Sectors to Watch Out in Donald Trump’s Presidency
Ujjwal Maheshwari, November 9, 2024
A potential Donald Trump presidency could impact several key economic sectors due to his policy preferences and “Make America Great Again” approach. His presidency would likely concentrate on key sectors with the aim of strengthening American industries.
As Donald Trump is set to become the 47th President, his campaign policies enhancing various sectors and services need to be closely watched. This could be a potential way for investors to follow the trends and capitalize on them.
Trump’s Course of Action
Donald Trump’s core objectives include slashing the system of tax credits. His government will impose significant tax cuts that would enhance the operations of the banking sector. Trump’s previous administration implemented tax cuts and reduced regulatory oversight for the financial sector. This pro-business stand could bring further benefits for banks, and investment firms when Trump forms his government.
Trump has been a strong supporter of increasing military funding. His idea of building a robust U.S. defence system has been acknowledged by the majority of Americans. A renewed presidency could mean higher defence budgets and increased spending on aerospace.
Trump has prioritized fossil fuels for a long period. His stand over renewable energy, emphasizing energy independence will continue to grow. If re-elected, he may likely continue policies supporting oil, natural gas, and coal production.
Trump’s policy on automotive will uplift the major players in that industry. As his campaign entails, Trump will include major tax deficits that can transform this sector. He has also vowed to double down on trade tariffs, especially against China.
Donald Trump’s Presidency will dive deep into these factors and investors concerned with growth in these sectors must keep a close watch on the trends observed.
Sectors to Watch Out for
Energy and Fossil Fuels: A Return to Traditional Energy
Oil and Gas
Trump’s previous presidency saw a significant deregulation in the oil and gas industry. He lifted the restrictions on drilling in federal lands and offshore assets as well. A return to these policies could benefit companies like ExxonMobil, Chevron, and others heavily involved in domestic oil production and exploration. Expanding offshore drilling could see investments in infrastructure and services related to extraction technologies.
Support for Coal Industry
Despite global shifts away from coal, Trump has been a keen supporter of the coal industry. He insisted that the jobs around the coal industry is essential for certain U.S. communities. With federal backing, this industry can see a surge through improved policies. Through short-term relief, the coal producers can seek profit margins but when the other countries move away from coal, the producers might not be able to sustain their growth.
Reduced Support for Renewables
There is a possibility that the Trump administration could roll back on certain subsidies and grants for solar, wind, and other clean energy technologies. This might create a challenging environment for these industries in the U.S.
Financial Services: Changes in Regulation
Banking and Lending
The Trump administration supported deregulation for a long time. This stance of Trump will make it easier for banks to lend and increase their operational efficiency. Trump’s return to the White Office would allow banks to generate higher revenues from lending. Major banks like JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo and Bank of America could benefit as lending activities rise.
Tax Cuts and Reformed Fiscal Policies
Trump previously implemented corporate tax cuts, which hiked corporate profits and stock buybacks. If he proposes further tax cuts, this could lead to increased profitability for corporations, benefiting shareholders and encouraging stock market growth.
Defence: Higher Budgets and Increased Spending
Boost in Defense Spending
An increase in defence spending would benefit companies involved in aerospace, cybersecurity, and military technologies. Major defence contractors like Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and Northrop Grumman could secure more contracts. Trump’s stand on ending wars is firm but on the other hand, global geopolitical tensions persist.
Space and Satellite Technology
The previous administration launched the U.S. Space Force and encouraged partnerships in space exploration and defence. Companies with extensive backgrounds in this domain are well-positioned to profit. This puts the U.S. as a dominant player in space defence.
Technology and Telecommunications
Tariffs and Supply Chains
Trade tensions with China, which characterized Trump’s previous presidency, might affect tech companies that rely on Chinese manufacturing or imports. Companies like Apple and Qualcomm might face hurdles if tariffs are reintroduced, leading to higher production costs or supply chain reconfigurations.
Increased Data Privacy Regulation
Under a Trump presidency, there could be increased government scrutiny over data privacy and social media regulation. Companies like Facebook, Twitter, and Google may face stricter guidelines regarding data usage and content moderation.
Manufacturing and Automotive
Trump’s previous term introduced tariffs on imported goods, particularly from countries like China and Mexico, to encourage companies to shift production to the U.S. Automakers with large production bases. Companies like Toyota, Honda and BMW might face additional tariffs if they continue to produce vehicles overseas. This could create an incentive for companies to increase domestic manufacturing, benefiting U.S.-based manufacturers like Ford and General Motors.
Domestic Production and Employment
Trump’s previous administration imposed tariffs on imported goods, especially from countries like China. This created incentives for manufacturers to relocate production to the U.S. to avoid a major blow in their operations. This time, he may continue using tariffs as a tool, benefiting U.S.-based manufacturers. This will lead to a significant high in job creation in industries like automobiles, machinery, and electronics.
Electric Vehicles (EVs)
Trump’s established stand on fossil fuels might cause him to roll back on certain environmental policies affecting the EV industry. However, with Elon Musk actively supporting the return of Trump’s Presidency, federal subsidies towards the Electric Vehicle industry might face a change.
Infrastructure
Trump has shown strong support for infrastructure investment. If he introduces a new infrastructure plan, it could benefit sectors such as construction, raw materials (say steel and concrete), and engineering firms involved in public works. Companies like Caterpillar and John Deere, with close ties to infrastructure development, may see an increase in their operations and demand if government funding increases for roads, bridges, and utilities.
Conclusion: Reshaping the U.S.
A Trump presidency would likely impact several key sectors, from energy and manufacturing to technology and healthcare. For investors, understanding these shifts becomes essential to develop their portfolio. By following the trends and researching companies on the market, investors can see substantial returns in the future. However, with uncertainties in international relations and environmental policies, the risks are not to be underestimated.
With potential shifts in energy, manufacturing, healthcare, and technology, sectors could either benefit or face challenges depending on how policies unfold. For those looking to stay ahead in the game, keep a close eye on the policy announcements of the Trump administration. This could help them to capitalize on the changes sector-wise.
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