Your Money

Citizens freely expressing political opinions is the most prized aspect of a functioning democracy. That freedom will undoubtedly be on full display as we head toward the hotly contested Presidential election next week.

History suggests that presidential elections are not nearly as important to the financial markets as the media plays them up to be, and a focus on fundamentals rather than political slogans has generally been beneficial. Historical asset class and sector performance show virtually no consistent performance pattern under Democratic or Republican Presidents.

In fact, performance is sometimes totally counter to what was expected. Take a second look at that chart. Did you notice that Obama and Trump, arguably mirror-image administrations, earned the exact same return?

It seems like everyone has a political view, but as investors, we will remain extraordinarily dispassionate while managing portfolios during what could be a highly emotional period.

Fade the election
source: Richard Bernstein Associates

Your Life

What is mild cognitive impairment? It is the stage between the expected decline in memory and thinking that happens with age and the more serious decline of dementia. It may include problems with memory, language, or judgment. People with MCI may be aware that their memory or mental function has "slipped." Family and close friends also may notice changes. But these changes aren't bad enough to impact daily life or normal activities. MCI may increase the risk of dementia caused by Alzheimer's disease or other brain disorders. However, some people with mild cognitive impairment might never get worse. And some eventually get better.

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI)
source: Mayo Clinic

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