Latest news with #STAX
Business Wire
6 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
Schwab Trading Activity Index™: Cautious Optimism in July as STAX Score Edges Upward
WESTLAKE, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Schwab Trading Activity Index™ (STAX) increased to 41.79 in July, up from its score of 40.66 in June. The only index of its kind, the STAX is a proprietary, behavior-based index that analyzes retail investor stock positions and trading activity from Schwab's millions of client accounts to illuminate what investors were actually doing and how they were positioned in the markets each month. The reading for the four-week period ending July 25, 2025, ranks 'low' compared to historic averages. 'What the July STAX shows us is that while Schwab's retail clients are bullish, that optimism is measured,' said Joe Mazzola, Head Trading and Derivatives Strategist at Charles Schwab. 'The S&P 500 may have hit new all-time highs in July, but when we consider the ways Schwab's retail clients are engaging with the markets, we're not seeing the kinds of risk-on strategies that would indicate a lot of confidence in the rally's longevity.' Stock market volatility fell to five-month lows in July, easing as geopolitical worries receded and the U.S. budget debate got settled relatively easily. Tariff concerns remain in the market, but a deal with Japan in late July with 15% tariffs on its products appeared to calm worries. The Cboe Volatility Index® (VIX) fell beneath 15 by late July, well below its historic 20 average. Economic data generally held up decently during the STAX period, with June seeing 147,000 U.S. jobs created and unemployment dropping to 4.1%, both improvements from May. Retail sales in June grew a healthy 0.6% from May, and preliminary July University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment rose to 61.8, its highest level in five months. Inflation reports in July brought new concerns that tariffs might be factoring into price growth, though monthly gains weren't extraordinary. The June Consumer Price Index (CPI) saw headline CPI up 0.2% and core – which excludes food and energy – up 0.3% from May. And on an annual basis, the CPI rose 2.7%, up from 2.4% in May. Even as services prices saw slower increases, prices of goods ticked higher, to some a sign that tariffs were beginning to take their toll. Prices for toys, clothing, and furnishings rose. Second quarter earnings season got off to a mostly solid start in July, with around 83% of companies exceeding Wall Street analysts' expectations. The estimate for blended second quarter profit growth, which includes companies reporting and projections of companies yet to report, rose while actual earnings from companies reporting the first few weeks of earnings season climbed more than 8%. The rally in July broadened through the month, with nearly 75% of S&P 500 stocks trading above their respective 50-day moving averages by the end of the STAX period. Volatility continued to depress, pushing the VIX to the low 15's, as the S&P 500 failed to record a 1% move for the fourth consecutive week. Stocks briefly dove and yields for the 10-year Treasury note climbed to nearly 4.5%, the high end of their recent range, on media reports that President Trump had asked congressional Republicans if he should fire U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell. After reassurance that the termination would not take place, stocks resumed their rally and yields eased. Aside from that spike, the Treasury market generally marched in place during July despite worries that the Republican budget plan could significantly raise U.S. debt (yields trade inversely to Treasuries). Yields again fell below 4.3% for the benchmark 10-year note in early July, but mostly stayed between 4.3% and 4.5%, not far from the Fed's target range. Popular names bought by Schwab clients during the period included: NVIDIA Corp. (NVDA) Tesla Inc. (TSLA) Palantir Technologies Inc. (PLTR) Inc. (AMZN) UnitedHealth Group Inc. (UNH) Names net sold by Schwab clients during the period included: Apple Inc. (AAPL) Ford Motor Co. (F) Advanced Micro Devices Inc. (AMD) Boeing Co. (BA) Nike Inc. (NKE) About the STAX The STAX value is calculated based on a complex proprietary formula. Each month, Schwab pulls a sample from its client base of millions of funded accounts, which includes accounts that completed a trade in the past month. The holdings and positions of this statistically significant sample are evaluated to calculate individual scores, and the median of those scores represents the monthly STAX. For more information on the Schwab Trading Activity Index, please visit Additionally, Schwab clients can chart the STAX using the symbol $STAX in either the thinkorswim ® or thinkorswim Mobile platforms. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Content intended for educational/informational purposes only. Not investment advice, or a recommendation of any security, strategy, or account type. Historical data should not be used alone when making investment decisions. Please consult other sources of information and consider your individual financial position and goals before making an independent investment decision. The STAX is not a tradable index. The STAX should not be used as an indicator or predictor of future client trading volume or financial performance for Schwab. About Charles Schwab At Charles Schwab, we believe in the power of investing to help individuals create a better tomorrow. We have a history of challenging the status quo in our industry, innovating in ways that benefit investors and the advisors and employers who serve them, and championing our clients' goals with passion and integrity. More information is available at Follow us on X, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn. 0825-TAZA
