Source: Bloomberg
Washington, D.C., April 14, 2025 — National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett announced that the United States has received more than ten "very good, amazing" trade deal offers following President Donald Trump's imposition of steep tariffs on imports from multiple nations. In an interview with Fox Business, Hassett emphasized the administration's progress in trade negotiations and firmly denied any possibility of a recession occurring in 2025.
"We've got more than 10 deals where there's very good, amazing offers made to the U.S.," Hassett stated, noting that U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick are currently evaluating these proposals.
Hassett also addressed concerns about potential insider trading related to the recent pause in reciprocal tariffs, asserting that there was no such activity within the White House. He acknowledged that significant market movements are typically investigated by appropriate authorities but expressed confidence that the administration was not involved in any wrongdoing.
The administration's tariff policy has led to increased consumer demand for foreign goods, as buyers anticipate future price hikes. Simultaneously, businesses are reportedly considering relocating operations back to the U.S. to mitigate tariff impacts. Hassett highlighted these trends as indicators of a robust economy, further supporting his assertion that a recession is "100% not" expected this year.
Despite Hassett's optimism, an industry group survey released Monday found that 62% of U.S. CEOs anticipate a recession or economic downturn within the next six months. Additionally, Bridgewater Associates founder Ray Dalio expressed concerns that the current economic policies could lead to "something worse than a recession."
The stock market responded positively to the administration's recent tariff adjustments, with major indices experiencing gains. However, controversy arose after President Trump posted on Truth Social encouraging stock purchases shortly before announcing a 90-day pause on new tariffs. This sequence of events prompted Democratic lawmakers to call for a Securities and Exchange Commission investigation into potential insider trading and market manipulation.
As the administration continues to navigate complex trade negotiations and address economic concerns, Hassett remains confident in the nation's economic trajectory and the integrity of its leadership.