How would the market react to a Trump or Kamala victory?
In recent days, the financial markets have exhibited increased sluggishness as investors await the outcome of the US elections. Kamala Harris and Donald Trump represent two starkly contrasting visions for the future of the United States. This article will explore the potential effects each candidate could have on key financial assets, including Oil, Gold, Bitcoin, the S&P 500, and EUR/USD.
Oil (Brent)
If Kamala Harris secures victory in the election, it is likely that her administration will prioritise renewable energy initiatives and stricter environmental regulations, potentially curtailing the use of fossil fuels. This shift could lead to limitations on oil production and a subsequent decrease in supply. With global demand expected to remain stable, this scenario may initially drive Oil prices higher.
Conversely, a win for Donald Trump could result in a relaxation of environmental regulations and an incentive to boost domestic oil production. This approach, often articulated by Trump, may increase US supply available for both domestic consumption and export, potentially leading to lower prices, depending on global demand. Trump's administration might also adopt more aggressive policies towards OPEC, adding to market volatility.
Gold (XAU/USD)
Kamala Harris is likely to support expansionary fiscal policies, including increased spending on social programs and infrastructure projects. This rise in expenditure may lead to a higher federal deficit, contributing to inflationary pressures and prompting the Federal Reserve (FED) to consider raising interest rates to manage inflation. Higher interest rates could initially weigh on Gold prices, as investors might seek the better yields offered by government bonds. However, ongoing support for international conflicts, such as in Ukraine and Israel, could sustain geopolitical uncertainty, which typically favours Gold as a safe-haven asset.
Under a Trump administration, fiscal policies may shift towards tax cuts and reductions in welfare programs. Such cuts could depress government spending and lower aggregate demand, potentially leading to a decrease in inflation and creating room for possible interest rate cuts. Reduced interest rates might drive investors towards equities for better returns or prompt them to seek refuge in Gold during market turmoil. Moreover, Trump's focus on domestic security and diminished global involvement could exacerbate existing conflicts, further elevating Gold prices in the short term.
Bitcoin (BTC/USD)
Kamala Harris has yet to articulate a definitive stance on cryptocurrencies, but the Democratic platform generally leans toward increased regulation. A stricter regulatory environment could deter institutional investment in Bitcoin, potentially exerting downward pressure on its price in the event of a Harris victory.
In contrast, Donald Trump has displayed a growing enthusiasm for cryptocurrencies during his campaign, which could catalyse an initial price appreciation for Bitcoin. Additionally, his rapport with Elon Musk, a prominent Bitcoin advocate, strengthens the case for potential gains in BTC should Trump win.
S&P 500
Should Kamala Harris assume office, her administration is likely to continue implementing economic stimulus measures, which could bolster the S&P 500, particularly in the green technology and renewable energy sectors. However, tighter regulations on oil and finance industries might adversely impact certain sectors. Therefore, a moderate appreciation of the S&P 500 is plausible, especially if fiscal stimulus supports domestic consumption.
On the other hand, a Donald Trump victory could propel the S&P 500 into a strong upward trend, driven by corporate tax cuts and a less interventive regulatory environment. The financial markets tend to react favourably to tax reductions and deregulation, and a decrease in government expenditure could lower inflation in the short term, providing the Fed with room to reduce interest rates. This scenario could enhance credit access and stimulate domestic consumption, benefiting both corporations and the S&P 500.
EUR/USD
A Kamala Harris presidency may adopt a more cooperative and diplomatic approach to international relations, particularly with the European Union. This stance could strengthen the euro, potentially driving the EUR/USD pair higher due to improved trade relations. Furthermore, robust spending policies might weaken the US dollar, increasing demand for the euro.
Conversely, if Donald Trump wins the election, the euro could depreciate against the dollar as his protectionist and aggressive trade policies tend to favour the dollar in the immediate term. Trump's "Make America Great Again" slogan underscores his commitment to bolstering domestic trade and the dollar. Consequently, any policy that negatively impacts trade with the EU, such as tariffs or aggressive trade measures, could further weaken the euro while benefiting the USD.
Preparing for Diverse Market Outcomes
In conclusion, whether Kamala Harris or Donald Trump emerges victorious could result in markedly different consequences for the financial markets. It is crucial to recognise that the market is likely to wait and observe which policies will be implemented in practice. The repercussions of the US elections may resonate for months ahead as market participants acclimatise to this new reality.
