The Dispatch Podcast Japan’s Art of the Trade Deal | Roundtable
11 snips
Jul 25, 2025 
Megan McArdle, a columnist for The Washington Post, joins colleagues John McCormack and Grayson Logue for a lively discussion. They dive into President Trump's trade deal with Japan, highlighting its implications for American automakers. The conversation shifts to the current housing market challenges and economic resilience despite rising prices. They also tackle the ongoing Epstein saga with caution and delve into the complex narratives surrounding political scandals. Finally, they reflect on the decline of late-night television and its cultural impact.
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Unusual U.S.-Japan Trade Deal
- The deal with Japan involves a $550 billion Japanese investment fund controlled by the U.S. government, raising unusual control and economic concerns.
- Lowering tariffs to 15% may increase the trade deficit and create market distortions, reflecting atypical Trump administration trade instincts.
U.S. Economy Resilient to Tariffs
- The U.S. economy shows surprising resilience to tariffs despite initial fears.
- Stockpiling inventory and supply chain adjustments have helped businesses muddle through tariff uncertainties.
Housing Market Crisis and Impact
- The housing market frozen due to high mortgage rates and stagnant supply deeply impacts young buyers and family formation.
- Interest rates unlikely to revert soon, creating a long-term challenge for housing affordability and market balance.