Associated Press
6 days ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Schwab Trading Activity Index™: Cautious Optimism in July as STAX Score Edges Upward
WESTLAKE, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug 4, 2025-- The Schwab Trading Activity Index™ (STAX) increased to 41.79 in July, up from its score of 40.66 in June. The only index of its kind, the STAX is a proprietary, behavior-based index that analyzes retail investor stock positions and trading activity from Schwab's millions of client accounts to illuminate what investors were actually doing and how they were positioned in the markets each month. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: The reading for the four-week period ending July 25, 2025, ranks 'low' compared to historic averages. 'What the July STAX shows us is that while Schwab's retail clients are bullish, that optimism is measured,' said Joe Mazzola, Head Trading and Derivatives Strategist at Charles Schwab. 'The S&P 500 may have hit new all-time highs in July, but when we consider the ways Schwab's retail clients are engaging with the markets, we're not seeing the kinds of risk-on strategies that would indicate a lot of confidence in the rally's longevity.' Stock market volatility fell to five-month lows in July, easing as geopolitical worries receded and the U.S. budget debate got settled relatively easily. Tariff concerns remain in the market, but a deal with Japan in late July with 15% tariffs on its products appeared to calm worries. The Cboe Volatility Index® (VIX) fell beneath 15 by late July, well below its historic 20 average. Economic data generally held up decently during the STAX period, with June seeing 147,000 U.S. jobs created and unemployment dropping to 4.1%, both improvements from May. Retail sales in June grew a healthy 0.6% from May, and preliminary July University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment rose to 61.8, its highest level in five months. Inflation reports in July brought new concerns that tariffs might be factoring into price growth, though monthly gains weren't extraordinary. The June Consumer Price Index (CPI) saw headline CPI up 0.2% and core – which excludes food and energy – up 0.3% from May. And on an annual basis, the CPI rose 2.7%, up from 2.4% in May. Even as services prices saw slower increases, prices of goods ticked higher, to some a sign that tariffs were beginning to take their toll. Prices for toys, clothing, and furnishings rose. Second quarter earnings season got off to a mostly solid start in July, with around 83% of companies exceeding Wall Street analysts' expectations. The estimate for blended second quarter profit growth, which includes companies reporting and projections of companies yet to report, rose while actual earnings from companies reporting the first few weeks of earnings season climbed more than 8%. The rally in July broadened through the month, with nearly 75% of S&P 500 stocks trading above their respective 50-day moving averages by the end of the STAX period. Volatility continued to depress, pushing the VIX to the low 15's, as the S&P 500 failed to record a 1% move for the fourth consecutive week. Stocks briefly dove and yields for the 10-year Treasury note climbed to nearly 4.5%, the high end of their recent range, on media reports that President Trump had asked congressional Republicans if he should fire U.S. Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell. After reassurance that the termination would not take place, stocks resumed their rally and yields eased. Aside from that spike, the Treasury market generally marched in place during July despite worries that the Republican budget plan could significantly raise U.S. debt (yields trade inversely to Treasuries). Yields again fell below 4.3% for the benchmark 10-year note in early July, but mostly stayed between 4.3% and 4.5%, not far from the Fed's target range. Popular names bought by Schwab clients during the period included: Names net sold by Schwab clients during the period included: About the STAX The STAX value is calculated based on a complex proprietary formula. Each month, Schwab pulls a sample from its client base of millions of funded accounts, which includes accounts that completed a trade in the past month. The holdings and positions of this statistically significant sample are evaluated to calculate individual scores, and the median of those scores represents the monthly STAX. For more information on the Schwab Trading Activity Index, please visit Additionally, Schwab clients can chart the STAX using the symbol $STAX in either the thinkorswim ® or thinkorswim Mobile platforms. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future intended for educational/informational purposes only. Not investment advice, or a recommendation of any security, strategy, or account type. Historical data should not be used alone when making investment decisions. Please consult other sources of information and consider your individual financial position and goals before making an independent investment decision. The STAX is not a tradable index. The STAX should not be used as an indicator or predictor of future client trading volume or financial performance for Schwab. About Charles Schwab At Charles Schwab, we believe in the power of investing to help individuals create a better tomorrow. We have a history of challenging the status quo in our industry, innovating in ways that benefit investors and the advisors and employers who serve them, and championing our clients' goals with passion and integrity. More information is available at Follow us on X, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn. 0825-TAZA View source version on CONTACT: At the Company Margaret Farrell Director, Corporate Communications (203) 434-2240 [email protected] KEYWORD: UNITED STATES NORTH AMERICA TEXAS INDUSTRY KEYWORD: BANKING ASSET MANAGEMENT PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FINANCE SOURCE: The Charles Schwab Corporation Copyright Business Wire 2025. PUB: 08/04/2025 12:30 PM/DISC: 08/04/2025 12:29 PM
