China is calling out Canada after it ordered Chinese surveillance firm Hikvision to shut down its Canadian operations, accusing Ottawa of "wrongdoing" and demanding a reversal. The move comes as tensions between the two countries simmer over trade, security, and allegations of corporate espionage.

Editor’s Note: This isn't just about one company—it's another flare-up in the rocky relationship between China and Canada. Hikvision is a major player in global surveillance tech, but it's also been accused of ties to human rights abuses. Canada's decision to shut it down likely reflects broader security concerns, while China's sharp response signals it won’t back down easily. For businesses and diplomats caught in the middle, this could mean more friction ahead.

China is keeping its anti-dumping tariffs on certain stainless steel imports in place, signaling a continued effort to protect its domestic steel industry from foreign competition. The duties, which were set to expire, will now remain for another five years.

Editor’s Note: This move isn’t surprising—China has long defended its steel sector, which is a major economic player. But it could ruffle feathers abroad, especially in countries that rely on exporting steel to China. For global markets, it means trade tensions aren’t cooling off anytime soon.

The UK and US have kicked off a new tariff agreement that’s a win for British carmakers—they’ll get preferential treatment—and a big boost for aerospace, where tariffs will drop to zero. But there’s still no resolution on steel, which leaves a key industry hanging.

Editor’s Note: This deal is a step forward for UK exporters, especially in cars and planes, but the lack of progress on steel—a major sector with jobs and political stakes—keeps it from being a full victory. It’s a reminder that trade talks are messy, piecemeal affairs, and some battles (like steel) are tougher to settle than others.

Indonesia is loosening up some of its import rules just as the clock ticks down on a US deadline that could slap new tariffs on their goods. It looks like a strategic move to ease trade tensions before penalties kick in.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just bureaucratic shuffling—it’s a calculated play to avoid a trade spat with the US. Indonesia’s economy relies heavily on exports, so smoothing things over now could save businesses from costly disruptions down the line. For global markets, it’s a small but telling sign of how countries adjust when trade pressures mount.

Markets are perking up as trade negotiations between major economies show signs of progress, easing some of the recent tension. Investors are feeling more optimistic, shifting toward riskier assets like stocks and commodities, while safe-haven plays take a backseat. It’s a classic "risk-on" mood—for now.

Editor’s Note: Trade disputes can ripple through everything from your grocery bill to retirement savings. If talks keep improving, it could mean steadier supply chains, less inflation pressure, and happier portfolios. But these things can flip fast—so don’t pop the champagne just yet.

South Korea is in talks with the U.S. to extend a temporary pause on certain tariffs, which was originally set to last 90 days. The move aims to buy more time for negotiations and avoid disruptions in trade between the two allies.

Editor’s Note: Tariffs can be a sticking point in international trade, and this extension suggests both sides are trying to keep things smooth while they work out the details. For businesses and consumers, it means fewer sudden price shocks—at least for now. It’s not a permanent fix, but it keeps the conversation going.

Goldman Sachs analysts are warning that US companies’ profit margins could take a hit this earnings season, thanks to the ripple effects of Trump-era tariffs and the ongoing trade war. Investors will be watching closely to see how much these policies have dented corporate bottom lines.

Editor’s Note: Tariffs might sound like distant policy wonkery, but they directly impact how much money businesses—and by extension, investors—make. If profits shrink, it could rattle markets, squeeze jobs, or even push prices higher for consumers. This isn’t just a Wall Street concern; it’s a paycheck-and-grocery-bill issue too.

Canada has decided to drop its proposed digital services tax—a move aimed at unblocking stalled trade negotiations with the US. The tax, which targeted big tech companies like Google and Amazon, had become a sticking point in talks, with the US arguing it unfairly targeted American firms. By backing off, Canada hopes to smooth the path for a broader trade deal.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about taxes—it’s a strategic play to keep trade relations with the US from getting messier. Canada’s retreat signals they’re prioritizing a bigger deal over a short-term revenue grab, but it also shows how tricky it is to regulate tech giants without stepping on toes. For businesses and consumers, it means fewer trade headaches (for now).

Investors are feeling a bit more optimistic this morning as Dow futures tick upward, fueled by Canada’s decision to drop its proposed digital tax—a move seen as an olive branch to revive stalled trade talks with the U.S. It’s a small but meaningful step that could ease tensions and pave the way for smoother negotiations.

Editor’s Note: Trade spats between allies can ripple through markets, so Canada backing off this tax is a signal they’re serious about making a deal. For everyday folks, it’s a reminder that these behind-the-scenes negotiations can sway everything from stock portfolios to the price of goods. If talks go well, it might mean fewer disruptions for businesses—and maybe even a boost for investor confidence.