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  • Breakthrough in U.S.-China Trade Talks: Treasury Secretary Announces 90-Day Tariff Pause
    2025/05/15
    Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced a significant breakthrough in U.S.-China trade relations during talks in Geneva this week. On May 12, Bessent reported "substantial progress" in negotiations aimed at addressing the United States' $1.2 trillion trade deficit with China. The meetings included Chinese vice premier and two vice ministers, with Bessent working alongside U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer to secure what appears to be a 90-day pause on tariffs between the two economic powerhouses.

    "I'm happy to report that we made substantial progress between the United States and China in the very important trade talks," Bessent stated from Switzerland, where he thanked the Swiss government for providing "this wonderful venue" that contributed to the productivity of the discussions. Full details of the agreement are expected to be released soon, with Bessent confirming that President Trump has been "fully informed" of developments.

    Ambassador Greer emphasized the swift nature of the agreement, noting, "It's important to understand how quickly we were able to come to agreement, which reflects that perhaps the differences were not so large as maybe thought." The deal represents a potential turning point after weeks of economic turbulence following President Trump's earlier announcement of sweeping tariffs that triggered significant market volatility.

    Bessent's trip to Switzerland had been planned since May 8, when the Treasury Department announced his travel plans included meetings with Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter and representatives from China. At that time, Bessent stated, "Economic security is national security, and President Donald J. Trump is leading the way both at home and abroad for a stronger, more prosperous America."

    The Treasury Secretary has been actively promoting the administration's economic agenda on multiple fronts. On May 13, he spoke at the Saudi-U.S. Investment Forum, highlighting the importance of the U.S.-Saudi relationship. A day earlier, on May 7, Bessent testified before the House Financial Services Committee, where he outlined the administration's economic strategy built on "trade, tax cuts, and deregulation," which he described as "interlocking parts of an engine designed to drive economic growth and domestic manufacturing."

    This recent diplomatic breakthrough represents a shift from the market uncertainty that followed President Trump's initial tariff announcements last month, which reportedly led to a $6 trillion drop in U.S. stock market value over two days. Bessent had previously faced criticism for downplaying these market reactions as "short-term," with some analysts questioning his position within the administration.

    The China deal announcement has given markets a reason for optimism, with analysts hoping for continued productive negotiations between the world's two largest economies in the coming months.
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  • New Treasury Secretary Steers US Economy Through Turbulent Waters
    2025/05/13
    Scott Bessent, recently installed as Secretary of the Treasury, has become a central figure in a highly turbulent period for U.S. economic policy and global markets. Over the past several days, Bessent’s actions and statements have had an immediate and substantial impact on international negotiations, the American economy, and market sentiment.

    This past weekend, Bessent concluded high-stakes negotiations in Geneva with his Swiss and Chinese counterparts. These meetings led to a notable breakthrough: the U.S. and China agreed to a 90-day pause on most tariffs, intended to ease tensions in a trade battle that had rattled global markets for weeks. The truce was announced following direct talks with Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter and China’s top economic representative. This development, described by Bessent as a “step towards a more balanced international economic system,” was immediately reflected in a recovery in U.S. stock indices, which had previously endured a steep selloff triggered by reciprocal tariffs and shifting trade policies.

    Bessent’s public remarks have been closely scrutinized for clues about the administration’s broader economic direction. In a recent television appearance, he emphasized the Trump administration’s focus on “rebalancing the American economy” and strengthening U.S. negotiating positions abroad. Bessent has consistently echoed the view that economic security is integral to national security, positioning himself as a key architect of a more assertive U.S. approach to trade and fiscal policy.

    Despite the apparent diplomatic progress, Bessent’s tenure has been marked by considerable controversy and internal discord. He has been tasked with defending the administration’s sweeping tariff policies, which included a baseline 10 percent duty on imports and much higher rates for targeted countries, especially China. These measures triggered a $6 trillion decline in U.S. market value over just two days, a downturn Bessent characterized as a “short-term reaction.” He has reassured the public about the resilience of the U.S. financial system and dismissed predictions of an imminent recession, arguing that market corrections could ultimately yield long-term benefits by resetting global trade arrangements more favorably for the United States.

