This election year, global economic uncertainty and the 'vibecession' are impacting investors.

• Over half of the world's population resides in nations that will hold or have already held a national election in 2024.
• In 2024, the United States dropped three positions to rank 7th in the Global Financial Inclusion Index by Principal Financial Group.

Over half of the world's population will participate in national elections this year, making it a "super election year," according to Statista.

A recent report indicates that promoting a healthy economy is a top priority for voters worldwide. However, even when the economy is performing well, many individuals have a more polarized and negative view of the economic environment, which is referred to as a "vibecession."

The vibecession doesn't seem to have affected how people invest.

"Nearly 10 million plan participants of Principal Financial Group are not moving their money, according to Dan Houston, the chairman and CEO of the company, in an exclusive interview at CNBC's global headquarters in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey. Instead, they are staying the course and know the benefits of staying in a well-diversified portfolio."

The principal provides retirement plans and other financial products to 68 million clients worldwide, including institutions and individuals.

U.S. is 'treading water' on financial inclusion

The Principal's Global Financial Inclusion Index has been measuring the promotion of financial inclusion among consumers in over 40 markets since 2022.

The United States dropped three positions to rank 7th overall this year. Singapore and Hong Kong are in the top two spots.

Houston stated that while the U.S. is making progress, countries that have embraced digital financial transactions and improved financial literacy are gaining an advantage.

The financial inclusion of consumers worldwide will be influenced by the results of the 2025 elections and the policies that emerge from them, according to him.

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