MONEY MASTER

The  Federal Reserve sees rising risks of persistent inflation , with  Trump’s sweeping tariffs  a major concern highlighted in the minutes of the latest policy meeting. What the Fed Said: Tariffs were mentioned 18 times  in the March 19–20 FOMC meeting minutes, up from just once in January. Officials held rates steady at  4.25%–4.50%  and signaled  three rate cuts by year-end , but stressed  a “wait-and-see” approach  amid uncertainty. Key worry:  “Inflationary effects may be more persistent than projected.” What's Driving Concern: Trump’s tariff policies , especially the  10% global baseline tariff  and steeper “reciprocal” tariffs, are viewed as  potential inflation accelerators . Market volatility  and  tightening financial conditions  are also seen as risks that could amplify economic shocks. Business uncertainty  is rising, as companies struggle to navigate unexpected tariff expansions. Mixed Econ...

President Donald Trump reversed course on steep reciprocal tariffs , pausing new levies on nearly 100 nations just hours after they took effect.  But China wasn’t spared —its tariffs were  increased to 125% , triggering a mixed reaction of  market euphoria and policy confusion . What Just Happened: Trump’s  10% baseline global tariff remains , but  a 90-day pause  was granted for the steeper “reciprocal” tariffs— except for China . China’s new  125% tariff rate is “effective immediately.” Canada and Mexico stay  exempt from the baseline tariffs , though higher levies on some goods remain planned. Market Reaction: Nasdaq soared 12% S&P 500 jumped 9.5% Dow surged 7.9% (up 2,962 points) Bond markets also shifted sharply— long-term yields dropped ,  short-term yields spiked . Trump’s Take: On pausing tariffs: “They were getting a little yippy... a little bit afraid.” On China: “They want to make a deal.” On the markets: “THIS IS A GREAT TIME ...

Malaysia has cautiously welcomed the US pause on reciprocal tariffs , but  Trade and Investment Minister Tengku Zafrul  warns that  ASEAN economies remain under pressure  from the unpredictability of US trade policy. What Happened: President  Donald Trump’s decision to delay higher tariffs  on some trading partners offered temporary relief. However, the  escalation of the US-China trade dispute  continues to fuel global market volatility. Malaysia’s Response: “Nothing is certain but uncertainty,”  said Minister Tengku Zafrul, summing up the current US trade environment. The issue will be  a key agenda item at the ASEAN Economic Ministers' Meeting , chaired by Malaysia. Malaysia is committed to  ASEAN unity  in dealing with external trade shocks and seeks  balanced, predictable trade policies . Strategic Moves by Malaysia: Trade diversification:  Exploring new markets and deepening existing ties Economic reforms: ...