Volatility, Policy, and AI: Choosing Growth When Currency Blurs the Scoreboard

September 29, 2025 | Season 7 | Episode 36Forget the spooky stories—October’s market script is more complex and more constructive than memory suggests. We open by challenging the “October effect,” tracing how volatility and returns actually stack up, and why certain election cycles—not the month itself—deserve the caution label. From there we walk through a potential U.S. government shutdown with a clear, practical lens: what functions continue, where services stall, how a delay in key economic data could muddy rate expectations, and why operational friction matters to both bonds and equities.The heart of the episode digs into a defining 2025 dynamic: U.S. stocks up while the U.S. dollar slips. For domestic investors that’s a win; for overseas investors it’s a math problem. We explain how currency drag pushes global capital toward growth assets—AI leaders, cloud platforms, and dominant tech franchises—where credible upside can outrun FX headwinds. Then we stage a fair debate on the dollar’s next act, balancing inflation-from-tariffs, debt concerns, and governance noise against the greenback’s haven appeal in a fragmented world. The conclusion isn’t a hot take—it’s a process: align allocations with real risk tolerance, assume your macro call might be wrong, and rebalance on schedule.We also cover near-term catalysts that could bend the tape: tariff proposals touching pharmaceuticals and the knock-on risks for generics, OPEC+ production signals, shifting trade asks across Asia, and a handful of stock-specific moves from gaming to semis and software. Finally, we spotlight healthcare as a long-ignored corner worth a second look—where late-stage pipelines and selective names may offer asymmetry even if the broader sector lags.If this kind of clear, no-drama market roadmap helps you navigate the noise, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review. Your feedback helps us bring sharper insights to your feed every week.** For informational and educational purposes only, not intended as investment advice. Views and opinions are subject to change without notice. For full disclosures, ADVs, and CRS Forms, please visit https://heroldlantern.com/disclosure **To learn about becoming a Herold & Lantern Investments valued client, please visit https://heroldlantern.com/wealth-advisory-contact-formFollow and Like Us on Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn | @HeroldLantern

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