020 LPL Research
Stocks fell last week, and we think more near-term downside may be possible. We take a look at likely catalysts, including high stock valuations, Fed Chair Powell’s gloomy outlook, and rising US-China tensions.
Time For A Pause?

Time For A Pause?

May 11, 2020 LPL Research
Stocks tend to lead the economy, and they’ve had a historic run recently. Both a rebound and some equity weakness may be likely. Stocks may also take a break as we enter the historically worst six months of the year.
Big News And New Forecasts

Big News And New Forecasts

May 04, 2020 LPL Research
Financial news provided the highlights in a week with the S&P 500 Index ending about flat. Headlines featured estimates of Q1 2020 GDP, a top-tier economic report, major central bank meetings, and the busiest week of earnings season.
What Happened to Oil

What Happened to Oil

April 27, 2020 LPL Research
Negative oil prices have dominated headlines recently. While few of us speculate on commodity futures, the price of oil is an important variable. We explain what happened and where oil prices could be headed ultimately.
Is the Earnings Bar Low Enough?

Is the Earnings Bar Low Enough?

April 20, 2020 LPL Research
COVID-19 travel restrictions and lockdowns have impacted corporate earnings results dramatically. As earnings season begins, we believe there will be winners and some challenges, the bar may be set too low, and forecasting has included some guesswork.
A Recession Is Here

A Recession Is Here

April 13, 2020 LPL Research
We are now in recession, but it’s a very unique recession. It may be one of the shortest, and we may see an economic bounce back later this year. Stocks may enjoy better times ahead.
Market Bottoming Process Continues

Market Bottoming Process Continues

April 06, 2020 LPL Research
Stock market volatility remains high as investors closely track COVID-19. We’re watching for signs that investors can start thinking about a resumption of economic activity and an economic rebound. In the meantime, stocks may revisit the March lows.
Road to Recovery Playbook Update

Road to Recovery Playbook Update

March 30, 2020 LPL Research
The COVID-19 impact to our economy and workers has been devastating, but we’ve seen some positive developments from monetary and fiscal stimulus. We update our Road to Recovery Playbook on signs of a major low in equities.
Key Week for the Bottoming Process

Key Week for the Bottoming Process

March 23, 2020 LPL Research
The US economy has been impacted in a number of ways, and we are likely in recession now. What began as a crisis of confidence has transitioned to a business crisis, but positive steps are being taken.
Road to Recovery Playbook

Road to Recovery Playbook

March 17, 2020 LPL Research
COVID-19 has sent equity markets into bear market territory. But once the market finds its bottom, it may provide attractive buying opportunities. To guide long-term investors, LPL Research has compiled a Road to Recovery Playbook.