The Trade Guys

On this week's episode of the Trade Guys, we run through the early trade actions of the new administration and what may come next. We also unpack the record-high U.S. share of global foreign direct investment (FDI).

On this week's episode of the Trade Guys, we step back and assess the Biden administration's record on trade policy, including a preview of what may change under Trump. We also discuss Indonesia's ascension to full membership in BRICS and the latest export controls on AI GPUs. 

On this week's episode of the Trade Guys, we look at recent Chinese export controls on critical minerals and entity listings of U.S. companies. We also weigh in on President Biden's blocking of the Nippon Steel acquisition of U.S. Steel and the recent controversy surrounding H1-B visas.

Explore the future of the World Trade Organization and how U.S. presidential changes could reshape its influence. Delve into the dynamics of U.S. sanctions on China, focusing on their historical evolution and impact on global trade. Discover the challenges facing WTO dispute resolutions and the debate over sovereignty in international agreements. Lastly, learn about the implications of relaxing export controls on space technology, promoting innovation and partnership between public and private sectors.

Discover the intriguing dynamics of trade policy with a look at key economic nominees and their potential impact. Explore new export controls aimed at curbing China's AI advancements through semiconductors, and how these measures could affect international collaboration. Delve into the complexities of tariffs on Canada and Mexico, assessing their implications for consumer prices and political negotiations. The discussion critiques financial sanctions on nations like Russia and reflects on the evolving landscape of the USMCA.

The discussion dives into potential trade-relevant cabinet nominees and their impacts on upcoming policies. Vietnam emerges as a focal point for scrutiny, with concerns about currency manipulation amid trade deficits with the U.S. Proposed tariffs on Chinese goods are examined, revealing a shift in manufacturing to Southeast Asia. The dialogue also touches on China's recent export restrictions of critical minerals and the broader implications for the global economy. It's a whirlwind of trade dynamics reflecting ongoing geopolitical tensions.

The resurgence of 'Tariff Man' sparks discussions about Donald Trump's influence on trade policy. Speculations arise about the economic strategy of a potential new administration and its focus on tariffs. Concerns over national debt and the political landscape are examined, revealing the challenges ahead. The podcast also draws parallels with past presidencies, questioning how economic conditions are spun during elections. Finally, it scrutinizes the risks of high tariffs against major trading partners and the potential fallout for the U.S. economy.

At the recent BRICS Summit, global leaders are pushing for de-dollarization, challenging the U.S. dollar's long-standing dominance. Discussions around alternative currencies, including the euro and renminbi, highlight emerging trends in international trade. The G20's focus on sustainable development and women’s trade participation signals a shift in priorities. Meanwhile, a study reveals the evolving landscape of U.S. manufacturing, emphasizing the need for adaptation in a service-oriented economy and the critical importance of manufacturing for national security.

This week, the Trade Guys recorded their show live at the National Small Business Exporter Summit hosted by NASBITE International. They talk U.S. elections and the services economy, then field questions from the audience.

On this week's episode of the Trade Guys, we preview the upcoming 2026 renewal of the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA), dig into the Nobel-winning work on the importance of societal institutions for a country’s prosperity, and discuss the return of pandas from China to the National Zoo.