Investors Riding the Waves in Unsteady Bond Market

The first days of the Trump administration saw a barrage of executive actions that left investors scrambling to make sense of it all. While the equity market reacted positively, the bond market was decidedly more mixed. In this episode of WashingtonWise, host Mike Townsend is joined by Collin Martin, director and fixed income strategist at Schwab, to delve into the complexities of the bond market and explore the recent volatility in yields, the Federal Reserve's balancing act with interest rates, and whether political pressures could influence monetary policy. They discuss the implications of rising deficits, the role of bond vigilantes, and the impact of natural disasters on municipal bonds. And Collin offers strategies for fixed income investors in a fluctuating market. Mike also provides updates on other key developments in Washington, including the latest on the debt ceiling, how a flurry of activity by the new administration and Congress increases the likelihood of cryptocurrency-related legislation this year, and the changing scope of the new “DOGE”–the Department of Government Efficiency.

WashingtonWise is an original podcast for investors from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit schwab.com/WashingtonWise.

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IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES:

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The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered an individualized recommendation 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.  

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

Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve. 

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.

Fixed income securities are subject to increased loss of principal during periods of rising interest rates. Fixed income investments are subject to various other risks, including changes in credit quality, market valuations, liquidity, prepayments, early redemption, corporate events, tax ramifications, and other factors. 

Lower rated securities are subject to greater credit risk, default risk, and liquidity risk.

Tax-exempt bonds are not necessarily a suitable investment for all persons. Information related to a security's tax-exempt status (federal and in-state) is obtained from third parties, and Schwab Center for Financial Research does not guarantee its accuracy. Tax-exempt income may be subject to the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT). Capital appreciation from bond funds and discounted bonds may be subject to state or local taxes. Capital gains are not exempt from federal income tax.

Diversification and asset allocation strategies do not ensure a profit and cannot protect against losses in a declining market.

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

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