EU plans to tax big corporates to boost coffers – FT

Another well-known grocery chain has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, joining a growing list of regional supermarkets struggling to stay afloat. Even as major players like Kroger downsize, smaller chains are feeling the squeeze, too—whether from rising costs, competition, or shifting consumer habits.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about one store closing—it’s a sign of deeper cracks in the grocery sector. When regional chains collapse, it often leaves gaps in communities that rely on them, especially in areas where big-box stores don’t fill the void. It’s also a reminder of how tough it’s gotten for mid-sized businesses to survive in today’s market.

Former President Donald Trump is doubling down on his aggressive trade stance, threatening even higher tariffs if re-elected and signaling he’s not particularly interested in negotiating new trade deals. Instead, he’s leaning into protectionist policies, echoing his "America First" playbook from his first term—a move that could rattle global markets and strain relationships with key trading partners.

Editor’s Note: Trade wars aren’t just political theater—they hit consumers in the wallet. Higher tariffs often mean pricier imports, supply chain snags, and potential retaliation from other countries. With Trump making this a centerpiece of his campaign, businesses and economies worldwide are bracing for turbulence if he wins. It’s a reminder that trade policy isn’t just about diplomacy; it shapes what everyday people pay for everything from cars to groceries.

President Trump is threatening to slap a 30% tariff on goods from the EU and Mexico starting in August—but only if they retaliate against his earlier trade moves. It’s a classic Trump escalation, signaling he’s ready to double down if pushed.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about tariffs—it’s about leverage. Trump’s warning keeps trade tensions simmering, which could mean higher prices for consumers and more uncertainty for businesses. If the EU or Mexico call his bluff, we could be looking at another round of economic friction at a time when global growth is already shaky.

Former President Donald Trump’s proposal to slap 30% tariffs on EU and Mexican exports starting August 1 has drawn sharp pushback. The EU’s Ursula von der Leyen called the move disruptive and promised retaliatory steps, though she left the door open for talks. Mexico, meanwhile, slammed the tariffs as unfair but signaled it’s still willing to negotiate—even as tensions over trade loom.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about tariffs—it’s about the ripple effects. Higher costs for European and Mexican goods could squeeze supply chains, drive up prices for consumers, and escalate trade wars at a time when global economies are already shaky. The EU and Mexico’s reactions suggest this could get messy fast if diplomacy fails.

The US Treasury just announced an unexpected $27 billion budget surplus for the month, catching many analysts off guard. The surplus appears to be fueled by revenue from tariffs imposed under former President Trump’s trade policies. While surpluses are rare for the US government, this one suggests tariffs are bringing in significant cash—at least for now.

Editor’s Note: Budget surpluses are unusual for the US, so this is a notable blip—but it doesn’t necessarily mean long-term financial health. Tariffs can boost revenue in the short term, but they also risk trade tensions and higher costs for businesses and consumers. Whether this is a temporary win or a sign of sustainable policy will depend on what happens next.