In this discussion, Tapas Strickland, a market economist at NAB, dives into the tumultuous economic waters stirred by potential US tariffs on Canada and Mexico. He highlights concerns over possible job losses in the steel and aluminum sectors, citing Alcoa's alarming warning. The conversation touches on shifts in consumer sentiment influenced by inflation fears and explores broader economic indicators, including Australia’s CPI, inviting listeners to consider the ripple effects of global trade tensions.
The impending U.S. tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico are stirring economic uncertainty and potential job losses in the U.S. aluminum industry.
Geopolitical tensions are prompting increased defense spending in Europe, signaling a shift towards economic reforms despite overall global economic uncertainty.
Deep dives
Economic Uncertainty and Consumer Confidence
There is a significant sense of economic uncertainty driven by various factors including U.S. tariffs, rising inflation concerns, and geopolitical tensions in Europe. The ongoing discourse around tariffs, especially with Canada and Mexico, is causing fluctuations in market confidence, as businesses brace for potential disruptions. Recent consumer surveys indicate a drop in consumer confidence, with expectations falling sharply, raising alarms about possible recession signals. This decline in sentiment is highlighted by the Conference Board Consumer Sentiment Index, which fell from 105.3 to 98.3, marking its steepest monthly drop since August 2021.
Impact of Tariffs and Trade Policies
The potential implementation of a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico is a critical concern that markets are monitoring closely. After President Trump's press conference, where he hinted at enforcing these tariffs, there has been a mix of apprehension and speculation about their actual execution. Companies like Alcoa have voiced strong opposition, suggesting that such tariffs could result in significant job losses within the U.S. aluminum industry, further complicating the economic landscape. As the deadline for tariff decisions approaches, markets are grappling with the implications of Trump's trade policies on economic stability and growth.
Geopolitical Tensions and Defense Spending
Geopolitical tensions are leading to increased defense spending across Europe, particularly as countries react to uncertainties regarding NATO and national security. The UK has recently committed to raising its defense spending to 2.5% of GDP, a trend likely to influence other European nations. While this shift may bring about necessary investment in the defense sector, it also reflects broader economic reform discussions within Europe. Such reforms could potentially foster a more resilient European economy, albeit amidst an overall uncertain global economic outlook due to evolving trade policies.
This morning the Aussie dollar is down whilst safe haven currencies have risen, as markets start to assess the risk of US tariffs. A lot of f the moves in the last 24 hours relate to Trump’s comments that Canada and Mexico are due to see their 25% import from 3rd March. Steel tariffs are then scheduled to follow on the 22nd, then broader reciprocal tariffs from April. NAB’s Tapas Strickland says Alcoa’s CEO has warned that 100kUS industry jobs could be at risk from tariffs on steel and aluminium. So, again, the question remains, is it bravado, given China’s 10% is the only tariff imposed so far?
Australia’s monthly CPI is out today, although it has a heavy goods bias, so the read won’t be particularly accurate. This time tomorrow (after the US close) NVIDIA reports their earnings results.