After double-digit second-quarter gains, U.S. and international equities lost momentum in the third quarter. Rising interest rates, higher energy costs, inflation concerns, and the war in Iran weighed on sentiment, although continued economic growth and solid corporate earnings supported many areas of the market.
The first half of the year was like a tug of war for the market. For much of the first quarter, the market pulled back and forth from positive to negative. In March, the start of the war with Iran pulled the S&P 500® into negative territory for the year and the index finished the first quarter at its low for the year. After beginning the second quarter at its low, the market did not look back and by the second week of April the S&P 500® was back in positive territory.
The first quarter of 2026 served as a good reminder that market conditions can change quickly. After 2025 delivered historically low volatility and strong returns across most areas of the market, 2026 started the same way.
DSWM Quarterly is market review of the 4th quarter of 2025 and some things to think about looking forward.
Looking to get organized before the end of the year? Here is our annual financial checklist to help get you started. As you are working through it, please do not hesitate to reach out to anyone here at Droms Strauss Wealth Management for assistance.
DSWM Quarterly is market review of the 3rd quarter of 2025 and some things to think about looking forward.
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