Analysis

Unemployment rates are one of the most widely watched indicators of economic health. They help policymakers, businesses, and the public understand how well the labor market is functioning. When unemployment rises or falls, it often reflects deeper movements in production, investment, trade, and consumer spending. During a trade war, shifts in unemployment can reveal which industries are most exposed and how workforce patterns are responding to new tariffs, retaliatory measures, and shifts in supply chains.

The U.S. labor market is one of the largest and most dynamic in the world. As of early 2025, it reflects a wide range of employment patterns, sector-based shifts, and participation trends. This article outlines key statistics related to employment, unemployment, job types, participation, recent changes shaping the workforce, and capacity to support manufacturing growth.

The VIX, formally known as the CBOE Volatility Index, serves as a key indicator of expected stock market turbulence. It measures how much the S&P 500 index, a benchmark of 500 major U.S. companies, is likely to fluctuate over the next 30 days. Often nicknamed the “fear gauge,” the VIX reflects investor confidence or anxiety through the lens of options trading. When markets face uncertainty, such as during a trade war, the VIX becomes a vital tool for understanding investor sentiment and market dynamics. This article explains what the VIX is, how it works, and why it matters during trade disputes.

As of April 2025, the United States economy is dealing with persistent inflation and slowing economic growth. Inflation rates have remained above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target, with projections indicating a rate between 3.5% and 4% for the year. This prolonged period of price increases is partially linked to recently enacted tariffs, which have raised costs for both businesses and consumers. The national GDP forecast has been downgraded, with growth expected to slow to approximately 1.4% in 2025. This combination of high inflation and weak growth has increased concerns about stagflation, a condition marked by rising prices alongside economic stagnation.

De-dollarization refers to the process whereby countries and international organizations actively reduce their dependence on the US dollar for international trade, investment, and reserve holdings. This process involves shifting away from the dollar as the dominant currency in global financial transactions, trade invoicing, foreign exchange reserves, and debt issuance. While the US dollar remains the most widely used global reserve currency, recent trends suggest an increase in efforts by various nations to diversify currency usage in international finance and commerce.

The F-35 Lightning II and the Saab Gripen are two fighter jets at the heart of heated debates in military and political circles. Designed to meet modern warfare demands, these aircraft represent different philosophies in defense technology, cost management, and international cooperation. The F-35, a U.S.-built stealth jet, has faced scrutiny for its staggering costs and technical issues, while the Gripen, a Swedish multirole fighter, has emerged as a cost-effective alternative, sparking discussions about its viability against the F-35. This article examines the controversies surrounding both jets, focusing on their development, performance, and the geopolitical factors influencing their adoption.

Recent weeks have seen significant diplomatic activity between the European Union and China, unfolding against a backdrop of heightened global trade tensions, particularly stemming from new US tariff policies. High-level conversations and specific negotiations have addressed pressing economic issues and reaffirmed areas of ongoing dialogue.

Tariffs are taxes imposed on imported goods and services. While often discussed in terms of economics and trade, tariffs are also frequently used as instruments of national policy. Governments may implement tariffs not just to support domestic industries but to reinforce sovereign decision-making in areas like defense, security, infrastructure, and resilience. Viewed through this lens, tariffs become part of a broader strategy for preserving national autonomy and self-determination in key sectors.

China has been steadily reducing its reliance on U.S. agriculture and energy imports, turning instead to other countries to meet its needs. This shift, driven by a mix of trade tensions and strategic planning, involves subtle barriers that go beyond traditional tariffs. These changes are reshaping global trade patterns and affecting American farmers and energy producers.