In the wake of the 2016 U.S. presidential election investors and the electorate alike are
seeking clarity on a wide range of macro policy issues that will impact the economy and markets
in the years ahead. The primary goal of this book is to provide an objective source for
investors to learn about economic policy issues that surfaced. Topics include long-term growth
the federal budget deficit healthcare reform tax reform regulatory policies affecting the
financial system and environment the nexus of monetary exchange rate and trade policies and
globalization. The book explains how these issues have evolved considers arguments from both
sides of the political divide and draws upon evidence from studies by experts in the
respective areas. A related goal is to assess the likely impact of economic policies on
financial markets. While the presidential election was close the markets' response was
decisive: U.S. and global equity markets went on a tear as consumer and business confidence
soared. This surprised many investors who believed a Trump victory would be bad for financial
markets. It also caused many to question whether expectations embedded in markets were too
optimistic. Sargen's assessment is presented in the opening and concluding chapters.