    Internally, reports suggest Bessent has faced isolation within the administration, fueling speculation about his long-term future at Treasury. Some sources indicate that he may be considering other roles, possibly at the Federal Reserve, amid doubts about his influence on White House decision-making. Still, Bessent has remained a steady advocate for his policies, asserting that U.S. leverage is strong due to the trade deficit with China, and that the burden of tariffs would be borne by exporting nations rather than American consumers.

    Bessent’s efforts have also extended to managing ongoing volatility in the cryptocurrency sector and unveiling proposals aimed at addressing long-term challenges such as Social Security and affordability. In recent podcasts and interviews, he has continued to stress optimism about U.S. economic prospects while cautioning that near-term volatility is the price of necessary structural change.

    As the Treasury Department and the markets digest the implications of the recent 90-day tariff pause and await further negotiations with China and other U.S. trading partners, Bessent remains at the center of a rapidly evolving economic landscape. His performance and decisions will likely continue to shape not only financial markets but also the broader trajectory of U.S. economic policy in the months ahead.
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    4 分
  • Treasury Secretary Bessent Navigates Volatile Global Economy, Spearheads U.S. Trade Talks
    2025/05/11
    Scott Bessent, currently serving as Secretary of the Treasury, has moved to the forefront of global economic policymaking during a period of heightened volatility and trade turbulence. Over the past week, Bessent has been especially active on the international stage, playing a central role in U.S. efforts to navigate complex relations with both allies and economic rivals.

    One of the most closely watched developments is the ongoing dialogue between the United States and China concerning trade disputes and tariffs. Bessent participated in high-level meetings in Switzerland, engaging directly with Chinese economic officials. These discussions come amid signals from Beijing indicating a willingness to make limited concessions, such as lifting certain retaliatory tariffs on essential U.S. goods like microchips and pharmaceuticals. The White House is keen to secure even modest progress, using these talks to reassure both American consumers and jittery financial markets unsettled by the administration’s aggressive trade policies. While President Trump has tempered expectations, suggesting that a breakthrough is neither certain nor necessary, he has praised the efforts to reach a deal and highlighted recent trade advancements with other partners as signs of positive momentum.

    In addition to the China negotiations, Bessent recently led talks in Geneva with Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter and Vice President Guy Parmelin. These conversations focused on expediting reciprocal trade negotiations and addressing shared economic interests. Treasury officials described the meetings as constructive, with both sides agreeing to accelerate the pace of discussions designed to reduce barriers and expand bilateral economic ties.

    Back in Washington, Bessent testified before the House Financial Services Committee, outlining the administration’s economic agenda and underscoring the interconnected nature of its policies. He emphasized that tax cuts, deregulation, and targeted tariffs are all designed to foster domestic job creation, increase real wages, and incentivize investment in American manufacturing. According to Bessent, these policies have already contributed to significant job gains, low unemployment, and rising wages in the administration’s first one hundred days, offering tangible evidence of what he described as an “engine designed to drive economic growth.”

    Market reaction to Bessent’s statements remains mixed. His remarks on possible de-escalation in the U.S.-China trade war caused a notable but short-lived rally in stock prices, with investors parsing his every comment for indications of future policy moves. However, without official transcripts, some analysts warn that Bessent’s public comments may be open to misinterpretation, fueling uncertainty on Wall Street.

    Internally, Bessent’s position is not without its challenges. Reports indicate that he has sometimes found himself isolated within the Trump administration, particularly as he attempts to balance loyalty to the president’s agenda with his own long-standing concerns about market stability and the risk of recession. Still, he has publicly downplayed the recent market downturns, expressing confidence in the resilience of U.S. economic institutions and the broader benefits of recalibrating the country’s trade relationships.

    Despite speculation about his future, Bessent remains a pivotal figure tasked with steering the country through a dynamic and uncertain economic landscape. His diplomatic efforts and policy initiatives will likely continue to shape both the U.S. and global economies in the weeks ahead.
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    4 分
  • Headline: Treasury Secretary Bessent Spearheads Economic Agenda, Navigates Trade Tensions with China
    2025/05/08
    Scott Bessent, currently serving as the Secretary of the Treasury, has emerged as a central figure in shaping the United States' economic and international fiscal policies during the early months of the Trump administration’s new term. In recent days, Bessent’s agenda and actions have received significant attention, particularly as he embarked on a diplomatic mission to Switzerland. There, he is scheduled to meet with President Karin Keller-Sutter, as well as with Chinese officials, to discuss recalibrating the global economic order to better align with American interests. This meeting with China represents a notable effort to address ongoing trade tensions and open new channels for dialogue, as Bessent has publicly stressed the unsustainability of current tariff levels and emphasized the administration’s preference for fair trade over outright decoupling.