Axios
7 days ago
- Business
- Axios
Exclusive: Retail investors took caution in July
Retail investors are cautiously optimistic about the stock market, according to Charles Schwab's proprietary STAX index, which analyzes the retail trading activity of millions of Schwab customers. Still, clients were net sellers of stocks for July. Why it matters: Retail investors are increasingly important market participants. If they're getting cautious about the market, that could impact where stocks are heading. What they're saying: Retail clients "are bullish…but it's not the same extent we've seen during other kind of market peaks," says Joe Mazzola, Charles Schwab's head trading and derivatives strategist. "They do look at specifically tech stocks and they think they're overvalued," he adds. Retail traders are rotating out of the market favorites and into less risky stocks that could provide some cushion amid any market pullback, he says. Zoom in: Net selling was highest in the information technology sector, while net buying was strongest in communication services, health care and financials. Retail is also buying energy and utilities. On an individual stock basis, retail: Bought Nvidia, Tesla, Palantir, Amazon and UnitedHealth. Sold Apple, Ford, AMD, Boeing and Nike. Between the lines: The rotation out of more risky areas of the market "doesn't really to me scream, 'let's jump with both feet into this pool' at this point," Mazzola tells Axios. "They're looking for dips in stocks they want to own" he says. That could also explain the buying in a name like UnitedHealth which is down 27% over the last month. The meme craze could have been driven by a smaller pool of traders, Mazzola says. "We're just not seeing a lot of net buys in some of the meme stocks," he notes. Be smart: Retail investors stayed in the market in April, when institutional investors got spooked and pulled their money out, earning the group credibility on Wall Street.
Geeky Gadgets
17-07-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
XDO STAX Ryzen Modular Mini PC Review : The Future of Compact Desktop Computing?
What if your next PC could grow with you, adapting to your needs without forcing you to replace the entire system? The XDO STAX, a modular mini PC powered by the AMD Ryzen 7840U, is here to challenge the notion that compact computing means compromising on power or flexibility. With its sleek, stackable design and a promise of tool-free customization, the STAX isn't just another small form factor PC—it's a bold reimagining of what desktop computing can be. But does it deliver on its ambitious claims? In this hands-on analysis, we'll explore whether this pint-sized powerhouse is truly as versatile and future-proof as it seems. From its magnetic modularity to its energy-efficient performance, the XDO STAX packs a surprising amount of innovation into its compact frame. Whether you're curious about its gaming capabilities, intrigued by its expandable storage options, or wondering how it handles thermal management, this review by ETA PRIME will break down everything you need to know. Along the way, we'll uncover how its customizable design could redefine what you expect from a desktop PC. Is the STAX a glimpse into the future of computing or just another niche experiment? ETA Prime explains how it stacks up—literally and figuratively. Modular Mini PC Overview Why Modularity Matters One of the most distinctive features of the XDO STAX is its modular design, which allows users to tailor the device to their specific requirements. The base unit serves as the core of the system, while additional modules can be attached magnetically for enhanced functionality. For example, the optional IO expansion module adds extra connectivity options, and future modules, such as a potential GPU module, could further expand its capabilities. This tool-free assembly process not only simplifies upgrades but also ensures the device remains adaptable as your needs evolve over time. The modularity of the STAX is a forward-thinking approach that emphasizes flexibility and long-term usability. Core Specifications and Expandability At the heart of the XDO STAX is the AMD Ryzen 7840U APU, built on AMD's advanced Zen 4 architecture. This processor delivers powerful performance with: 8 cores and 16 threads, allowing efficient multitasking and smooth operation across demanding applications. An integrated Radeon 780M GPU, providing solid graphics performance for gaming and multimedia tasks. The device is equipped with 32GB of LPDDR5 RAM running at 6400 MT/s, making sure fast and responsive performance even under heavy workloads. Storage is equally impressive, with a 512GB 2242 M.2 SSD included in the base unit. For users requiring additional storage, the optional IO module offers an extra 2280 M.2 slot, making it easy to expand capacity as needed. This combination of high-speed