In today’s globally interconnected financial world, fraud and scams are all too common, and anyone can become a victim. On this episode of WashingtonWise, host Mike Townsend talks with DJ Johnson, head of Financial Crimes Risk Management at Charles Schwab, about the ever-evolving fraud landscape and how you can protect yourself. They discuss the scope of the problem, the most frequently used ploys, and how fraudsters are using the latest technology, including artificial intelligence, to dupe even savvy investors. They also talk about what Schwab does to protect its clients from fraud and offer practical steps every investor should take to protect themselves and their finances.Mike also reports on the latest efforts to avert a government shutdown in Washington, offers an update on the state of the 2024 election one year out, and provides his perspective on this week’s meeting between President Biden and President Xi Jinping of China.WashingtonWise is an original podcast for investors from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit Schwab.com/WashingtonWise.If you enjoy the show, please leave a ★★★★★ rating or review on Apple PodcastsImportant DisclosuresThe policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.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.All corporate names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.Digital currencies [such as bitcoin] are highly volatile and not backed by any central bank or government. Digital currencies lack many of the regulations and consumer protections that legal-tender currencies and regulated securities have. Due to the high level of risk, investors should view digital currencies as a purely speculative instrument. Apple, the Apple logo, iPad, iPhone, and Apple Podcasts are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.Google Podcasts and the Google Podcasts logo are trademarks of Google LLC.Spotify and the Spotify logo are registered trademarks of Spotify AB.(1123-36TC)

In this episode of On Investing, hosts Liz Ann Sonders and Kathy Jones welcome Mike Townsend to the show. Mike is Schwab's managing director of legislative and regulatory affairs in Washington D.C. He is also the host of Schwab's WashingtonWise podcast, which explores the intersection between policy, politics, the markets, and the economy. He shares his thoughts on the 2024 election cycle, the likelihood of a government shutdown, and the state of the federal budget deficit and government debt.Kathy and Liz Ann also give an update on what they are keeping an eye on next week in the markets.Liz Ann Sonders is Schwab's chief investment strategist. She's regularly quoted in financial publications including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Barron's,and the Financial Times.She also appears as a regular guest on CNBC, Bloomberg, CNN, Yahoo! Finance, and Fox Business News. Liz Ann has been named "Best Market Strategist" by Kiplinger'sPersonal Finance and one of SmartMoney magazine's "Power 30." Barron's has named her to its "100 Most Influential Women in Finance" list, and Investment Advisor has included her on the "IA 25," its list of the 25 most important people in and around the financial advisory profession.Kathy is Schwab's chief fixed income strategist. She is a regular guest on CNBC, Yahoo Finance, Bloomberg TV, and many other networks and is often quoted by The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Financial Times, and Reuters. Kathy has been an analyst of global credit markets throughout her career, working with both institutional and retail clients.On Investing is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the show, visit schwab.com/OnInvesting.If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.Important DisclosuresThe comments, views, and opinions expressed in the presentation are those of the speakers and do not necessarily represent the views of Charles Schwab.​Data contained herein from third party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable source. However, its accuracy, completeness or reliability cannot be guaranteed and Charles Schwab & Co. expressly disclaims any liability, including incidental or consequential damages, arising from errors or omissions in this publication.Past performance is no guarantee of future results and the opinions presented cannot be viewed as an indicator of future performance.All corporate names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request. Investing involves risk including loss of principal.​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.Small cap investments are subject to greater volatility than those in other asset categories. ​ 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.Apple, the Apple logo, iPad, iPhone, and Apple Podcasts are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.Google Podcasts and the Google Podcasts logo are trademarks of Google LLC.Spotify and the Spotify logo are registered trademarks of Spotify AB.(1123-3FA8)

