Many Happy Returns Investing in Crazy Times: Should You Carry on as Normal?
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Jan 14, 2026 Tensions in US politics raise questions about investment strategies. Amid investigation into the Fed Chair, the hosts debate whether maintaining a normal portfolio is wise. They share historical examples, like the 1970s Fed blunders, and analyze today's geopolitical risks from Venezuela to Taiwan. Unpacking market reactions and portfolio adjustments, they ponder if it's time to hedge against rising uncertainties. Finally, they explore the odds of political outcomes affecting global markets, leaving listeners pondering their next move.
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Flambéed Apple Pie Moment
- Ramin recounts a lunch where Robin's apple pie was flambéed in front of his daughter.
- The hosts use the dessert moment humorously to open the episode about unsettling events.
Fed Independence Under Political Threat
- Fed independence is being directly threatened by political pressure in the US today.
- Ramin Nakisa warns this could force monetary policy away from evidence-based decisions toward political aims.
Chair Change Can Reshape Policy Direction
- A change of Fed chair could shift monetary policy to align with presidential preferences.
- Michael Pugh and Ramin note committee voting limits the chair, but seat changes can change policy direction.