U.S. Government Shutdown Ends: Relief for Markets, But Risks Remain
- Girish Appadu
- Nov 17
- 2 min read
After 43 days, the longest U.S. government shutdown in history ended on 14 November, as the White House signed a Congressional bill funding operations through 30 January 2026. While this brings immediate relief, questions linger around economic growth, market dynamics and health care costs.
Key Developments
Federal workforce reinstated: Around 1.4 million employees are now eligible for back pay, with most salaries expected by 19 November. Layoffs affecting over 4,000 federal workers have been reversed, and no further redundancies are anticipated before January.
Critical programmes restarting: SNAP and other federal schemes are resuming. Airlines are gradually returning to full capacity ahead of Thanksgiving and delayed economic data releases, including the October non-farm payroll report, will recommence.
Health care premiums under pressure: ACA subsidies expire for most of the 24 million marketplace enrollees after 31 December 2025, which could drive premiums higher. A Senate vote in mid-December aims to extend subsidies for three years, though approval remains uncertain.
Economic impact: The Congressional Budget Office estimates the shutdown may trim Q4 GDP growth by roughly 1.5 percentage points, slowing expansion to 1–1.5%. A gradual recovery is expected in Q1 2026.
Market Update
Technology and AI consolidation: Following a ~55% Nasdaq rally since April, tech and AI sectors are showing signs of healthy consolidation.
Sector rotation underway: Investors are shifting towards health care, energy, and materials, reflecting portfolio rebalancing ahead of 2026.
Mega-cap tech leverage: Large technology firms are increasing debt to fund AI and data centre investments, moving towards more asset-heavy models, a trend that could weigh on margins and influence credit markets.
Intrasia Wealth View
The resolution of the shutdown is encouraging, though recent disruptions may weigh on short-term growth. Current market trends suggest a period of adjustment following strong gains, while core fundamentals across major sectors remain resilient.
Diversification continues to be a cornerstone of portfolio strategy. Investors with concentrated exposures may consider broadening allocations across equities, defensive sectors, and global opportunities.
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