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2nd Quarter Commentary Video - Stick with the Fundamentals-Resiliency Will Follow 

Financial Commentary
July 13, 2026

By Dustin Saia
Securities Analyst

 

The second quarter of 2026 represented a significant turnaround for financial markets following a volatile start to the year. Early in the quarter, escalating geopolitical tensions added to concerns over elevated interest rates and persistent inflation. As these fears eased, investor focus returned to fundamentals, and markets responded with a broad-based rally. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq-100 posted their strongest quarterly gains since the second quarter of 2020. Diversification continued to benefit portfolios, as gains extended beyond large-cap U.S. stocks to small-cap and international equities, while fixed income provided positive returns, attractive income, and portfolio stability.

In this quarter's commentary, we discuss the fundamentals supporting market resilience, evolving expectations for interest rates under new Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh, and the importance of diversification, high-quality investments, and disciplined risk management as market leadership broadens and volatility persists.

If you have any questions, please reach out to an advisor. Your financial success matters to us.

 

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About the Author

Dustin Saia

Dustin Saia is a Securities Analyst within the Security National Wealth Management division. He has a bachelor of arts degree in Economics with a concentration in Statistics from Grinnell College.

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