Global stock markets experienced a sharp downturn Monday, fueled by President Trump’s tariffs. Frankfurt’s market saw the most dramatic decline, falling as much as 10 percent. Other major European indices, including Paris, London, Amsterdam, Oslo, and Milan, also suffered significant losses, ranging from 3 to over 6 percent. This widespread sell-off reflects intensifying global market volatility.
President Trump’s new tariffs have triggered a global economic crisis, marked by a significant stock market decline and the potential for a widespread trade war mirroring the severity of the Smoot-Hawley tariffs. While proponents argue for long-term benefits, the current economic damage is substantial, exceeding initial predictions and threatening a global recession. This reckless approach, fueled by conflicting justifications from administration officials, highlights a lack of coherent economic strategy. Further, Congress’s failure to check the president’s unilateral tariff authority represents a profound constitutional dereliction of duty and exacerbates the economic instability.
The U.S.’s planned imposition of significant import tariffs poses a severe threat to the global economy, according to a senior official at the International Chamber of Commerce. This protectionist approach risks triggering a downward spiral reminiscent of the 1930s trade wars, potentially causing a global economic crisis. Historical parallels to the Great Depression, marked by widespread unemployment and drastically reduced industrial production, underscore the severity of the risk. The ICC urges a reconsideration of these policies to avert a major economic downturn.
The escalating tensions surrounding the Panama Canal and the potential for US intervention are painting a grim picture, with the phrase “there will be many casualties” echoing ominously through the corridors of power. While not uttered by Marco Rubio, the former Panamanian president’s warning underscores the very real possibility of widespread devastation should a conflict erupt. The gravity of the situation stems from the confluence of several factors, creating a volatile mix ripe for miscalculation and unintended consequences.
The prospect of a US military action, fueled by a desire to curb China’s growing influence and reaffirm American dominance, directly threatens Panama’s sovereignty.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood