Financial Focus

What Does Election Year Mean for Investors?

By Mark Sonnier AAMS, Investment Representative
August 31, 2004

The presidential campaign is starting to heat up. If you are a U.S. citizen, you may be quite interested in the election. But as an investor, should you be equally attentive?

It might seem that the presidential race brings out some issues that could have a substantial effect on your investments. In the weeks ahead, you are likely to hear a lot about the loss of manufacturing jobs, the growing budget deficit, problems in Iraq, strains between the United States and other countries, environmental concerns and other topics.

Clearly, these are serious subjects, worthy of a national debate. However, they probably shouldn't drive your investment decisions. The financial markets are most strongly influenced by corporate profits and the performance of the economy - and right now, both these variables are looking pretty favorable.

History Is on Your Side

In fact, since 1941, the average returns of the Dow Jones Industrial Average in the third and fourth years of presidential cycles have been 21.3 percent and 11.7 percent, respectively, according to an analysis cited in The Wall Street Journal. But the returns for the first two years have been just 7.9 percent and 9.6 percent.

You can't count on these figures as a guide to your near term expectations. Nonetheless, for what it's worth to you as an investor in 2004, history is on your side.

After the Election?

Like anyone else, you'll have your own reasons to vote for one presidential candidate or another. But, as you look to the future, don't make the mistake of thinking that the fate of your candidate is inextricably linked to the success or failure of your investments.

The fact is that the markets have done well and poorly under both Democratic and Republican administrations; neither party has a monopoly on the good times or the bad. Consequently, as you plan your investment strategies for the next few yours, don't read too much into the outcome of the election.

If fact, your best bet is to follow some tried-true investment techniques year-round. Here are a couple to consider:

Look for Quality -

• Is its management sound?
• Are its products competitive:
• Does it have a solid business philosophy:
• Does it have a strong track record of earnings?

Look for diversification -

For example, suppose you discover a growth stock that you really like. If you already own several others that are similar, you may not be helping yourself much by adding the new stock - and you could be diverting resources from other investment opportunities that can help you make greater progress toward your long-term goals.

Your financial professional can evaluate your holdings to help ensure that you're properly diversified.

Cast Your Vote - and Invest Wisely

You'll want to "vote" for the right investments for the right reasons.

Mark Sonnier is an investment representative for Edward Jones. If you have an investment question or problem you would like Mark to address, you may reach him at (281) 332-8554 or 1025 East Main, Suite 102 in League City.