re: How will Obama's policies affect me as a college student

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My forecast: cash continues to build on balance sheets at absurdly high levels as companies refuse to expand their operations as long as we have a president who thinks "being tough on business" is a good thing.

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My forecast is that companies will accept that the political and social landscape of the US has changed. As you pointed out many companies have taken a four year hiatus from spending with hopes that the voting public will put Conservatives back in office. I believe that smart companies will adapt knowing that cash on the balance sheet doesnt typically create as large a yield as cash used to fund expanded operations. If the election proved anything its that change is not just four years away and with the ever changing demographics of our country its no safe bet that 2016 will be any better. How many companies can maintain in a competitive environment in the absence of spending and for how long? At what point does sitting on cash become a liability in terms of market share? As we creep closer to full employment and inflation sets in, would that cash not be a depreciating asset? Could there actually be a first mover advantage and opportunity in being the first to accept what many argue is a political and social reality?

Good points Flask, understand that I dont disagree with your assessment and its very plausible. As an idealist, I choose not to discount the human spirit and the markets insatiable urge to generate profits. I guess we'll see in a few years.