Global markets were shaken after President Trump unexpectedly announced a temporary freeze on U.S. trade tariffs, slashing rates to 10% for the next 90 days.
The move, posted directly on X, is part of what the administration describes as a recalibration of trade strategy, though the specifics remain murky.
Negotiations with international partners—including Canada and Mexico—will continue behind closed doors during the freeze. The abrupt shift left analysts questioning the stability of U.S. trade policy, with some calling it a short-term political maneuver rather than a lasting economic solution.
Market watchers were quick to note cautious investor behavior, pointing to thin trading volumes and mixed reactions. Some, like Chris Stadele, warned that the pause changes little for companies facing long-term uncertainty. Others, such as Amarjit Sahota, described the announcement as reactive and lacking strategic clarity.
Despite the tariff rollback, the underlying tension hasn’t eased. Economist Nouriel Roubini dismissed the idea that the Federal Reserve would intervene in response, suggesting the central bank is unlikely to accommodate erratic trade moves with rate cuts. As he put it, monetary policy won’t be used to cushion political gambles.
The clock now ticks toward a three-month deadline, with businesses and markets left to navigate the unknown.
Despite growing concerns over America’s swelling budget deficit, Citigroup’s U.S. equity strategist Scott Chronert believes the situation could bring short-term gains to the broader economy—even if it comes at a cost to market valuations.
Robert Kiyosaki, author of Rich Dad Poor Dad, is sounding a dire alarm over what he describes as the beginning of financial chaos in the U.S.—a scenario he believes will wipe out millions financially.
Billionaire investor Chamath Palihapitiya is sounding the alarm over a new piece of legislation that he believes could accelerate America’s financial decline.
The U.S. dollar may be heading into a period of extended weakness, and that could spell good news for equities, according to Morgan Stanley’s chief investment officer, Mike Wilson.