Stock market news

Stocks logged another record high, with the S&P 500 rising for the third straight week. European equity markets were mostly lower, while Asian markets were mixed. Signs of inflation pressures led bond yields higher, but investors remained focused on the brighter economic-recovery outlook. The consumer discretionary and health care sectors outperformed, while energy lagged. Oil prices, along with other commodities, were under some pressure today as the U.S. dollar moved higher. 

It was a rather quiet week, allowing the markets to continue to be towed by the economic recovery outlook.  In what has become a common refrain, stocks hit new record highs as the S&P 500 posted a 2% gain for the week¹. While this bull market is still quite young, it's already logged some significant mileage, returning 87% in just over a year¹.  

^{Sources: 1. Morningstar Direct}

The Quarterly Market Outlook offers our perspective on recent activity in the capital markets. The Edward Jones Investment Policy Committee offers its viewpoints on the U.S. economy, stocks, the bond market, international markets and asset classes, as well as a special topic of interest to investors each quarter.

These aren’t short-term predictions. Rather, this is Edward Jones’ perspective on market and economic topics, designed to help you make decisions affecting your long-term financial strategy. As you read through each topic, you'll find specific actions you can discuss with your financial advisor.