The Golden Age of Corporate Profits

Note: After-tax profit data include adjustments for inventory valuation and capital consumption. American companies are posting record profits, with strong margins, and capturing the largest share of the nation's income. Why it matters: Corporate profits buoy the stock market, but they may also fuel the intense sentiments of American voters.

Data: US Bureau of Economic Analysis, FactSet; Chart: Axios/Matt Phillips; Note: Profit after tax data includes adjustments for inventory and capital depreciation. American companies are making record profits, are profitable at the margins, and generate the largest share of this country's revenue. Why it matters: Corporate profits boost the stock market, but they may also play into the emotional swings of American voters