Fallout from Trump’s self-imposed tariffs and DOGE cuts is visibly damaging the U.S.

DOGE and U.S. Tariffs

The economic impact of tariffs and budget cuts by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) is becoming increasingly evident

Major corporations like Nike and Accenture, for example have recently reported significant challenges stemming from these policies. Nike has warned of a sharp decline in sales for the current quarter, attributing this to tariffs and weakened consumer sentiment.

Similarly, Accenture has experienced a reduction in revenue due to cuts in U.S. government contracts, highlighting the ripple effects of reduced federal spending. It is a good guide to U.S. consumer sentiment.

The tariffs, part of a broader economic strategy, aim to protect domestic industries but have led to higher production costs and strained international trade relations.

The European Union has postponed its own tariffs on U.S. goods, seeking to negotiate a more favourable agreement and mitigate potential economic fallout.

These developments underscore the delicate balance between protecting domestic interests and maintaining a respectable global economic position.

Some argue that the U.S. tariffs and budget cuts may ultimately harm both businesses and consumers, as higher costs are passed down the supply chain.

As the 2nd April 2025 implementation date for new tariffs approaches, businesses and policymakers alike face mounting pressure to address these challenges and find solutions that support economic growth while minimizing adverse effects.

The coming months will be crucial in determining the long-term impact of these policies.

UK government borrowing higher than expected in February 2025

UK borrowing up!

In February 2025, UK government borrowing reached £10.7 billion, significantly exceeding the £6.5 billion forecast by the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR)

This marks the fourth-highest borrowing figure for February since records began in 1993. The unexpected rise in borrowing has intensified pressure on Chancellor Rachel Reeves ahead of her upcoming Spring Statement.

The increase in borrowing is attributed to higher public sector spending, which totaled £93 billion for the month, driven by social benefits and investment expenditures.

Meanwhile, government receipts, primarily from taxes, rose to £87.7 billion but failed to offset the spending surge.

Over the financial year to date, borrowing has climbed to £132.2 billion, surpassing the OBR’s earlier projection of £127.5 billion for the entire fiscal year.

Economists warn that the higher-than-expected borrowing could challenge the Chancellor’s fiscal rules, which aim to reduce debt as a share of GDP by 2029/30.

With limited options, Reeves faces tough decisions, including potential spending cuts and tax adjustments, to maintain fiscal discipline.

The borrowing figures underscore the delicate balance between managing public finances and addressing economic pressures.

As the Spring Statement approaches, all eyes are on the Chancellor’s strategy to navigate these challenges while maintaining economic stability.

The Chancellor has allowed herself to be backed into a corner.