Trump’s White House decisions in April 2025 are shaking up markets—here’s what investors need to know.
At GLHR Investing, we’re committed to keeping you informed about the events shaping the markets. This week, April 7–13, 2025, the White House was a whirlwind of activity under President Donald J. Trump, with decisions that sent ripples through global economies. From trade policies to diplomatic wins, here’s a detailed breakdown of the top 10 events, what Trump did, and how they’re affecting investors and markets. Stick around for a bonus: the top 5 Trump achievements so far.
1. 🚨 Trump Pauses Most Tariffs for 90 Days, Keeps 10% Baseline
On April 9, Trump announced a 90-day pause on most of his “reciprocal tariffs,” lowering them to a 10% baseline for many countries, except China, where tariffs spiked to 125%. This followed a week of market chaos after he imposed sweeping tariffs on April 2, targeting nearly all U.S. trading partners. The pause came after intense pressure from Wall Street and global leaders, with the S&P 500 surging 9.5%—its best day since 2008.
- Trump’s Role: Trump personally authorized the pause via a social media post, signaling flexibility to negotiate trade deals. He maintained the China tariffs to counter Beijing’s 84% retaliatory duties, showing a hardline stance against the U.S.’s biggest trade rival.
- Market Impact: The pause triggered a massive rally, with the Dow jumping 2,963 points and tech stocks like Nvidia soaring 18.7%. Investors cheered the reduced risk of a global trade war, but uncertainty lingers as the 90-day clock ticks. The 10% baseline still raises costs for importers, potentially squeezing margins for retailers like Walmart. China’s tariffs could hit U.S. exporters, especially agriculture and tech.
- Investor Takeaway: Short-term relief, but stay cautious. Diversify into domestic-focused stocks like utilities to hedge against tariff volatility.
2. 🇮🇱 Netanyahu Bilateral Meeting Strengthens U.S.-Israel Ties
On April 7, Trump hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss hostage negotiations and Middle East stability. Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, was praised for securing a prior deal freeing 25 hostages, and talks focused on another potential agreement.
- Trump’s Role: Trump positioned himself as a dealmaker, leveraging his relationship with Netanyahu to push for peace while reaffirming U.S. support for Israel. He emphasized Witkoff’s role, signaling trust in his inner circle.
- Market Impact: Geopolitical stability in the Middle East supports oil price stability, with crude closing at $61 a barrel. Defense stocks like Lockheed Martin ticked up slightly, reflecting confidence in U.S.-Israel military ties.
- Investor Takeaway: Energy and defense sectors remain safe bets. Monitor Middle East developments for oil price swings that could affect inflation.
3. 📈 Trump Pushes Coal Industry Revival with Executive Order
Trump signed an executive order this week to boost U.S. coal production, aiming to cut regulations and open federal lands for mining. He touted it as a step toward energy independence and job creation.
- Trump’s Role: Trump framed the order as fulfilling a campaign promise to revive “forgotten” industries, directly challenging environmental policies from the prior administration. He met with coal industry leaders to ensure swift implementation.
- Market Impact: Coal stocks like Peabody Energy jumped 5%, and energy ETFs saw inflows. However, broader markets were unmoved, as coal’s role in global energy remains limited. Investors worry about long-term ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) pushback.
- Investor Takeaway: Coal may offer short-term gains, but diversify into cleaner energy like natural gas to balance ESG risks.
4. 💰 Real Wages Up, Inflation Down – Trump Takes Credit
Trump highlighted economic data showing real wages rising and inflation dropping to 2.4% in March, below the expected 2.6%. He attributed this to his deregulatory agenda and pressure on the Federal Reserve to cut rates.
- Trump’s Role: Trump publicly claimed credit during a press conference, promising more tax cuts to boost consumer spending. He met with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to align messaging on economic wins.
- Market Impact: Bonds rallied, with 10-year Treasury yields dipping to 4.15%. Consumer discretionary stocks like Amazon gained 3%, reflecting optimism about spending power. Markets expect at least two Fed rate cuts in 2025, supporting growth stocks.
- Investor Takeaway: Lean into consumer-focused ETFs and tech. Lower inflation could extend the bull market, but watch Fed signals closely.
5. 🏭 Corporate Investment Pledges Roll In
Trump announced billions in new corporate investments, including a $100 billion commitment from TSMC to build U.S. semiconductor plants. He tied this to his tariff strategy, which incentivizes domestic production.
- Trump’s Role: Trump hosted TSMC’s C.C. Wei at the White House, calling it a “historic” win for American manufacturing. He worked with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to secure tax breaks for investors.
- Market Impact: Chipmakers like Intel and AMD rose 4%, and the VanEck Semiconductor ETF gained traction. Markets see this as a hedge against China tariffs but worry about supply chain costs.