Huge challenges are looming as Capitol Hill inches its way back towards normal after the unprecedented ouster of the speaker of the House and a three-week search for his successor. On this episode of WashingtonWise, host Mike Townsend dives into how the recent chaos in the House and the emergence of a relative unknown may impact key policy issues. Mike offers his insight on the ever-present concern over a government shutdown, lawmakers' response to the president’s request for an emergency spending package to aid Israel and Ukraine, and how higher interest rates are fueling difficult decisions on the federal deficit. He also looks into the new White House executive order on artificial intelligence as well as the Federal Reserve’s decision to hold the interest rate steady. WashingtonWise is an original podcast for investors from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit Schwab.com/WashingtonWise.If you enjoy the show, please leave a ★★★★★ rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Important DisclosuresThe policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.​The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. All expressions of opinion are subject to changes without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic, and geopolitical conditions.  Data herein is obtained from what are considered reliable sources; however, its accuracy, completeness, or reliability cannot be guaranteed. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.Past performance is no guarantee of future results and the opinions presented cannot be viewed as an indicator of future performance.Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.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.Diversification strategies do not ensure a profit and do not protect against losses in declining markets.All names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.Forecasts contained herein are for illustrative purposes only, may be based upon proprietary research and are developed through analysis of historical public data.​Indexes are unmanaged, do not incur management fees, costs, and expenses and cannot be invested in directly. For more information on indexes, please see Schwab.com/IndexDefinitions.Apple, the Apple logo, iPad, iPhone, and Apple Podcasts are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.Google Podcasts and the Google Podcasts logo are trademarks of Google LLC.Spotify and the Spotify logo are registered trademarks of Spotify AB.​​Apple, the Apple logo, iPad, iPhone, and Apple Podcasts are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.(1123-3P8Z)

The recent attacks in Israel are a reminder that geopolitical events can happen at any time, but when it comes to global investing, it’s often the big picture that tells the real story. Jeff Kleintop, Schwab’s chief global investment strategist, joins Mike Townsend to assess the ever-present nature of geopolitical risks that can have far-reaching impact in today’s interconnected economy.Mike and Jeff also dive into the headline issues that are affecting China’s economy, including the troubles with its largest property developers, and explore the renewed efforts in Washington to improve U.S.-China relations. They also discuss whether Europe is turning the corner and why Japan is seeing its best stock market performance in decades. They zoom out to see beyond the short term and look at where opportunities for investors may be emerging. Mike also addresses the latest news from Washington, where chaos in the House of Representatives is increasing worries about a government shutdown in November and imperiling the broader policy agenda.WashingtonWise is an original podcast for investors from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit Schwab.com/WashingtonWise.If you enjoy the show, please leave a ★★★★★ rating or review on Apple Podcasts.  Important DisclosuresThe policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.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.International investments involve additional risks, which include differences in financial accounting standards, currency fluctuations, geopolitical risk, foreign taxes and regulations, and the potential for illiquid markets.Investing in emerging markets may accentuate these risks.​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.Commodity-related products carry a high level of risk and are not suitable for all investors. Commodity-related products may be extremely volatile, illiquid and can be significantly affected by underlying commodity prices, world events, import controls, worldwide competition, government regulations, and economic conditions.All corporate names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.Past performance is no guarantee of future results.Indexes are unmanaged, do not incur management fees, costs and expenses, and cannot be invested in directly. For additional information, please see schwab.com/indexdefinitions.Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.Currency trading is speculative, volatile and not suitable for all investors.Diversification strategies do not ensure a profit and do not protect against losses in declining markets.The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.​​Apple, the Apple logo, iPad, iPhone, and Apple Podcasts are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.(1023-32DA)

