U.S. stocks were little changed on Tuesday as investors stayed cautious following a series of letters from the White House to major trading partners, outlining sweeping new tariffs.
The real market action unfolded in commodities, with copper surging 10% after President Donald Trump announced a 50% tariff on copper imports starting today.
The industrial metal jumped to $5.52 per pound, hitting a new all-time high and marking its biggest one-day gain since October 2008.
During a Cabinet meeting, Trump stated: “Some letters are at a 60%, 70% rate.” He said to be announcing new tariff measures on pharmaceuticals — possibly a 200% tariff.
He added that trade relations with China have been “very fair” recently, noting a strong working relationship.
While Trump reiterated openness to trade negotiations, he emphasized that the U.S. will not extend the August deadline for reciprocal tariffs to take effect.
Commenting on the European Union, Trump said: “The EU has been speaking to us. President von der Leyen has been very nice lately, but they’ve treated us badly until recently. We’re probably two days away from sending the EU letter. A letter is …