Stock Market on Track to Erases Losses From Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ Tariff Rollout
Wall Street's recovery from April's tariff-induced sell-off is driven by optimism over potential trade talks and a stronger-than-expected labor market report. The S&P 500 has risen 1.6 percent, surpassing its position before the tariff chaos, marking its ninth consecutive day of gains. China has shown willingness to engage in discussions with the U.S., contingent on the removal of tariffs, although an agreement remains distant. Despite the positive sentiment, the S&P 500 is still over 7 percent below its mid-February high, and concerns persist about the long-term economic impact of President Trump's tariff policies. With new tariffs on auto parts and cars taking effect, the economic landscape remains uncertain, posing questions about the sustainability of the current market recovery.
Wall Street's recovery is attributed to optimism over trade discussions and a robust labor market report, with the S&P 500 gaining 1.6 percent by Friday afternoon, rebounding beyond its pre-tariff chaos level.
The S&P 500's recent upward trend has seen nine consecutive days of gains, fueled by signals from the Trump administration of potential trade talks with China, which has expressed interest in negotiations if tariffs are lifted.
Despite the recovery, the S&P 500 remains more than 7 percent below its peak in mid-February, reflecting ongoing investor concerns about the economic ramifications of the tariffs.
The economic outlook remains fragile as President Trump's tariffs have already caused companies to consider reducing hiring and investment, with new tariffs on auto parts and vehicles adding to the uncertainty.
The volatility in financial markets highlights the persistent anxiety over the economic fallout from the Trump administration's policies, as the 90-day tariff pause ends in July.
The closure of tariff exemptions for low-value shipments from China and the implementation of new tariffs underscore the challenges facing international trade relations.
Economists warn that while trade deals may emerge, it is uncertain how long it will take for economic data to reveal the full impact of the tariffs on economic momentum.