Stock Market Commentary May 2026
In March, the Iran conflict was a concern, and the stock market had a rough month (1). In our April market commentary, we said: "There are three potential factors that can lead the stock market to get out of the hole sooner rather than later, especially between now and mid-May (2)."
Much of what we discussed in our previous commentary has begun to play out, as market volatility and key economic trends have unfolded alongside the stock market's historic rebound.
At one point the S&P 500 rallied 12% in 13 days (3). If you have any questions about your accounts or if you'd like to go over the numbers, please let us know.
Oil Prices Remain Stubbornly High
Oil prices have remained stubbornly high as the Iran conflict wears on with prices well over $100 per barrel (4).
In our opinion, the higher oil prices are, the more likely inflation will remain a concern for both the Fed and the average American. If the conflict does not end soon, it could cause additional volatility for the stock market.
For now, in our opinion the stock market is digesting the news and taking it in stride. We will continue to monitor the situation and make adjustments to our portfolios accordingly.
Mid-Term Elections May Increase Volatility
Past performance cannot predict future performance, but in our opinion, this summer/fall may have increased volatility.
Generally speaking, the stock market does not like uncertainty. Who will have control of the House and Senate will be a big question mark this fall, and it may cause some uncertainty for investors.
As we mentioned in our market commentary for March, we believe this year has the potential to have positive stock market performance, but it will likely have plenty of volatility. In our opinion, absolutely anything is possible, so please continue to read our market commentaries, and know that we are doing everything we can to monitor and adjust when prudent.
Please check out our YouTube channel to get more frequent and more thorough updates from us: www.Youtube.com/@SummitfinancialconsultingLLC
Schedule Your Portfolio Review
There is a lot going on in the world and it's a great time to touch base. If we haven't spoken in a while and you would like to go over your numbers, or you've had any changes to your family, finances, employer/job, or risk tolerance, please contact us at (586) 226-2100 to schedule a review meeting.
We would love to meet with you over the phone, Zoom, or face to face to strategize.
Sincerely,
Ken Wink
with contributions by Robert Wink, James Wink, Zachary Bachner, CFP®. James Baldwin and Daniel Ladzinski
Notes & Disclaimer: Investment advisory services are offered through Summit Financial Consulting LLC, an SEC registered investment advisory firm. Summit Financial Consulting Investment Advisory Firm Representatives do not render tax, legal, or accounting advice. Life/Annuity Insurance products and services offered by the individual insurance agent. Health insurance is offered through Summit Health Services, LLC and Property/Casualty (P&C) Insurance is offered through Summit Insurance Services, LLC and our local P&C agency partners. Please update Summit Financial Consulting LLC, if your investment objectives have changed or if the personal or financial information previously provided has changed. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Representatives of Summit Financial Consulting LLC offer tax preparation services through Summit Tax Services. Summit Tax Services is a DBA of Heemer Klein & Company and they are owned and operated independently.
Ken Wink
Kenneth “Ken” Wink is the Co-Founder and Chief Compliance Officer of Summit Financial Consulting, LLC. With over 22 years of experience in the financial services industry, he is deeply knowledgeable and passionate about explaining complex financial concepts in understandable terms. Ken’s passion for simplifying complex financial concepts began early. While still in high school, he honed his skills by assisting classmates with their tax returns. This led him to pursue a B.A. in Finance at Michigan State University, graduating with honors. He further bolstered his qualifications by obtaining numerous financial licenses, including Series 6, 7, 63, and 65, along with Life, Health, and Accident licenses. Ken believes that everyone deserves to make informed financial decisions without feeling overwhelmed or intimidated. That’s why he writes articles that break down complex concepts into understandable terms, empowering you to navigate your financial future with confidence.