Spring equinox is right around the corner, officially arriving on March 20. It’s been a snowy season across much of the country, and as the snow melts and we begin to thaw, we’ll have plenty of in-between weather.
These fluctuations aren’t unlike the market. Periods of change are to be expected. While the forecast may shift from day to day, a disciplined, long-term approach can help smooth out short-term volatility. History has shown that markets, like the seasons, have a way of finding their balance over time.
Markets were mixed in February as U.S. Equities softened with International and Emerging Markets leading global performance. Leadership broadened as investors rotated away from mega-cap growth stocks toward more defensive areas of the market, including value and small cap. Sector performance also shifted, with Utilities, Energy, and other defensive cyclical sectors outperforming Technology and consumer-oriented sectors.
Economic data continued to suggest gradual disinflation and a resilient labor market. The Federal Reserve Board of Governors reiterated a data-dependent policy stance, while bond markets strengthened as Treasury yields stabilized.
Source: Symmetry Markets and Factors Report February 2026. Past performance does not guarantee future results.
Articles of Interest
Tax Season 2026 Is Here: 8 Big Changes to Know Before You File
Kiplinger breaks down some major tax rule changes that may impact your 2025 return.
How Your 1099 Forms Can Help Improve Your Portfolio
According to Morningstar, your investment-related 1099s can yield some valuable insights about your portfolio management and its tax efficiency.
What is a Tax Deduction? Basics and Tips to Know
Charles Schwab provides information about the two main tax deduction types, how tax deductions work, and how they may or may not apply to you and your taxes.
Tax Planning with Symmetry’s Tax Alpha
Taxes are one of the few certainties in investing—and they can significantly impact overall returns. With Symmetry’s Tax Alpha Program, investors with $1 million+ taxable accounts can substantially limit, or even eliminate, the long-term impact of capital gains taxes.
Below, two case studies showing our Tax Alpha in action.
Note: Tax Alpha material is for educational purposes, and its intended use is for financial professionals
A Highly Concentrated Portfolio with Substantial Taxable Gains
Michael Storer, Symmetry’s Regional Director, tells the story of an investor who retained tax savings at a critical point in their life.
Note: This case study and statements reflect the experience of a particular client, as reported by a Symmetry employee, and may not be representative of all client experiences. No cash or non-cash compensation was provided in exchange for this statement. Symmetry does not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. You should consult with your own tax, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction. This material and the strategy described herein are intended for U.S. taxable investors. The potential success of this strategy for any particular investor depends on such investor’s overall tax position. This material makes certain assumptions regarding an investor’s tax status, which may not be applicable to all investors.
Selling a Business While Facing Expensive Tax Loss
Greg Trzaski, Symmetry’s Senior Regional Director, shares about an investor who was able to reduce their tax bill by nearly 50%!
Note: This case study and statements reflect the experience of a particular client, as reported by a Symmetry employee, and may not be representative of all client experiences. No cash or non-cash compensation was provided in exchange for this statement. Symmetry does not provide tax, legal, or accounting advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. You should consult with your own tax, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction. This material and the strategy described herein are intended for U.S. taxable investors. The potential success of this strategy for any particular investor depends on such investor’s overall tax position. This material makes certain assumptions regarding an investor’s tax status, which may not be applicable to all investors.
11 Scenic American Road Trips Perfect for Spring
From coastal drives to national parks, Travel + Leisure recommends these routes for a spring vacation.
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.
