A single Federal Reserve meeting can spark major market swings. But for many investors, the bigger question isn’t “What happens next?”—it’s “How do I prepare for any outcome?”

U.S. stocks moved higher on September 15, 2025, as the Dow edged up and the S&P 500 and Nasdaq reached record levels. Investor optimism grew after President Trump suggested that trade discussions with China were on a positive track, with an upcoming Federal Reserve meeting also in view.