Financial Insights

KCM On Balance – February 2026

February can be a reminder that, unlike Cupid’s arrow, investing is rarely a straight shot.

As new data and headlines pull attention in different directions, the real advantage comes from resisting overreaction. Rather than chasing every arrow in flight, staying focused on the fundamentals and trusting a disciplined, evidence-based strategy can keep your long-term plan on target.

U.S. Equities started the year strongly, with major indexes reaching new highs and gains spreading beyond the largest stocks. Improved performance from smaller companies and equal-weighted benchmarks pointed to broader, healthier market participation.

The Federal Reserve held rates steady, balancing solid economic activity and stable labor market against inflation that remains above target. The dollar weakened amid rising geopolitical uncertainty, driving interest in hard assets, while the global outlook remains cautiously positive, supported by technology investment but constrained by geopolitical and fiscal risks.

Articles of Interest

IRS Income Tax Refund Schedule 2026: When Will Your Refund Arrive?

Kiplinger provides a schedule for when you can expect your check or direct deposit.

Learn More


2026 Tax Planning Calendar

Now is the time to get your taxes organized. Symmetry’s Tax Planning Calendar provides key information about tax deadlines and tax planning activities you’ll need to know now—and throughout the year.

Learn More


U.S. Market Not Partying Like It’s 1999

Despite high U.S. stock market valuations reminiscent of the 1990s, recent strong profitability growth suggests that today’s elevated valuations may not necessarily imply poor future returns, according to Dimensional.

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Use This Simple Trick to Uncover Your Real Financial Goals

Morningstar research shows that referring to a master list of financial goals can fine-tune your money priorities.

Learn More


Advisory services offered through KCPAG Financial Advisors LLC and insurance services offered through KCPAG Insurance Services LLC, subsidiaries of Kemper Capital Management LLC. Tax services offered through Kemper CPA Group LLP.

Symmetry Partners, LLC is an investment advisory firm registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm only transacts business in states where it is properly registered, excluded, or exempt from registration requirements. Registration of an investment adviser does not imply any specific level of skill or training and does not constitute an endorsement of the firm by the SEC.

No one should assume that future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, product, or non-investment-related content made reference to directly or indirectly in this newsletter will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. You should not assume any discussion or information contained in this email serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice. Symmetry does not provide tax or legal advice and nothing either stated or implied here should be inferred as providing such advice. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the content may no longer be reflective of current opinions or positions.

Diversification seeks to improve performance by spreading your investment dollars into various asset classes to add balance to your portfolio. Using this methodology, however, does not guarantee a profit or protection from loss in a declining market. Past performance does not guarantee future results.