Disclaimer:
74% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results. The value of investments may fall as well as rise and the investor may not get back the amount initially invested. This content is not intended for nor applicable to residents of the UK.
Oil (Brent)
If Kamala Harris secures victory in the election, it is likely that her administration will prioritise renewable energy initiatives and stricter environmental regulations, potentially curtailing the use of fossil fuels. This shift could lead to limitations on oil production and a subsequent decrease in supply. With global demand expected to remain stable, this scenario may initially drive Oil prices higher.
Conversely, a win for Donald Trump could result in a relaxation of environmental regulations and an incentive to boost domestic oil production. This approach, often articulated by Trump, may increase US supply available for both domestic consumption and export, potentially leading to lower prices, depending on global demand. Trump's administration might also adopt more aggressive policies towards OPEC, adding to market volatility.
Gold (XAU/USD)
Kamala Harris is likely to support expansionary fiscal policies, including increased spending on social programs and infrastructure projects. This rise in expenditure may lead to a higher federal deficit, contributing to inflationary pressures and prompting the Federal Reserve (FED) to consider raising interest rates to manage inflation. Higher interest rates could initially weigh on Gold prices, as investors might seek the better yields offered by government bonds. However, ongoing support for international conflicts, such as in Ukraine and Israel, could sustain geopolitical uncertainty, which typically favours Gold as a safe-haven asset.
Under a Trump administration, fiscal policies may shift towards tax cuts and reductions in welfare programs. Such cuts could depress government spending and lower aggregate demand, potentially leading to a decrease in inflation and creating room for possible interest rate cuts. Reduced interest rates might drive investors towards equities for better returns or prompt them to seek refuge in Gold during market turmoil. Moreover, Trump's focus on domestic security and diminished global involvement could exacerbate existing conflicts, further elevating Gold prices in the short term.
Bitcoin (BTC/USD)
Kamala Harris has yet to articulate a definitive stance on cryptocurrencies, but the Democratic platform generally leans toward increased regulation. A stricter regulatory environment could deter institutional investment in Bitcoin, potentially exerting downward pressure on its price in the event of a Harris victory.
In contrast, Donald Trump has displayed a growing enthusiasm for cryptocurrencies during his campaign, which could catalyse an initial price appreciation for Bitcoin. Additionally, his rapport with Elon Musk, a prominent Bitcoin advocate, strengthens the case for potential gains in BTC should Trump win.
S&P 500
Should Kamala Harris assume office, her administration is likely to continue implementing economic stimulus measures, which could bolster the S&P 500, particularly in the green technology and renewable energy sectors. However, tighter regulations on oil and finance industries might adversely impact certain sectors. Therefore, a moderate appreciation of the S&P 500 is plausible, especially if fiscal stimulus supports domestic consumption.
On the other hand, a Donald Trump victory could propel the S&P 500 into a strong upward trend, driven by corporate tax cuts and a less interventive regulatory environment. The financial markets tend to react favourably to tax reductions and deregulation, and a decrease in government expenditure could lower inflation in the short term, providing the Fed with room to reduce interest rates. This scenario could enhance credit access and stimulate domestic consumption, benefiting both corporations and the S&P 500.
EUR/USD
A Kamala Harris presidency may adopt a more cooperative and diplomatic approach to international relations, particularly with the European Union. This stance could strengthen the euro, potentially driving the EUR/USD pair higher due to improved trade relations. Furthermore, robust spending policies might weaken the US dollar, increasing demand for the euro.
Conversely, if Donald Trump wins the election, the euro could depreciate against the dollar as his protectionist and aggressive trade policies tend to favour the dollar in the immediate term. Trump's "Make America Great Again" slogan underscores his commitment to bolstering domestic trade and the dollar. Consequently, any policy that negatively impacts trade with the EU, such as tariffs or aggressive trade measures, could further weaken the euro while benefiting the USD.
Preparing for Diverse Market Outcomes
In conclusion, whether Kamala Harris or Donald Trump emerges victorious could result in markedly different consequences for the financial markets. It is crucial to recognise that the market is likely to wait and observe which policies will be implemented in practice. The repercussions of the US elections may resonate for months ahead as market participants acclimatise to this new reality.
Disclaimer:
74% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future results. The value of investments may fall as well as rise and the investor may not get back the amount initially invested. This content is not intended for nor applicable to residents of the UK.
Disclaimer
The information and publications are not meant to be, and do not constitute, financial, investment, trading, or other types of advice or recommendations supplied or endorsed by TradingView. Read more in the Terms of Use.