The run-up to the long weekend initially seemed like a quiet session, but President Trump decided to stir things up again. He reopened the trade discussions that had previously cooled down somewhat.
In a post on Truth Social, the president described the relationship with the European Union as challenging. “The European Union is difficult to deal with,” he sharply criticized. “Our discussions with them are going nowhere! That is why I propose a straightforward 50% tariff on the EU, starting June 1.” With this harsh statement, he created unrest in the markets.
He also took aim at Apple and CEO Tim Cook. “I have previously informed Tim Cook of Apple that I expect their iPhones sold in the US to be manufactured in the US, and not in India or elsewhere. If that is not the case, Apple should expect a tariff of at least 25%.” This statement immediately caused unrest in the stock markets.
US stock index futures saw their modest gains disappear like snow in the sun, eventually falling by almost 2%. Apple itself took the biggest hit, falling by 3,6%. The price of bitcoin, which was trading just above $111.000, fell back to $108.600.
“It's like a rollercoaster ride!”
Tension and uncertainty now threaten to dominate the markets. These are dynamic times that remind us of the impact of political decisions on the economy. How will you use these changes? The future belongs to the pioneers who look ahead!
Why is Trump proposing a tariff on the EU?
Trump has announced his dissatisfaction with the trade relationship with the EU, which he sees as difficult to manage, and hopes to exert pressure with higher tariffs.
What does this mean for Apple?
The looming 25% tariff on iPhones could have a significant impact on Apple's profit margins, especially if they don't meet production requirements in the US.
How did the markets react to these statements?
Markets reacted negatively, with a significant drop in the stock index and a drop in the price of bitcoin to the $108.600 level.