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In the wake of the longest federal government shutdown in history, changes in tariff policy and heightened stock market volatility, many Americans are concerned about what political uncertainty could cost them.
Looking ahead to 2026, the political environment will be the No. 1 concern clients raise with advisors, according to a new report from the CFP Board, the certifying body for financial advisors, the Certified Financial Planner.
About half of CFPs surveyed said politics dominate conversations about financial planning, even when it comes to money issues like inflation and market fluctuations. In November, the CFP Board conducted a survey of 322 financial advisors who received this designation.
“Many people were basing their forecasts on the overall economic and political situation,” said Kevin Ross, managing director of research at the CFP Board.
Uncertainty “creeps in”
“There is definitely a gradual increase in the uncertainty caused by economics and politics,” Ross said. “CFP professionals have a unique relationship,” he says. Because they are often the first to learn of the financial worries weighing on their customers.
According to the CFP Board report, many CFPs surveyed said their clients were “cautious,” “uncertain,” or “worried,” but the majority still said their clients had an optimistic outlook for the year ahead. About 82% said they expect their customers to achieve long-term goals, and many are also planning major expenses such as vacations, home repairs, and renovations.
Other research also shows that most Americans are more confident about 2026. According to a NerdWallet report, nearly three in five adults plan to take financial risks in the next year, such as buying a home or starting a business.
Still, NerdWallet reveals that people have mixed feelings about welcoming the new year. More than a third of Americans are optimistic about their financial situation, but about the same number feel anxious and stressed.
“While the overall state of the economy can certainly influence these considerations, much of your decision should be driven by your financial situation, including how much you have saved and what debt you currently have or may take on,” NerdWallet senior economist Elizabeth Renter said in a statement.
It helps to create a financial plan that suits you.
Many experts say working with an advisor to develop a financial plan for short- and long-term goals is an important first step.
“As uncertainty increases, the value of professional financial planning becomes even clearer,” CFP Board CEO Kevin Keller said in a statement.
Having clearly defined goals and a personalized financial plan can also help you weather political or economic ups and downs, Ross said. “When you create a financial plan, you shouldn’t be so responsive to your daily and weekly actions,” says Ross.
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