Mercury, the planet of the mind, goes retrograde in Cancer from June 29th to July 23rd, 2026, in the planet’s longest and slowest retrograde phase of 2026.

Mercury remains in Punarvasu throughout this whole transit, the auspicious and restorative nakshatra associated with replenishment and financial success. You may be rethinking your budget, or a planned purchase is delayed while you do your research on the market. Classic experiences are associated with the retrograde phase, where communication and commerce come into focus, and you have the opportunity to reassess your plans. This is a good time to window-shop, understand a delivery system, and possibly save yourself time and expense in the long run.

An important detail you could not possibly have known in the beginning may emerge over the course of Mercury’s arc, so deferring a decision or purchase may still be worthwhile. This transit begins with an emotional high point of the Full Moon on June 29th, and a decision or recent success clears the way for you to take a new study and research direction. Think carefully before accepting a second-time-around deal, however, as your initial hesitancy or unwillingness may have been for good reason.

Mercury moves closely with expansive Jupiter up to July 7th, and support from a teacher or advisor brings an answer and a glimpse of new possibilities. You are raising your sights and being more ambitious, but this entails change and possible added complexity, so make sure your new scheme is sustainable. July 12th to 14th also requires care and attention where a powerful personality in your orbit exercises control, and you give a lot of mental focus to impressing them.