Six Issues That Could Move Markets in 2026

26 snips

Jan 15, 2026

The discussion dives into how politics and policy will shape markets in 2026. Topics include concerns over Federal Reserve independence and the implications of a DOJ inquiry into its leadership. Geopolitical risks, especially involving Venezuela, are explored alongside key Supreme Court cases that could affect tariffs and Fed appointments. The podcast highlights impending congressional battles over health care, government funding, and cryptocurrency regulation. Insights on regulatory changes and midterm election impacts provide a comprehensive overview for investors.

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INSIGHT

Geopolitics Often Moves Headlines, Not Markets

Geopolitical events like the Venezuela operation often have limited market impact despite big headlines.
Structural issues in Venezuela mean oil-market effects are likely muted and uncertain.

ADVICE

Watch Congress For Political Signals

Monitor congressional responses to military actions, such as War Powers resolutions, for policy and funding risks.
Expect symbolic votes that signal division even when final outcomes remain uncertain.

INSIGHT

Key Supreme Court Cases Could Shift Markets

Supreme Court rulings on Fed firings and tariffs could directly affect markets and policy.
A ruling against tariffs may trigger complex refunds and benefit large importers.

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Policy and politics are likely to have an outsized impact on the markets in 2026 as the administration, Congress, and the courts seek to shape the policy landscape in advance of the midterm elections. In this episode of WashingtonWise, host Mike Townsend focuses on six issues that could directly impact investors in the year ahead, including Federal Reserve independence, geopolitical events like the U.S. military operation in Venezuela, and key debates in Congress around health care policy, government funding, and cryptocurrency regulation. And he discusses the impact to investors' portfolios and the markets in general that proposed rules from regulatory agencies like the SEC, CFTC, and Labor Department could bring. With additional insights on pivotal Supreme Court cases and the implications of the upcoming midterm elections, Mike emphasizes the podcast's mission to help investors cut through political and economic noise, providing clear, fact-based analysis to better understand what truly matters for markets and your investments.

WashingtonWise is an original podcast for investors from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit schwab.com/WashingtonWise.

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