Odd Lots Here's Why Uncertainty Is An Economic Killer
127 snips
Apr 20, 2025 
Joe Weisenthal, co-host of Bloomberg’s Odd Lots podcast, dives into the economic turmoil resulting from unpredictable U.S. trade policies. He discusses how this uncertainty creates a climate of decision fatigue for businesses, hampering investments and economic growth. Weisenthal compares today's economic instability to past crises, highlighting how corporate focus has shifted from growth to cost-cutting. He emphasizes the critical need to monitor market indicators to navigate through these turbulent times.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
CEO Describes Policy Uncertainty
- Tobias Meyer, CEO of DHL, describes near daily shifts in US policy as driving through fog with no headlights.
- Executives struggle to decide on investments or hiring amid rapidly changing trade rules.
Unclear Policy Goals Breed Uncertainty
- Uncertainty arises because the U.S. trade policy's goals and new environment remain unclear.
- Internal White House divisions and inconsistent messages compound the unpredictability for businesses.
No Clear Goal in Current Crisis
- Unlike past crises, the current economic uncertainty lacks a clear goal, making responses difficult.
- Potential aims include boosting manufacturing, stopping fentanyl flow, or controlling migration, but no definitive strategy exists.