According to statements released after the Beijing summit, China committed to purchasing at least $17 billion annually in U.S. agricultural products from 2026 through 2028, including beef, poultry, wheat, corn, and soybeans. The agreement also includes measures to restore market access for U.S. beef producers and resume poultry imports from American states deemed free of avian influenza.

The announcement comes after years of trade disruptions caused by tariff disputes and geopolitical rivalry that sharply reduced agricultural exports from the United States to China. Analysts said the renewed commitments could provide economic relief to American farmers while helping Beijing secure stable food imports amid broader global supply uncertainties.

Trade Truce Signals Broader Economic Reset

Officials from both governments indicated the deal forms part of a wider effort to stabilize bilateral economic relations following escalating tariff battles over recent years. The White House said the two countries also agreed to establish new trade and investment coordination bodies aimed at reducing market barriers and improving economic dialogue.

China’s Ministry of Commerce confirmed that discussions included reciprocal tariff reductions on selected goods and expanded agricultural cooperation. The ministry said the two sides would work to reduce non-tariff barriers affecting sectors including beef, poultry, seafood, and dairy products.

The summit also reportedly produced agreements involving aircraft purchases and supply chain cooperation, including arrangements linked to Boeing aircraft and aviation components.

Farmers and Exporters Welcome Agreement

American agricultural groups welcomed the development after years of declining access to the Chinese market. U.S. beef exports to China had fallen sharply since the peak of bilateral trade relations earlier in the decade, partly because hundreds of American meat processing facilities lost export eligibility during the trade dispute.

Industry representatives said restoring access to China could help stabilize prices and expand overseas demand for American producers facing rising competition and volatile commodity markets.

However, analysts cautioned that the agreement remains vulnerable to broader geopolitical tensions, particularly over technology controls, Taiwan, and strategic competition between Washington and Beijing. Observers noted that while agricultural trade often serves as a stabilizing component in U.S.-China relations, deeper structural disputes remain unresolved.

Global Supply Chains Could Shift

Economists said increased Chinese purchases of American farm goods could reshape global agricultural trade flows by reducing imports from alternative suppliers such as Brazil, Australia, and Canada. Reuters reported that expanded U.S. exports may alter competition in global grain and meat markets over the coming years.

The renewed trade commitments also come as both countries attempt to manage slowing domestic economic growth and avoid further disruptions to international supply chains already strained by geopolitical instability and conflicts in several regions.

Despite the apparent thaw in agricultural trade, observers noted that major strategic disagreements between the United States and China continue to influence the broader bilateral relationship.

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Gold Prices Rebound Slightly After Massive Drop

Gold steadied on Wednesday, trading at $4,141.48 per troy ounce as of 1:46 a.m. ET — up just 0.4% after Tuesday’s dramatic slide.

On Tuesday, spot gold plunged as much as 6.3% to $4,082.03 per ounce, while U.S. gold futures settled 5.7% lower at $4,087.70, marking the sharpest percentage decline since April 2013. The fall ended a remarkable rally that had seen gold soar more than 50% in 2025.

Other precious metals also declined sharply, with silver down 7% and platinum off 5%.

Analysts Cite Overheating and Profit-Taking

Market analysts said the correction was long overdue after weeks of aggressive buying had pushed gold prices to “overheated” territory.

“Gold’s rally had become unsustainable in the short term,” one commodities strategist noted. “Investors were bound to take profits once prices began showing signs of fatigue.”

The metal’s spectacular run had been driven by fears of rising U.S. debt, political uncertainty, and speculation about further Federal Reserve interest rate cuts.

Trade Optimism and Stronger Dollar Pressure Gold

The sell-off coincided with renewed optimism over U.S.-China trade talks, easing some of the safe-haven demand that had fueled gold’s rise. American and Chinese officials are scheduled to resume negotiations this week, with a potential meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump expected next week.

