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Feature Story
CNBC Daily Open: Definite tariffs could be better for markets than on-and-off ones
May 30, 2025 · cnbc.com
In other news, a rivalry between Elon Musk and Sam Altman is complicating Trump's dealmaking efforts in the Middle East. Musk attempted to disrupt a major AI infrastructure deal involving OpenAI, Oracle, Nvidia, Cisco, and Emirati firm G42, after learning that his startup, xAI, was excluded. The announcement of the Stargate AI campus in the UAE was delayed as stakeholders, including the White House, navigated Musk's objections. JPMorgan analysts suggest that European equities may continue to outperform U.S. markets over the next 12 to 18 months.
Key takeaways
- Trump's "reciprocal" tariffs were temporarily reinstated by a U.S. federal appeals court, creating market uncertainty.
- U.S. stock market gains were limited due to confusion around tariffs, despite positive earnings from Nvidia.
- Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell emphasized that interest rate decisions should be based on economic data, not politics.
- The SEC dropped its lawsuit against Binance, signaling a shift in the U.S. administration's stance towards the crypto industry.