As the Federal Reserve continues to send the message that interest rates will stay elevated well into 2024, bond yields are the highest they have been in more than 15 years. In this episode, host Mike Townsend welcomes Kathy Jones, chief fixed income strategist at the Schwab Center for Financial Research, to get her perspective on how bond investors can take advantage of what some are calling a once-in-a-generation opportunity. They discuss individual bonds vs. bond funds, corporate bonds, municipal bonds, and Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS). Kathy offers her perspective on the latest Fed action and how the Fed may react if a government shutdown curtails its access to key economic data in the coming weeks. She also offers her considerations for how to make bonds part of a well-diversified portfolio, whether you are a long-time fixed income investor or a newcomer to the world of bond investing. In addition, Mike provides the latest on the scramble on Capitol Hill to avert a government shutdown and looks at some of the implications of a shutdown for investors. He also takes a look at a new SEC rule that seeks to help investors understand what they are getting by requiring mutual fund and exchange-traded fund names better align with their goals and strategies.WashingtonWise is an original podcast for investors from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit Schwab.com/WashingtonWise.If you enjoy the show, please leave a ★★★★★ rating or review on Apple Podcasts.  Important DisclosuresInvestors should consider carefully information contained in the prospectus or, if available, the summary prospectus, including investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses. You can request a prospectus by calling Schwab at 1-800-435-4000. Please read it carefully before investing.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.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.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.​​Indexes are unmanaged, do not incur management fees, costs, and expenses and cannot be invested in directly. For more information on indexes please see schwab.com/indexdefinitionsPast performance is no guarantee of future results and the opinions presented cannot be viewed as an indicator of future performance.Investing involves risks including loss of principal.Diversification and asset allocation strategies do not ensure a profit and do not protect against losses in declining markets.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 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.Lower-rated securities are subject to greater credit risk, default risk, and liquidity risk.Treasury Inflation Protected Securities (TIPS) are inflation linked securities issued by the US Government whose principal value is adjusted periodically in accordance with the rise and fall in the inflation rate. Thus, the dividend amount payable is also impacted by variations in the inflation rate, as it is based upon the principal value of the bond. It may fluctuate up or down. Repayment at maturity is guaranteed by the US Government and may be adjusted for inflation to become the greater of theoriginal face amount at issuance or that face amount plus an adjustment for inflation.The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.​Apple, the Apple logo, iPad, iPhone, and Apple Podcasts are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.(0923-3ATN)

Lately the data on the economy and the markets has been all over the place, making it hard for investors to get a good read on where things are headed. Some indexes are way up, while others are only up a few percent. Inflation has come way down but remains sticky—and the Fed is contemplating raising rates again. Consumers are spending a lot of money on travel and services, but retailers are starting to feel the pinch as spending patterns have changed. So how do investors make sense of all the data? Kevin Gordon, senior investment strategist with the Schwab Center for Financial Research, joins Mike Townsend to dig into what’s behind the data, why key data points often need to be revised, and how investors can best interpret the information. They also share insights on the recession-versus-soft-landing debate, whether markets care about government shutdowns, and what to look for from the markets in Q4.Mike also provides updates on Congress careening toward a possible government shutdown later this fall, the confirmation of a trio of Federal Reserve Board nominees, and a recent IRS ruling that provides clarity on two key retirement savings initiatives.WashingtonWise is an original podcast for investors from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit Schwab.com/WashingtonWise.If you enjoy the show, please leave a ★★★★★ rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Important DisclosuresThe policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.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.Indexes are unmanaged, do not incur management fees, costs and expenses, and cannot be invested in directly.​Past performance is no guarantee of future results.​This information provided here is for general informational purposes only, and is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax, legal, or investment planning advice. Where specific advice is necessary or appropriate, you should consult with a qualified tax advisor, CPA, Financial Planner, or Investment Manager.All corporate names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.Diversification and asset allocation strategies do not ensure a profit and cannot protect against losses in a declining market.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.Small cap investments are subject to greater volatility than those in other asset categories.The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.​Apple, the Apple logo, iPad, iPhone, and Apple Podcasts are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.Google Podcasts and the Google Podcasts logo are trademarks of Google LLC.Spotify and the Spotify logo are registered trademarks of Spotify AB.0923-32FL

When it comes to transformational technology, artificial intelligence is expected to rival the internet in its impact. For many investors, there is a fear of missing out—but there are also challenges sorting through all the companies making claims about their AI capabilities. Randy Frederick, managing director for trading and derivatives at the Schwab Center for Financial Research, joins host Mike Townsend to discuss the disruptive nature of AI, where the technology is headed, and what investors need to look for in companies touting their AI credentials. They also look at the risks involved in AI investing and whether lessons learned from the dot-com bubble in the late 1990s can be applied to the AI buzz today.Mike also provides updates on the Fed's latest interest rate hike and the likelihood of one more hike before year end. And he lays out the serious time crunch Congress is facing to pass the 12 appropriations bills that fund every federal agency and program for the next fiscal year before the October 1 government shutdown deadline. He also reports on how the hoped-for bipartisanship on regulating cryptocurrency is fading on Capitol Hill.WashingtonWise is an original podcast for investors from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit Schwab.com/WashingtonWise.If you enjoy the show, please leave a ★★★★★ rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Important DisclosuresThe policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.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.Indexes are unmanaged, do not incur management fees, costs and expenses, and cannot be invested in directly.Past performance is no guarantee of future results.All corporate names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.Digital currencies, such as bitcoin, are highly volatile and not backed by any central bank or government. Digital currencies lack many of the regulations and consumer protections that legal-tender currencies and regulated securities have. Due to the high level of risk, investors should view Bitcoin as a purely speculative instrument.Diversification and asset allocation strategies do not ensure a profit and do not protect against losses in declining markets.Schwab Equity Ratings and the general buy/hold/sell guidance are not personal recommendations for any particular investor or client and do not take into account the financial, investment or other objectives or needs of, and may not be suitable for, any particular investor or client. Investors and clients should consider Schwab Equity Ratings as only a single factor in making their investment decision while taking into account the current market environment.0723-39NP