“I expect we’ll probably work out a very fair deal with President Xi,” Trump said Monday, signaling progress toward easing trade tensions.

Meanwhile, a modest rebound in the U.S. dollar also weighed on gold, making the metal more expensive for foreign investors.

Seasonal Factors Add Pressure

Some analysts also pointed to seasonal factors, including the conclusion of Diwali celebrations in India, the world’s second-largest gold consumer. The end of the festival season typically reduces physical demand, further contributing to downward price pressure.

Historic Rally Still Intact

Despite the pullback, gold remains one of 2025’s strongest-performing assets. Prices are still up more than 50% year-to-date, outpacing gains during other major crises such as the 2008 financial meltdown and the Covid-19 pandemic.

Investors are now watching closely for the next move from the Federal Reserve, which could determine whether the recent sell-off marks a brief correction — or the end of gold’s historic bull run.

Source: CNN – Gold’s frenzied rally ends with largest sell-off in over a decade

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Published Time 08-12-2025, 18:45

Global financial markets mostly advanced on Tuesday after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 90-day delay in increasing tariffs on Chinese goods. This move has temporarily eased trade tensions between the world’s two largest economies, encouraging investors amid ongoing uncertainty.

Global Markets React Positively to Tariff Delay

In Europe, France’s CAC 40 inched up 0.1% to 7,706.59, while Britain’s FTSE 100 gained 0.3%, reaching 9,154.82. Germany’s DAX experienced a slight dip of 0.4%, closing at 23,990.54. U.S. stock futures also reflected cautious optimism, with the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average futures up by approximately 0.1%.

Asian markets demonstrated stronger gains, led by Tokyo’s Nikkei 225, which surged 2.2% to close at 42,718.17, surpassing its previous all-time high. Japanese corporate shares rallied on the news that U.S. tariffs on imports from Japan would be fixed at 15%, avoiding “stacking” on existing duties.

Toyota Motor Corp. shares jumped nearly 3%, while Honda Motor Co. rose 2.6%. Tokyo Electron and Sharp recorded gains of 1.1% and 11% respectively. Notably, Sanrio, the company behind Hello Kitty, saw its shares climb 16%, and watchmaker Seiko added nearly 14%.

Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index increased by 0.3% to 24,969.68, and China’s Shanghai Composite rose 0.5% to 3,665.92, buoyed by positive trade developments.

Trade War Tensions Temporarily Eased

President Trump’s executive order on Monday paused the planned tariff hike on Chinese goods, initially set to increase from 30% to a higher rate. The delay allows both countries additional time to negotiate a broader trade agreement. Without the extension, Beijing was expected to retaliate with increased tariffs on U.S. exports.

China responded by issuing a statement endorsing the tariff pause, highlighting both nations’ commitment to ongoing talks. Despite the reprieve, uncertainty lingers for businesses, as the potential for renewed escalation remains.

Stephen Innes, Chief Global Market Strategist at SPI Asset Management, explained, “The extension isn’t about goodwill; it’s about keeping oxygen in the room for deals that matter,” emphasizing the strategic nature of the delay rather than a permanent resolution.

Mixed Regional Market Movements

Elsewhere in Asia, Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 rose 0.4%, closing at 8,880.80, while South Korea’s Kospi fell 0.5%, ending at 3,189.91. These mixed results reflect varying regional sensitivities to global trade dynamics.

In the U.S., stocks experienced a mild pullback on Monday, with the S&P 500 down 0.3%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average falling 0.5%, and the Nasdaq Composite decreasing 0.3%.

Inflation Data in Focus Amid Trade Uncertainty

Investors are awaiting a key report on U.S. inflation, due later Tuesday. Economists predict a 2.8% year-over-year increase in consumer prices for July, slightly above June’s 2.7% figure. Rising costs in groceries, gasoline, and other essentials continue to pressure household budgets.

Although inflation has significantly cooled from its peak of over 9% three years ago, it remains above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target. The ongoing tariff disputes risk further price increases, intensifying fears of “stagflation”—a scenario where economic growth stalls while inflation stays high.