- Investor Takeaway: Semiconductors are a buy, especially U.S.-based firms. Long-term, this strengthens tech but expect short-term cost pressures.
6. ⚾ Trump Honors Sports Champions
Trump welcomed the L.A. Dodgers, NASCAR, IndyCar, and IMSA champions to the White House, celebrating American excellence. The event doubled as a PR move to shift focus from tariff backlash.
- Trump’s Role: Trump delivered remarks praising the athletes and linked their success to his vision for a “winning” America. He ensured wide media coverage to boost public morale.
- Market Impact: Minimal direct impact, but consumer sentiment ticked up slightly, supporting retail stocks like Dick’s Sporting Goods. Positive PR helps stabilize markets after tariff fears.
- Investor Takeaway: Sentiment-driven stocks may see small lifts. Focus on broader economic signals over symbolic events.
7. ⚖️ Trump Celebrates Four Supreme Court Wins
The White House touted four favorable Supreme Court rulings this week, though details were sparse. Trump framed them as victories for his judicial appointments and conservative agenda.
- Trump’s Role: Trump issued a statement crediting his three Supreme Court justices for upholding “American values.” He met with legal advisors to strategize future cases.
- Market Impact: Legal clarity boosts business confidence, with financials like JPMorgan up 2%. However, markets remain focused on trade policy over judicial news.
- Investor Takeaway: Financials and insurers benefit from regulatory certainty. Stay diversified, as judicial impacts are long-term.
8. 🛢️ Gas Prices Dip, Energy Policy Takes Shape
Trump highlighted falling gas prices, crediting his push for increased domestic drilling. He signaled more energy deregulation to come, targeting LNG exports.
- Trump’s Role: Trump met with energy CEOs to outline his “drill, baby, drill” agenda, promising fewer permits delays. He contrasted his approach with Biden’s policies.
- Market Impact: Energy giants like ExxonMobil gained 3%, and oilfield services stocks rose. Lower gas prices could ease inflation fears, supporting consumer stocks.
- Investor Takeaway: Energy is a strong play, especially midstream firms. Monitor global demand, as China tariffs could disrupt exports.
9. 🇨🇳 China Tariff Escalation Sparks Trade War Fears
Trump raised China tariffs to 125% after Beijing’s 84% retaliation, intensifying the U.S.-China trade war. He justified it as protecting American workers from “unfair” practices.
- Trump’s Role: Trump doubled down in public remarks, vowing to outlast China. He directed trade advisor Peter Navarro to prepare for further escalations if needed.
- Market Impact: Tech and retail stocks like Apple and Best Buy dropped 5–9% early in the week, as China supplies critical components. Safe-haven assets like gold hit $3,160 an ounce.
- Investor Takeaway: Avoid heavy China exposure. Gold and bonds are hedges, but don’t overcommit until trade talks clarify.
10. 📉 Markets Weather Tariff Volatility
The week saw wild market swings, with the S&P 500 dipping toward bear market territory (down 18.9% from its February peak) before the tariff pause sparked a recovery. Trump’s mixed signals kept investors on edge.
- Trump’s Role: Trump dismissed early market drops, calling tariffs “medicine” for long-term growth. His pause decision showed responsiveness to Wall Street’s pleas.
- Market Impact: Volatility spiked, with the Cboe Volatility Index hitting its highest since August. Hedge funds cut stock exposure, but the rally restored $2 trillion in value.
- Investor Takeaway: Embrace volatility with cash reserves. Long-term, Trump’s policies could drive growth, but near-term uncertainty favors defensive plays.
Bonus: Top 5 Trump Achievements So Far
- Tax Cuts Extended: Trump’s push to extend 2017 tax cuts has boosted corporate profits, lifting the S&P 500 by 2.5% post-election.
- Semiconductor Boom: Securing TSMC’s $100 billion investment strengthens U.S. tech, reducing reliance on Asia.
- Energy Independence: Deregulation has cut gas prices and boosted energy stocks, with Exxon up 10% since January.
- Trade Leverage: Tariffs, while volatile, forced 50+ countries to negotiate, giving Trump bargaining power.
- Judicial Wins: Appointing three Supreme Court justices ensures a pro-business legal environment, aiding financials.
Why It Matters for Investors
Trump’s actions this week show he’s playing a high-stakes game—balancing bold promises with market realities. The tariff pause buys time, but uncertainty persists, especially with China. Investors should prioritize flexibility: hold cash, lean into domestic sectors like energy and tech, and watch safe-havens like gold. At GLHR Investing, we believe in staying ahead of the curve, and Trump’s unpredictable style demands vigilance.
For more insights, visit us at glhrinvesting.com.
