Government Policy
Understand how policy decisions coming out of Washington may impact financial markets and your investments.
Government Policy content
Washington Watch
The Department of Homeland Security has shut down, but impact has been limited so far. Here's what to expect.
Our point of view on recent market and economic activity.
Washington Watch
This report is current as of February 12, 2026
In these early days of 2026, we've already seen a number of policy and political developments that have directly impacted the markets, including the U.S. military operation in Venezuela, threats and negotiations over Greenland, and threats against the independence of the Federal Reserve. With 2026 being a midterm election year, the frenetic pace in Washington will likely continue.
In this update, we'll flag some key issues that RIAs will want to watch in the months ahead.
As Trump and Powell argue over rates, the Taylor rule uses data to suggest where rates should be. But some argue this is an outdated way to set policy.
Weakening global ties may lead to economic disruption and lasting investment implications. Here's what investors should know about navigating the changing landscape.
On Investing
Dennis DeBusschere joins Liz Ann Sonders to discuss why strong post‑COVID productivity, a weaker dollar, and evolving AI dynamics are reshaping macro trends.
On Investing
Kathy Jones interviews Jack Schwager, famed author of the "Market Wizards" series, about how top traders think.
Washington Wise
Headlines are meant to grab attention, not to provide investing advice. So how can you separate urgency from noise in order to make strategic decisions for your portfolio?
The federal funds rate will remain 3.5% to 3.75%. While the market still expects two rate cuts late this year, the Fed is likely to tread cautiously given the economic backdrop.