Updated Mar 23, 2026 by Charles Schwab
Bullish sentiment among active traders declined by 5 percentage points in Q1 2026 compared to the end of 2025, though over 50% of respondents maintain a positive outlook.
Despite macroeconomic concerns, 47% of traders identify as risk-seeking, and 83% express a high likelihood of buying into market dips over the next three months.
Information Technology saw the most significant decline in sector sentiment, while Energy, Utilities, and Materials remain the most favored sectors for investors.
Growth, Artificial Intelligence, and value stocks are the primary investment priorities for traders throughout the first quarter of 2026.
Geopolitical uncertainty and domestic political concerns are identified as the primary risks to market stability, alongside fears of potential market corrections.
The findings are based on a survey of 2,121 Charles Schwab clients with at least $2,000 in retail assets, conducted between January 20 and January 27, 2026.
Bullish sentiment among active traders declined by 5 percentage points in Q1 2026 compared to the end of 2025, though over 50% of respondents maintain a positive outlook.
Despite macroeconomic concerns, 47% of traders identify as risk-seeking, and 83% express a high likelihood of buying into market dips over the next three months.
Information Technology saw the most significant decline in sector sentiment, while Energy, Utilities, and Materials remain the most favored sectors for investors.
Growth, Artificial Intelligence, and value stocks are the primary investment priorities for traders throughout the first quarter of 2026.
Geopolitical uncertainty and domestic political concerns are identified as the primary risks to market stability, alongside fears of potential market corrections.
The findings are based on a survey of 2,121 Charles Schwab clients with at least $2,000 in retail assets, conducted between January 20 and January 27, 2026.