Market Navigator—Week of August 31, 2026

Presented by Scott Walton

 

Large-cap stock indices, led by the technology and communication services sectors, were marginally higher. Small-cap stocks and the health care and energy sectors underperformed. Bond markets were modestly higher as yields on long-term Treasuries declined.

 

Quick Hits

1. Beyond the headlines: Federal Reserve (Fed) chair calms markets, but inflation remains the focus.

2. Report releases: Manufacturing strength and consumer concerns about the future were key takeaways.

3. Financial market data: Large-cap stocks advanced, led by growth-oriented sectors, while small-cap stocks underperformed.

4. Looking ahead: Economists and investors will closely watch Friday’s employment report.

Keep reading for an in-depth look.