While last week was shortened due to the holiday, there was no shortage of economic information for investors to review. For the week the S&P 500 was up 1.38%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 1.96% and the NASDAQ was up 0.62%. Mid-Caps and Small-Caps for the week dropped 0.84% and 0.82% respectively.

U.S. equities broadly posted their strongest weekly performance since last November as investor sentiment was boosted by receding fears of a banking crisis and positive economic data.

There are few things that can build equity and future financial stability like homeownership. However, our nation has a fraught history when it comes to equal access to homeownership, lending, and building credit.

Volatility continued in the markets this past week, though stocks were able to eke out gains for the second straight week with the Dow Jones average gaining 1.2%, the S&P 500 rising 1.4%, and the Nasdaq Composite closing up 1.7%.

In the past decade, gender equality in the workplace has grown by leaps and bounds – especially in the banking industry. This Women’s History Month, First Merchants Bank is proud to celebrate that progress, and we’re committed to forging ahead for greater rights and opportunities for women ...