Artificial Intelligence is quite the buzzword these days. Practically overnight it seems to have grown from something with specific uses that is employed by big companies behind the scenes to a household term impacting everything from our entertainment to our politics. While hundreds of millions of users around the world are enjoying ChatGPT and similar chatbots, serious concerns are being raised about how it can be used to defraud us, take our jobs, or even end humanity. Bashar Abouseido, Schwab’s chief information security officer, joins Mike Townsend to discuss what AI is, how it is currently being used and the emerging real world applications that will enhance productivity, customer service and the quality of information. They also explore some of the concerns for misuse and abuse, the need for government regulations to put some guardrails around this emerging technology and the importance of international cooperation.Mike also discusses three big issues facing Congress right now: the government funding battle that could be on a path to a government shutdown this fall; the fight over environmental, social, and governmental investing (ESG); and the impending confirmation of three nominees to the Federal Reserve Board of Governors.WashingtonWise is an original podcast for investors from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit Schwab.com/WashingtonWise.If you enjoy the show, please leave a ★★★★★ rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Important DisclosuresThe policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.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.All corporate names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.Because environmental, social and governance (ESG) strategies exclude some securities, ESG-focused products may not be able to take advantage of the same opportunities or market trends as products that do not use such strategies. Additionally, the criteria used to select companies for investment may result in investing in securities, industries or sectors that underperform the market as a whole.Digital currencies, such as bitcoin, are highly volatile and not backed by any central bank or government. Digital currencies lack many of the regulations and consumer protections that legal-tender currencies and regulated securities have. Due to the high level of risk, investors should view Bitcoin as a purely speculative instrument.0723-3408

Bonds' role in a portfolio is to provide income and diversification. But in 2022, they had the worst returns in decades and also failed to provide the ballast they typically would when equity markets are down. Now the Fed's rapid rate hikes have changed the equation, and investors are giving bonds another look. Collin Martin, director of fixed income strategy at the Schwab Center for Financial Research, joins Mike Townsend to consider what the Fed may do next after it chose to pause rate hikes and what the implications could be for investors, borrowers, corporations, and the economy in general. They also discuss how to choose bonds that may be right for you—and which ones to avoid.Mike offers insight on the hurdles and deadlines Congress faces in order to pass the 12 appropriation bills to keep the government open and operating. He shares an update on the nominees to fill open positions at the Fed and looks at the bipartisan efforts in Congress to toughen banking regulations, including legislation to increase penalties on executives at failed banks.WashingtonWise is an original podcast for investors from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit Schwab.com/WashingtonWise.If you enjoy the show, please leave a ★★★★★ rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Important DisclosuresThe policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.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.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.An investment in a money market fund is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. Although a money market fund seeks to preserve the value of your investment at $1.00 per share, it is possible to lose money by investing in a money market fund.Indexes are unmanaged, do not incur management fees, costs and expenses and cannot be invested in directly. For more information on indexes please see www.schwab.com/indexdefinitions. Past performance is no guarantee of future results and the opinions presented cannot be viewed as an indicator of future performance.Investing involves risks, including loss of principal.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 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.(0623-3SXW)

