We're starting to enter a slower period of news flow, which along with weak August seasonals could make markets more susceptible to volatility from things like political discussions, geopolitical factors, or other unexpected events in the near term. Earnings season is over and the economic calendar is slow. (LPL Research)

Beware of this potential bomb in your portfolio. Despite year-to-date returns of 4.79% according to the Bloomberg Barclays High Yield Corporate Index, the sector is underperforming the Bloomberg Barclays Aggregate Index. Pressure in the lower rated credit spreads is leading to underperformance this month. (LPL Research)

Second quarter earnings season is over, and it was a good one. The S&P 500 has produced a solid 12% year-over-year growth rate. Energy, financials, and technology shared the load in making the biggest contributions to earnings growth. (LPL Research)

The SEC has approved Arcimoto, the Eugene-based electric vehicle maker, to start selling shares to the public. The stock will be listed on the Nasdaq. The company looks to raise $30 million to pay debts, set up a Eugene factory and start up production. (The Register Guard)

With Northwest Quadrant Wealth Management, a Registered Investment Advisor I am Troy Reinhart.