Marketplace cover image

Marketplace

Some things haven’t changed

Feb 11, 2025
Mitchell Hartman, a Marketplace reporter specializing in industrial metals, explores the lingering effects of tariffs on steel and aluminum industries. He highlights how consumer inflation expectations remain stubbornly at 3%, despite shifts in economic policies. The conversation touches on the rising costs of homeowner's insurance and property taxes exacerbating housing affordability issues. Additionally, the impact of eliminating vehicle safety inspections in Texas raises safety concerns among drivers. A multifaceted look at how economic changes intersect with everyday life.
27:24

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Despite tariffs boosting domestic steel production, aluminum remains a challenge due to high energy costs and reliance on imports.
  • Consumer sentiment shows a cautious approach to spending, with persistent concerns about inflation and rising housing costs impacting financial stability.

Deep dives

Impact of Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum Industries

Tariffs imposed on steel and aluminum since 2018 have significantly affected the respective industries in the United States. Domestic steel production has increased due to these tariffs, resulting in a reduction in the import share to approximately 32%. However, the situation differs for aluminum, where only about half of the demand is met domestically, primarily sourced from Canada. The high energy requirements to produce aluminum raise concerns regarding competitiveness against foreign producers, especially with current electricity shortages.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode