Another volatile week unfolded as rapid developments in the Middle East and public comments from leaders on the conflict see-sawed markets, leaving investors struggling to keep up with updates.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index lost 1.89 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index fell 2.07 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 2.11 percent. The MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, dropped 2.01 percent.^1,2

Under Pressure

Stocks rebounded to start the week while oil prices eased. Investors kept one eye on potential bargains and the other on the Middle East conflict. Reports of a coalition of countries possibly joining to escort tankers out of the Persian Gulf also gave investors something to cheer.³

Stocks continued their rebound as investors cautiously awaited more developments in the conflict. Markets largely looked past attacks on tanker ships in and around the Strait of Hormuz, through which one out of every five barrels of the world’s oil exports pass.⁴

An unexpectedly warm wholesale inflation reading and the Fed’s decision to hold interest rates steady contributed to pressure on stock prices.

Stocks continued their slide on Thursday, albeit at a slower pace, as optimism that the Strait of Hormuz would reopen soon began to wane. However, markets managed to curb losses in a late-day relief rally.^5,6

Stocks opened lower on the final trading day of the week but stabilized midday. However, after Iran declared force majeure on all foreign-owned oilfields later in the session, stocks came under pressure again as the week closed out.⁷

Fed’s Dot Plot

The Federal Reserve held the Fed funds rate steady at the current 3.5 to 3.75 percent target range. In his press conference, Fed Chair Powell said inflation wasn’t declining as much as policymakers had hoped or projected. The Fed’s “dot plot” (voting members’ medium- to long-term projections on GDP, inflation, and employment) suggests that an adjustment to rates before year-end may still be on the table.⁸

This Week: Key Economic Data

Monday: Construction Spending* (Jan).

Tuesday: Productivity* (Q4, revised). PMI—Services. PMI—Manufacturing.

Wednesday: Import Prices.

Thursday: Weekly Jobless Claims.

Friday: Consumer Sentiment (final).

^{* indicates federal data release delayed by the government shutdown} 

^{Source: Investors Business Daily - Econoday economic calendar; March 20, 2026. The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to provide accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts are also subject to revision.}

This Week: Companies Reporting Earnings

Wednesday: Cintas Corporation (CTAS).

Friday: Carnival Corporation (CCL)

^{Source: Zacks, March 20, 2026. Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your goals, time horizon, and risk tolerance. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule their earnings reports without notice.}

"Only with a burning patience can we conquer the splendid city which will give light, justice and dignity to all mankind."

– Pablo Neruda

Errors to Avoid When Filing Your Extended Tax Return 

If you file an extension of your tax return, it’s essential to avoid the common errors described below to submit a complete and accurate tax return: 

• Missing or inaccurate Social Security number (SSN): Make sure your return has your correct SSN, matching what is on your Social Security card.
• Misspelled names: This may be a simple matter to look for, but mistakes happen. If you use a name other than the one on your Social Security card, make sure you use the name on the card.
• Filing status: Claiming the wrong filing status can invalidate your return. Choose the correct option (electronic filing software can prevent mistakes). The interactive tax assistant tool can also help to determine your filing status and any relevant credits you should (or should not) claim.
• Math errors: Simple addition and subtraction mistakes can delay your return. Consider using electronic filing software that does the math automatically to avoid mistakes.
• Incorrect bank account information: If you opt to receive your refund via direct deposit, provide the correct bank account information. Giving an incorrect account number can delay your refund even further.
• Unsigned forms: Lastly, you should double-check that all sections of your forms are signed. Missing signatures can delay your return.

This information is not a substitute for individualized tax advice. Please discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS.gov⁹

Yoga for Stability

You don’t have to pull out the yoga mat or put on your designer leggings to enjoy this practice's many benefits. Even if you’ve never done yoga before, these poses may help you improve your balance and stability:

• Knee to Chest - Start by standing with your feet hip-width apart and your hands on your hips, in mountain pose. Now, lift your left knee to hip height so that your upper leg (thigh) is parallel to the floor. Flex your left foot and hold this pose for three deep breaths. Repeat on the other side.
• Tree Pose - Start with the same mountain pose as the first movement. Now, shift your weight into your left foot, and allow your right knee to turn out to the side as you bring your right foot in to rest at your left ankle, shin, or thigh, depending on what’s comfortable. Make sure you’re not putting your foot on the joint itself.
• Dancer Pose - Start in mountain pose. Bend your right knee and slowly lift your right foot off the ground. As you do that, lift your left arm to balance yourself. Hold for three breaths and repeat on the other side. 

Tip adapted from SilverSneakers.com¹⁰

What comes at the end of a rainbow? 

Last Week's Riddle: As I age, my height changes, but not my importance. Your hand guides me, and I help articulate what you want to say. When we part, I am not important or useful to you. What am I?

Answer: A pencil.

Wonder Lake

Near Denali Mountain, Alaska

Stocks logged a third-straight down week as investors digested the latest news out of the Middle East, navigated more volatility, and mulled the latest economic data.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index declined 1.60 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index lost 1.26 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 1.99 percent. The MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, slid 2.28 percent.^1,2

Middle East

Markets got a volatile start to the week, with stocks falling and oil prices rising as commercial maritime traffic heading out of the Persian Gulf through the Strait of Hormuz remained at a virtual standstill. But stocks rebounded late in the day after the White House said the conflict may end sooner than expected.³

Stocks dropped at Tuesday’s opening bell, but mostly recovered after word spread that a group of countries, including the U.S., were considering a coordinated release of strategic oil reserves to counter supply disruptions. Markets generally went sideways midweek as news that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) held steady last month buoyed spirits.^4,5

As the week progressed, all three major averages fell, and oil prices hit all-time closing highs. Investors grew increasingly concerned over the impact of oil supply disruptions on the broader global economy, with the Strait of Hormuz remaining a concern. Bond yields rose as investors believed a prolonged conflict would keep oil prices high, increasing the chance of higher inflation.⁶

Market sentiment continued to struggle as the week wrapped up, but declines slowed despite a downward revision to Q4 gross domestic product (GDP) growth.⁷

Stubborn Inflation

With all the updates on the Middle East conflict, it was easy to miss other news last week.

Wednesday’s report that the CPI remained unchanged in February over the prior 12 months was good news. But it was the last bit of inflation data before the conflict in the Middle East began. Friday’s Personal Consumption & Expenditures Index, the Fed’s preferred inflation measure, showed that consumer prices remained sticky in January. Investors largely took this report in stride because delayed reports tend to lose their impact with time.^8,9

This Week: Key Economic Data

Monday: Industrial Production. Capacity Utilization.

Tuesday: Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) Meeting—Day 1. Pending Home Sales. Homebuilder Confidence.

Wednesday: FOMC Meeting—Day 2. Producer Price Index (PPI). Factory Orders* (Jan.). FOMC Interest Rate Decision. Fed Chair Press Conference.

Thursday: Weekly Jobless Claims. Wholesale Inventories* (Jan.) New Home Sales* (Jan.).

Friday: Employment Cost Index (Q4).

^{*Indicates federal data release delayed by the government shutdown} 

^{Source: Investors Business Daily - Econoday economic calendar: March 13, 2026. The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to provide accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts are also subject to revision.}

This Week: Companies Reporting Earnings

Wednesday: Micron Technology, Inc. (MU).

Thursday: FedEx Corporation (FDX).

^{Source: Zacks, March 13, 2026. Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your goals, time horizon, and risk tolerance. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule their earnings reports without notice.}

"There is no better compass than compassion."

 - Amanda Gorman

Couples Who Work Together, Tax Together

When a household starts a business, couples learn about the tax responsibilities associated with it. There are some things to consider when working together.

Here are a few items to consider: 

• You should first establish whether you have a partnership business (where both spouses have an equal say in the affairs, services, and capital of the business) or an employee/employer relationship (where one spouse substantially controls management decisions); these relationships have different tax situations.
• If there is an employer-employee relationship, the second spouse (the employee) may be subject to income, Social Security, and Medicare taxes.
• You may need to file the U.S. Return of Partnership Income form if there is a partnership relationship.

This information is not a substitute for individualized tax advice. Please discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS.gov¹⁰

Easy Food Swaps Anyone Can Do

Eating healthier doesn’t have to be hard! You might not have to make any significant changes to your current diet! You can cut the bad stuff by swapping unhealthy options for healthier picks and still enjoy your meal. Here are some of our favorite food swaps:

• Mustard instead of mayonnaise (0 calories vs. 90 calories)
• Scrambled eggs with green onions instead of cheese (170 calories vs. 275 calories)
• Sparkling water instead of soda (0 calories vs. 140 calories)
• Fresh fruit instead of dried fruit (69 calories vs. 325 calories)
• Greek yogurt instead of sour cream (28 calories vs. 60 calories)
• Olive oil spray instead of a tablespoon of olive oil (5 calories vs. 120 calories)
• Corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas (100 calories vs. 280 calories)
• All-bran cereal instead of granola (80 calories vs. 200 calories)
• Goat cheese instead of Brie cheese (70 calories vs. 100 calories)

Many healthy swaps, like these, can help you reduce your caloric intake, consume less sugar, and easily create a more balanced meal. 

Tip adapted from EatThis.com¹¹

As I age, my height changes, but not my importance. Your hand guides me, and I help articulate what you want to say. When we part, I am not important or useful to you. What am I?

Last Week's Riddle: It can be measured despite lacking length, width, or height. What is it?

