On Investing

After the Shutdown: Markets, Policy & the Wall of Worry

Nov 14, 2025
Mike Townsend, a Washington-based political analyst at Charles Schwab, shares his insights on the recent end of the government shutdown. He discusses the key provisions in the agreement, including back pay for federal workers and the political implications of the Affordable Care Act subsidies. The conversation also delves into the upcoming Supreme Court ruling on tariffs and the timeline for resuming reliable government data. Townsend emphasizes that while debt concerns linger, political will to address them seems limited in the near term.
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INSIGHT

Hidden Credit Risks In The Market

  • Credit risk worries rose after surprise auto-sector bankruptcies exposed hidden leverage.
  • Investors now question where other undiscovered weak credit (the "cockroaches") may exist.
INSIGHT

Deficits Influence Rates And Fed Strategy

  • Rising deficits (near 7% of GDP) are prompting investor concern about long-term Treasury yields and Fed policy.
  • Debt overhang could complicate inflation management and asset allocation decisions.
INSIGHT

AI Hype Meets A Wall Of Worry

  • Investor questions about AI centered on valuation, potential bubbles, and what could trigger a sharp repricing.
  • Liz Ann Sonders notes markets often climb a "wall of worry" despite pervasive pessimism.
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