As we head into another presidential election season, it’s easy to get swept up in news headlines and social media chatter about what each candidate could mean for the markets. But here’s an important reminder: historically, the market’s performance has less to do with which political party is in power and more to do with stability and predictability in the rules of the game.
The real driver behind market shifts is uncertainty. Companies, investors, and market leaders need a predictable regulatory environment to plan and adapt successfully. It’s not about who’s elected but about having a set framework that companies can work within to keep the economy moving forward.
While there’s a lot of focus on how a new president could impact the market, a more significant factor is actually the Federal Reserve’s approach to interest rates. The market has been moving positively, factoring in expected rate cuts. If the Fed were to change its stance unexpectedly, the resulting impact on the markets would likely be greater than that of any election outcome.
The election of representatives in Congress also plays a huge role in shaping the economic landscape. Ultimately, Congress holds the power to create or modify laws and regulations that impact businesses and the economy at large. So, while the presidential race gets the most attention, Congress is where much of the impactful change actually happens.
In times like these, focus on the bigger picture—how companies adapt to the economic landscape and what policies from the Fed and Congress might influence long-term market trends. This approach can offer a more grounded perspective amid election-year noise.
Blaise Stevens
Managing Member, MBA, CFP®, AIF®, CLU®, ChFC®