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

Mike Townsend joins the show to discuss the political implications of the recent government shutdown and how it might affect the markets.
November 14, 2025Liz Ann SondersKathy Jones

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In this episode, Kathy Jones and Liz Ann Sonders discuss some recent investor' questions involving credit risks, government debt, and the potential for an AI bubble. 

Then, Mike Townsend, Schwab's Washington-based political analyst, joins the show to discuss the end of the government shutdown. He and Liz Ann and Kathy cover the provisions within the agreement to reopen the government, including the potential extension of subsidies for the Affordable Care Act. They also discuss the upcoming Supreme Court ruling on tariffs and how the government might take a while to get caught up on data releases involving employment and inflation information. Kathy and Liz Ann routinely answer questions about the effects of government debt and deficits, and they ask Mike Townsend for his thoughts on how and when that issue might be resolved. Finally, they address upcoming changes to the tax code and the political fallout of the shutdown.

You can keep up with the latest developments out of Washington—and learn how they might affect investors—by following Mike Townsend on X and LinkedIn. You can also listen to and follow his podcast, WashingtonWise.

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