Navigating Free Trade and Economic Uncertainty

This chapter explores the effects of free trade and tariffs on the U.S. economy, emphasizing the historical preference for free trade. It highlights the growing political shifts in trade policies and advises entrepreneurs to prioritize customer focus and expense management in uncertain market conditions.

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Today’s show: Jason and Alex dive into the startup world’s latest chaos — from Nasdaq’s slide and Trump’s tariffs to Klarna’s IPO pause and Rippling’s $16B target. They break down what founders really need to know: tightening CIO budgets, longer sales cycles, but easier hiring. Plus, TikTok’s ban gets another delay (with Bezos possibly lurking?). In Office Hours, they chat with two sharp founders: Luke Belbina from PodEngine, who's building AI for podcasters and doubling revenue, and David Moscatelli from Abacus, who’s bringing secure, on-prem AI to banks and just hit $1M ARR. Don’t miss it! 👇

Timestamps:

(0:00) Jason kicks off the show!

[3:37] Cloud stocks dip: What it means for startups

[5:31] Trump's tariffs: A new startup recession?

[7:01] Retail’s reaction to tariff pressure

[10:16] LinkedIn Ads - Get a $100 LinkedIn ad credit at http://www.linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups

[12:35] Supply chains & startup struggles

[14:53] What’s still getting funded in VC

[17:21] Layoffs looming? What founders should prep for

[19:10] AI, macro takes & market signals

[21:32] Northwest Registered Agent - Get a 60% discount on your next LLC at https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/twist

[23:21] European tech cooling off?