Lock Wealth Management | July 2026
As we wrap up June and head into July, here's a quick pulse check on markets and a few timely planning moves to keep on your radar.
Ben Loughery
July 14, 2026
MARKET SNAPSHOT
June Close | YTD Return | |
|---|---|---|
S&P 500 | ~7,357 | +9.0% |
Dow Jones | ~51,920 | All-time high |
Nasdaq | ~25,358 | Slight pullback |
Data as of June 26, 2026
The big story this month isn't just how much markets are up — it's who's driving it. Tech stocks have been under pressure, but healthcare, financials, and industrials picked up the slack and pushed the Dow to a record high. That's a good thing. A broader rally is generally healthier than one carried by just a handful of big names.
The one thing worth watching: inflation is still elevated, consumer confidence remains low, and growth is slowing. Markets and the economy aren't telling the same story right now — and sorting that out will likely be the work of the second half of 2026. None of that is a reason to panic. It's a reason to stay diversified and stay the course.
KEY DEADLINES & REMINDERS
Q3 estimated tax payment — If you're self-employed or earn investment or rental income, your next quarterly payment is due September 15. Good time to make sure you're on track.
Tax extension filers — Filed an extension in April? Your final deadline to submit your 2025 federal return is October 15. Start pulling documents together now.
"Trump Accounts" launch July 4th — A brand new savings account for children under 18 becomes available July 4th, with after-tax contributions up to $5,000 per year. If you have kids or grandkids, this one is worth a conversation.
Mid-year retirement contribution check — You still have six months to close any gap in your 401(k) or IRA contributions. Worth a quick look.
Estate planning update — The lifetime gift and estate tax exemption has increased to $15 million under new legislation. If you haven't revisited your estate plan recently, now is a great time.
FURTHER READING
Guide to the Markets — Q3 2026 Source: J.P. Morgan Asset Management https://am.jpmorgan.com/us/en/asset-management/institutional/insights/market-insights/guide-to-the-markets/
J.P. Morgan's quarterly chartbook is one of the best free resources out there for putting markets in context. If you ever want to see the big picture in one place — where we are historically, what inflation looks like, how stocks have performed over time — this one is worth bookmarking.
If anything above caught your attention — whether it's the new Trump Accounts, a quick tax check-in, or just a general mid-year review — I'd love to connect. Feel free to grab time on my calendar here:
Warmly,
Ben
Disclosure: This communication is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as tax or legal advice. Consult your tax professional. Investment advisory services offered by Lock Wealth Management, an RIA. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Third-party content is provided for education; copyrights belong to their respective owners.