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Weekly NewsletterJanuary 12, 2026

This Week on Wall Street – Week of January 12th

2026 is kicking off strong, with all three of our major indexes ending last week in the green.

This Week on Wall Street – Week of January 12th

MARKET COMMENTARY

2026 is kicking off strong, with all three of our major indexes ending last week in the green. December’s job report was not as positive, with 2025 marking an extremely weak year in terms of jobs added. One positive development is that the Supreme Court is meeting to potentially make a decision on President Trump’s new global tariff policy, which, if struck down, could help revive the sluggish job market. With geopolitical events dominating the headlines, investors should also watch closely what the US government may decide to do regarding anti-government protesters in Iran.

New inflation data will be released both Tuesday and Wednesday, and a new earnings season begins with major banks being the ones to watch. Our first inflation reading will provide insight into the Consumer Price Index for December. Opinions on what to expect are fairly mixed, with some still concerned about distorted data as a consequence of the government shutdown. Forecasts suggest we should see a slight uptick that will likely carry forward into the first half of 2026 amid ongoing tariff pressures. We will also receive November’s Producer Price Index, which serves as an early signal ahead of next week’s Personal Consumption Expenditure report, our most closely watched gauge of inflation and a key metric of what consumers are actually paying.

Looking closer at technical indicators, momentum is beginning to build across benchmark indexes. Our optimism remains high as market participation continues to broaden, reflected in the increased number of companies shifting towards earlier breakout stages. This suggests more stocks are gaining strength and presenting potential opportunities. Investor confidence is also improving, another signal of growing momentum.


Economic Releases This Week

Monday: None

Tuesday: Consumer Price Index

Wednesday: Retail Sales, Producer Price Index

Thursday: Initial Jobless Claims

Friday: None

Stories to Start the Week

Federal Prosecutors Open Investigation into Fed Chair Powell

Banks oppose Trump’s campaign pledge of a one year, 10% cap on credit card interest rates

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says more sanctions on Venezuelacould be lifted as soon as next week to facilitate oil sales

Paramount sues Warner Bro’s in hostile takeover attempt

Trump threatens strong military action against Iran after hundreds of protesters have been killed since late December

About This Series

Last Week on Wall Street

Last Week on Wall Street is Waterloo Capital's weekly market recap, published every Monday morning to keep advisors and clients informed on the most significant developments from the prior trading week. Each edition synthesizes equity market performance, fixed income moves, macroeconomic data releases, and notable corporate earnings into a concise, actionable read — cutting through the noise so our readers can focus on what actually matters for long-term wealth management.

Our research team tracks the S&P 500, Dow Jones Industrial Average, NASDAQ Composite, and 10-year Treasury yield as primary benchmarks, while also covering sector rotations, commodity swings, and policy shifts from the Federal Reserve and Washington. When major cross-asset moves occur — such as the historic gold selloff covered in this edition — we dig into the mechanics and the likely ripple effects on diversified portfolios, helping clients contextualize volatility without reacting impulsively.

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Waterloo Capital's investment research is grounded in fundamental analysis and long-term thinking. We believe that disciplined, evidence-based investing — anchored in each client's specific goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon — consistently outperforms reactive decision-making driven by short-term headlines. Our weekly commentary is designed to inform, not alarm: we put market moves in their proper historical context so that clients can hold conviction in their financial plans through periods of uncertainty.

As an SEC-registered investment advisor headquartered in Austin, Texas, with offices across the Southwest and Southeast, Waterloo Capital serves high-net-worth individuals, families, and institutions. Our advisors use proprietary research like this weekly recap as one input among many — alongside in-depth portfolio reviews, tax planning, and estate strategy — to deliver comprehensive wealth management tailored to each client relationship. To learn more about how our investment philosophy and ongoing market research can serve your financial future, contact our team directly.

Investment Disclosure: The information contained in this article is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation, or an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any security. Past performance is not indicative of future results. All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. Waterloo Capital, LP is an SEC-registered investment advisor. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Please consult with a qualified financial professional before making any investment decisions.

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