Q1 2026 Trader Client Sentiment Report
The Q1 2026 Trader Client Sentiment Report provides an analysis of investor outlooks, risk appetites, and strategic priorities among active traders. The primary thesis indicates that while bullish sentiment remains prevalent, it has experienced a modest decline compared to the end of 2025. Traders are currently navigating a landscape defined by geopolitical uncertainty and domestic political concerns, yet they maintain a high degree of confidence in their ability to manage their portfolios and execute investment decisions.
Key findings reveal that over half of the surveyed traders maintain a bullish outlook, though this sentiment has softened by five percentage points since Q4 2025. Information Technology experienced the most significant drop in sector sentiment, while Energy, Utilities, and Materials remain the most favored sectors. Growth, Artificial Intelligence, and value stocks are identified as the top investment priorities for the quarter. Despite concerns regarding potential market corrections and macroeconomic instability, 47% of traders describe themselves as risk-seeking, with 83% expressing a high likelihood of buying into market dips over the next three months.
The research is based on a survey of 2,121 active traders conducted between January 20 and January 27, 2026. The sample consists of Charles Schwab clients with at least $2,000 in retail assets, weighted by life stage and affluence to ensure a representative view of the active trader segment. The geographic scope is focused on the U.S. market, capturing sentiment during a period of heightened focus on federal policy, interest rates, and global economic conditions. The data underscores a resilient investor base that, despite identifying geopolitical conflict and market volatility as primary risks, remains committed to active participation in equity markets.