The Federal Reserve faces a difficult balancing act, as measures to control inflation, such as raising interest rates, could potentially weaken the job market and economic growth.

Energy and Currency Markets Update

In commodity markets, benchmark U.S. crude oil prices edged lower by 16 cents to $63.80 per barrel, while Brent crude slipped 9 cents to $66.54 per barrel.

Currency trading saw the U.S. dollar strengthen slightly against the Japanese yen, moving from 148.15 to 148.46 yen. The euro dipped marginally to $1.1617 from $1.1618, reflecting ongoing market volatility amid global economic uncertainty.

Source: AP News – Global shares advance on relief that Trump is delaying higher China tariffs

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Published Time: 08-11-2025, 08:30

World stock markets showed mixed results on Monday, as investors braced for the expiration of a U.S.-China tariff truce set for Tuesday. The looming deadline comes amid ongoing trade tensions between the two economic giants and coincides with a planned U.S.-Russia summit that could impact geopolitical risk sentiment. Oil prices continued their decline, influenced by increased supply expectations and hopes for progress in the Ukraine conflict.

Market Movements: Europe, Asia, and U.S. Futures

In early European trading, Germany’s DAX index slipped 0.1% to 24,127.50, while France’s CAC 40 fell 0.2% to 7,728.58. The UK’s FTSE 100 gained 0.2%, reaching 9,114.27. Futures for major U.S. indexes showed slight gains: the S&P 500 was up 0.1%, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average increased by 0.2%.

Asian markets mostly advanced, with Hong Kong’s Hang Seng rising 0.2% to 24,906.81 and Shanghai’s Composite index adding 0.3% to 3,647.55. Taiwan’s Taiex climbed 0.5%, helped by a 0.4% rise in TSMC shares—the world’s largest contract chip manufacturer—seen as a barometer for the global semiconductor industry.

Trade Truce and Semiconductor Sector Developments

The current tariff truce between the U.S. and China, established in May, paused planned tariff increases for 90 days to allow ongoing negotiations. Tuesday marks the deadline for either extending or ending that truce. However, the last round of talks in Stockholm ended without a clear decision from U.S. President Donald Trump on whether the pause would continue.

Unconfirmed reports suggest major U.S. chipmakers, including Nvidia and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), may agree to remit 15% of their sales revenue from AI-related chip exports to China to the U.S. government. Recently, the Trump administration eased some restrictions on chip sales to China. Despite this, Nvidia’s shares declined 0.6%, and AMD’s fell 1.7% in pre-market trading Monday.

Corporate Earnings Support Market Gains Despite Trade Concerns

Last Friday, the S&P 500 rose 0.8%, the Dow gained 0.5%, and the Nasdaq Composite added 1%, marking a record high set the previous day. Tech giants led the rally, with Nvidia climbing 1.1% and Apple surging 4.2%.

Strong quarterly earnings also fueled investor optimism. Gilead Sciences jumped 8.3% after exceeding analysts’ forecasts and raising its annual earnings outlook. Expedia Group rose 4.1% following its positive results. These companies were among the last major components of the S&P 500 to report second-quarter earnings, which mostly showed resilience despite tariff uncertainties.

However, the entertainment sector saw setbacks after the completion of an $8 billion merger between Skydance and Paramount. Paramount Skydance shares plunged 10.5%, while competitor Warner Bros. Discovery dropped 8%.

Upcoming U.S. Economic Data and Policy Implications

Investors are closely monitoring upcoming U.S. data on inflation and retail sales, which will provide critical insight into economic momentum and Federal Reserve policy direction. The trade war’s impact on the economy and inflation remains a central concern.

While lower interest rates can stimulate growth and investment, they risk fueling inflation. The balance between these forces will influence Federal Reserve decisions amid concerns over potential labor market weakening.

