Global Markets React to Trade Tensions as Tariffs Stir Concerns

Equities worldwide dropped and U.S. Treasury yields climbed as U.S. President Trump's tariff threats on European beverages fueled trade anxiety. Investors grappled with new economic data and the implications of unsustainable inflation trends due to tariffs. Market volatility continued amid geopolitical uncertainties.

Equity markets across the globe took a hit while U.S. Treasury yields climbed on Thursday, fueled by heightened anxieties over global trade tensions. This development follows U.S. President Donald Trump's alarming proposition to impose a 200% duty on European beverage imports if the European Union does not retract its surcharges on U.S. whiskey.

The market's watchful eye remained on the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, which showed that U.S. producer prices (PPI) held steady in February, contrary to expectations. Despite slower-than-anticipated consumer price (CPI) growth, concerns linger over escalating inflationary pressures as tariffs potentially drive prices higher.

The turbulent atmosphere was encapsulated by Peter Andersen of Andersen Capital Management, who remarked on the unpredictability stemming from erratic guidance out of Washington. As Wall Street indices slid, with the Dow Jones, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all recording losses, apprehensions over potential policy shifts continue to animate investor sentiment.

(With inputs from agencies.)