Investors are growing increasingly concerned as Washington policy battles are stirring up the markets. In this episode, host Mike Townsend responds to some of the key questions that investors are asking. He takes a deep dive into the latest on the debt ceiling drama, including the uncertainty around the timing of a potential default, the contours of a possible deal, and whether there are alternatives that could be used to avoid default if negotiations on Capitol Hill collapse. He also looks at whether a default would accelerate a move away from the dollar as the world's reserve currency. And he provides perspective on other key debates in Washington and how they could affect the markets, including new policies in the wake of three large bank failures, the Fed's exploration of a central bank digital currency, and whether efforts by policymakers to discourage stock buybacks are working.WashingtonWise is an original podcast for investors from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit Schwab.com/WashingtonWise.If you enjoy the show, please leave a ★★★★★ rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Important DisclosuresThe policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.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.Past performance is no guarantee of future results and the opinions presented cannot be viewed as an indicator of future performance.Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.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.Currencies are speculative, very volatile and are not suitable for all investors.Diversification strategies do not ensure a profit and do not protect against losses in declining markets.All corporate names are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security.Apple Podcasts and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.0523-35VB

After the recent disappointing inflation report, the Federal Reserve raised interest rates by 75 basis points—the largest Fed increase in 28 years. Kathy Jones, Schwab’s chief fixed income strategist, joins Mike Townsend to discuss the implications for the economy and the markets of the Fed’s aggressive move. They also consider whether corporate bonds are a good option in this environment and how the bond market is acting as a signal that a recession may be with us soon.Mike also provides updates on two bills―one dealing with retirement savings and the other focused on cryptocurrency regulation―that have begun moving through the Senate. And he highlights the potential implications for individual investors of a recent speech by the SEC chair about his plans for a major overhaul to how the stock market operates.WashingtonWise is an original podcast for investors from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit Schwab.com/WashingtonWise.If you enjoy the show, please leave a ★★★★★ rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Important DisclosuresThe policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.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. Past performance is no guarantee of future results and the opinions presented cannot be viewed as an indicator of future performance.olves risk, including loss of principal. Indexes are unmanaged, do not incur management fees, costs and expenses and cannot be invested in directly. For more information on indexes please see www.schwab.com/indexdefinitions. Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.Digital currencies, such as bitcoin, are highly volatile and not backed by any central bank or government. Digital currencies lack many of the regulations and consumer protections that legal‐tender currencies and regulated securities have. Due to the high level of risk, investors should view Bitcoin as a purely speculative instrument.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.Money Market Funds-An investment in the Fund is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. Although the Fund seeks to preserve the value of your investment at $1.00 per share, it is possible to lose money by investing in the Fund.International investments involve additional risks, which include differences in financial accounting standards, currency fluctuations, geopolitical risk, foreign taxes and regulations, and the potential for illiquid markets. Investing in emerging markets may accentuate these risks.Commodity‐related products, including futures, carry a high level of risk and are not suitable for all investors. Commodity‐related products may be extremely volatile, illiquid and can be significantly affected by underlying commodity prices, world events, import controls, worldwide competition, government regulations, and economic conditions, regardless of the length of time shares are held. Schwab does not recommend the use of technical analysis as a sole means of investment research.All names shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security.Correlation is a statistical measure of how two investments have historically moved in relation to each other, and ranges from -1 to +1. A correlation of 1 indicates a perfect positive correlation, while a correlation of -1 indicates a perfect negative correlation. A correlation of zero means the assets are not correlated.0622-2AJV

