Potomac Perspective with Brian Gardner

We’re celebrating our 100th anniversary! This week, we break down the latest developments in trade talks, examine the military operation in Iran, and discuss key housing and crypto bills working their way through Congress. Join Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro for this milestone episode!

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The battle lines are being drawn over new proposed maps that could shift the path to power in Congress. In the latest episode of Potomac Perspective, co-hosts Brian Gardner and Neil Shapiro have the latest on redistricting efforts. Also discussed:

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Is there more “clarity” around legislation to regulate the crypto industry? In the latest episode of Potomac Perspective, co-hosts Brian Gardner and Neil Shapiro have an update on efforts to jumpstart the stalled Clarity Act. Plus, the latest on a possible affordable housing bill and the war in Iran.

This material is prepared by the Washington Policy Strategy Group of Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated (“Stifel”). This material is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any security or instrument or to participate in any trading strategy discussed herein. The informat...

Will Kevin Warsh be confirmed as the next Head of the Fed? Can the ceasefire with Iran lead to permanent peace? And are budget and crypto bills in Congress headed for breakthrough or breakdown? Co-hosts Brian Gardner and Neil Shapiro tackle these key questions in a new episode of Potomac Perspective.

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Is there a generational shift underway that could trigger a valuation reset for the entire financial services sector? Special guest KBW CEO Tom Michaud joins the podcast to explain the significance of regulating banks by business model, not just asset size. Tom also talks with co-hosts Brian Gardner and Neil Shapiro about M&A, innovation, and the evolution of fintech.

This material is prepared by the Washington Policy Strategy Group of Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated (“Stifel”). This material is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any security or inst...

The Trump Administration wants an additional $200 billion for the military operation in Iran and this could be a make or break week for a crypto market structure bill. Co-hosts Brian Gardner and Neil Shapiro bring you the latest Potomac Perspective.

This material is prepared by the Washington Policy Strategy Group of Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated (“Stifel”). This material is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any security or instrument or to participate in any trading strategy discussed herein. The information contained is taken from sources believed to be reli...

Military action in the Mideast leads to a crude awakening at the gas pump. Plus, AI is driving a surge in electricity demand, and the White House wants tech companies to provide their own power! Stifel Energy & Oilfield Service and Equipment Analyst Stephen Gengaro joins co-hosts Brian Gardner and Neil Shapiro for an “energizing” discussion.

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President Trump delivers the annual State of the Union address, proclaiming the economy is “roaring like never before.” In the latest episode of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro review some of the President’s proposals and separate style from substance.

This material is prepared by the Washington Policy Strategy Group of Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated (“Stifel”). This material is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any security or instrument or to participate in any trading strategy discussed herein. The information contained...

Another partial government shutdown looms, a New Fed Head emerges, and pivotal midterm elections start to take shape. Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro break things down in the latest episode of Potomac Perspective.

This material is prepared by the Washington Policy Strategy Group of Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated (“Stifel”). This material is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any security or instrument or to participate in any trading strategy discussed herein. The information contained is taken from sources believed to be reliable, but...

The federal government is headed toward a second shutdown in four months, with no funding deal in sight. In the latest episode of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro examine what’s behind the latest stalemate.

This material is prepared by the Washington Policy Strategy Group of Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated (“Stifel”). This material is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any security or instrument or to participate in any trading strategy discussed herein. The information contained is taken from sources believ...

The feud between President Trump and Fed Chairman Jerome Powell reaches a fever pitch. In the Season Five premier episode of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro examine what’s behind the growing war of words and what’s at stake for the markets.

Also discussed:

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2026 is shaping up as a pivotal year for policy, with potential actions on healthcare and housing plus we'll get a new head at the Fed. In the latest episode of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro preview what to expect.

This material is prepared by the Washington Policy Strategy Group of Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated (“Stifel”). This material is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any security or instrument or to participate in any trading strategy discussed herein. The information contained is t...

December is shaping up as a busy month in Washington, as Congress races to enact “must pass” legislation before year end. Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro examine what’s at stake. Also discussed: President Trump closes in on a new Fed Chairman and all eyes on Tennessee, where a special election could signal implications for the 2026 midterms.

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Now that the government has reopened, Congress will begin to address numerous policy matters that were shelved during the recent shutdown. Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro examine how lawmakers are leaning into “affordability” issues. Also discussed: possible traction on deposit insurance reform and a mega antitrust win for META.

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Democrats win big on election night, the Supreme Court tackles the Trump tariffs, and the latest government shutdown becomes the longest in American history. Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro have a recap in this edition of Potomac Perspective.

This material is prepared by the Washington Policy Strategy Group of Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated (“Stifel”). This material is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any security or instrument or to participate in any trading strategy discussed herein. The information contained is taken from sour...

The latest government shutdown stretches into a second week, with no clear resolution in sight. In the new episode of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro have the latest on efforts to break the stalemate.  

Also discussed:

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It looks like there’s a deal to control the scroll. In the latest episode of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro discuss Tik Tok’s likely fate in the United States. 

Also covered:

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The Trump administration is building a case for a national housing emergency. In the latest episode of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro discuss what that could mean for the real estate market.

Also discussed:

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Deals and ideals take center stage in Washington. In the latest episode of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro dive into President Trump’s evolving approach to antitrust at home and peacemaking abroad.

This material is prepared by the Washington Policy Strategy Group of Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated (“Stifel”). This material is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any security or instrument or to participate in any trading strategy discussed herein. The information contained is taken from sources believed to be reliab...

Investors digest a whirlwind out of the White House, as President Trump faces a vacancy at the Federal Reserve and a legal challenge to his trade agenda. Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro discuss the latest developments.

