Timed Executive Decisions

As much as politicians should not be allowed to trade, the same principle should apply to policy decisions that appear to take the market into account. There's simply too much signaling followed by conveniently timed announcements that interfere with the true role of the executive branch—which is to govern, not to cite or respond to market performance.

The pattern is familiar: a vague statement is issued, serving as the signal. D.C. insiders—directly or indirectly—adjust their positions, and then the executive order is released. This creates a deliberate ambiguity around any perceived front-runner while still leaving a visible footprint in the market auction.

Perhaps in the future, similar to earnings reports or economic data releases, there should be fixed times at which governing decisions are made public.