Trump Declares Trade War 'Done,' But is the Damage Really Over, Mr Bond?

A License to Tariff?

Well well well. It seems the flamboyant Mr. Trump has declared his trade war with China 'done.' Like a martini shaken not stirred this announcement leaves a bitter aftertaste. Apparently these tariffs are locked in at a staggering 55%. The question is has he really defused the situation or is this just another explosive device ticking away? I'm on the case naturally. After all nobody does it better.

The Name's Bond Economic Bond

Jamie Dimon head honcho at JPMorgan seems to think the real numbers are about to 'deteriorate.' Hardly comforting is it? This Alan Baer chap from OL USA is even more dour claiming thousands of companies and jobs are at risk. A 55% tariff? It sounds like a Blofeld esque scheme to bleed the global economy dry. "Ultimately the consumer pays," he says. Precisely. The cost of looking this dashing you see is already high enough.

T Shirts or Spatulas: The Million Dollar Question

Bruce Kaminstein a man who clearly understands the gravity of the situation asks the million dollar question: 'Does he want to make spatulas?' I daresay Mr. Trump's aspirations extend beyond kitchenware but the point is made. High tariffs are a blunt instrument and they're hitting businesses where it hurts. It seems Mr. Trump has to be reminded that 'once is happenstance twice is coincidence three times is enemy action.' The consumer might not stand for that.

Shaken Not Stirred: Inflation and Uncertainty

The latest inflation data offers a glimmer of hope but volatility is the name of the game. Companies are grappling with shrinking margins leading to either higher prices or drastic cost cutting. As Steve Lamar from the American Apparel and Footwear Association puts it 'Nearly all clothes and shoes sold in the U.S. are now subject to elevated tariff rates.' It appears we're all paying the price for this economic poker game.

The World Is Not Enough (Trade)

While the Chinese government remains tight lipped Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is floating the idea of tariff pauses for countries 'negotiating in good faith.' EU exports however are still caught in the crosshairs. As Andrew Abbott of Atlantic Container Lines notes the transatlantic trade is looking healthy but recession fears are looming. It seems companies are adopting a 'wait and see' strategy which is rarely a good sign in my line of work. It's a dangerous game indeed and "you only live twice: Once when you are born and once when you look death in the face."

From Halloween to Trucking Woes: The Aftermath

Despite plans for increased shipping this summer the trucking industry is facing a rough ride. Produce season is suffering domestic manufacturing is down and the dreaded 'damage is done,' according to Dean Croke. 'When you lose trust how do you make business decisions when it can be undone in a tweet?' he asks. A valid point. The National Retail Federation's forecast is down 14% year over year and manufacturing out of Asia has hit a 17 month low. Empty containers are piling up at ports. It's as if the whole system is saying "No Mr. Trump. I expect you to...trade fairly!"