By Bill Hornbarger, Chief Investment Officer
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Three Things to Watch
- The U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed) meets for the first time this year on Tuesday and Wednesday and is widely expected to leave rates unchanged. Chairman Powell’s press conference will be closely watched for clues on the pace and timing of future interest rate cuts. Futures are pricing two cuts in 2026, consistent with the Fed’s most recent published projections.
- There is a heavy earnings calendar with high-profile companies such as Apple, Tesla, Microsoft, Meta, Exxon Mobil and Chevron scheduled to report. Earnings are expected to be strong in 2026, with the forecast for year-over-year growth in the low teens, but future performance remains uncertain.
- Economic data includes consumer confidence, durable goods orders, jobless claims, Producer Price Index data and retail sales.
Three Things to Know
- Gold rose above $5,000 an ounce for the first time in trading Sunday, extending its rally. The metal has more than doubled over the last two years and is up 15% this year, primarily on geopolitical risks. (Source: Bloomberg)
- Samuel L. Jackson has earned approximately $357,161,000 from his film career. Across 156 movies, he averages about 2,200 words per film—roughly $1,040 per word. His signature “NSFW” word appears 1,116 times, meaning he has made an estimated $1,160,640 just from saying it. (Source: Historic Vids)
- FactSet S&P 500 annual bottom-up earnings estimated for 2026 and 2027 are $310.41 and $358.45, respectively. (Source: Ryan Detrick)
The above information reflects the current opinion of the author. It is based upon sources and data believed to be accurate and reliable. Opinions and forward-looking statements expressed are subject to change without notice. This information does not constitute a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any security mentioned.