memory and expandable storage ensures the STAX can handle a wide range of tasks with ease. XDO STAX Hands On Review Watch this video on YouTube. Below are more guides on modular mini PC systems from our extensive range of articles. Connectivity: Comprehensive and Flexible The XDO STAX excels in connectivity, making it a versatile choice for both home and professional environments. The base unit includes a USB-C port that serves as both a power input and a display output, allowing single-cable operation with compatible monitors. For users requiring more extensive connectivity options, the optional IO module adds: USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports for connecting peripherals. HDMI and DisplayPort outputs, supporting multi-monitor setups for enhanced productivity. Dual 2.5Gb Ethernet ports, making sure high-speed and reliable networking. A 3.5mm audio jack for connecting headphones or speakers. This broad range of ports ensures compatibility with a wide variety of devices, making the STAX suitable for diverse use cases, from office workstations to home entertainment systems. Performance and Energy Efficiency Despite its compact size, the XDO STAX delivers impressive performance across a variety of tasks. It is capable of handling 1080p gaming at medium to low settings, with FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) technology enhancing frame rates for smoother gameplay. Benchmark results highlight its capabilities: Geekbench 6 single-core score: 2,494. Geekbench 6 multi-core score: 12,111. 3DMark Night Raid score: 28,000. 3DMark Time Spy score: 3,317. In addition to its performance, the STAX is highly energy-efficient. It consumes just 9W at idle, 57W during typical gaming sessions, and peaks at 76W under maximum load. This efficiency not only reduces energy costs but also minimizes heat generation, contributing to the device's effective thermal management. Cooling and Thermal Management The XDO STAX is equipped with an advanced cooling system that ensures consistent performance even during extended use. During gaming sessions, the device maintains an average temperature of around 70°C, with peaks reaching 79°C under heavy load. This effective thermal management prevents overheating and ensures the system remains reliable, even during demanding tasks. Additional Features The XDO STAX includes several thoughtful features that enhance its overall usability and appeal: Single-cable operation simplifies setup and reduces desktop clutter, making it ideal for minimalist workspaces. simplifies setup and reduces desktop clutter, making it ideal for minimalist workspaces. RGB lighting adds a modern aesthetic, cycling through a spectrum of colors to complement its sleek design (though the lighting is non-adjustable). adds a modern aesthetic, cycling through a spectrum of colors to complement its sleek design (though the lighting is non-adjustable). Pre-installed Windows 11 provides a familiar and user-friendly operating system for productivity and entertainment. provides a familiar and user-friendly operating system for productivity and entertainment. Compatibility with Steam OS offers flexibility for gaming enthusiasts who prefer a Linux-based platform. These features make the STAX not only functional but also visually appealing, catering to users who value both performance and design. Who Is the XDO STAX For? The XDO STAX is a versatile device designed to meet the needs of a wide range of users. Its compact size and modular design make it particularly well-suited for: Web browsing, productivity tasks, and office work. 4K video playback and multimedia editing, thanks to its powerful APU and expandable storage. Moderate gaming at 1080p resolutions, with support for enhanced frame rates through FSR technology. Whether you're a professional looking for a portable workstation, a student in need of a space-saving PC, or a gamer seeking a compact yet capable system, the STAX offers a balanced mix of performance, flexibility, and convenience. The XDO STAX: A Compact Powerhouse The XDO STAX stands out as a modular mini PC that combines portability, performance, and customization. With its AMD Ryzen 7840U APU, expandable storage options, and robust connectivity features, it caters to a variety of use cases. Its energy efficiency, advanced cooling system, and additional features like RGB lighting and single-cable operation further enhance its appeal. For those seeking a compact yet powerful computing solution, the XDO STAX is a compelling choice that delivers both functionality and adaptability. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Hardware, Reviews, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Yahoo
08-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Schwab Trading Activity Index™: STAX Score Climbs Slightly After Three Months of Decline