Answer: Temperature.

Sakriskoy Island, Lofoten Islands, Moskenes municipality, Norway

Stocks fell last week as investors assessed the implications of a fresh Middle East conflict while digesting mixed reports on the jobs market.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 2.02 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index slid 1.24 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 3.05 percent. The MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, lost 6.62 percent.^1,2

Middle East Conflict

Stocks opened lower on the first trading day as investors reacted to news of military action in the Middle East. However, the decline was short-lived as investors “bought the dip.” All three major averages recovered or nearly recovered from their intraday lows by Monday’s close.³

Stocks opened lower again on Tuesday as the markets mulled over the possibility of a protracted conflict. However, afternoon comments from the White House—promising to provide risk insurance and U.S. Navy escorts to oil tankers and other maritime trade vessels in the Persian Gulf—seemed to calm investor nerves enough for stocks to partially recover before the close.⁴

Stocks opened higher at the opening bell on Wednesday, driven by a tech rebound and stabilized oil prices. News of stronger-than-expected private employer hiring from ADP boosted sentiment. By the closing bell, the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq were in the green for the week to date.⁵

But markets were under pressure the rest of the week on concerns over a widening conflict. Stocks opened lower on Friday after the latest jobs report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics showed the economy unexpectedly lost 92,000 jobs last month. Meanwhile, news that some oil fields in the Middle East had begun to cut production amid dwindling storage capacity added new complexity to the ongoing conflict.^6,7

Focus On Oil

U.S. crude oil prices rose 36 percent—the biggest weekly gain since 1983. The conflict has brought tanker traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route for energy supplies, to a near standstill. Also, an ongoing concern is how insurance companies will adjust rates in the coming weeks due to heightened risks.⁸

This Week: Key Economic Data

Tuesday: NFIB Small Business Optimism Index. Existing Home Sales.

Wednesday: Consumer Price Index (CPI). Federal Budget.

Thursday: Weekly Jobless Claims. Trade Deficit. Housing Starts. Building Permits.

Friday: Gross Domestic Product (Q4—first revision). Personal Consumption & Expenditures Index* (Jan). Durable Goods* (Jan). Job Openings* (Jan). Consumer Sentiment.

^{*Indicates federal data release delayed by the government shutdown in October and November of last year}

^{Source: Investors Business Daily - Econoday economic calendar: March 6, 2026.
The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to provide accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts are also subject to revision.}

This Week: Companies Reporting Earnings

Tuesday: Oracle Corporation (ORCL)

Thursday: Adobe Inc. (ADBE), Wheaton Precious Metals Corp. (WPM)

^{Source: Zacks, March 6, 2026. Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your goals, time horizon, and risk tolerance. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule their earnings reports without notice.}

"Kindness eases change. Love quiets fear."

 - Octavia E. Butler

3 Facts About Capital Gains

When you sell a capital asset, like an investment or a piece of property, the sale can result in a capital gain or loss. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) defines a capital asset as “almost anything you own for personal use or own as an investment.” Here are three facts you should keep in mind:
1. A capital gain or loss is the difference between what you originally paid for the asset (your basis) and the amount you get when you sell the asset.
2. The IRS may allow you to deduct capital losses on selling an investment or property. 
3. If your total net capital loss is more than the limit you can deduct, you may be able to carry it over to next year’s tax return.
This information is not a substitute for individualized tax advice. Please discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS.gov⁹

Finding Inner Peace Inside (And Indoors)

Practiced for thousands of years, yoga has been revived in the last couple of decades. Yoga can be an optimal exercise choice for many individuals of all ages. But before starting any fitness regimen, discuss any medical concerns with your healthcare provider; this information is not a substitute for medical advice.

While there are many different styles of yoga, it is generally a low-impact form of exercise. But in addition to the fitness benefits, it can help you learn relaxation and breathing techniques, regulate emotions, and quiet your mind. It’s also a great form of indoor exercise, and there are thousands of free classes online. So, if you’re looking for a way to promote both physical and mental health, you can practice quieting your inner monologue and start doing yoga from the comfort of your home.

Tip adapted from Yogabasics.com¹⁰

It can be measured despite lacking length, width, or height. What is it?    

All about but unseen, can be captured but can’t be held, has no throat but can be heard. What is it?     

Answer: The wind.

Great Indian Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis) Kaziranga National Park, Assam, India

Stocks fell last week amid concerns about artificial intelligence (AI) and a warmer-than-expected reading of wholesale inflation.

