Edward Jones - Mae Luchetti: Financial Advisor

Don't look now, but we have a nice little market rally on our hands. Stocks rose last week, adding to a run that put the S&P 500 up 9% over the last month1.

Inflation and central bank policy were in the driver's seat last week. June's stronger-than-expected rise in consumer prices pushed headline inflation to 9.1%, a 41-year high1.

If there is safety in numbers, then the chorus of headlines citing an imminent recession are coming from Fort Knox.

As we head into the second half of 2022, inflation remains front and center for consumers and policymakers, but financial markets may be looking one step ahead – to a potential economic slowdown or looming recession.

With just a few days away from the end of June, stocks gained some ground last week but remain down nearly 20%, their worst first six months of any year since 19701.

Our $23 trillion dollar economy doesn't turn on a dime, but underlying economic conditions have shifted in historically quick fashion of late, with the narrative taking on a new (less favorable) shape following the most recent inflation report.

This week the biggest market-moving economic data arrived on Friday, with the release of the U.S. consumer price index (CPI) inflation reading for the month of May.

The labor market has been the cylinder of the economic engine that continues to fire, even as the Fed applies the brakes to address ongoing inflation pressures.

After seven consecutive weeks of declines, the longest losing streak since 2001, equity markets logged strong gains last week.

Those who are early in their career may put off thinking about retirement. But learning what sets Roth and traditional IRAs apart now can help ensure you make the right choice between the two as you save for later.