May the Odds Be Ever in Our Favor...Or Maybe Just Postponed: Trump's Tariff Deadline Game

The Reaping...of Tariffs? Not So Fast!

Well folks seems like the Capitol...I mean the White House...is playing games again. Remember when President Trump threatened a 50% tariff on the European Union? Like throwing your name into the reaping bowl a few extra times isn't it? But just like Effie Trinket drawing names sometimes things get… delayed. Turns out that July deadline might be as flexible as Peeta's frosting skills.

A Deadline? More Like a Guideline Darling

Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt says that July date “is not critical.” Not critical? That’s rich! Tell that to the folks trying to make a living in District 12...or you know anywhere that relies on trade. Apparently the President can just “pick a reciprocal tariff rate” if other countries don’t play nice. Sounds like he’s making it up as he goes along. 'If we burn you burn with us!' but maybe just a little slower.

90 Days of Peace? More Like 90 Days of Uncertainty

And don't forget the 90 day pause on those “reciprocal” tariffs on almost everyone else. Set to expire on July 8 it's like the temporary truce during the Hunger Games. A brief moment of calm before… who knows what? Right now the tariffs are at 10% but Trump might make them larger than life. I wonder what Haymitch would say.

Hope in the Air (and on the Stock Market)

Of course the stock market always eager for any good news perked up after Leavitt’s remarks. It’s like when the arena gets a shipment of sponsor gifts – everyone scrambles for the advantage. Maybe this delay means fewer economic casualties? One can only hope.

The White House Whispers: An Extension is Coming

Stephen Miran chairman of the White House Council of Economic Advisers is also hinting at extensions for countries engaged in “good faith” negotiations. So if you’re buttering up the Capitol...I mean the White House...you might just get a reprieve. It’s all about playing the game isn't it?

Odds in Whose Favor?

Even Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent says it’s “highly likely” Trump will push back that July 8 deadline. So what does it all mean? Well like always it's complicated. Just when you think you know what's coming the game changes. 'And may the odds be ever in your favor,'…or at least postponed until further notice. I guess this is how they keep us on our toes in the arena of global trade.