The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index fell 0.44 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index declined 0.95 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 1.27 percent. The MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, rose 1.22 percent.^1,2

AI Disruption

Markets began the week under pressure as investors’ fears of AI disruption spread to a wide variety of industries. On Monday, a new research report circulated across trading floors, suggesting that AI could influence the broader economy and affect the unemployment rate.³

Stocks bounced back over the next two sessions as investors saw opportunity in an oversold AI trade. The relief rally included software and cybersecurity stocks, as well as AI-related technology shares more broadly. The rally gained momentum, spurred on by a prominent AI chipmaker, as investors eagerly awaited its Q4 corporate report. Investors pushed all three major averages higher over both days.⁴

But markets resumed their decline over the final two trading days of the week. The Dow Industrials fell more than the other two major averages, both on Friday and for the week. The Dow’s weakness was notable given that it still leads the S&P 500 and Nasdaq year to date.⁵

Wholesale Inflation Rises

Friday’s shutdown-delayed Producer Price Index (PPI) report showed that wholesale inflation rose 0.5 percent in January over the prior month. Economists expected prices to rise by 0.3 percent.⁶

PPI measures the costs for businesses, and some fear that if it costs businesses more to make a good or deliver a service, those costs might get passed on to consumers. Investor concerns often rise whenever an inflation report shows prices rising faster than the Fed’s 2 percent target. 

This Week: Key Economic Data

Monday: PMI—Manufacturing. ISM Manufacturing. Auto Sales.

Tuesday: Fed Presidents John Williams (New York) and Neel Kashkari (Minneapolis) speak.

Wednesday: ADP Employment Report. PMI—Services. ISM Services. Fed Beige Book.

Thursday: Weekly Jobless Claims. Q4 Productivity. Import Prices.

Friday: Federal Employment Report. Cleveland Fed President Beth Hammack speaks.

^{Source: Investors Business Daily - Econoday economic calendar; February 27, 2026. The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to provide accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts are also subject to revision.}

This Week: Companies Reporting Earnings

Tuesday: CrowdStrike (CRWD)

Wednesday: Broadcom Inc. (AVGO)

Thursday: Costco Wholesale Corporation (COST), Marvell Technology, Inc. (MRVL)

^{Source: Zacks, February 27, 2026. Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your goals, time horizon, and risk tolerance. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule their earnings reports without notice.}

"I don’t believe in being serious about anything. I think life is too serious to be taken seriously."

– Ray Bradbury

Do You Know the Difference Between Taxable and Nontaxable Income?

All income you receive is taxable unless the rules explicitly state it isn’t. According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), taxable income includes earned income, such as wages, as well as income from providing services or exchanging property or services. Rental income, interest, dividends, and social security benefits are all examples of taxable unearned income.
Some income is only taxable if certain conditions are met. For example, life insurance proceeds are usually not taxable to the beneficiary unless you redeem a life insurance policy for cash. Any amount you receive above the cost of the policy is taxable. State and local income tax refunds may be taxable and should be reported on your federal taxes.
Some forms of income are usually not taxable, like:

• Gifts and inheritances. (State taxes may apply to inheritances.)
• Welfare benefits.
• Damage awards for physical injury or sickness.
• Cash rebates from a dealer or manufacturer for an item you buy.
• Reimbursements for qualified adoption expenses.

Several factors will affect the cost and availability of life insurance, including age, health, and the type and amount of insurance purchased. Life insurance policies have expenses, including mortality and other charges. If a policy is surrendered prematurely, the policyholder may also incur surrender charges and face income tax implications. You should consider whether you are insurable before implementing a life insurance strategy. Any guarantees associated with a policy depend on the issuing insurance company's ability to continue making claim payments. 

This information is not a substitute for individualized tax advice. Please discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.

Tip adapted from IRS.gov⁷

A Beginner's Guide to Juicing

Juicing is a fantastic way to get some extra fruits and veggies into your diet, especially on those busy days when you can’t find time to make a nutritious meal. Plus, it’s easy to start and reap the many benefits.

First, decide what kind of juicer you want. The two most common types are masticating and centrifugal juicers. Masticating juicers “chew” the food and are slower than centrifugal juicers. Preparing the produce for these juicers takes longer because they can juice only small pieces, but you retain more nutrients. Centrifugal juicers are slightly more affordable and use a spinning disk to extract juice. You do less produce prep, but the juice has fewer nutrients.

Next, you need to decide what to juice. You’ll learn which fruits and veggies yield the most juice and which choices combine well with others, but here are two simple recipes to get you started:

Green Juice
Celery
Cucumber
Apple/pineapple/orange/lemon
Spinach/kale

Purple Juice
Beets (you can juice the green tops as well)
Kale
Carrots 
You can add ginger, turmeric, or even garlic to give your juice extra flavor and kick.

Tip adapted from Live Simply Natural⁸

All about but unseen, can be captured but can’t be held, has no throat but can be heard. What is it? 

Last Week's Riddle: Brothers and sisters, I have none, but this man's father is my father's son. Who am I talking about?     

Answer: My son.

Bratan Lake

Bali, Indonesia