Stock funds posted a 12.6% gain year-to-date through August, driven by a positive month despite persistent market pressures. The rally capped a resilient summer, with investors navigating economic uncertainty and sector rotation. Looking back 25 years, September 2001 marked a pivotal moment when markets shuttered following the 9/11 attacks, triggering a historic pause in trading.

The anniversary serves as a stark reminder of volatility's impact on investor sentiment and the importance of long-term discipline during geopolitical crises.