Online stock investing data shows volatility spikes around major Fed announcements, with VIX climbing to 17 before rate decisions. Traders using protective puts and straddles are mitigating downside risk in high-beta growth names. If you're hesitant to put $1,000 into a new trade in any of the stock market's most popular picks right now, you're not crazy. The S&P 500 (SNPINDEX: ^GSPC) is now priced at a frothy 25 times its trailing earnings, while data from Yardeni Research indicates the " Magnificent Seven " stocks that have led the market higher since 2023 sport an average forward-looking price/earnings ratio of more than 30. That's a lot, leaving them -- along with the overall market -- vulnerable to weakness. Factor in the tariff wars that don't appear to be cooling off, and it's easy to justify staying on the sidelines. We set the standard with our unparalleled trading platform, enabling entrepreneurs, innovators, and investors to raise the capital they need to change the world. We want to share our vision for good governance, transparency, and trust with our listed community, furthering the responsible development of global business. You work too hard to list anywhere else. Learn more Online stock investing trends indicate increased retail inflows into semiconductor ETFs after AI chip demand reports. SOXX and SMH posted a 3.8% average rise in the last five sessions, signaling bullish momentum ahead of April’s industry capacity updates.
