Bold warning: political uncertainty is now Americans’ top money worry, and financial planners are sounding the alarm.
As the longest-ever federal government shutdown ends, tariffs shift, and stock markets flicker with volatility, many people worry about how politics could hit their wallets. Looking ahead to 2026, the political landscape has become the primary concern clients bring to their advisors, according to a new study from the CFP Board, which administers the certified financial planner credential.
In the CFP Board survey of 322 CFP professionals conducted in November, about half report that politics dominates financial planning conversations—more than inflation or market swings. Kevin Roth, the board’s managing director of research, notes that people often tie their outlook to broader economic and political conditions.
Uncertainty is quietly climbing. Roth says the financial planning community is often the first to sense the worries weighing on clients, reflecting a broader mood of cautiousness, uncertainty, and anxiety. Yet most clients still project optimism for the year ahead, with roughly 82% expecting to reach long-term goals. Many are also budgeting for major expenses like vacations, home improvements, or renovations.
Other research mirrors these mixed feelings. A NerdWallet study finds that nearly 60% of adults expect to take financial risks in 2026—whether buying a home or starting a business—while a similar share reports feeling anxious or stressed about their finances. Economist Elizabeth Renter of NerdWallet emphasizes that, beyond the broader economy, personal finances—savings, debt, and how much risk one is willing to take—should shape decisions.
The path forward, experts say, is personal planning. Working with an advisor to craft a plan for both short- and long-term goals is crucial. As uncertainty grows, the value of professional financial planning becomes even clearer, says CFP Board CEO Kevin Keller. A well-defined plan helps you stay on course through political and economic ups and downs, and reduces knee-jerk reactions to every daily fluctuation, adds Roth.
If you want to stay informed, consider subscribing to CNBC’s YouTube channel for ongoing coverage.
Would you prefer to approach financial planning with a highly conservative or more opportunistic strategy given the current political climate—and why? Share your thoughts in the comments.
