Trump said he is open to negotiation on these tariffs. The factor of four difference is likely intentional padding. This way, he can:
1.) Shock the market into dropping several hundred points on the S&P and Nasdaq indices, thereby making quite a bit of money on the way down and then back up again.
and
2.) Lower tariffs in exchange for patronage from countries or specific businesses that want a port opened in this new trade firewall.
1.) Shock the market into dropping several hundred points on the S&P and Nasdaq indices, thereby making quite a bit of money on the way down and then back up again. and
2.) Lower tariffs in exchange for patronage from countries or specific businesses that want a port opened in this new trade firewall.