Market Insights
Market Volatility Intensifies as Conflict Concerns Overshadow Ceasefire Optimism
Stocks ended a challenging week lower as investors’ attention shifted from updates on ceasefire talks to concerns about the economic impact of a protracted conflict.
The Standard & Poor’s 500 Index lost 2.12 percent, while the Nasdaq Composite Index fell 3.23 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average slid 0.90 percent. The MSCI EAFE Index, which tracks developed overseas stock markets, ended the week nearly flat (-0.05 percent).¹²
Challenging Week
Stocks opened higher at the start of the week as fresh optimism for a resolution to the Middle East conflict permeated market sentiment. The absence of additional news regarding Iraq’s force majeure declaration also appeared to support momentum. Both the Dow Industrials and the S&P 500 posted their best day since early February, as the White House reported “very good and productive conversations” toward ending hostilities.³
Markets came under pressure on Tuesday but staged a recovery rally midweek amid reports that Pakistan was mediating ceasefire talks. All three major averages posted solid gains, though retail investors appeared to remain on the sidelines.⁴
The upbeat sentiment was short-lived. Markets faced steady pressure on Thursday despite news, released after the close of trading, that the White House was extending the previous pause on military strikes targeting Iranian energy infrastructure by an additional 10 days. Selling intensified on Friday. The Nasdaq and Dow Industrials fell into correction territory, while the S&P 500 recorded its longest weekly losing streak in nearly four years.⁵
Source: YCharts.com, March 28, 2026. Weekly performance is measured from Monday, March 23, to Friday, March 27. TR = total return for the index, which includes any dividends as well as other cash distributions during the period. Treasury note yield is expressed in basis points.
Sector Spotlight
Some investors have turned to energy stocks amid the volatility. At the close of trading, 19 energy stocks in the S&P 500 were trading at their 52-week highs.⁶
This Week: Key Economic Data
Monday: New York Fed President John Williams speaks.
Tuesday: S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Index* (Jan.), Consumer Confidence, Job Openings.
Fed speakers: Austan Goolsbee (Chicago), Michael Barr, Michelle Bowman.
Wednesday: Retail Sales* (Feb.), ADP Employment Report, Business Inventories* (Jan.), PMI—Manufacturing, ISM Manufacturing, EIA Petroleum Status Report.
Fed speakers: Alberto Musalem (St. Louis), Michael Barr.
Thursday: Weekly Jobless Claims, Trade Deficit (Feb.), Factory Orders, EIA Natural Gas Report, Motor Vehicle Sales, Fed Balance Sheet.
Fed speaker: Lorie Logan.
Friday: Employment Report, PMI—Services.
*Indicates federal data release delayed by the government shutdown.
Source: Investor’s Business Daily – Econoday Economic Calendar, March 27, 2026. The Econoday Economic Calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. This content is developed from sources believed to be accurate. Forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. They are also subject to revision.
This Week: Companies Reporting Earnings
Wednesday: Nike, Inc. (NKE), McCormick & Company, Incorporated (MKC / MKC.V)
Source: Zacks, March 27, 2026. Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your goals, time horizon, and risk tolerance. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule their earnings reports without notice.
"Self-pity in its early stages is as snug as a feather mattress. Only when it hardens does it become uncomfortable."
– Maya Angelou
IRS Program Helps Seniors Prepare Taxes
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers a Free File tool that provides online tax preparation, direct deposit of refunds, and electronic filing options. This tool can be especially helpful for taxpayers on a fixed budget, including seniors and retirees. Here are some key points to know:
- IRS Free File is available at IRS.gov and features some of the most widely used tax software providers.
- Taxpayers can browse multiple offers to find the one that best suits their needs.
- Eligibility requirements vary by provider but are typically based on income, age, and state residency.
- Free File includes the most common forms needed to file your taxes. Even those with more complex tax situations may still be able to use it.
- Some Free File products are available in Spanish.
- Users can search for eligible credits and deductions within the platform.
- Certain providers also offer state return preparation. A lookup tool helps identify partners that meet your state-specific requirements.
- Free File can be accessed via computer, smartphone, or tablet, and the site is optimized for mobile use.
This information is not a substitute for individualized tax advice. Please discuss your specific tax situation with a qualified tax professional.*
Tip adapted from IRS.gov⁷
*Primerica representatives are not tax advisors. For related advice, individuals should consult an appropriately licensed professional.
Aloe Vera: One Powerful Plant
Aloe vera is one of those medicinal plants that can be used for a wide range of purposes. It is a cactus-like plant that grows well in many climates and has thick, juicy leaves that store water. Because of this, aloe vera is well known for its hydrating properties. Let’s explore its many benefits and how you can incorporate it into your daily routine.
The thick, sticky gel found in aloe leaves contains powerful bioactive compounds, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants.
Aloe vera is also known for its healing properties. Its antibacterial, antiviral, and antiseptic qualities may help support wound healing and address certain skin concerns. It can also be used as a topical treatment for first- and second-degree burns.
Tip adapted from Medical News Today⁸
Vanessa Virginiensis (American Lady Butterfly)
Eastampton, NJ, United States
1. WSJ.com, March 27, 2026
2. Investing.com, March 27, 2026
3. CNBC.com, March 16, 2026
4. CNBC.com, March 24, 2026
5. WSJ.com, March 27, 2026
6. CNBC.com, March 19, 2026
7. IRS.gov, June 23, 2025
8. Medicalnewstoday.com, August 27, 2025
Ann Konasiewicz
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Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and risk tolerance. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost.
Forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions, may not materialize, and are subject to change without notice.
The market indexes discussed are unmanaged and are generally considered representative of their respective markets. Index performance is not indicative of the performance of any specific investment. Indexes do not incur management fees, costs, or expenses, and individuals cannot invest directly in unmanaged indexes. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average is an unmanaged index generally considered representative of large-capitalization companies in the U.S. stock market. The Nasdaq Composite Index measures the performance of common stocks and similar securities listed on the Nasdaq stock market and is considered a broad indicator of technology and growth stocks. The MSCI EAFE Index, created by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI), serves as a benchmark for the performance of major international equity markets, representing 21 developed markets across Europe, Australasia, and the Far East. The S&P 500 Composite Index is an unmanaged group of securities considered representative of the overall U.S. stock market.
U.S. Treasury notes are backed by the federal government for the timely payment of principal and interest. However, if sold prior to maturity, they may be worth more or less than the original purchase price. Fixed-income investments are subject to various risks, including changes in interest rates, credit quality, inflation, market valuations, prepayments, corporate events, tax implications, and other factors.
International investments carry additional risks, including differences in financial reporting standards, currency exchange rates, political risks unique to specific countries, foreign taxes and regulations, and the potential for illiquid markets. These factors may result in greater share price volatility.
