The “sin sector” — widely renowned as a custodian of damned fine long-term returns — is just not what it used to be.

In times of trouble, investors could traditionally find consolation in shares issued by casinos, liquor makers and tobacco product peddlers. Spending on these vices would, back in the day, continue unabated even in the leanest economic times … and especially in times of prolonged uncertainty. A portfolio of sin stocks might have been just the defensive foil needed to cope with the increasing unpredictability of the outcome of the election...

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