Trump’s tariff policy seems to be one of the most stupid, asinine, dumb-headed, counterproductive, head-up-the-ass things that he has done so far.

Here is why I am less concerned than you might be:

The tariffs create political headlines that distract. But just as they can be easily announced, they can just as easily be changed or removed. I would not be surprised to see an enormous amount of quiet but very significant stepping back from the headline numbers.

Consider it from Trump’s perspective: Does he really want to wreak permanent economic damage?

I doubt it.

Trump promised an American trade reset. Is this not just his opening bid? To create political headlines for his political base – and to open the negotiations?

If so, let the games begin.

And my advice to the rest of the world: Wake up. Grow up. Gather together your cards, come to the table and start negotiating.

Prepare to make your move and play your hand.

This is not the end, or the middle – or even the end of the beginning. We are at the beginning of the beginning.

This the starting line. It’s just a negotiation.

There is everything to play for, and we can still all come out better off.

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