    Bessent’s testimony before the House Financial Services Committee provided further insight into his approach. He reiterated that the “America First” strategy does not mean the United States is acting unilaterally, but rather that it aims to assert stronger leadership in international institutions like the IMF and World Bank. His remarks highlighted administration policies centered on tax cuts, deregulation, and tariffs, all considered essential to revitalize domestic manufacturing and grow the American economy. Bessent cited recent labor data, noting that 464,000 new jobs were created in the first 100 days of the administration, with unemployment remaining low and real wages rising.

    Recent meetings with global leaders have also reinforced Bessent’s priorities. His session with Prime Minister Philip Davis of the Bahamas focused on deepening bilateral economic cooperation and supporting the Bahamas’ financial sector reforms. Throughout these engagements, Bessent has projected confidence in the resilience of the U.S. economy, drawing on his decades of experience in asset management and echoing the maxim, “Never bet against America.” He has argued that the U.S. economy’s long-term trajectory remains “up and to the right,” emphasizing opportunities for both Main Street and Wall Street in what he describes as a new Golden Age for American prosperity.

    However, Bessent’s policies have been met with criticism. Detractors point to the volatility in financial markets following the recent imposition of higher tariffs, which has led to a significant downturn reminiscent of earlier economic crises. They question his assertion that tariffs on Chinese imports will not harm U.S. consumers, as well as the broader consequences of escalating trade tensions.

    Despite the political and economic headwinds, Bessent continues to prioritize an agenda that aims to shift the benefits of economic growth from Wall Street to Main Street, arguing that the administration’s strategy will ultimately restore the American Dream for workers and small businesses. As international negotiations unfold and domestic economic indicators remain under close scrutiny, Bessent’s decisions and the outcomes of his diplomatic efforts will likely shape both near-term market sentiment and the broader trajectory of U.S. economic policy.
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    3 分
  • "Pivotal Moments: Treasury Secretary Bessent Shapes US Economic Vision with 'America First' Agenda"
    2025/05/06
    Scott Bessent, the current Secretary of the Treasury, has been highly active in shaping and communicating economic policy during a pivotal moment for the United States. In recent days, Bessent has made headlines for his central role at the Milken Institute Global Conference in Beverly Hills, where he reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to a robust “America First” agenda. Addressing a packed gathering of financial leaders and policymakers, he emphasized three interconnected pillars: trade reform, significant tax cuts, and sweeping deregulation. According to Bessent, these elements are intentionally structured to encourage investment in the U.S., drive long-term economic growth, and make the United States the world’s most attractive environment for business and innovation. He described tariffs as specifically engineered to incentivize companies to invest, hire, and manufacture domestically, promising that the combination of a productive workforce and a favorable regulatory climate would yield substantial benefits.

    Bessent also highlighted the administration’s ambitions regarding artificial intelligence and quantum computing, asserting that U.S. leadership in these sectors is essential for long-term prosperity. These remarks came amid broader discussion panels that included industry leaders such as Nvidia’s Jensen Huang and high-profile attendees like Elon Musk, reinforcing Bessent’s vision of U.S. technological dominance as integral to economic strategy.

    Beyond domestic policy, Bessent recently unveiled a landmark agreement between the United States and Ukraine to establish the United States-Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund. This initiative, developed in collaboration with the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation and Ukraine’s government, aims to accelerate Ukraine’s economic recovery following years of conflict. Bessent framed this agreement as a demonstration of the United States’ commitment to securing a lasting peace and fostering prosperity for Ukraine, explicitly stating that entities tied to the Russian war effort will be barred from participating in reconstruction efforts. The partnership has been positioned as a long-term economic alliance that underscores the Trump administration’s approach to international engagement: blending economic support with clear geopolitical strategy.

    Bessent’s recent public statements have also focused on the affordability crisis facing many Americans. He has consistently argued that the current administration’s policies are designed not just for Wall Street, but for Main Street. During a recent appearance at the American Bankers Association’s Washington Summit, Bessent reiterated that after four decades of growth for Wall Street, it is now “Main Street’s turn” to drive national investment and restore the American Dream. He outlined policy proposals such as maintaining tax relief, increasing depreciation allowances, and exempting tips, Social Security, and overtime from federal taxes, all aimed at boosting take-home pay and encouraging consumer-driven growth.

