
American companies are experiencing uncertainty over tariffs and the ongoing trade war under President Trump's administration, affecting financial results and investor forecasts. CEOs have reported that as long as uncertainty reigns, investment will remain subdued. Many firms are withholding or revising their financial outlooks due to the erratic nature of tariff announcements and pauses, including a recent pause on tariffs except for China. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has indicated expectations of a de-escalation in the trade war with China, though formal talks have not started. Business leaders are preparing for a potential economic slowdown or recession, with job losses in Middle America considered possible. One Wall Street CEO estimated a 20% chance that Trump achieves a positive trade outcome. CEOs are reluctant to make public statements but are communicating concerns privately. Specific impacts have been reported by major companies: Chipotle cited weaker-than-expected revenue and lowered its outlook for same-store sales; Boston Scientific estimated a $200 million tariff impact for 2025; Boeing expects less than $500 million in annual tariff costs and is concerned about retaliatory tariffs from China; Tesla highlighted supply chain disruptions, especially in its energy business; and AT&T noted higher equipment costs. Elon Musk commented that lower tariffs are generally good for prosperity, but the final decisions rest with the president.
CEOs have sought to assure investors they can weather the #tariff storm, but many also said they hoped the erratic nature of the Trump administration’s tariff strategy would end soon. | @wsj https://t.co/IyytN17qVK
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