Tension Mounts as US Election Votes Are Counted

As the world watches closely, the U.S. presidential election results unfold, with significant implications for both domestic and global markets. Current tallies show Donald Trump, representing the Republican Party, leading with 41,449,521 votes (52.5%), compared to Kamala Harris of the Democratic Party, who has garnered 36,410,635 votes (46.1%). Investors and analysts are keenly aware that the outcome could reshape economic policies and global trade dynamics.

Market Reactions and Global Implications

In Asia, stock indexes reported a mixed performance on Wednesday morning amid ongoing uncertainty regarding the election results.

• Japan’s Nikkei 225 saw an increase of 1.4%.

• Australia’s ASX 200 also rose by 1%, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index dropped by more than 1%.

• The Shanghai Composite Index in mainland China edged up by approximately 0.5%.

Meanwhile, in the United States on Tuesday, major stock indices such as the Dow Jones Industrial Average, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all recorded gains of over 1%, reflecting investors' cautious optimism.

Tim Waterer, chief market analyst at KCM Trade, noted that fluctuations in markets are still possible as assets sensitive to election outcomes—like the U.S. dollar and Chinese stocks—are closely monitored.

The U.S. dollar has risen about 1% against a basket of major currencies in anticipation of potential shifts in trade policies depending on who wins.

Election Policies and Future Considerations

The looming question for investors is how Trump’s policies might affect global trade if he secures another term. His administration has signaled intentions to impose higher tariffs, particularly on China—a move that could create ripples across Asian economies.

Katrina Ell from Moody’s Analytics expressed concerns regarding Trump’s protectionist platform and its potential fallout in Asia. She also pointed out uncertainties surrounding his foreign policy stance toward Taiwan.

Conversely, should Kamala Harris emerge victorious, analysts expect a continuation of Joe Biden’s approach to trade—characterized by its predictability and possibly less aggressive regulatory measures in sectors such as banking and healthcare.

Harris’s administration could also prioritize renewable energy initiatives, which may benefit companies focused on electric vehicles and solar energy technologies.

As the situation unfolds, other significant economic indicators will be closely watched this week:

• The U.S. Federal Reserve is set to announce its latest interest rate decision on Thursday.

• On Friday, Chinese officials will reveal plans addressing their economic slowdown.

With these developments on the horizon, stakeholders remain vigilant about how the election results will shape not only American policy but also international relations and economic stability in a rapidly changing world.