Trade Policy Clarity on the Horizon

Kevin Hassett, Director of the United States National Economic Council, announced on Monday that the ambiguity surrounding the Trump administration's trade policy is expected to be clarified by early April. This comes as a new set of tariffs is set to be implemented on April 2. Hassett believes that the new trade measures are beginning to achieve their goal of bringing manufacturing companies and jobs back to the US.

Economic Outlook and Predictions

In an interview with CNBC, Hassett shared his views on the US economy's performance. He anticipates a contraction in the first quarter, attributing it to the conditions passed down from the previous administration under Joe Biden. However, he remains optimistic about the economy's ability to barely enter positive territory. Hassett cited several reasons for a bullish outlook and forecasts a significant economic upswing in the second quarter, especially if the proposed tax cuts are approved.