The Know

Investing insights by J.P. Morgan Wealth Management

Economic outlook

 

Are Americans too pessimistic? Comparing consumer sentiment to the real US economy in 2026

Despite Americans saying they feel negatively about the economy, equities remain at near all-time highs and consumer spending is ticking up. What’s driving the disconnect?

Editors' picks

Investing
Should you add gold to your portfolio when there is market volatility?

Gold can be seen as a safe-haven investment that may act as a hedge against market volatility, geopolitical uncertainty and inflation. Here’s what to consider before investing.
By Seth Carlson|6 min

Investing
Mutual fund fees 101: Expense ratios, sales loads, 12b-1 fees and returns

Mutual fund fees come in several forms, including ongoing operating expenses, sales charges and account-level fees. Learn how expense ratios, sales loads and 12b-1 fees can all affect long-term investment returns.
By Seth Carlson|7 min

Markets
The world changed in 10 days: An oil unwind and a hawkish Fed

Top Market Takeaways
Falling oil prices and a shift in Federal Reserve tone are easing inflation pressures and prompting a reassessment of the outlook for rates and risk assets.
By Kriti Gupta

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Investment strategy

Markets
How interest rates can impact lending strategies

Interest rates can shape savings, investments and borrowing costs, impacting everything from mortgages to short-term loans and overall financial strategy. Learn more here.
By David Winters|6 min

Investing
The types of mutual funds: A guide

Mutual funds are popular investment vehicles. If considering, review the objectives, underlying investments, performance and fees. Understanding the options helps you decide what’s right for you.
By Seth Carlson|6 min

Investing
Money market funds vs. money market accounts: What’s the difference?

Money market funds and money market accounts are similarly named products, but they are very different investment vehicles. Explore how they differ in terms of returns, risks and liquidity so you can decide which one best fits your financial plan.
By Seth Carlson|8 min

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Investment essentials

Investing
How many brokerage accounts can you have?

Brokerage accounts allow you to buy investments like stocks and mutual funds. But can you have multiple brokerage accounts?
By Seth Carlson|5 min

Investing
The History of the Nasdaq

Learn how the Nasdaq was founded, how it came to be known as the exchange of choice for technology stocks and how it continues to  influence global markets.
By Seth Carlson|4 min

Investing
Are brokerage accounts FDIC insured?

Brokerage accounts aren’t FDIC insured, but SIPC offers protection if your brokerage firm fails. Learn how your investments are safeguarded.
By Seth Carlson|4 min

Planning with purpose

Planning
New 529 plan rules for 2026: Key changes under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act

Top Market Takeaways
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act has expanded the way 529 plans can be utilized, transforming them from traditional college savings plans into more versatile financial planning tools that cover a wide range of educational expenses.
5 min

Markets
What makes the Federal Reserve decide to raise or lower interest rates?

One of the biggest responsibilities of the Federal Reserve is setting monetary policy through the raising and lowering of interest rates. But how does it decide which direction to move? Keep reading.
By Seth Carlson|9 min

Planning
What to do with your year-end bonus in a changing interest rate environment

Even as interest rates change, you can put your year-end bonus to work with a mix of liquidity options that may help you preserve capital and potentially earn income in the short term.
By Angelena Mascilli|8 min
J.P. Morgan Wealth Management

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