Shutdown Showdown & Michter’s Whiskey on EU Tariffs 12/20/24
Dec 20, 2024
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Sen. Markwayne Mullin, a Republican Senator from Oklahoma, tackles the looming government shutdown and the intense negotiations in Congress. CNBC's Emily Wilkins updates listeners on the political turmoil in D.C. as bipartisan plans emerge. Meanwhile, Joe Magliocco, CEO of Michter's Distillery, shares insights on the potential 50% tariffs on whiskey exports to the EU and how this could reshape the industry amidst changing consumer habits favoring premium spirits. Tune in for a mix of politics and whiskey!
The looming government shutdown highlights deep political divisions within Congress, particularly among House Republicans resisting bipartisan funding measures.
Michter's Whiskey faces potential 50% EU tariffs, prompting the industry to adapt strategies and address shifting consumer trends toward quality and cannabis use.
Deep dives
Government Shutdown Looms
A potential government shutdown is imminent as House Republicans face a midnight deadline to pass a spending bill, but tensions arise from infighting over funding strategies. The latest proposal, which includes $110 billion in disaster relief, faces pushback from both fiscally conservative Republicans and Democrats due to its added provisions and implications for the debt ceiling. The blame game is already underway, with both parties preparing to point fingers should a shutdown occur. Such a shutdown could severely impact federal employees, particularly around the holiday season, raising concerns about the government's functioning and employee compensation.
Republican Disunity and Influence of Trump
Despite President-elect Trump's influence, a significant number of House Republicans have resisted a spending bill he supported, highlighting ongoing divisions within the party. Trump's endorsement was intended to rally party members, but the defiance of 38 Republicans indicates a fractious landscape ahead of his administration. The discord complicates efforts to pass meaningful legislation, with the critical need to address the impending debt limit as the new Congress approaches. This situation illustrates Trump's waning hold over certain factions of the Republican party, raising questions about legislative cohesiveness moving forward.
Tariff Impact on the Whiskey Industry
The whiskey industry braces itself for a potential 50% tariff on American whiskey exports to the EU, reminiscent of a previous 25% tariff that caused a significant downturn in sales. Distillers like Mictors faced challenges as they navigated increased costs and altered pricing strategies to maintain competitiveness. Engaging local partners abroad, distillers absorbed parts of the tariff to mitigate financial repercussions, showcasing adaptive business practices amid international trade tensions. As a response to looming tariffs, companies are strategizing to protect their market presence while urging diplomatic negotiations for more favorable trade terms.
Changing Consumer Trends in Alcohol Consumption
The alcohol industry is experiencing a shift in consumer behavior, where younger demographics are reportedly drinking less while showing increased interest in marijuana use. Reports indicate that daily marijuana use now surpasses that of daily alcohol consumption among certain age groups, prompting industry leaders to reassess strategies. Furthermore, the introduction of lifestyle medications and recreational gambling are impacting discretionary spending, steering some consumers away from alcohol purchases. Despite these challenges, the premium segment of whiskey sales is thriving, suggesting that consumer preference is evolving toward quality over quantity.
A government shutdown looms this Friday, and Congress is scrambling to find a funding bill that both parties will approve. The rush comes after President-elect Trump (and Elon Musk) scrapped a bill, and then a short term bill backed by both Trump and Musk failed to pass on Thursday. Emily Wilkins reports from DC on plans for “plan C,” and Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma) discusses the likelihood of another funding fight after the holidays. Kentucky distiller Michter’s is bracing for the possibility of a 50% tariffs on exports to the EU. CEO Joe Magliocco explains the strain of tariffs on the whiskey business, as well as President-elect Trump’s overnight tariff threat to the European Union. Plus, there’s a new bipartisan push to extend the deadline to ban TikTok.