U.S. stocks edged lower as investors navigated a mix of rising oil prices, corporate earnings signals, and shifting expectations around Federal Reserve policy. The Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all turned down after early gains, reflecting a market grappling with geopolitical tensions and inflation concerns. Indexes Pull Back All three major indexes slipped roughly between 0.3% and 0.6%, giving back some of the previous session’s momentum. The downturn followed renewed volatility in energy markets and cautious sentiment around consumer spending. Oil Prices Add Fresh Pressure Crude prices extended their sharp rally, driven by heightened worries over a potential U.S.–Iran conflict. Brent crude climbed above $71 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate hovered near $66 — its biggest daily jump since October. Rising energy costs revived inflation concerns and weighed on equities. Walmart Earnings in Focus Walmart posted stronger‑than‑expected results, but its cautious pro...
Trump's 10% Tariff: A Global Trade Shake-Up
The United States has begun enforcing President Donald Trump's controversial 10% tariff on imports, marking a significant departure from post-World War II trade norms. This "baseline" tariff, effective at U.S. ports and customs warehouses, is the first step in a broader strategy that includes higher levies on goods from major trading partners.
The move has already sent shockwaves through global markets, wiping out $5 trillion in stock value for S&P 500 companies and causing oil and commodity prices to plummet. Countries like Australia, the UK, and Saudi Arabia are among the first to face the new tariff, with even steeper rates set to impact the European Union and China in the coming weeks.
While the White House defends the tariffs as a response to trade imbalances, critics warn of escalating tensions and potential economic fallout. This seismic shift in U.S. trade policy is reshaping global dynamics, leaving nations scrambling to adapt.
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