Fidelity Viewpoints: Market Sense

What do higher interest rates mean for the markets? On this episode of Market Sense, Fidelity leaders break down the latest Fed meeting, persistent inflation, and the health of the consumer. Plus, we'll explore how a higher-rate environment is affecting financial stocks and how powerful trends like AI and private credit are reshaping the industry.

If the headlines feel noisy, visit our Market Insights page for timely perspectives from Fidelity leaders on the latest market developments and guidance on navigating periods of volatility.

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What if some of the most compelling opportunities aren't the stocks making headlines every day? On this episode of Market Sense, Fidelity portfolio manager Ramona Persaud shares how she searches for dividend paying companies with attractive valuations, strong fundamentals and long-term resilience. She explains where she sees potential opportunities beyond today's AI-driven market and highlights the sectors and companies that may be getting overlooked by investors. Plus, we’ll break down all the latest market headlines in 20 minutes.

Interested in researching mutual funds? Choose your criteria and get fund picks from Fidelity and independent experts.

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Elections dominate the headlines, but should they change your investment strategy? On this episode of Market Sense, Fidelity leaders break down the financial policy issues shaping the 2026 midterm election. From taxes and trade to government spending and regulation, they’ll discuss the proposals investors are watching most closely and what they could mean for the economy and markets. Plus, we’ll take a closer look at how the markets have historically performed around midterm elections.

If you're curious about how the upcoming midterm elections might move the crypto markets and why, we've got an excellent webinar available now. Fidelity's Covering Crypto Livestream recently hosted a candid conversation about how pending and existing laws and policies affect the digital assets space. Click here to watch.

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Investing involves risk, including risk of total loss. Crypto as an asset class is highly volatile, can become illiquid at any time, and is for investors with a high risk tolerance. Crypto may also be more susceptible to market manipulation than securities. Crypto is not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or the Securities Investor Protection Corporation. Investors in crypto do not benefit from the same regulatory protections applicable to registered securities. Neither FBS nor NFS offer a direct investment in crypto nor provide trading or custody services for such assets.

It made its name by looking beyond the crowd, and today Fidelity Contrafund® has grown into one of the world's largest actively managed large-cap growth mutual funds.

On this episode of Market Sense, Contrafund co-manager Asher Anolic shares key investment themes shaping today's market and discusses how he helps manage this $170 billion portfolio. Hear how his team searches for innovative companies, evaluates emerging trends, and uncovers opportunities that others may overlook. Plus, get caught up on the latest market headlines, all in just 20 minutes.

If you would like to research or learn more about the fund managed by this week’s Market Sense guest, click here.

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Why have ETFs become one of the most popular investment vehicles among investors today? On this episode of Market Sense, a Fidelity ETF strategist explores how investors are using ETFs to pursue a wide range of financial goals and the key advantages they can offer, including diversification, flexibility, and tax efficiency. We'll also take a closer look at the latest ETF trends and the market forces behind them.

New Investor? Seasoned pro? Either way, Fidelity's research tools can help make it easier to find the right ETFs/ETPs for your portfolio. Get Started.

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What signals are the bond markets sending? Some investors have been on edge as long-term bond yields around the world climb to levels not seen in decades. At the same time, the markets are awaiting the Federal Reserve's September interest rate decision, which is adding another layer of uncertainty. On this episode of Market Sense, Fidelity portfolio manager Julian Potenza, co-manager of the Fidelity Total Bond Fund, shares his unique perspective on the current environment that may surprise you, and discusses where investors may find opportunities in the months ahead.

Want to research rates? Head here to look up CUSIP numbers, bonds yields, and CDs.

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Everyone knows the AI story, but fewer people are talking about what's standing in its way. On this episode of Market Sense, we explore the less talked about side of the AI boom: the bottlenecks that are shaping the next phase of growth. A Fidelity portfolio manager discusses where demand is outpacing supply across the AI ecosystem, why those pressure points matter, and how they can create potential investment opportunities. We'll also examine how quickly these bottlenecks can shift and what that could mean as the AI buildout continues.

If you would like to research or learn more about the fund managed by this week’s Market Sense guest, click here.

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A surprisingly strong Q2 earnings season is helping to drive the market to new highs, with leadership once again expanding beyond the biggest tech names. On this episode of Market Sense, our Fidelity leaders will explore how the AI story is evolving and why a broader group of sectors like financials, health care, and industrials are benefitting from the new technology. They'll also examine how uncertainty surrounding interest rates, inflation and energy prices could impact the markets in the months ahead.

Your questions answered. Our Fidelity leaders tackle the most common questions from viewers about investing themes, the economy, and the markets.

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Biotech stocks have been quietly outperforming technology companies for over a year now, and some investors believe the rally is just getting started! On this episode of Market Sense, a Fidelity portfolio manager joins us to discuss the innovation driving this industry, including advances in obesity drugs, cancer treatments, and other cutting-edge therapies. We'll also examine the impact of AI in the biotech space, and the growing wave of mergers and acquisitions that have created new opportunities across the industry.

If you would like to research or learn more about the fund managed by this week’s Market Sense guest, click here

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Market volatility is unavoidable in retirement. The goal isn't to change your lifestyle or take from your portfolio downturns; it's to build a retirement income and investment strategy that allows you to stay invested through the ups and downs. On this episode of Market Sense, we explore ways to cover essential expenses, how to help keep your money growing, and strategies for managing RMDs. Plus, get the latest market news and insights, all in just 20 minutes.

Whether you're about to retire or already enjoying retirement, explore investment strategies that can help make your savings last by managing inflation, covering expenses and potentially grow your wealth.

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