    Trade has remained a focal point for Bessent. He recently suggested that, despite ongoing tensions, there is a genuine opportunity for a new trade agreement with China. He indicated that the Trump administration is open to collaboration that could ease the current tariff standoff, provided it leads both nations toward more balanced and sustainable economic models. Bessent argued that this rebalancing is not just critical for American manufacturing, but also necessary for China’s long-term economic stability.

    Through high-profile speeches, international agreements, and domestic policy initiatives, Scott Bessent has established himself as an assertive and unapologetic advocate for an economic vision rooted in American competitiveness, technological leadership, and a renewed emphasis on prosperity for everyday Americans. His leadership continues to shape both national discourse and the country’s strategic direction at a time of global volatility.
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    4 分
  • U.S. Treasury Secretary Bessent Spearheads Pivotal Economic Initiatives Amid Global Turmoil
    2025/05/04
    In the first days of May 2025, Scott Bessent, the current Secretary of the Treasury, has been at the forefront of several consequential economic decisions and international negotiations. Among the most headline-grabbing developments is the announcement of a United States-Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund, a joint effort designed to support Ukraine’s rebuilding efforts and to spur investment in critical infrastructure and minerals. This fund, signed into effect on April 30, underscores the administration’s commitment to both strategic international partnerships and global economic stability, positioning the U.S. as a key enabler in Ukraine’s recovery and future growth.

    Bessent has also been central to high-stakes trade negotiations, particularly regarding the ongoing tariff disputes between the United States and China. Recently, he has emphasized the unsustainable nature of the current tariff regime, noting that while American tariffs on Chinese goods stand at 145 percent, China’s retaliatory tariffs, although significant at 125 percent, are less impactful due to the scale of trade imbalances. Bessent has signaled a preference for de-escalation, reflecting on China’s sluggish economic data and considerable job losses. He asserts that China faces mounting pressure as its economy slows, describing it as “the most unbalanced, imbalanced economy in the history of the world,” and highlighting that a reset in trade terms could benefit both nations. This stance aligns with President Trump’s strategy, which frames the tariffs as a means of incentivizing domestic investment and exerting pressure on China to negotiate a more equitable deal.

    Recent interviews and press briefings have seen Bessent discussing timelines for potential progress on U.S.-China trade talks, suggesting that a breakthrough could be on the horizon. Despite official statements from Chinese officials denying ongoing negotiations, Bessent has hinted that substantive talks could materialize, reinforcing the idea of a “big deal” in the making. These comments have had immediate effects on financial markets, with Bessent’s remarks at a JPMorgan Chase event sending the S&P 500 higher before gains were tempered later in the day. While some have cautioned that the lack of official transcripts raises the possibility of misinterpretation, the markets continue to react swiftly to Bessent’s public statements.

    Domestically, Bessent has been promoting initiatives aimed at enhancing social security and addressing economic affordability concerns for American households. He has addressed Congress on issues ranging from digital currency regulation to market corrections, reflecting a proactive approach to both emerging technologies and traditional economic challenges. His navigation of congressional scrutiny, especially on topics like cryptocurrency and the creation of a strategic reserve, demonstrates his central role in shaping the administration’s vision for financial stability and innovation.

    In public forums such as the Institute of International Finance, Bessent has reiterated the administration’s focus on “unleashing economic greatness,” emphasizing deregulation and targeted investments as pillars of the current economic policy. Key to his message is the importance of clarity and predictability in trade and regulatory affairs, aiming to restore confidence among investors and the broader public as the United States charts its course through a period of global volatility and shifting alliances.
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    4 分
  • Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent Highlights China's Economic Woes, Potential for U.S.-China Trade Deal
    2025/05/01
    Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has been in the spotlight recently, particularly regarding U.S.-China trade relations. On May 1, 2025, Bessent signaled that the United States holds an advantage in the ongoing tariff battle with China, pointing to China's weakening economic position.

    Speaking on FOX Business, Bessent highlighted recent poor GDP numbers from China and estimated job losses of 5 to 10 million, stating that "the Chinese economy is slowing down substantially." He described China as "the most unbalanced, imbalanced economy in the history of the world," emphasizing that they need to rebalance.