Oil Prices Extend Declines Amid Supply and Geopolitical Factors

Crude oil prices continued their downward trend on Monday. U.S. benchmark crude fell 16 cents to $63.72 per barrel, while Brent crude declined 9 cents to $66.50 per barrel. The price drop reflects increased output from OPEC+ countries and optimism about a possible diplomatic breakthrough in the Ukraine conflict, linked to the upcoming meeting between President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Currency Movements Reflect Risk Sentiment

In currency markets, the U.S. dollar strengthened slightly against the Japanese yen, moving from 147.62 to 147.69 yen. Conversely, the euro weakened marginally, trading at $1.1641 compared to $1.1650.

Source: AP News – World shares are mixed ahead of Trump’s deadline for imposing higher tariffs on Chinese goods

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Published: August 5, 2025 – 16:00 EDT

A pivotal court battle over former President Donald Trump’s use of emergency powers to impose sweeping tariffs is rapidly advancing and could soon reach the U.S. Supreme Court. The case may significantly redefine the scope of executive authority in trade policy and has drawn intense scrutiny from legal experts, policymakers, and global trading partners alike.

A decision from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit is expected within weeks, setting the stage for a potential Supreme Court review during its upcoming 2025–2026 term.

Background: Trump’s Use of Emergency Powers for Trade Tariffs

At the heart of the legal challenge is Trump’s invocation of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA)—a 1977 law typically used for national security emergencies—to justify imposing new tariffs on a wide range of U.S. trading partners. Dubbed the “Liberation Day” tariffs, the measures included a 10% baseline tariff on all imports and steeper, reciprocal tariffs targeting countries like China.

Trump administration officials argued that the tariffs were essential to correct trade imbalances, reduce U.S. deficits, and promote domestic manufacturing. Critics, however, say the move represents a significant overreach of executive power and bypasses Congressional authority on trade policy.

Federal Court Ruling and Expedited Appeal

In May 2025, a three-judge panel at the U.S. Court of International Trade (CIT) unanimously ruled that Trump had overstepped his authority under IEEPA. The court found that the law did not grant the president “unbounded authority” to impose tariffs unilaterally.

However, the decision was quickly put on hold after the appeals court granted a stay, allowing the tariffs to remain in effect pending further legal review.

Given the urgency and far-reaching implications of the case, the Federal Circuit has fast-tracked the appeal. Legal observers expect a ruling by late August or September. If either party seeks a further appeal—as both sides have suggested—the case could be added to the Supreme Court docket as early as October 2025.

Mixed Signals from the Appeals Court Hearing

The Federal Circuit’s hearing last week featured an 11-judge panel questioning attorneys from both sides. Observers described the session as intense but inconclusive.

Dan Pickard, a partner at Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney specializing in international trade and national security law, said the oral arguments offered little clarity on which way the court might rule.

“I don’t know if I walked out of that hearing thinking the government will prevail or that it’s dead on arrival,” Pickard told Fox News Digital. “It was more mixed.”

Lawyers representing the 12 states challenging the tariffs, including Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield, echoed that sentiment. While they expressed cautious optimism, they acknowledged the difficulty of predicting the court’s decision, especially given the limited time each side had to present its case.

Legal Stakes: Could Redefine Presidential Trade Authority

The potential Supreme Court review of this case could mark the most significant challenge to executive trade powers in decades. If the high court agrees that Trump’s use of IEEPA was unconstitutional, it could limit future presidents from enacting similar trade policies without Congressional oversight.

That said, legal experts emphasize that even if the Supreme Court limits IEEPA’s use, the executive branch retains multiple alternative trade tools.

“There are plenty of other legal authorities available to the president,” Pickard explained. “If IEEPA is ruled out, that doesn’t mean the administration will stop using aggressive trade policy. There’s still Section 301, Section 232, and others.”

