The last week of July was subsumed by a volatile market and a news cycle dominated by coverage of the Federal Reserve’s (FOMC) Wednesday decision regarding interest rates. While it was the second such meeting under new chairman Kevin Warsh, unlike his first meeting last month, sentiment this go around pointed to the real possibility of a rate hike heading into the week.

June is around the corner and we approach the new summer season with Memorial Day ahead, vacation schedules planned, and pleasant weather in mind. So too, we conclude another positive earnings season for corporate America, with more than 80% of S&P 500 companies delivering upbeat earnings surprises with an average growth rate of nearly 28% .