Why Trump tariffs are bad for business: Rubbermaid CEO

Tariffs stand to hammer the profits of many consumer products companies in 2025. Execs at these companies are actively moving production out of China and into other Asian regions to contain costs. But the hit to profits from tariffs will be felt no matter what for companies that already have slim profit margins. Yahoo Finance executive editor Brian Sozzi chats with Newell Brands CEO Chris Peterson. Peterson has been hard at work since taking over as CEO in 2023 restructuring the consumer products giant, which makes everything from Rubbermaid food containers to Graco baby carriages. A lot of the work by Peterson is coming under the spotlight as president Trump aims to slap Mexico, Canada and China with tariffs. Newell Brands has been moving production back to the US from China. It has one of the largest US manufacturing footprints amongst its competitors. Still, tariffs are likely to weigh on the company’s profit margins as it continues to do a chunk of business in China and Mexico. This as the lower income consumer that buys a lot of its products are being more cautious in their spending after years of inflation.

Yahoo Finance's Opening Bid, brings you a high-octane take on the freshest analyst calls, wildest stock moves and shrewdest commentary in the business world. Executive Editor Brian Sozzi puts Wall Street's finest through their paces in this essential conversation for every investor - before the stock market opens.

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