“America” for a lack of better term “stood (notice past tense) for truth, justice, and free/fair markets.” This along with our rule of law, stable political system and strong military was the reason that foreigners preferred to invest here rather than anywhere else. It “was” always perceived that investors could get a fair shake in the U.S. and not have to worry about political coups, fraud or graft, shady financial reporting or outright financial theft. We were the “beacon” of truth and light when it came to investing.
The proof of, admission of or discovery that our markets are manipulated, rigged, supported or suppressed would change this perception.