Political and Economic Implications

Trump’s tariff strategy has sparked both domestic and international debate. Supporters argue that the tariffs are necessary to protect American industries and reduce reliance on foreign manufacturing. Critics warn of retaliatory measures, disrupted supply chains, and higher costs for American consumers and businesses.

Despite the legal challenges, the White House has continued implementing the tariffs, with Attorney General Pam Bondi reiterating the administration’s commitment to defending the policy in court.

“These tariffs are transforming the global economy, protecting national security, and addressing the consequences of our exploding trade deficit,” Bondi said in a statement. “We will continue to defend the president’s authority.”

What Comes Next?

With the appellate decision expected soon, both sides are preparing for a potential Supreme Court showdown. If accepted for review, the case could receive a ruling by the end of 2025—potentially shaping trade and executive power for years to come.

Until then, legal uncertainty continues to cast a shadow over U.S. trade relations, market forecasts, and future presidential authority.

Source: FOX News – Trump’s tariff power grab barrels toward Supreme Court

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WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump’s ambitious promise to finalize 200 trade deals has fallen far short, with only three agreements — with China, the United Kingdom, and Vietnam — officially announced more than two months past his self-imposed 100-day milestone.

With a revised deadline now set for August 1, the administration is scrambling to show progress, especially as negotiations with the European Union inch toward a potential breakthrough.

Trump Shifts Rhetoric as Original Deadline Passes

Originally, Trump gave trading partners until July 9 to strike bilateral agreements or face sweeping new “reciprocal” tariffs. But the president’s decision to delay those penalties, hoping to spur negotiations, left little time for meaningful progress, administration sources told CNN.

Facing limited results, Trump has pivoted from touting completed deals to threatening new tariffs through formal letters sent to U.S. trading partners. These actions, aides say, are meant to show forward momentum as high-stakes negotiations continue.

European Union Deal on the Horizon

The most promising development involves the EU, which is nearing a framework agreement with the U.S. that could impose 10% tariffs and lay the groundwork for deeper trade talks. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent pushed for a deadline extension to accommodate the EU talks and several other near-final negotiations.

While the agreement is not yet finalized, EU officials confirmed that negotiators are in active discussions with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. An official announcement could come by the end of the week.

Trump’s stance on the EU has shifted notably in recent weeks. After a public threat in late May to slap 50% tariffs on European goods, both sides accelerated their efforts to avoid a trade war. Behind closed doors, EU officials have been briefing member states on the proposed deal, urging unity to prevent the looming tariffs scheduled for August 1.

Sticking Points: Autos, Steel, and Sectoral Exemptions

U.S. negotiators continue to resist EU requests for exemptions from existing or planned sectoral tariffs, particularly those targeting autos and steel. Reducing Trump’s 25% auto tariff and a 50% levy on steel remains central to the talks.

Still, U.S. officials have signaled openness to adjust tariffs on select EU goods — including aircraft, alcoholic beverages, and some farm exports — pending the president’s final approval.

The EU, in turn, has committed to increasing purchases of American energy and defense products. But if no deal is reached, the bloc plans to activate retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods starting July 14 — though that deadline may shift following Trump’s extension.

“There are limits to the bloc’s patience,” Denmark’s Minister of European Affairs Marie Bjerre warned the European Parliament on Wednesday.

Trump Frustrated by Lagging Progress

In a cabinet meeting Tuesday, Trump expressed frustration with the slow pace of negotiations and the nature of offers coming from foreign partners.

“They say: ‘You can sell anything to us tariff-free — just don’t charge us,’” Trump said. “We don’t like that deal.”

This week, the White House began sending letters to Japan and South Korea imposing 25% tariffs, with more letters expected to follow.

India, Japan, and South Korea Talks Stalling

While India was once seen as a likely early partner, its negotiators have taken a tougher stance in recent days, complicating prospects for a deal. India’s membership in the BRICS alliance has also muddied talks, especially after Trump floated a 10% tariff targeting all BRICS nations.

