September 2026 Market Update: What Are We Watching After a Strong August?

Stocks and bonds both moved higher in August. Bonds gained about one-half percent, the S&P rose about 2.7%, and emerging markets and the technology index each rose about 5%.

In the September market update from ACT Advisors, Doug English, CFP®, explains why a pullback this month would not surprise him. September has often been a difficult month for markets. We cannot know whether that pattern will repeat, but we can be ready for the choices a drop in prices might bring.



What could a pullback change for you?

If prices fall, three questions may deserve a fresh look: Does a Roth conversion make sense? Is this a reasonable time to add to an investment account? Would a change in risk be appropriate for you?

The market move alone cannot answer those questions. Taxes, available cash, current holdings, and the purpose of the money all matter. That is where planning earns its keep: we can put the pieces together and help you decide whether the moment calls for action—or patience.

Watch the September update. If it raises a question about your plan, bring it to your ACT Advisors team.

Disclosure

Advisory services offered through ACT Advisors®, LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply a certain level of skill or training. This material is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to provide individualized investment, tax, legal, insurance, or financial planning advice. The information should not be construed as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to pursue any specific investment strategy. You should consult your financial advisor, tax professional, attorney, or other qualified professional regarding your individual circumstances. Market index returns are provided for general informational purposes and do not represent the performance of any client account. Individual results vary based on portfolio allocation, holdings, fees, cash flows, and other factors. Indexes are unmanaged and cannot be invested in directly. Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment strategy will be successful or that any investment will be profitable. Past performance and historical market patterns do not guarantee future results. Any market or economic forecasts are subject to change and may not develop as predicted. Data and views are provided as of September 2, 2026 and are subject to change without notice. Information is believed to be from reliable sources, but ACT Advisors makes no representation as to its completeness or accuracy.

Picture of Doug English

Doug English

Doug English, CFP® is the founder of ACT Advisors, a fee-only fiduciary firm with offices in Asheville, NC, and Charleston, SC, serving clients nationwide. Guided by Doug’s deep expertise and proactive approach, ACT Advisors helps clients make informed financial decisions, prioritize wealth protection, and confidently navigate market complexities. As dedicated advisors and advocates, the ACT Advisors team brings an unwavering commitment to transparency, personalized planning, and empowering clients at every stage of their financial journey.

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The information presented is for educational purposes only and should not be considered investment, tax, or legal advice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. Individual portfolio results will vary based on allocation, account type, timing of cash flows, holdings, and client-specific circumstances. Market indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested in directly. ACT Advisors LLC is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. For more information, please refer to ACT Advisors’ most recent Form ADV.

New here and have questions?

If this month’s video raised questions about your plan, let’s talk it through. We’ll review your priorities, discuss any tax or investment factors relevant to your overall financial picture, explain our fee-only fiduciary approach, and outline practical next steps you can take right away—no obligation.

Conversations are for informational purposes only and do not constitute investment, tax, or legal advice. An advisory relationship is established only after execution of a client agreement with ACT Advisors.