Jackie Chan gives his take on the US trade deal uncertainty, offering a blend of action movie wisdom and humorous commentary on potential trade scenarios.
Jackie Chan gives his take on the US trade deal uncertainty, offering a blend of action movie wisdom and humorous commentary on potential trade scenarios.

From Hong Kong to Trade Talks: Why I Care

Hey hey! Jackie Chan here! You know me – movies stunts maybe a broken bone or two (or twenty!). But now I’m talking trade? What’s going on? Well the world is connected like a perfectly choreographed fight scene! If the rhythm is off *BAM!* Everyone gets hurt. This news about the US trade deals… it’s serious stuff! President Trump is sending letters deadlines are looming... It's like a race against time but instead of saving a princess we're saving the economy! As I always say 'Sometimes it takes only one act of courage to change everything.' Let's hope these leaders find that courage!

Reciprocal Tariffs? Sounds Like a Dangerous Stunt!

So these 'reciprocal tariffs' are supposed to end soon but maybe they won't? It's like planning a big stunt – you think you know what will happen but then… *WHOOSH!* Everything changes! They might delay the new duties which could be even *higher* than before. Higher? That's like making the bad guys stronger! Japan and the European Union are still figuring things out. An EU spokesperson said they are working hard but I tell you negotiation is tough work. It’s like trying to teach a pigeon to do kung fu! Possible but difficult.

Morgan Stanley's Crystal Ball: Three Scenarios for Trade Armageddon

These clever people at Morgan Stanley have some ideas about what could happen. They've got 'Kick the can' 'Tactical escalation' and 'Framework frenzy' listed down to consider as Trump's tariff deadline nears. These scenarios they sound like action movie titles don't they? Haha! It's like a movie trilogy but instead of sequels we get economic uncertainty. I'm a simple man sometimes complex things like trade deals… *confuse* Jackie! But if the experts are worried then maybe we all should be a little bit.

Kick the Can? More Like 'Kick the Problem Down the Road'!

The first scenario is called 'Kick the can'. The US could pretend things are going well and delay those tariffs even more. It's like saying 'Everything's fine!' when your car is on fire. Maybe it gives everyone more time but eventually you still have to face the music right? They might threaten higher rates later – a bit like me saying 'I'm not angry!' right before a big fight scene.

'Tactical Escalation': A Polite Way of Saying 'Fight! Fight! Fight!'

The second option is 'Tactical escalation'. This is where the US puts tariffs on some countries but not all. It's like fighting one bad guy at a time! They can continue talks. Cecilia Malmström says there's a chance *no* deal will be agreed! Uh oh. She warns about counter tariffs. This sounds dangerous! Like a really messy bar fight. I always say 'Be happy by being natural' but it seems like in trade being natural means fighting!

'Framework Frenzy': The Happy Ending... Maybe?

The last idea is 'Framework frenzy'. The US announces frameworks instead of full deals. Like having the blueprints for a building but the building isn't there yet! This would show that things are moving in the right direction and reduce uncertainty. A bit like when I know where I am going to land after a stunt! Less uncertainty is good! As a wise man (me!) once said 'I'm not scared of dying I'm scared of not trying.' So let's hope everyone tries to make a good deal! Peace out!


Comments

  • corntake profile pic
    corntake
    7/7/2025 1:18:53 PM

    Humor aside, the situation is worrying. Hope they sort it out soon.