Mar 30 2025 45 mins
As President Donald Trump's self-proclaimed "Liberation Day" approaches on April 2nd, bringing with it a wave of new tariffs, we're joined by an expert who can help us parse rhetoric from reality.
Moody's Chief Economist Mark Zandi explores the potential economic impact of broad-based tariffs on American consumers, farmers, and business owners. As chief economist, he oversees Moody’s global economic forecast. Mark is a frequent guest on American network news shows and hosts the podcast “Moody’s Talks: Inside Economics.” He has advised policymakers at all levels, including giving Congressional testimony on economic matters; so, we’re very lucky to have him help us understand the potential impacts of tariffs.
The president paints a picture of tariffs ushering in an American manufacturing renaissance. Mark explains where, from an economist’s point of view, that theory might run into road bumps. He describes “stroke of the pen risk," the paralyzing uncertainty that dissuades many businesses from making new investments, and how this could impact daily life. Stick around to the end of the episode to find out which classic movie strikes a chord with Mark right now.
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Speakers:
J. Alex Tarquinio (host). @alextarquinio of @delegateslounge on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Mark Zandi (guest). @MarkZandi of Moody's on X, formerly known as Twitter.
References:
Mark has a weekly economics podcast, Moody’s Talks – Inside Economics.
Alex mentioned that she had interviewed Mark in the past, most recently for a New York Times article about energy.
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