Luis Alvarez
The Schwab Trading Activity Index rose to 41.79 in July from 40.66 in June, keeping the index in a “low” range when compared with historic averages, Charles Schwab (NYSE:SCHW) said on Monday.
The index analyzes retail investor stock positions and trading activity from Schwab’s (NYSE:SCHW) client accounts, based on what investors are actually doing and how they were positioned in the markets.
The July print indicated that “while Schwab’s retail clients are bullish, that optimism is measured,” said Joe Mazzola, head trading and derivatives strategist at Charles Schwab. “The S&P 500 may have hit new all-time highs in July, but when we consider the ways Schwab’s retail clients are engaging with the markets, we’re not seeing the kinds of risk-on strategies that would indicate a lot of confidence in the rally’s longevity.”
Stock market volatility fell to a five-month low in July, as geopolitical concerns eased and the U.S. budget debate was settled relatively quickly. Tariffs remain a concern, but a deal with Japan in late July resulting in a 15% tariff rate appeared to clam nerves. The Cboe Volatility Index dropped below 15 by late July, well below its 20 average, Schwab said.
Popular names bought by Schwab clients during the four weeks ended July 25, 2025, included:
- Nvidia (NASDAQ:NVDA)
- Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA)
- Palantir Technologies (PLTR)
- Amazon.com (AMZN)
- UnitedHealth Group (UNH)
Names net sold by clients during the period included: