
Weekly Market Commentary | What’s Holding Up Record S&P 500 Margins? | September 21, 2026
LPL Research analyzes S&P 500 margin expansion, assessing how much is structural versus cyclical and what that means for future earnings forecasts.

LPL Research analyzes S&P 500 margin expansion, assessing how much is structural versus cyclical and what that means for future earnings forecasts.

Printer Friendly Version A hot CPI print. Friday’s slightly hot Consumer Price Index (CPI) report lifted the bond market’s odds of a rate hike from the Federal Reserve (Fed) this week to near 90%. Markets take it in stride. The positive reactions from stocks and bonds were interesting, suggesting that perhaps market participants have been…

August delivered the loudest bond market narrative in years, and almost none of it survived contact with the price action. Total public debt crossed $40 trillion on August 18. The 30-year U.S. Treasury yield reached 5.33% intraweek, a level last seen in 2007.

LPL Research explores why value stocks are outperforming, how free cash flow drives returns, and the impact of AI spending on markets.

With second quarter earnings growth for the S&P 500 on track to exceed 30% (excluding private investment mark-ups) and analysts continuing to raise estimates, it’s safe to say this season strengthened the fundamental case for equities.

Printer Friendly Version Talking Points Global growth is stabilizing, but leadership has shifted back to developed markets. The U.S. and parts of Europe are driving the latest improvement in business activity, while several large emerging markets have lost momentum after a strong start to the year. BRICS economies are mixed as India outpaces the others.…

LPL Research outlines how a Fed on hold, strong reinvestment demand, and elevated yields create compelling opportunities in municipal bonds.

LPL Research highlights strong corporate earnings, AI-driven growth, and a favorable equity outlook while monitoring inflation, oil prices, and risks.

LPL Research explores whether hyperscalers can generate attractive returns on massive AI investments through a framework focused on ROIC, growth, and capex.

LPL Research analyzes China’s declining crude imports, inflation risks, and the resilient U.S. economy driving above-trend growth.