Schwab clients were sellers of equities in June; Net selling was highest in the Information Technology, Financial and Communication Services sectors WESTLAKE, Texas, July 08, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Schwab Trading Activity Index™ (STAX) increased slightly to 40.66 in June, up from its score of 39.68 in May. The only index of its kind, the STAX is a proprietary, behavior-based index that analyzes retail investor stock positions and trading activity from Schwab's millions of client accounts to illuminate what investors were actually doing and how they were positioned in the markets each month. The reading for the four-week period ending June 27, 2025, ranks "low" compared to historic averages. "One theme that carried throughout the June STAX period was the rotation into industrial and discretionary sectors and away from tech," said Joe Mazzola, Head Trading and Derivatives Strategist at Charles Schwab. "The industrial sector has been a top performer year-to-date, with all the talk of onshoring leading to increased infrastructure investment." As the S&P 500 index (SPX) set new record highs in June and climbed more than 5%, Schwab clients gingerly dipped their toes in the water but stayed cautious. The STAX climbed for the first month after three straight declines, but by less than 2.5% and not much above May's two-year lows. The STAX improved the first three weeks of June but declined in the final full week of the month. And while up slightly on a month-to-month basis, the STAX remains well below its 2025 high of 51.94 posted in February and was outpaced by the SPX for the fourth straight month, hinting at prolonged caution by clients. Tech has now seen strong selling by clients since December, excepting a short period of optimism in late January and early February. Meanwhile, the trend toward buying of exchange-traded funds (ETFs) as opposed to individual stocks also remained popular, according to the June STAX data. "For the fifth month in a row, information technology was the biggest net-sell sector on a dollar basis, and the reason we're seeing big net-outflows in tech is really Nvidia-based," said Mazzola. "This was the second month in a row of selling in Nvidia, and the selling came despite Nvidia's shares climbing around 15% during the period amid optimism about U.S. trade with China and rising demand for AI chips overall. Microsoft also saw net-selling as its shares hit new record highs. This could suggest clients getting nervous about the velocity of these moves and trimming into strength." Stock market volatility fell again in June, easing as investors expected positive outcomes on both the tariff and U.S. budget front and despite geopolitical rumblings centered on war in the Middle East. The CBOE Volatility Index® (VIX) traded well below its historic average of 20 by late June. The May U.S. Nonfarm Payrolls report showed 139,000 jobs created, slightly above expectations but down from a revised 147,000 in April, as unemployment remained low at 4.2%. Participation in the labor market fell to 62.4% from 62.6%, a reversal from April's gain. Inflation reports in June offered fresh signs of price growth retreating, though not approaching the Federal Reserve's 2% target. The May Consumer Price Index (CPI), Producer Price Index (PPI), and Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) index generally featured price growth slowing from April, though core PCE that subtracts volatile food and energy prices rose 2.7% year over year, a slightly higher-than-expected reading. The Fed kept rates unchanged at its June meeting at a target range of 4.25% to 4.5%, where it's been since December. Personal income fell a sharp 0.4% in May while spending slipped 0.1%. The reduced spending could reflect demand having been pulled forward into earlier in the year by tariff-based inflation worries. Treasury note yields slipped in June, with the Treasury market gaining despite worries that the Republican budget plan could significantly raise U.S. debt (yields trade inversely to Treasuries). Yields fell below 4.3% for the benchmark 10-year note by late June, down about 30 basis points from a month earlier and not far from two-month lows. Popular names bought by Schwab clients during the period included: Tesla Inc. (TSLA) Palantir Technologies Inc. (PLTR) Inc. (AMZN) Alphabet Inc. (GOOGL) Circle Internet Group Inc. (CRCL) Names net sold by Schwab clients during the period included: NVIDIA Corp. (NVDA) Microsoft Corp. (MSFT) Coinbase Global Inc. (COIN) Meta Platforms Inc. (META) Intel Corp. (INTC) About the STAX The STAX value is calculated based on a complex proprietary formula. Each month, Schwab pulls a sample from its client base of millions of funded accounts, which includes accounts that completed a trade in the past month. The holdings and positions of this statistically significant sample are evaluated to calculate individual scores, and the median of those scores represents the monthly STAX. For more information on the Schwab Trading Activity Index, please visit Additionally, Schwab clients can chart the STAX using the symbol $STAX in either the thinkorswim® or thinkorswim Mobile platforms. Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Content intended for educational/informational purposes only. Not investment advice, or a recommendation of any security, strategy, or account type. Historical data should not be used alone when making investment decisions. Please consult other sources of information and consider your individual financial position and goals before making an independent investment decision. The STAX is not a tradable index. The STAX should not be used as an indicator or predictor of future client trading volume or financial performance for Schwab. About Charles Schwab At Charles Schwab, we believe in the power of investing to help individuals create a better tomorrow. We have a history of challenging the status quo in our industry, innovating in ways that benefit investors and the advisors and employers who serve them, and championing our clients' goals with passion and integrity. More information is available at Follow us on X, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn. 0725-EH6Y View source version on Contacts At the Company Margaret FarrellDirector, Corporate Communications(203) Sign in to access your portfolio
