US News
LAST UPDATE: July 19, 2025
Trump pushes for 15%-20% minimum tariff on all EU goods
FT
President Trump is reportedly demanding a minimum tariff of 15–20% on all EU imports, raising from the previously proposed 10%, and threatens a 30% tariff by August 1 if no deal is reached. The EU is preparing retaliatory measures.
Insight
Trump is hardening negotiating positions to pressure the EU, escalating trade risk. The EU faces a dilemma—concede to prevent disruption or retaliate, risking a full-scale trade war with global repercussions.
Trump blames Federal Reserve board on Powell, interest rates
President Trump criticized Chair Powell and the Fed board for high interest rates, claiming the Fed is “out of control” and that such policies threaten economic growth ahead of the 2025 election.
Insight
The attacks challenge Fed independence, creating uncertainty in markets. Rating agencies and investors may demand premium for policy risk, complicating monetary planning and inflation control.
Fed’s rate-cut delay intact as inflation fears override Trump pressure
The Federal Reserve maintained its pause on rate cuts, citing persistent inflation and labor market resilience, despite public pressure from President Trump to ease.
Insight
The Fed is affirming its commitment to inflation control over political rhetoric, reinforcing policy credibility but risking political backlash.
Fed’s Waller says would accept job as chair if Trump asks, but so far no contact
Fed Governor Christopher Waller said he would accept an invitation to become Fed Chair if Trump asked, though no formal outreach has been made.
Insight
The public remark fuels speculation of political intervention in Fed leadership, further fueling concerns over central bank independence.
Fed can probably cut rates a fair bit over the next year: Goolsbee
Former Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee predicted that the Fed could cut interest rates significantly over the next year if inflation continues to recede.
Insight
The forecast signals that monetary easing may be underway if inflation trends improve, offering economic reassurance after recent restraint.
US consumer sentiment improves in July
The University of Michigan’s Sentiment Index rose in July, driven by improved buying and business confidence despite lingering inflation concerns.
Insight
Rising sentiment suggests potential upside for consumption-led growth, but inflation anxiety may still dampen spending dynamics.
US single-family housing starts, permits decline in June
U.S. single-family housing starts and building permits dropped in June, reflecting slowing construction amid rising mortgage rates and supply constraints.
Insight
The slowdown hints at cooling housing market activity, which may relieve inflation pressures but risk weakening construction sector and employment.
US rejects World Health Organization pandemic response measures
The U.S. formally rejected WHO amendments to the International Health Regulations—meant to enhance data sharing and emergency response—citing sovereignty and concerns over undue global control.
Insight
This highlights the tension between national control and global cooperation during global health crises, potentially weakening collective pandemic response.
