SOMA Living October 2024

FINANCIAL FOCUS

With the presidential election just weeks away, the public eagerly anticipates the outcome and its implications for national issues. As a citizen, you likely share these concerns — but what about as an investor? Should you make moves in anticipation of potential policy changes? Let’s examine the big picture through history. Financial markets have fluctuated under both Democratic and Republican presidents, with similar patterns for Congress. While decisions in Washington affect markets, it’s often challenging to draw a direct correlation between political events and market performance. Political candidates frequently make promises that don’t materialize, or yield different results than expected. Other institutions, such as the Federal Reserve, which controls short-term interest rates, also impact various market sectors. Additionally, external events like foreign conflicts or natural disasters can create short-term investment shifts. Instead of altering your portfolio based on election outcomes, focus on factors that truly influence your investments: Your goals : Define your short- and long-term objectives. For short-term needs, prioritize stability; for long-term goals like retirement, include growth-oriented investments. Your risk tolerance : Ensure your portfolio aligns with your comfort level regarding risk. Your time horizon : Adjust your investment approach as you progress through life stages. Your liquidity needs : Maintain sufficient cash and equivalents to handle unexpected expenses. Ultimately, concentrate on long-term strategies that align with your goals rather than the candidates on the ballot. VOTE FOR SOLID INVESTMENT STRATEGIES

Gary T. Jones 973.821.4900 • g.jones@EdwardJones.com

With over 25 years of experience, I work with individuals and businesses to help you achieve your financial goals. As a longtime resident of SOMA, I am proud to serve the local community. To learn more about the content of this article or schedule an appointment to talk about your goals, please contact me in my Maplewood office.

OCTOBER 2024 | SOMA LIVING 21

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