The election's dramatic effect on insurance stocks

As many election viewers heard time and again Tuesday night, the financial markets hate uncertainty. During the several hours that poll results were trickling in, the stock market was predicted to open down, as many investors were certain Trump’s unpredictable nature and anti-trade stance could bring global economic turmoil.

In true election night tradition, the Dow futures plunged more than 900 points Tuesday night. And Wednesday, European stocks opened lower, Asian indices were in the red and the price of gold, which surged after Trump was named president-elect, has now turned negative.

So how did the election results affect the stock prices of major players in the life and health insurance industry? That’s a mixed bag indeed. Read on to find out. 

Prudential Financial, Inc. (PRU)

Prudential’s stock, along with many other major life insurers, closed up 4.76 points, reaching $93.51, not far from its 52-week high of $93.90.

Metlife Inc. (MET)

Similar to Prudential, this life insurance and financial services company closed up 7.10 percent, hitting $51.28.

American International Group, Inc. (AIG)

AIG’s stock finished higher Wednesday, closing up 2.4 percent at $60.93. Many investors credit Trump’s anti-regulatory beliefs for the stock price’s strong election night performance.