Our team looks at a lot of research throughout the day. Here are a handful of charts we think are good summaries of investor activity, from an economy that’s keeping consumers spending, to the earnings and buildout behind it, a Fed conversation around possible hikes, and a reminder about timeframes and expectations. Have a great long weekend!

 

Brett: There is a wide variance of opinion on how fast this economy is actually growing

Graphic as of 09.03.2026

 

Beckham: and the consumer keeps voting with their wallet either way

Graphic as of 09.01.2026

 

John Luke: with hiring settling into a stable range of expansion

 

Brad: Analysts keep revising up instead of down, which is not how a typical year goes

Graphic as of 08.31.2026

 

Jake: though who actually keeps the cash depends on which end of the buildout you sit on

Graphic as of 09.01.2026

 

Brian: The source of spending driving the expansion is pretty clear

Source: Bespoke as of 09.02.2026

 

Ten: and it’s not just offices that aren’t getting built

Graphic as of 09.02.2026

 

John Luke: The next meeting is a real toss-up

Graphic as of 08.31.2026

 

John: and there is little agreement about the path beyond that

Graphic as of 09.04.2026

 

Brad: and the bond market won’t rally even when growth data disappoints

 

Mark: Corporate pensions are the quiet winners of higher stocks and higher rates

Graphic via The Wall Street Journal as of 09.03.2026

 

Dave: though the Treasury sits on the other side of that trade

Graphic as of 08.31.2026

 

Beckham: September’s reputation is well earned, but a tendency is not a rule

Graphic as of 09.01.2026

 

Joseph: any month pales in comparison to the longer-term opportunity of owning stocks

Graphic as of 09.02.2026

 

JD: and the real magic happens in compounding returns over longer period

Graphic via A Wealth of Common Sense as of 09.02.2026

 

 

Disclosures

Past performance is not indicative of future results. This material is not financial advice or an offer to sell any product. The information contained herein should not be considered a recommendation to purchase or sell any particular security. Forward-looking statements cannot be guaranteed. 

Projections or other forward-looking statements regarding future financial performance of markets are only predictions and actual events or results may differ materially. 

This commentary offers generalized research, not personalized investment advice. It is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a complete description of our investment services or performance. Nothing in this commentary should be interpreted to state or imply that past results are an indication of future investment returns. All investments involve risk and unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to consult with an investment & tax professional before implementing any investment strategy. Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible. 

Advisory services are offered through Aptus Capital Advisors, LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. More information about the advisor, its investment strategies and objectives, is included in the firm’s Form ADV Part 2, which can be obtained, at no charge, by calling (251) 517-7198. Aptus Capital Advisors, LLC is headquartered in Fairhope, Alabama. ACA-2609-12.