Divergence of opinion in the political arena is on the rise, particularly as U.S. presidential candidates vie for the votes of the undecided. The heightened focus on political divergence tends to come and go with election cycles. Divergence of opinion among investors over economic trends and financial market outcomes is ever-present. Uncertainty is elevated especially if trends among closely watched indicators diverge from historical norms and relationships. Investor divergence of opinion lasts only so long as expectations are replaced by realities. A review of some important recent trends can provide perspective for assessing market return and risk expectations in the period ahead.