Poll: What Was 2014’s Biggest News Story for Investors?
Late last month, we asked CFA Institute Financial NewsBrief readers what was the biggest news story for investors in 2014. An overwhelming majority of respondents believe that the collapse in crude oil prices is the biggest story (73%).
Such a response is understandable. First, because all economic activity relies on energy, a more than 50% decline in the price of the world’s most important energy commodity affects nearly every endeavor and hence almost all investments. Second, there are geopolitical ramifications for the United States, the Arabian Peninsula, Russia, and other areas that may spur dramatic political upheaval. Third, individual industries may be radically affected, including smaller energy companies, automobile manufacturers, alternative energy companies, utilities, oil-field service companies, shippers, and so forth. Finally, consumers are likely to see a boost in their wallets because of lower gasoline prices. Russia’s unique realpolitik and the collapse of its currency (14%) barely hold a candle to crude oil’s collapse.
All other “big” stories were not big according to NewsBrief readers.
What was 2014’s biggest news story for investors?
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All posts are the opinion of the author. As such, they should not be construed as investment advice, nor do the opinions expressed necessarily reflect the views of CFA Institute or the author’s employer.
