US News
LAST UPDATE: July 17, 2025
US trade chief Greer says wants US trade deficit on downward path
U.S. Trade Representative Greer stated the administration is committed to reducing America’s trade deficit through stronger exports and improved trade deals .
Insight
This view signals ongoing U.S. pressure on trading partners and underscores a shift toward boosting domestic competitiveness rather than relying solely on tariffs.
Fed Beige Book Shows Slight Increase in US Economic Activity
The recent Federal Reserve Beige Book reported modest growth in U.S. economic activity—mainly in services—while manufacturing remained flat .
Insight
The report suggests the Fed may remain cautious on rate cuts, balancing slight momentum in services with weak manufacturing, awaiting stronger data before pivoting.
US Industrial Output Grew in June
Data from the Federal Reserve showed U.S. industrial production increased in June, supported by gains in manufacturing and utilities.
Insight
Rising industrial output indicates resilience in the broader economy, which might soften expectations of Fed rate reductions.
US producer inflation flat in June but goods costs up
US producer prices were unchanged overall in June, but the cost of goods rose—highlighting persistent upstream inflation pressures despite stable overall inflation.
Insight
This divergence suggests that inflationary pressures remain in supply chains, which could delay broader price stabilization.
Trump Denies Plan to Axe Powell After Floating Idea to Lawmakers
Trump clarified there is no definitive plan to fire Fed Chair Jerome Powell, despite previously mentioning the possibility in discussions with lawmakers .
Insight
Trump’s comments underscore ongoing political uncertainty around the Fed, which may weigh on investor confidence and central bank independence.
New leadership at Fed would be helpful, US House Speaker says
The Speaker of the House expressed that new leadership at the Federal Reserve “could be helpful,” without naming specifics .
Insight
Political interest in reshaping the Fed leadership reflects growing scrutiny, raising questions about long-term central bank autonomy.
Fed’s Bostic: Recent data show price pressures may be building
Atlanta Fed President Raphael Bostic highlighted rising inflation—CPI moved from 2.4% in May to 2.7% in June—with tariffs contributing to cost pressure, cautioning against premature rate cuts.
Insight
Bostic’s remarks underscore how tariff-driven prices could delay further Fed easing, emphasizing reliance on incoming data.
Fed’s Barr Warns of Booms and Busts Tied to Weakened Bank Rules
Fed Governor Michael Barr cautioned that easing banking regulations may fuel excessive lending during booms—undermining stability and intensifying busts (Bloomberg.com, ブルームバーグ・ロー).
Insight
Barr emphasizes that regulatory rollbacks could sow financial fragility, urging caution as banks push back.
American firms flag hit from US export controls targeting China
A US–China Business Council survey found over a third of US companies in China report negative effects—from lost sales to supply-chain hurdles—due to stricter export controls .
Insight
These controls are straining US companies operating in China, highlighting economic repercussions of decoupling.
