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What Market Trends Mean for Your Money This Month

Bask Bank^® Monthly Market Insights — February 25, 2026 

Recent economic data continues to point toward a steadier environment, despite the persistent noise in the headlines. The broader economy is showing signs of running in a comfortable “second gear,” with improvements across manufacturing, job stability and consumer spending. At the same time, headline inflation is easing gradually, and interest rates remain in a fairly consistent range. Taken together, these trends create a setting where savers can feel confident while planning their next financial moves.

Here’s what these developments mean for your financial outlook — and how you can position your savings to make the most of them. 

A clearer backdrop for everyday consumers

Why it matters

While economic sentiment may feel mixed, many underlying indicators continue to move in a positive direction. Industrial production and durable goods orders have strengthened, and overall payroll employment has stabilized after last year’s slowdown. We are seeing improving activity across transportation and service-related industries. Consumer spending also remains steady.

Meanwhile, the stock market is undergoing a rotation: After years of tech-leading performance, areas like industrials, energy and transportation are seeing renewed strength. This broadening trend can help support long‑term market stability.

For savers, that means the foundation beneath the noise is sturdier than it may appear at first glance.

The trends shaping the current financial environment

What to watch for

Interest rates remain steady, and longer-term yields continue to move back and forth within a relatively narrow range. As a result, high‑yield savings accounts continue to offer appealing returns. Mortgage and lending markets have also seen moments of momentum; refinancing activity picked up when mortgage rates dipped before cooling again when those rates moved back above 6%. These movements are normal and suggest borrowing conditions may gradually improve over time.

Inflation readings show continued progress, too. Headline inflation remains lower than a year ago, supported by declines in categories such as gasoline and used vehicles. Core inflation, which excludes food and energy, has eased but remains slightly elevated — a sign that while prices in some categories have cooled, everyday essentials can still feel costly. 

What this means for your savings decisions

With interest rates generally holding firm, savers are in a strong position to take advantage of competitive yields. High‑yield savings accounts remain ideal for short-term goals, giving you flexibility to access your money quickly while still earning meaningful interest. This stable rate backdrop means you don’t need to rush your decisions, but it also means today’s rates might not last forever.

Certificates of deposit (CDs) continue to present an attractive opportunity. Locking in a CD allows you to secure a guaranteed return for a fixed period, which can help protect part of your savings if rates shift lower in the future. Building a simple CD ladder — spreading your deposits across multiple terms — offers a balanced approach that keeps part of your money available on a rolling basis.

For longer-term planning, such as preparing for future purchases or building reserves, a mix of high-yield savings and CDs can help ensure your money grows steadily while staying accessible.

Maintaining clarity in a shifting market

Stay ahead of the curve 

It’s common to feel uncertain when news cycles swing between optimism and concern. Yet many of today’s economic indicators signal measured progress: stable spending, a broadening stock market, moderating inflation and a reliable interest rate backdrop. These trends support a healthy environment for savers and reinforce the value of staying consistent with your financial plan.

Continuing to build your emergency fund, exploring opportunities to lock in strong returns and focusing on thoughtful, achievable milestones can help you stay confident despite the market noise. 

Grow your money with Bask Bank

Bask Bank offers competitive, easy-to-use options designed to help you make the most of today’s market conditions. Our Bask Interest Savings Account delivers attractive variable rates with no monthly account fees, making it an ideal place to grow or maintain your emergency fund. You can also lock in a guaranteed return with Bask Certificates of Deposit (CDs), which offer fixed rates with terms ranging from 3 to 24 months. 

No matter your goals, Bask Bank is here to help your savings work harder — and to support your financial journey every step of the way.