It might not feel like it from the noise coming out of Washington and Westminster, but a breakthrough on a UK-US trade deal could be closer than it looks.
And for patient investors who have endured a rough few years, particularly in UK mid and small cap shares, there could finally be something to smile about.
Stifel analysts reckon a deal is achievable in the coming weeks, following President Trump's recent decision to pause new tariffs for 90 days.
If the two countries can agree terms, the analysts say UK exporters could enjoy a valuable leg-up, particularly against rivals from nations still facing higher trade barriers.
As we are all now painfully aware, tariffs are effectively taxes on goods sold between countries.
So, removing them makes it cheaper for businesses to export and can improve their competitiveness.
For UK companies selling into the US, that could mean more attractive pricing, better profit margins and stronger revenues.
The big FTSE 100 companies will not feel the benefit as sharply. They are vast, global beasts with revenues from all over the world and many moving parts affecting their share prices.
It is the mid- and small-caps where the impact might really show.
These businesses tend to be more focused, and those already selling significantly into the US stand to gain the most.
Investors have good reason to be cautious. UK mid and small caps have been under pressure for years, with poor returns and rising costs biting into profits.
National Insurance rises last year added to the burden. Many investment trusts focused on the sector are now trading on wide discounts to the value of their assets, meaning the shares are cheap compared with what they actually own.
Stifel suggests a US trade deal could be the catalyst to narrow those discounts.
They pick out a few favoured funds to watch. Mercantile Investment Trust is highlighted for mid-cap exposure, Aberforth Smaller Companies Trust for value shares, and BlackRock Throgmorton Trust for growth-focused businesses.
Companies like Senior PLC (LSE:SNR), an engineering group that earns around half of its revenues from the US, could be among the direct winners.
Of course, nothing is certain yet. Political comments have swung wildly between optimism and caution. But if a deal is sealed, UK mid and small caps might finally get the break they need.