America at 250 – Innovation, Market Leadership and the Power of Compounding

As the United States approaches its 250th Independence Day, Derek Harris, Head of Global Wealth Management Portfolio and Investment Strategy speaks with Jared Woodard, Head of the Research Investment Committee to examine the long-run forces behind America’s market leadership. Using data that spans much of the nation’s financial history, they explore why U.S. equities have delivered nearly 10 percent annual returns and how that outperformance compares globally. The conversation also revisits the role of bonds, challenges traditional portfolio frameworks like 60/40, and highlights the structural drivers of U.S. success, including innovation, strong corporate earnings, and a business-friendly environment. They further discuss the efficiency of American R&D and the enduring role of the U.S. dollar in global markets. This episode offers a data-driven perspective on 250 years of American capitalism and the key trends shaping the path ahead.   You may also enjoy listening to the Merrill Perspectives podcast, featuring conversations on the big stories, news and trends affecting your everyday financial life.   "Bank of America" and “BofA Securities” are the marketing names for the global banking businesses and global markets businesses (which includes BofA Global Research) of Bank of America Corporation. Lending, derivatives, and other commercial banking activities are performed globally by banking affiliates of Bank of America Corporation, including Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC. Securities, trading, research, strategic advisory, and other investment banking and markets activities are performed globally by affiliates of Bank of America Corporation, including, in the United States, BofA Securities, Inc. a registered broker-dealer and Member of FINRA and SIPC, and, in other jurisdictions, by locally registered entities. ©2026 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.