A likely Biden-Trump rematch in the US presidential election in November is unsettling investors, but currently they should be focusing on fundamentals not political heat, affirms the CEO of one of the world’s largest independent financial advisory and asset management organizations.
The comments from deVere Group’s Nigel Green come on Super Tuesday, the biggest day to date in the 2024 race for the White House, when voters in 15 states and one US territory choose candidates for president.
He says: “Investors in the US and around the world will be watching Super Tuesday keenly as it gives us insights into the perceived strengths and weaknesses of Joe Biden and Donald Trump – and one of them is most likely to be the next ‘CEO’ of the world’s largest economy.
“If the election leads to a divided government, as is the current situation, the likelihood of additional legislative gridlock is expected to mitigate any market response.
“Being monitored by Wall Street and global financial markets most carefully is the possibility of a Red Wave scenario, in which Trump returns to the White House accompanied by a Republican sweep of Congress.”
The deVere CEO says, as always, there will be “clear sector winners and losers” if there is either a Red Wave or a Blue Wave – where Biden’s Democrats get the sweep – with historical patterns and policy preferences of each candidate providing insights into potential sectoral impacts.
“For example, a Trump victory would favor traditional energy companies, including oil and gas producers; whereas Biden has shown strong support for clean energy. Renewable sectors, such as solar and wind, would therefore likely see increased government support and investment.
“Elsewhere, Biden has expressed support for expanding the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which could benefit healthcare providers and insurance companies, but pharmaceutical companies could face more pressure to lower drug prices, impacting their profit margins.”
While elections undeniably inject uncertainty into financial markets – a factor that markets inherently loathe – for the time being, investors “should keep their focus on fundamental factors,” notes Nigel Green.
“Factors such as interest rates, corporate earnings, monetary policy, Federal Reserve actions, and overall economic growth will continue to play pivotal roles in market trajectories.
“By concentrating on these fundamental elements, investors can gain a more comprehensive understanding of market dynamics, irrespective of the election’s outcome.”
The deVere CEO concludes: “The US presidential election matters for US and international investors, especially at a time when things are so polarized, and as such all eyes will be on Super Tuesday as it’s the biggest day so far in the election year.
“But while elections may introduce uncertainty, the bedrock of financial markets lies in fundamental factors, and it’s on these that, for the time being at least, investors should focus.”
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