Given recent political and economic events, such as the assassination attempts on former President Trump and the speeding up of the presidential race ahead of Election Day on November 5th, here are some insights and tools to help you stay informed and confident in your financial decisions.

Market Impacts and Misconceptions:

Elections often bring a heightened sense of uncertainty, which may trigger emotional responses in financial decision-making. It’s advisable to stick to your long-term strategy and look at fundamentals, even in the face of potential short-term market swings.

• Market Effect: Historically, the outcome of the election has little effect on markets, which seem to be more affected by economic fundamentals than politics. For instance, the S&P 500 returns have on average been positive under both major political parties, supporting the idea that markets are nonpartisan.

• Campaign proposals and congressional elections: While it may be tempting to invest in a sector or anticipate tax reforms based on candidates' campaign proposals, it is difficult to predict which promises the new administration will keep. Furthermore, with all 435 House of Representatives seats and about a third of Senate seats up for election, a divided Congress could prevent the new administration from implementing its proposals.