This material is prepared by the Washington Policy Strategy Group of Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated (“Stifel”). This material is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any security or instrument or to participate in any trading strategy discussed herein. The information contained is taken from sources believed to b...

President Trump turns up the pressure on Fed Chair Powell. Plus, crypto’s big week short circuits on Capitol Hill. Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro have the latest in this episode of Potomac Perspective.

This material is prepared by the Washington Policy Strategy Group of Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated (“Stifel”). This material is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any security or instrument or to participate in any trading strategy discussed herein. The information contained is taken from sources believed to be reliab...

The Fed’s under more fire from President Trump, the Senate unveils its own “big, beautiful bill” and tensions mount over possible U.S. involvement in the Israel-Iran conflict. In the latest episode of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro wade through a pivotal week in politics and policy.

This material is prepared by the Washington Policy Strategy Group of Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated (“Stifel”). This material is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any security or instrument or to participate in any tra...

Is President Trump’s “big, beautiful bill” losing momentum in Congress? In the latest episode of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro have the latest on taxes, tariffs, and a possible tamp down of regulatory policy.

This material is prepared by the Washington Policy Strategy Group of Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated (“Stifel”). This material is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any security or instrument or to participate in any trading strategy discussed herein. The information contained is taken from sources believed t...

President Trump’s “big, beautiful bill” takes shape, as Congress prepares to consider proposed tax breaks and spending cuts. In the latest episode of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro discuss the latest from Capitol Hill, including a possible crack in the Senate’s bipartisan crypto coalition.

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First tariffs, next taxes? In the latest episode of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro discuss what's shaping up to be the next great debate in Washington.

This material is prepared by the Washington Policy Strategy Group of Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated (“Stifel”). This material is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any security or instrument or to participate in any trading strategy discussed herein. The information contained is taken from sources believed to be reliable, but is not guaranteed by Stif...

President Trump declares “Liberation Day” in America, imposing sweeping tariffs on the nation’s top trading partners. In a special edition of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner welcomes Summit Global Strategies President and former Congressional and Treasury Department staffer Christopher Smith to the podcast for a discussion on President Trump’s plan to restructure the global economy.

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President Trump has fired both Democratic Commissioners of the Federal Trade Commission as he attempts to exert more influence over independent federal agencies. In the latest episode of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro discuss the motives behind this move, and whether similar action could be taken at the Federal Reserve. 

This material is prepared by the Washington Policy Strategy Group of Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated (“Stifel”). This material is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any security or instru...

President Trump faces Congress in his first major address since returning to the White House. In the latest edition of the Potomac Perspective podcast, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro review some of the economic and tax proposals highlighted in the President’s speech and handicap the chances these ideas will eventually become law.

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More tough talk on trade, as President Trump suggests sector-specific tariffs could be on the table. In the latest edition of the Potomac Perspective podcast, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro look at what industries could be targeted. Also discussed: the outlook for M&A and tax policy.

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Donald Trump is back in the White House with a bang. There's been a flurry of activity from the new administration, following President Trump's swearing in this week. In the premiere episode of Season Four of Potomac Perspective, we break down the high priority policy areas and their potential impacts on business and financial markets. 

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President-elect Trump fills more key cabinet positions as his team takes shape. In the latest episode of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro examine how Trump's personnel picks reflect his planned push for a pro-growth, deregulatory agenda. 

This material is prepared by the Washington Policy Strategy Group of Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated (“Stifel”). This material is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any security or instrument or to participate in any trading strategy discussed herein. The information contained is taken from sourc...

Donald Trump reclaims the presidency in a comeback victory that also carries Congressional Republicans into power. In the latest episode of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro recap the election results and examine how investors could ride the “red wave” as new policy priorities emerge.

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After a summer of unexpected twists and turns, the race for the White House nears the finish line. In a special episode of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner gives co-host Neil Shapiro his final election call and examines potential sector winners and losers and policy priorities with business and market implications.

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New polling shows Donald Trump and Kamala Harris running neck and neck in the final days of the presidential race, igniting talk of a “contested election” and potential chaos. In the latest episode of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro discuss whether financial markets are historically influenced more by political uncertainty or economic conditions.

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With Election Day less than a month away, the presidential race seems too close to call. In the latest episode of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro discuss what to watch in the campaign’s homestretch – and look at how political party realignment could help reshape the electoral college map.

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A potential cap on credit card rates, no tax on tips, and more SALT in your diet? In the latest episode of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro run through the latest menu of presidential proposals from the campaign trail. Plus, how Congress appears to have avoided a potential government shutdown – for now.

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Kamala Harris and Donald Trump square off in their first, and possibly only, debate of the 2024 presidential campaign. But did either candidate do enough to sway undecided voters? And what policy takeaways are there for investors, entrepreneurs, and big business? In the latest episode of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro rate the debate!

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As Kamala Harris officially accepts the Democratic presidential nomination, many are wondering how she will govern if elected. In the latest episode of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro examine what a potential Harris economic agenda might look like. Also discussed: the latest polling information and whether Donald Trump could soon pick up a high-profile endorsement.

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The final piece of the 2024 presidential campaign is in place, with Kamala Harris naming Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her Vice-Presidential running mate. In the latest episode of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro discuss the Walz pick and how it may, or may not, change the trajectory of the race.

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After a series of unprecedented twists and turns, the presidential campaign is now in a reset. Vice President Kamala Harris is set to become the Democratic nominee and take on Donald Trump in the November election. In the latest episode of Potomac Perspective, Stifel Chief Washington Policy Strategist Brian Gardner and co-host Neil Shapiro examine the new state of the 2024 race.

This material is prepared by the Washington Policy Strategy Group of Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated (“Stifel”). This material is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any security or i...