South Korea, too, was considered close to finalizing an agreement. But negotiations have stumbled over U.S. auto tariffs, and a new letter sent Monday may further delay progress.

Japan appears to be backing away from a deal altogether. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said Tuesday that, despite “earnest and sincere discussions,” the U.S. government’s tariff moves have made a deal unworkable.

Southeast Asia and Brazil Push for Deals

In contrast, Southeast Asian nations — including Indonesia, Cambodia, and Thailand — have stepped up their offers in hopes of reaching agreements before the August 1 deadline.

Brazil is also accelerating its efforts, engaging in bilateral talks last week and proposing steep tariff cuts on certain U.S. exports.

Yet a consistent source of friction remains: foreign officials say they still don’t fully understand what the U.S. expects in a final deal. The lack of clear parameters, combined with the looming threat of sector-specific tariffs on autos, steel, and pharmaceuticals, continues to stall progress.

Outlook: Pressure Builds as August 1 Approaches

With only a handful of trade deals finalized and dozens more in limbo, Trump’s trade strategy faces mounting pressure. The coming weeks will test whether his tariff threats will force more countries to the table — or trigger a broader wave of retaliatory measures that could hurt U.S. exporters.

For now, all eyes remain on the European Union, where a pending deal could signal either a breakthrough or another missed opportunity in the president’s faltering push to reshape global trade.

Source: CNN – Trump promised 200 deals by now. He’s gotten 3, and 1 more is getting very close

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President Donald Trump is once again wielding his favorite trade weapon: tariffs. But this time, he’s setting his sights on two very different American companies — tech giant Apple and toy maker Mattel — threatening hefty tariffs over comments made by their CEOs.

The Tariff Threats: Apple and Mattel in the Crosshairs

In recent weeks, Trump publicly warned that Apple could face a 25% tariff on imported iPhones if the company doesn’t manufacture them in the United States instead of India. On social media, Trump made it clear: “If that is not the case, a Tariff of at least 25% must be paid by Apple to the U.S.”

He later softened this by saying any such tariffs would apply to all imported smartphones — including competitors like Samsung — to keep things “fair.” Still, smartphones have largely been exempt from Trump’s previous China tariffs, so this move would mark a shift.

Meanwhile, Mattel caught Trump’s ire earlier this month when CEO Ynon Kreiz mentioned that tariffs might force the company to raise toy prices and that shifting production back to the U.S. would be too costly. In response, Trump threatened a staggering 100% tariff on all Mattel toy imports, saying: “He won’t sell one toy in the United States… I wouldn’t want to have him as an executive too long.”

Legal Hurdles and the Limits of Presidential Power

Despite the grandiose threats, experts say Trump’s ability to single out companies for tariffs is legally shaky. A recent court ruling questioned whether the president can unilaterally impose tariffs without Congress’s approval — though that decision is currently on hold after an appeals court stepped in.

Trade attorney Lizbeth Levinson explains, “He doesn’t have the constitutional power to name names. Tariffs need to apply to an entire class of products, not just one company.” But she also adds, “Trump’s style has always been to act first and sort out the details later.”

What’s Really Going On?

Behind the scenes, the tariff threats may be less about actually slapping taxes on imports and more about squeezing these companies for concessions. The goal? To push Apple, Mattel, and others toward promises of more U.S.-based investment or to control how companies talk about price increases tied to tariffs.

Clark Packard, a trade expert at the Cato Institute, points out that imposing steep tariffs on iPhones would likely backfire politically. “The American public would be outraged if their iPhones got a lot more expensive,” he says. “So I don’t see specific action against Apple as likely.”

For Mattel, the national security rationale behind tariffs doesn’t apply — unlike smartphones, which might be scrutinized under Section 232 of trade law (used to justify tariffs for national security reasons). That makes imposing a 100% tariff on toys even less probable.

