Shasha Tax & Retirement Monthly Market Update

U.S. equities experienced mixed performance in February amid ongoing economic resilience, policy uncertainties, and some late-month profit-taking, with major indices showing modest declines or flat closes by month-end. The S&P 500 closed around 6,878.88, the NASDAQ Composite ended near 22,668.21 (a loss of roughly 3.38%), while the Dow Jones Industrial Average finished at approximately 48,977.92. The Federal Reserve held the federal funds rate steady at 3.50%-3.75% following the January meeting, Treasury yields were relatively stable, and the 30-year fixed mortgage rates ended the month near 6.0%-6.1%. Diversified retirement portfolios continue to benefit from long-term positioning in quality equities and fixed income amid balanced growth prospects.

Inflation showed further moderation, with recent CPI trends around 2.4%-2.5% year-over-year. The labor market remained resilient but softer, with non-farm payrolls adding around 130,000 jobs in January (reported in February), unemployment at 4.3%, and average hourly earnings up about 3.7% annually—supporting real wage gains in a balanced environment. Housing activity held steady with improved affordability from lower rates. Precious metals continued strong momentum despite intra-month volatility, with gold around $5,230 per ounce (up significantly YTD) and silver near $92.68 per ounce (reflecting gains amid safe-haven demand). Copper hovered near $5.9-$6.0 per pound, supported by industrial optimism. Bond yields eased slightly overall, reinforcing stability as we enter the spring.

Key Month-End Indicators (as of end of February, 2026):