US Stock Decline Intensifies Amid Tariff Fears

0

Market uncertainties were heightened by President Donald Trump's announcement to escalate tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminium imports, sparking apprehension about wider economic impacts and potential recessionary threats. This escalation follows a tumultuous Monday, where the S&P 500 witnessed its most significant one-day decline since December 18, erasing over $US1.3 trillion in market value. Meanwhile, technology and consumer discretionary sectors showed the smallest declines amidst the overall market downtrend.

The geopolitical landscape added another layer of complexity as US stocks recorded some recovery following news of resumed US-Ukraine military aid and intelligence sharing, coupled with Ontario's decision to suspend its surcharge on electricity exports to key US states. The temporary positivity provided a brief respite but was overshadowed by tariff and economic growth concerns.

Strategists like Ken Polcari from SlateStone Wealth highlight the market's anxious response to ambiguous trade policies and global economic indicators. Chris Fasciano of Commonwealth Financial Network stressed the challenge for investors to adapt portfolios amidst ongoing uncertainty surrounding tariffs, international agreements, and economic policies.

The broader implications for the US economy continue, as major indexes like the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the Nasdaq Composite record further losses. Tariff-driven uncertainty also negatively impacted consumer sentiment, with significant stock declines in retail and airline sectors led by companies like Kohl's and Delta Air Lines, due to downgraded earnings forecasts.

Citi's downgrade of its US stock outlook to "neutral" underscores widespread apprehension as declining issues outpaced advancers across major exchanges. Investors are closely watching upcoming economic data releases, which may shed light on inflation trends and labor market conditions, both critical in gauging the health of the economy amidst these turbulent times.

The volatile trading activity and steepened decline in stock valuations reflect a market grappling with rapid shifts in trade policy and economic forecasts. As the global markets adjust to these developments, investors and businesses remain vigilant, monitoring for any signals of stabilization or further turbulence in the weeks to come.

Published:Wednesday, 12th Mar 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Share this news item:

Finance News

US Stock Decline Intensifies Amid Tariff Fears 12 Mar 2025: Paige Estritori US stock markets faced a significant downturn on Tuesday, deepening a selloff not seen in months, fueled by investors' concerns over the latest round of tariff threats and their potential repercussions on the global economy. The S&P 500 reached a critical low, nearing a 10 per cent drop from its record high, reflecting growing market volatility amidst mixed updates on international trade tensions and geopolitical events. - read more

RBA Rate Cut Sparks Surge in Australian Consumer Confidence 12 Mar 2025: Paige Estritori The Reserve Bank of Australia’s recent decision to reduce the official interest rate by 25 basis points to 4.1 per cent in February has invigorated consumer confidence, reaching a three-year high. The upswing in sentiment began in late 2024 but waned slightly over the holiday season. However, March data from the Westpac-Melbourne Institute consumer sentiment index indicates a recovery, driven by the RBA's interest rate cut and easing cost pressures. - read more

Star Entertainment Secures $940M Refinancing Amid Financial Struggles 11 Mar 2025: Paige Estritori Star Entertainment Group has announced a crucial refinancing plan to address its significant debt obligations. The casino operator has forged an exclusivity and process deed with Salter Brothers Capital, signalling a potential $940 million refinancing initiative. This move, if successful, would allow Star to manage its existing debt portfolio effectively and ease the liquidity pressures it currently faces. - read more

FAAA Calls for ASIC Investigation Overhaul: A Demand for Transparency and Accountability 11 Mar 2025: Paige Estritori In a recent submission to the Treasury, the Financial Advice Association Australia (FAAA) has pressed for the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) to adopt a more comprehensive approach when investigating financial service complaints. The FAAA has underscored the need for ASIC to expand its investigation purview beyond individual client files to scrutinize the entire financial services value chain, particularly in instances of significant consumer harm. - read more

High Costs of Financial Advice Hinder Women's Investment Confidence 10 Mar 2025: Paige Estritori Recent research from Fidelity International reveals a significant gender disparity in financial advice uptake and investment confidence. Conducted among over 1,000 Australian consumers aged 18 to 59, the study, titled 'The Next Generation,' highlights that only 16 per cent of women seek financial advisers, compared to 22 per cent of men. A staggering 50 per cent of women cited financial advice costs as a major deterrent. - read more

Tesla's Longest Decline Amid Musk's Washington Role 10 Mar 2025: Paige Estritori In an unprecedented turn of events, Tesla's shares have been on a consistent downward trend for seven weeks running—marking the longest losing streak in the company's history since it went public 15 years ago. This slump coincides with Elon Musk's active role in the Trump administration since his move to Washington. On Friday, Tesla's stocks closed at $US270.48 ($428), plummeting over 10% within the week, reaching their lowest since the previous November's election day when shares were at $US251.44. - read more

RBA Deputy Justifies Controversial Rate Cut Amid Inflation Concerns 06 Mar 2025: Paige Estritori The Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA) deputy governor has firmly defended the recent decision to reduce the official cash rate despite internal warnings about persistent inflation pressures. In February, the RBA lowered the cash rate from 4.35% to 4.10%, a move followed by claims that this contradicted forecasts predicting sustained inflation above the target. - read more