Trump’s Tariffs as Negotiation Tools

Levinson suspects the real aim isn’t to shut down imports entirely but to force companies to “blink.” If Mattel, for example, agrees to move even a small fraction of its toy production to the U.S., Trump can claim victory. The same applies to Apple and the tech sector.

“I’ve had clients calling me, panicked about these threats,” Levinson says. “But honestly, many of these tariffs were never going to go into effect.”

The Takeaway

Trump’s tariff threats against Apple and Mattel highlight his ongoing strategy of using tariffs as leverage rather than as actual trade policy. While the legal and practical obstacles to imposing these specific tariffs are significant, the president is clearly willing to push the envelope to try to force companies to follow his vision for American manufacturing.

Whether these threats translate into real economic impact or just another round of political posturing remains to be seen. But for now, Apple fans and toy lovers alike can breathe a little easier — the tariffs, for now, remain more bark than bite.

Source: CNN – Trump is threatening to impose tariffs on two American companies

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The nickname reflects a pattern markets have come to expect: Trump threatens stiff tariffs, financial markets react, and then—more often than not—he backs down. For savvy investors, these “TACO” moments have become opportunities to profit from the volatility.

But when asked about the nickname during an Oval Office press conference, Trump didn’t take it lightly.

“Don’t ever say what you say, that’s a nasty question,” he snapped at a reporter. “To me that’s the nastiest question.”

Trump insisted his trade strategy is more about toughness than retreat, arguing he’s often accused of being too aggressive, not soft.

“They will say, ‘Oh, he was chicken, he was chicken,’ that’s so unbelievable,” Trump said, defending his decision to delay tariffs on the European Union. “I usually have the opposite problem — they say you’re too tough!”

Markets Ride the TACO Wave

The phrase “TACO” was first coined by the Financial Times, and it’s quickly become Wall Street slang for a familiar Trump tactic: talk tough on tariffs, spook the markets, then backpedal before real damage is done.

Take his “Liberation Day” tariff blitz, for example. Trump initially declared sweeping global tariffs, only to scale them back to a modest 10 percent within a week.

His retaliatory tariffs on China followed a similar arc—announced at a dramatic 145 percent, but ultimately trimmed to the same 10 percent baseline after both nations reached a deal.

More recently, Trump floated a 50 percent tariff on European Union goods, only to reverse course days later by pushing the decision deadline to July.

The Bottom Line

While Trump may bristle at being called out, Wall Street has learned to read between the lines. His dramatic tariff threats often end in de-escalation, giving traders a roadmap for short-term gains in uncertain times. Whether it’s called strategy or backpedaling, “TACO” has stuck—and markets are eating it up.

Source: POLITICO – Trump’s not happy about Wall Street’s name for tariff flip-flops

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In a surprise turn, former President Donald Trump announced on Sunday that he’s delaying a planned 50% tariff on European Union imports until July 9 — just days after doubling down on tough trade talk.

Speaking to reporters at Morristown Municipal Airport in New Jersey, Trump said the delay came after what he described as a “very nice call” with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

“She wants to get down to serious negotiation,” Trump said. “She asked if we could move the date from June 1 to July 9 — and I agreed. We’ll get together rapidly and see if we can work something out.”

This is the latest example of Trump walking back a tariff threat after initially rattling markets. Just Friday, he insisted the EU tariffs were set in stone and would take effect June 1. Those tariffs would have followed a previously announced — and also delayed — 20% reciprocal tariff from April.

Shortly after his remarks, Trump posted on Truth Social, confirming that trade talks would “begin rapidly.”

Von der Leyen echoed the sentiment in a post on X, calling it a “good call” and noting that the EU is ready to push ahead with negotiations. “To reach a good deal, we would need the time until July 9,” she said. “Europe is ready to advance talks swiftly and decisively.”

Market Reaction

News of the delay helped lift Asian stock markets modestly on Monday. Japan’s Nikkei 225 gained as much as 0.8%, South Korea’s KOSPI rose 0.9%, and China’s Shanghai Composite edged up 0.3%. Other indexes, including Taiwan’s TAIEX and Australia’s S&P/ASX 200, remained mostly flat, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng slipped 0.3%.

