With the first US presidential debate taking place this week, markets have started the seasonal swing of uncertainty that is a common backdrop for presidential election years. There appears to be a prevailing thought that this year is particularly contentious due to a Senate majority also being up for grabs--and of course the deluge of data around COVID-19 also continues to move markets.
As we close out the final days of September and the 3rd quarter, we will begin to turn the focus to year-end planning. Be on the lookout for some educational opportunities that will be available from our practice in the final few months of the year.
Here's what we're reading this week:
Weekly Commentary -- A consequential election -- BlackRock
The U.S. election result is set to have big implications for markets as U.S. fiscal stimulus, public investment, taxation, regulation and foreign affairs could shift.
The activity restart is running ahead of expectations in developed markets, albeit at different paces as virus dynamics vary.
Markets will focus on the first U.S. presidential debate, U.S. consumer confidence and employment this week.
Fourth Quarter Outlook -- Cetera Investment Management
The global economy rebounded sharply in the third quarter, but it should be a slower recovery going forward.
- Bond markets also have their own risks, with yields at very low levels and high- yield markets not fully pricing in potential bankruptcies.
- The worst of the COVID-19 related downturn appears to be over, but a continued recovery will see ups and downs, and slower growth can be expected.
U.S. political change: Sweeping or incremental? -- Capital Group
