Tariffs on the EU & Consumer Tastes 5/27/25

After a whiplash weekend of trade news, the U.S. will institute a 50% tariff on goods from the EU, starting in July. National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett discusses the goals for ongoing negotiations and offers a hint at new trade deals coming soon. Ray Washburne sits on the boards of Sunoco and Red Lobster, and he’s invested in luxury retail centers, offices, and restaurants. Based on his exposure to the American consumer, Washburne warns about consumer debt and suggests watching diesel as a barometer for U.S. economic and consumer health. Plus, Disney’s live-action remake of “Lilo and Stitch” led the box office over the long weekend, Japan’s long-dated bond yields have fallen, and Elon Musk will now be “super focused” on X, xAI, and Tesla. 

Ray Washburne - 14:20

Kevin Hassett - 31:37

In this episode:

Becky Quick, @BeckyQuick
Joe Kernen, @JoeSquawk

Andrew Ross Sorkin, @andrewrsorkin

Katie Kramer, @Kramer_Katie