Julian Howard: Fortress America

'Preserve value of investments'

clock • 3 min read

There is no doubt the current trade war is affecting global economic growth and corporate earnings, writes Julian Howard, but investors should be looking at the eye of the storm

The US economy, dollar and equity market all enjoy unique characteristics, which make them a vital part of any investment portfolio even though it is the US political system that has produced today's heightened economic uncertainty. The US economy lends itself to robust insulation from external forces. With a population of 372 million, an estimated 80% of the economy is based on consumption. Second quarter GDP numbers showed just how important this was: amid an intensifying trade war and business investment slumping by -5.5% on the previous year, US GDP was still able to post a 2.1% gain...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Markets

Market Movers: UK public finances 'vulnerable' compared to European peers

Market Movers: UK public finances 'vulnerable' compared to European peers

Deficit third largest among top European economies

Professional Adviser
clock 09 July 2025 • 1 min read
IFAs say Trump's tariffs are deterring clients from investing

IFAs say Trump's tariffs are deterring clients from investing

Advisers flag growing client caution amid 10% import duty

Isabel Baxter
clock 14 May 2025 • 2 min read
Advisers avoid 'knee-jerk' dismissal of US equities amid Trump's tariff shake-up

Advisers avoid 'knee-jerk' dismissal of US equities amid Trump's tariff shake-up

‘Although many market values have fallen, the fundamentals remain largely intact’

Isabel Baxter
clock 03 April 2025 • 5 min read