us tariff threats

Donald Trump has warned the UK of significant tariffs if Prime Minister Keir Starmer does not withdraw the country's digital services tax. Trump views the 2% tax on digital platforms as discriminatory towards American companies, signaling potential retaliation if the policy persists. This threat escalates trade tensions between the two allies.

Market analysts have shifted from the 'TACO' nickname for President Trump to 'NACHO' amid escalating tensions over the Strait of Hormuz. This new label reflects growing skepticism that the crucial global energy route will reopen soon, despite ongoing diplomatic efforts and trade disputes.

President Trump's evolving stance on Taiwan ahead of his summit with Xi Jinping sparks concern. Despite a large arms sale, Trump has questioned Taiwan's role in semiconductor business and sought payment for protection. Analysts fear Taiwan could be a bargaining chip, though US officials maintain policy remains unchanged.

President Trump has warned of significant tariffs on the UK if it doesn't abolish its digital services tax targeting American tech giants. This 2% levy, introduced in 2020, has generated substantial revenue for Britain. The threat escalates existing trade tensions and comes amid broader diplomatic pressures, potentially impacting a UK-US trade deal and defense relations.

This risky double-game may dent Islamabad’s relations with Beijing, as also cause international humiliation

As Trump plays tough guy, nice guy, a battered yet resilient Iran unleashes a meme war

President Trump revealed the US seized a ship carrying "not very nice" items, calling it a "gift from China." He linked this to Iran tensions, threatening to bomb bridges and expressing no desire to extend the Iran ceasefire. Trump anticipates a "great deal" but also expects bombing, despite China denying weapon supplies to Iran.

China has vehemently denied reports of supplying weapons to Iran, calling them "baseless smears" amid US intelligence suggesting imminent delivery of shoulder-fired anti-air missiles. President Trump has threatened "staggering" tariffs if China provides military assistance to Iran, though he expressed doubt about the accuracy of the reports.

China is considering restricting exports of advanced solar panel manufacturing equipment to the US, targeting high-efficiency technologies like HJT. This move could significantly impact US efforts to localize solar production and space-based computing ambitions, including those of Tesla, amid escalating tech rivalry.

Nearly six weeks of fighting between Iran and the United States have paused, but tensions remain after talks failed. Donald Trump has increased pressure by threatening to block the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil route. Iran is responding by using control of the strait as leverage, similar to how China earlier countered US pressure using rare-earth supplies. This has already pushed oil prices higher and raised concerns over fuel costs and inflation. Iran has shown no sign of backing down, signalling a longer standoff ahead

France is ditching Microsoft Windows for Linux, a significant step in Europe's push for digital sovereignty and reduced reliance on American tech giants. This move, aimed at regaining control over data and digital infrastructure, aligns with broader EU efforts to lessen dependence on foreign technology. The initiative begins with government digital agencies, signaling a strategic shift in national digital policy.

From cheaper autonomy to costlier capital, a post-dollar world could test India’s economic model

US forces are enforcing a blockade on vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz, a move experts deem an act of war. This directly impacts China, the largest buyer of Iranian oil, and could cripple Iran's economy. While India's direct exposure is minimal, global energy markets face significant disruption.

The Middle East's conflicts are analyzed through the lens of 'proxies and levers,' where state actors use non-state groups to project power and achieve strategic goals. This approach, while avoiding direct military costs, often results in prolonged violence, instability, and humanitarian crises, complicating peace efforts in the region.

Asian markets saw gains Monday amid Middle East tensions and rising oil prices. Japan's Nikkei and South Korea's Kospi climbed, while other key markets remained closed. Investors are closely watching the US-Iran standoff, with oil prices remaining a central concern due to potential supply disruptions. Uncertainty continues to dominate global markets.

Three Democratic senators urged President Trump to block Chinese automakers from entering the U.S. market, citing economic and national security risks. They highlighted concerns over unfair competition, state-backed subsidies, and potential data security threats from connected vehicles. The senators also called for preventing Chinese vehicles from entering the U.S. via Canada and Mexico.

President Trump's claims of 'decimating' Iran are challenged by two US warplane losses. Allies are distancing themselves, with France and Britain focusing on reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's actions are deepening economic fallout by disrupting oil flows. Diplomatic efforts continue amidst regional escalations.

Amidst the Iran war, President Trump launched a lunar mission, declared dominance, and vowed to escalate conflict. He also proposed a massive Pentagon budget, citing war as a reason to cut domestic programs. Simultaneously, he challenged birthright citizenship and faced judicial scrutiny over his executive orders and a proposed ballroom project, while artists offered satirical commentary on his actions.

What does this latest disruption mean for the growth prospects of Asian economies that are in large part dependent on oil and energy imports. Since the start of the Middle East conflict, passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz has been curtailed.

US’s underlying strengths are absorbing his erratic choices, including war on Iran. Other countries must work in packs, to hedge against Washington

In times of geopolitical uncertainties, gold is the go to investment - it’s a time-tested safe haven that investors rush to. Then why are gold prices plunging amidst the ongoing war? Does this mean that gold’s safe haven appeal is fading?

As US forces build up around Hormuz, Donald Trump gave Iran an ultimatum to reopen the Strait or face strikes that would 'obliterate' its power plants. From naval escorts to taking over the country's oil export hub, here are the options on the table

Following a Supreme Court setback on tariffs, the Trump administration has launched new "Section 301" investigations into alleged unfair trade practices by 16 key partners, including China and India. These probes aim to restore tariff pressure and could lead to new import taxes by summer, with officials emphasizing a commitment to protecting US manufacturing and reducing trade deficits.

Donald Trump expressed "epic fury" at NATO allies for refusing to join the Iran war, branding them "cowards" and warning "we will REMEMBER!" He threatened to wind down U.S. military efforts in the Middle East, stating the U.S. was close to its objectives and that the Strait of Hormuz would need to be guarded by other nations.