Finance

Tariff Turbulence: Business Moguls React to Trump's 90-Day Pause

2025-04-10

Author: Ming

Trump Presses Pause on Tariffs: Market Soars!

In a stunning move, President Donald Trump declared a 90-day halt to his aggressive tariff agenda, sending shockwaves through the business world and sparking a market resurgence. This unexpected announcement has drawn responses from prominent figures across the economic landscape.

Bill Ackman: A Tactical Masterstroke!

Billionaire hedge fund mogul Bill Ackman took to X to applaud the president's strategy, calling it a "brilliant execution" reminiscent of his famed negotiation techniques. He argued for a tariff pause to avoid economic turmoil, emphasizing that China needs to negotiate with the U.S. or face detrimental consequences.

David Sacks: A Triumph for Trump!

David Sacks, former PayPal exec and current White House advisor, celebrated the decision as a major win for Trump. Sacks criticized naysayers who wished for a market crash and claimed that Trump's bold approach was the only way to force change in global trade dynamics.

Diane Swonk: Tariffs Still Loom Large!

Despite the temporary reprieve, KPMG's chief economist Diane Swonk warned that the situation is more complex. She pointed out that the effective tariff rate has actually increased, reaching a staggering 30.5%, which she described as a troubling enough trend that should not be ignored.

Spencer Hakimian: Right Back to Square One!

Spencer Hakimian, hedge fund founder, expressed frustration over the back-and-forth nature of Trump's tariff strategy. He argued that little was accomplished, suggesting we’ve circled back without any real outcomes.

Mark Cuban: The Tariff Tango!

Mark Cuban, the famous 'Shark Tank' investor, likened tariffs to a controversial treatment for COVID-19, highlighting the need for clarity on inventory decisions that companies made in anticipation of the tariffs.

Ray Dalio: Seeking Better Solutions!

Investment titan Ray Dalio urged a rethink on tackling national debt and trade imbalances. He views Trump's step back as a chance to negotiate smarter solutions, ideally with China's role in trade being reassessed.

Richard Branson: A Global Sigh of Relief!

Richard Branson noted this turning point as a moment for the U.S. administration to rectify its mistakes, suggesting the pause brings relief not just to Americans but to the global economy.

Kevin O'Leary: Time to Get Tough!

In stark contrast, 'Shark Tank' star Kevin O'Leary insisted the U.S. should ramp up pressure on China, advocating for even steeper tariffs to level the playing field.

Bill Gross: Market Volatility Concerns!

Investor Bill Gross questioned the stability of stocks affected by Trump's unpredictability, calling for investors to carefully evaluate their portfolios amid such volatile conditions.

The Bottom Line: What's Next?

As the world watches closely, the unfolding trade saga continues to evolve, raising questions about economic strategies, market stability, and international relations.