Walmart and Lowe’s, along with other major retailers, are considering price increases in response to President-elect Trump’s proposed tariff plan. This plan includes significant tariffs on imports, particularly from China, potentially impacting a large portion of their product lines. Both companies are actively assessing the implications for their supply chains and costs. Economists predict that consumers will ultimately bear the brunt of these increased costs through higher prices on goods.
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Walmart’s CFO warned that President-elect Trump’s proposed tariffs will likely necessitate price increases for consumers, echoing concerns from other retailers like AutoZone and Lowe’s. A National Retail Federation study estimates billions of dollars in added costs for consumers on various goods if the tariffs are implemented. While Walmart sources many products domestically, the impact of the tariffs remains uncertain pending their implementation and scope. Ultimately, the extent of price increases for consumers depends on the final form and application of Trump’s economic policies.
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Economists predict that two of Donald Trump’s key campaign promises—mass deportations and increased tariffs—would significantly increase food prices in the United States. Deporting undocumented immigrants, who comprise a substantial portion of the agricultural workforce, would cause labor shortages leading to higher wages and subsequently higher prices for domestically grown produce. Simultaneously, tariffs on imported food would further elevate costs for consumers, as there’s no mechanism to offset the combined impact of labor shortages and import taxes. This price increase would affect a wide range of food products, from fruits and vegetables to dairy and meat, impacting all segments of the food supply chain.
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There’s a growing sense of dread about the state of the economy and what’s to come under the current administration. Many are predicting a “rude shock” for those who voted for the current president, believing his policies will lead to economic turmoil.
The concerns stem from a number of factors. The president’s proposed tariffs are seen as a major threat, potentially driving up prices for consumers. The talk of massive deportations is also a source of worry, as it could lead to a labor shortage and further economic instability.
Some are bracing for a perfect storm of layoffs, tariffs, and cuts to social safety net programs.… Continue reading
Mexico’s economy minister Marcelo Ebrard has issued a strong warning to the incoming US administration, stating that Mexico will retaliate with tariffs of its own if the US imposes taxes on Mexican imports. This follows President-elect Donald Trump’s campaign pledge to impose tariffs of up to 25% on Mexican imports if the country fails to address migration and drug trafficking into the US. Ebrard emphasized that such tariffs would be detrimental to the North American economy, reiterating that Mexico has already faced similar threats and demands from the US during Trump’s previous term.
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While Donald Trump’s return to the White House has been met with anticipation by some, it’s unlikely to bring much relief to Americans struggling with the affordability crisis in the housing market. His policies, including increased tariffs and immigration restrictions, could lead to higher construction costs and potentially reduce the supply of homes. Conversely, efforts to loosen regulations and incentivize homebuilding could have positive effects on the market. However, the overall impact on housing affordability remains uncertain and depends on how Trump prioritizes these competing policies during his second term.
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It’s no secret that companies are preparing to raise prices to offset the impact of President Trump’s global tariff plans. This is a move that executives are openly acknowledging, and they are clear about who will ultimately bear the brunt of these tariffs: American consumers.
The logic is straightforward. Tariffs, by their very nature, are taxes imposed on imported goods. These taxes are not borne by foreign countries, but rather by the American companies importing those goods. To maintain profitability, these companies will have no choice but to pass on the increased costs to consumers in the form of higher prices.… Continue reading
I can’t wrap my head around how anyone could see tariffs as anything but a tax on American consumers. It’s common sense. When prices go up due to tariffs, it’s the American people who end up paying the difference. Companies like Walmart or Publix will simply raise their prices to maintain their profit margins, and who has to foot the bill? The middle and lower class citizens who are already struggling to make ends meet.
The fact that Trump and Vance are pushing this narrative that tariffs are somehow good for the economy is laughable. It’s not a legitimate policy idea up for debate among economists.… Continue reading
I find it incredibly frustrating that Canada has decided to impose a 100% tariff on Chinese-made electric vehicles. It seems counterintuitive, especially in a time where we are all striving to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change. The fact that affordable EVs from China were about to enter the market should have been a reason to celebrate, not slap on hefty tariffs.
Looking back at history, it’s reminiscent of the gas crisis in the 70s and 80s when the big three automakers were only focusing on big, heavy, lower quality, and expensive cars. Foreign manufacturers like Honda, VW, and Toyota stepped in with small, efficient, and affordable cars that quickly gained popularity.… Continue reading
As an eBay seller with a keen interest in global trade, the recent announcement about Joe Biden potentially increasing tariffs on some Chinese goods has certainly caught my attention. The idea of doubling, tripling, or even quadrupling these tariffs, particularly on specific items like electric vehicles (EVs), is a significant move with potentially far-reaching implications. The increase in EV duties from 27.5% to 102.5% is a bold step that could have major consequences for both American consumers and the automotive industry as a whole.
One of the key points that comes to mind is the potential impact on soybean exports to China.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood