This week in Trumponomics: Economic malpractice

Key Points

  • President Trump's import taxes, announced on April 2, are likened to the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act of 1930, which exacerbated the Great Depression.
  • The S&P 500 stock index (^GSPC) dropped by 11% in two days following the tariff announcement, signaling investor concerns over economic stability.
  • Economists are revising their forecasts downwards, predicting lower GDP growth, higher unemployment, and increased inflation due to Trump's policies.
  • Trade partner retaliation, such as China's 34% tariff on US imports, could further damage the US economy, potentially leading to a recession.

Summary

President Trump's decision to impose sweeping import taxes, reminiscent of the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act, has been criticized as economic malpractice. Announced on April 2, these tariffs have led to a significant drop in the S&P 500, with investors bracing for lower profits, higher inflation, and rising unemployment. Despite Trump's optimistic social media posts, economic experts argue that the US economy, previously on a path to recovery post-COVID, is now at risk of recession due to these policies. The tariffs are expected to increase the cost of a wide range of products, dampening consumer spending and corporate earnings. Moreover, retaliatory measures from trade partners like China could exacerbate the situation, potentially leading to a full-blown trade war. Critics, including David Rosenberg, argue that Trump's fixation on reducing trade deficits is misguided and could lead to economic downturn if these policies persist. The only hope for recovery lies in Trump recognizing the error of his ways and allowing more competent economic management to take over.

yahoo
April 5, 2025
Stocks
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