5 Key Market Movers to Watch as Trump Tariffs Shake Global Stocks
U.S. stock futures are tumbling as President Donald Trump’s aggressive new tariffs spark fears of a global trade war. Major companies like Apple (AAPL), Nike (NKE), and Walmart (WMT) are seeing sharp declines in premarket trading, while Amazon (AMZN) and AppLovin (APP) make headlines with a potential TikTok acquisition bid. Here’s what investors need to know before the stock market opens today.
1. U.S. Stock Futures Plunge on Sweeping Trump Tariffs
Stock futures are plummeting after President Trump unveiled a series of steep tariffs on imports from China, the EU, and Japan. The move has rattled investors, triggering a broad market sell-off.
- Nasdaq futures are down nearly 4% after a modest gain yesterday.
- S&P 500 futures have fallen 3.3%, while Dow Jones futures are down 2.7%.
- Bitcoin (BTC) is hovering around $83,000, while crypto-linked stocks like MicroStrategy (MSTR) are down 5%.
- The 10-year Treasury yield has dipped to 4.05%, signaling a flight to safety.
- Gold futures are down 4%, while oil prices have slipped 1%.
Why It Matters: The tariffs threaten to disrupt global supply chains, raising costs for businesses and consumers. Investors are bracing for potential inflation spikes and slower economic growth.
2. Trump Announces Tariffs Ranging from 10% to 50%, Targeting China, EU, and Japan
President Trump’s new tariffs are among the most aggressive in decades, with rates as high as 50% on some imports.
Key Tariff Rates:
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China: 34% (on top of existing 20% duties)
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European Union (EU): 20%
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Japan: 24%
These tariffs are set to take effect by April 9, 2025, per an executive order.
Market Reaction:
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Tech and retail stocks are among the hardest hit due to their reliance on global supply chains.
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Automakers and industrial firms are also under pressure as costs rise.
Investor Takeaway: Companies with heavy overseas exposure could see earnings shrink, while domestic manufacturers might benefit from reduced foreign competition.
3. Apple, Nike, Walmart Stocks Tumble on Trade War Fears
Several major stocks are sinking in premarket trading as investors assess the impact of Trump’s tariffs.
Biggest Decliners:
- Apple (AAPL): Down 7%+ (90% of its products are made in China).
- Nike (NKE): Plunging 10% (most suppliers are in China, Vietnam, and Indonesia).
- Retailers:
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Dollar Tree (DLTR) and Best Buy (BBY) down 10%.
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Walmart (WMT) and Target (TGT) falling 5%.
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Why It Matters: Higher tariffs mean increased costs for these companies, potentially leading to lower profits and higher consumer prices.
4. RH Stock Crashes 30% on Weak Housing Market Outlook
Luxury home-furnishings retailer RH (RH) is facing a brutal premarket selloff after issuing a grim forecast.
Key Highlights:
- Revenue growth projected at just 10-13% for fiscal 2026, below expectations.
- CEO warns of "the worst housing market in almost 50 years."
- Tariff uncertainty adds to business risks.
- Q4 earnings and revenue missed estimates, further spooking investors.
Investor Takeaway: The housing slowdown is hitting high-end retailers hard, and tariffs could exacerbate the pain.
5. Amazon and AppLovin Reportedly Bidding for TikTok Ahead of U.S. Ban Deadline
With TikTok’s U.S. ban looming on April 6, two major players are making moves to acquire the popular app:
- Amazon (AMZN) has reportedly submitted a bid to U.S. officials.
- AppLovin (APP) is in talks with ex-Wynn Resorts CEO Steve Wynn for financial backing.
Market Reaction:
- Amazon shares down 6% amid broader market sell-off.
- AppLovin stock plunging 9% on acquisition risks.
Why It Matters: A TikTok acquisition could reshape social media and digital advertising, but regulatory hurdles remain.
Final Thoughts: What Investors Should Watch Today
- Tariff Fallout: Monitor how companies adjust to higher import costs.
- Earnings Warnings: Expect more firms to lower guidance due to trade disruptions.
- Housing Market Woes: RH’s warning signals trouble for home-related stocks.
- TikTok Deal: A last-minute acquisition could boost Amazon or AppLovin.
- Safe Havens: Treasury yields and gold may see volatility as investors seek stability.
Stay tuned for updates as the market reacts to these major developments.