Not all countries have been hit by the financial downturn currently gripping the U.S. and China. Jeff Kleintop, Schwab’s chief global investment strategist, joins Mike to discuss why many international stock markets are outperforming the U.S. markets and whether that trend is sustainable. They also look at the impact on the bottom line of companies that pulled out of Russia, China’s economic difficulties and what they might mean for U.S. consumers, the outlook for improvements to supply chain disruptions, and how concerned investors should be about the rise in the U.S. trade deficit.Mike also shares updates on additional U.S. aid for Ukraine, the confirmations of Fed nominees, growing concern in Washington about the lack of a regulatory framework for cryptocurrency, and a slowdown in the pace of rules rolling out at the SEC.WashingtonWise is an original podcast for investors from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit Schwab.com/WashingtonWise.If you enjoy the show, please leave a ★★★★★ rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Important DisclosuresThe policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.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. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.Past performance is no guarantee of future results and the opinions presented cannot be viewed as an indicator of future performance.Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Indexes are unmanaged, do not incur management fees, costs and expenses and cannot be invested in directly. For more information on indexes please see www.schwab.com/indexdefinitions. Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.International investments involve additional risks, which include differences in financial accounting standards, currency fluctuations, geopolitical risk, foreign taxes and regulations, and the potential for illiquid markets. Investing in emerging markets may accentuate these risks.Digital currencies, such as bitcoin, are highly volatile and not backed by any central bank or government. Digital currencies lack many of the regulations and consumer protections that legal‐tender currencies and regulated securities have. Due to the high level of risk, investors should view Bitcoin as a purely speculative instrument. Please read NFA Investor Advisory – Futures on Virtual Currencies Including Bitcoin and CFTC Customer Advisory: Understand the Risk of Virtual Currency Trading. Currencies are speculative, very volatile and are not suitable for all investors.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.Commodity‐related products carry a high level of risk and are not suitable for all investors. Commodity‐related products may be extremely volatile, illiquid and can be significantly affected by underlying commodity prices, world events, import controls, worldwide competition, government regulations, and economic conditions.All corporate names are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security.Diversification and asset allocation strategies do not ensure a profit and do not protect against losses in declining markets.Correlation is a statistical measure of how two investments have historically moved in relation to each other, and ranges from -1 to +1. A correlation of 1 indicates a perfect positive correlation, while a correlation of -1 indicates a perfect negative correlation. A correlation of zero means the assets are not correlated.0522-2LAE

In this episode of WashingtonWise Investor, Mike Townsend is joined by Marianne Hayes, senior strategist in Schwab’s Wealth Strategy group, to discuss the impact of the coronavirus on small businesses and the 120 million people they employ. Mike and Marianne dive into the government’s efforts to support small businesses during the closures and consider how well they are working, as well as what the small-business segment of the economy may look like in the future.Mike also covers the next round of stimulus—the CARES Act 2—that is being debated in Congress. And he addresses 2020 Election challenges in the era of stay-at-home orders.WashingtonWise Investor is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit Schwab.com/WashingtonWise.If you enjoy the show, please leave a ★★★★★ rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Important DisclosuresThe policy analysis provided by Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.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. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.Past performance is no guarantee of future results and the opinions presented cannot be viewed as an indicator of future performance.Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.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.(0420-0456)

In this episode of WashingtonWise Investor, Annie Liu, Schwab regional branch executive in Bellevue, Washington, joins Mike Townsend to address some of the most pressing concerns that clients have—including buying bonds when yields are so low, tilting your portfolio to be more defensive, and taking advantage of special provisions in the CARES Act.Mike also shares his insights on what’s likely coming in the next stimulus bills for individuals and small businesses, as well as the continued disruption of the primary process.      WashingtonWise Investor is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit Schwab.com/WashingtonWise.If you enjoy the show, please leave a ★★★★★ rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Important DisclosuresThe policy analysis provided by Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.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. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.Past performance is no guarantee of future results and the opinions presented cannot be viewed as an indicator of future performance.Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.Indexes are unmanaged, do not incur management fees, costs and expenses and cannot be invested in directly. For more information on indexes please see www.schwab.com/indexdefinitions.Diversification, asset allocation, and rebalancing a portfolio cannot assure a profit or protect against a loss in any given market environment. Rebalancing may cause investors to incur transaction costs and, when rebalancing a non-retirement account, taxable events may be created that may affect your tax liability.Investing involves risk including loss of principal.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. High-yield bonds and 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 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.Preferred securities generally have lower credit ratings and a lower claim to assets than the issuer's individual bonds. Often have higher yields than the firm's individual bonds due to these risk characteristics. Preferred securities are often callable, meaning the issuing company may redeem the security at a certain price after a certain date. Such call features may affect yield. Like bonds, prices of preferred securities tend to move inversely with interest rates, so they are subject to increased loss of principal during periods of rising interest rates. Investment value will fluctuate, and preferred securities, when sold before maturity, may be worth more or less than original cost. Preferred securities are subject to various other risks including changes in interest rates and credit quality, default risks, market valuations, liquidity, prepayments, early redemption, deferral risk, corporate events, tax ramifications, and other factors.Commodity-related products, including futures, carry a high level of risk and are not suitable for all investors. Commodity-related products may be extremely volatile, illiquid and can be significantly affected by underlying commodity prices, world events, import controls, worldwide competition, government regulations, and economic conditions, regardless of the length of time shares are held.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.(0420-0LD7)