Tariffs, Turbulence, and Trade-Offs: Dr. Kuehl Breaks Down Economic Uncertainty

In Season 5, Episode 12 of Keeping it Real with Dr. Kuehl, ASA Chief Economist Dr. Chris Kuehl delivers a concise yet impactful update on the current economic climate, focusing particularly on the state of U.S. trade policy, inflation, and the labor market. With Congress actively discussing new economic measures, Dr. Kuehl sheds light on the most recent job and inflation data, offering valuable context for how these indicators are shaping consumer behavior and industry trends. As policies evolve and market signals shift, businesses are left navigating uncertainty — a key theme of this latest episode.
 

A major highlight of Dr. Kuehl’s update is the growing conversation around tariffs and their impact on the U.S. manufacturing sector. He explores whether recent policy changes are a necessary adjustment or an overcorrection in a still-recovering economy. With ongoing debate in Congress, he raises important questions: Are we moving too quickly on trade realignments? Are these tariff orders here to stay? And critically, what are the broader implications for manufacturers relying on global supply chains and imported materials? According to Dr. Kuehl, while some policy decisions aim to support domestic production, others risk further disruption.
 

The episode also touches on whether the economy is truly faltering or simply reacting to policy volatility and market expectations. Dr. Kuehl examines the mixed signals coming from inflation rates and job reports — highlighting that while some metrics point toward resilience, others suggest caution. For consumers and industry leaders alike, the key takeaway is to stay alert. The economic picture remains fluid, and as Dr. Kuehl notes, “things could look very different next week,” underscoring the importance of staying informed in this unpredictable landscape.
 

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