We are in the middle of election season and emotions are very high. I know many clients are nervous and considering making financial decisions based upon who wins the presidency. This is all too common and the chart below from J.P. Morgan highlights the relationship of consumer confidence and political affiliation.
What is interesting is you can see that consumer confidence is directly influenced by political affiliation. For example, look at Republican confidence being very high until Obama took office in 2009 and it stayed low until Trump took office in 2017. We can see the same but opposite with Democrats where it is highest with Obama in office.
The stock market has continued to climb over the years regardless of what political affiliation is president and there is no reason to expect otherwise. During the election season stay informed, treat everyone with respect, and be aware of your political bias and how it may impact your outlook.
We are here to help and please contact us if you would like to review your long-term goals and how best to navigate market ups and downs during and after the election season.