    The Treasury Secretary noted that current tariff levels—with China's 125% tariff on U.S. imports and America's 145% tariff on Chinese imports—are "not sustainable on the Chinese side." Despite Chinese officials claiming last week that no negotiations were taking place, Bessent teased that "a big deal" could potentially be reached between the two economic powers.

    Bessent has largely supported President Trump's April 2 executive order implementing reciprocal tariffs on various countries accused of unfair trade practices against the U.S. He also indicated that the administration will likely revisit Trump's phase one trade deal with China.

    On April 29, Bessent participated in a White House press briefing alongside Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, focusing on "Unleashing Economic Greatness."

    Bessent's tenure as Treasury Secretary began on January 28, 2025, when he was sworn in as the 79th Secretary of the Treasury by Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh. His confirmation vote in the Senate was 68-29, with support from 15 Senate Democrats and independent Senator Angus King.

    His early actions as Treasury Secretary included giving Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency team access to the Treasury Department's payment system and being named acting Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, where he immediately ordered the agency to halt all work.

    Bessent has been actively involved in the administration's tariff strategy. In April, following Trump's announcement of widespread tariffs, Bessent warned countries against retaliating and dismissed concerns about falling stock values. He was later credited, along with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, with convincing Trump to pause many of the tariffs on April 9.

    Before his government role, Bessent had a 40-year career in global investment management, serving as CEO and Chief Investment Officer of Key Square Capital Management and previously as Chief Investment Officer of Soros Fund Management. He has been described as a currency and fixed income specialist with experience visiting 60 countries and interacting with international leaders and central bankers.
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  • Treasury Secretary Bessent Outlines Trump Admin's Economic Agenda
    2025/04/29
    Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has emerged as a central figure in shaping the Trump administration’s economic messaging and legislative agenda in recent days. During a series of high-profile appearances and briefings, Bessent has outlined the administration’s economic priorities, addressed ongoing market volatility, and clarified the White House's stance on crucial trade and tax policy debates.

    At a White House press briefing alongside Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, Bessent focused on the administration’s push to "unleash economic greatness," emphasizing the need for continued deregulation, tax reform, and assertive trade negotiations. He highlighted the importance of making the U.S. the premier destination for global capital and reiterated the administration’s commitment to pro-growth policies. Bessent’s comments reinforced the three pillars of President Trump’s economic strategy: trade, tax reform, and deregulation.

    Bessent has played a pivotal role in ongoing congressional negotiations, setting July 4 as the new target date for passage of a sweeping Republican domestic policy bill. He noted the significance of this legislation, which aims to integrate tax reform and a debt ceiling increase into a single package, as well as deliver on major promises of deficit reduction. Despite optimism about the timeline, Bessent acknowledged that Republicans are still working through divisive issues, including potential changes to social safety net programs and whether to adjust tax rates for top earners. He confirmed the administration has set aside a proposal to raise individual income tax rates on America’s highest earners, seeking instead to focus on broad-based tax relief.

    On the international front, Bessent has defended the administration’s policy of imposing substantial tariffs on Chinese imports, asserting that it is up to China to deescalate trade tensions. He argued that the high tariffs are unsustainable for China, pointing out the imbalance in trade flows between the two countries. Bessent’s remarks suggest that the administration is intent on leveraging tariffs as a negotiating tool, while seeking to reach an agreement in principle to address what it views as decades of unfair foreign trading practices.

    Addressing concerns about recent stock market volatility, Bessent downplayed the risks and attributed much of the anxiety to media coverage. In a recent television interview, he cited a pattern of negative headlines that have not reflected the subsequent rebound in stock indices. Bessent argued that while the Dow Jones Industrial Average had experienced a notable dip earlier in the month, markets had already performed a substantial recovery, suggesting that fears of a prolonged downturn are overblown.

    While Bessent’s tenure as Treasury Secretary has drawn criticism from some lawmakers and media outlets—particularly regarding his support for extended tax cuts for the wealthy and the potential long-term effects of trade wars—he remains steadfast in promoting the administration’s economic priorities. Bessent has continued to assert that current policies will drive growth and help the administration meet its ambitious legislative deadlines, even as debate continues on Capitol Hill and in financial circles regarding the risks and rewards of the approach.
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    3 分