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Americano: could Trump target Britain with tariffs?
Feb 11, 2025
Angus Hanton, entrepreneur and author of "Vassal State: How America Runs Britain," joins the conversation to dissect the intricate economic ties between the UK and the US. He discusses the looming threat of tariffs under a potential Trump administration, questioning if Britain could be a prime target. The dialogue touches on the dominance of American tech firms in the UK, the impact of US payment systems on global transactions, and the post-Brexit dynamics that could reshape Britain's role on the world stage.
24:39
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Quick takeaways
- The evolving trade relationship between the US and UK displays a concerning master-servant dynamic, affecting Britain's economic sovereignty.
- American corporate ownership plays a significant role in the UK economy, challenging perceptions of foreign influence and necessitating protective measures for domestic firms.
Deep dives
Trump's Tariffs and the UK
Donald Trump’s presidency is marked by significant changes to the trade relationship between the United States and the UK, particularly regarding tariffs on goods. Currently, Britain appears to be spared from the major 25% tariffs imposed on steel and aluminum directed at the European Union, which offers a temporary relief. However, experts caution against complacency, noting that the evolving economic dynamic between the two nations is increasingly resembling a master-servant relationship, as highlighted in discussions within the podcast. The bilateral trade deficit means that Britain may be less of a target for tariffs, but British companies are still likely to feel the unintended consequences of the tariffs aimed at other nations.
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