Behind the Tariff Talk

Trump has repeatedly criticized what he calls “non-monetary trade barriers” and often targets countries or blocs that run trade surpluses with the U.S. In 2024, the U.S. reported a $236 billion trade deficit with the EU, according to Commerce Department figures.

He’s also been vocal about reshaping the focus of U.S. manufacturing. On Sunday, Trump backed recent comments from Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, suggesting America doesn’t need to bring back industries like textiles.

“We’re not looking to make sneakers and T-shirts,” Trump said. “We want to make military equipment. We want to do the ‘AI thing’ with computers.”

Source: CNN – Trump delays 50% EU tariffs until July 9

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Here’s a closer look at some major companies that are planning price hikes, along with how these tariffs are impacting what Americans pay.

Walmart: Raising Prices by June

Walmart recently announced it will increase prices because Trump’s tariffs are “too high,” especially on products made in China.
Walmart CEO Douglas McMillon said, “We will do our best to keep prices low, but the magnitude of tariffs means we can’t absorb all the added costs.”
Price increases are expected to start by the end of May and rise more steeply in June.

Mattel: Toy Prices on the Rise

Mattel, the world’s biggest toy maker, confirmed it will raise prices due to tariffs. CEO Ynon Kreiz said 40% to 50% of Mattel’s products will stay under $20, but overall costs will go up.
Trump even threatened Mattel directly, saying he might slap a 100% tariff on their toys — their biggest market is the U.S.

Best Buy and Electronics: Expect Higher Costs

Best Buy warned that tariff costs will likely be passed on to consumers. While some electronics have temporary tariff exemptions, these won’t last forever.
For example, Nintendo delayed pre-orders for its Switch 2 console over tariff concerns but said the base price will stay at $450. Accessories, however, may get more expensive.
Sony’s CFO also mentioned price increases are possible for PlayStation products.

Shein and Temu: Price Jumps After Tariff Rule Changes

Chinese online retailers Shein and Temu were previously spared tariffs on small shipments under $800. That exemption was removed by Trump’s executive order.
Both companies announced price increases starting April 25, 2025. For example, patio chairs on Temu jumped from about $62 to $70 overnight. On Shein, a bathing suit set nearly doubled from $4.39 to $8.39.

Ford and Subaru: Auto Prices Go Up

Imported cars and parts face a 25% tariff. Ford’s CFO expects U.S. car prices to rise by up to 1.5% in the second half of 2025 due to tariffs.
Ford extended employee pricing deals through July to help customers buy before prices go up.
Subaru also announced price increases in the U.S., citing “market conditions” and higher costs, without specifying exact amounts.

Household Brands and Tools: Price Increases Coming

Procter & Gamble, which owns brands like Pampers and Tide, signaled it may raise prices due to tariffs. CEO Jon Moeller called tariffs “inherently inflationary.”
Stanley Black & Decker, makers of power tools, already raised prices by high single digits in April and plan more increases later this year.

Adidas: Uncertain Tariffs, But Higher Prices Likely

Adidas is preparing for higher U.S. prices as tariffs continue to fluctuate. CEO Bjørn Gulden said ongoing trade negotiations make it hard to predict exact tariffs, but added, “Cost increases due to higher tariffs will eventually cause price increases.”

What This Means for You

From toys to tools, cars to clothes, tariffs are making many everyday items more expensive. Companies are reluctant but clear: the extra costs from Trump’s tariffs can’t just be absorbed — they will hit consumers’ wallets. Shoppers should prepare for rising prices across a wide range of products as these tariffs stay in place.

If you want to stay ahead of price changes, keep an eye on announcements from your favorite retailers and consider buying before prices climb further.

Source: CNN – These companies will raise prices because of Trump’s tariffs

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