A small business owner recently took to Reddit to vent about an employee who couldn't understand why his hours were being cut. The reason was indeed &#8220;because of the tariffs,&#8221; but the employee was baffled.



&#8220;He asked, condescendingly, why Canada and China having to pay us an extra tax would slow down sales on the consumer end,&#8221; the business owner wrote. &#8220;Said it shouldn't make a difference on packaging.&#8221;



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The <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/smallbusiness/comments/1j9c3an/does_anybody_else_have_that_employee_or_those/">post</a> titled, &#8220;Does anybody else have that employee, or those employees, who just can't grasp the impact of the tariffs?&#8221; shared on r/smallbusiness, quickly gained traction, sparking a heated discussion about tariffs, economic literacy, and the real-world consequences of policy decisions. Many commenters expressed frustration over how common it is for people to misunderstand tariffs and taxes in general.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Who Really Pays the Price?</h2>



For years, some politicians have claimed that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/12/42383874/expert-slams-trumps-tariff-policies-as-completely-and-utterly-wrong-but-says-we-dont-think-they-are-going-to-do-anything">tariffs are a tax on foreign countries</a>. But business owners and economists alike know that's not how it works. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/03/44070257/warren-buffett-calls-tariffs-an-act-of-war-warns-they-function-as-a-tax-on-goods-amid-market-turmoil">Tariffs are a tax on imports</a>, which means U.S. businesses pay more for the goods they bring in. Those higher costs then get passed on to consumers or result in businesses cutting expenses—like labor.



&#8220;I had just placed a few orders at increased pricing, so I gave him the most top-to-bottom explanation I could,&#8221; the Reddit poster continued. &#8220;He was shocked that tariffs were just an extra tax on us and that the U.S. doesn't just have the capability to produce EVERYTHING.&#8221;



That realization hit hard. &#8220;At the end, he said that's not what he thought when he voted for them.&#8221;



Trending: ‘Scrolling To UBI' — Deloitte's #1 fastest-growing software company allows users to earn money on their phones. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">You can invest today for just $0.26/share with a $1000 minimum.</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Broader Issue</h2>



The post resonated with many small business owners who have struggled to explain basic economic concepts to employees, customers, and even fellow business owners.



&#8220;The amount of time I have spent explaining how <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/01/42757069/i-dont-care-what-tax-bracket-youre-in-suze-orman-insists-youd-be-crazy-to-have-anything-other-than-a-roth-retirement-account">tax brackets</a> work to people and their inability to grasp the concept is astonishing,&#8221; one commenter wrote.



Another chimed in: &#8220;Most people don't even understand their own income taxes. Corporate taxes and international business are way outside of their comfort zone.&#8221;



Others pointed out that financial education in schools is lacking, leaving many Americans ill-equipped to understand economic policies that affect them.&nbsp;



Trending: Maker of the $60,000 foldable home has 3 factory buildings, 600+ houses built, and big plans to solve housing —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/boxabl"> this is your last chance to become an investor for $0.80 per share.</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Real-World Consequences</h2>



Tariffs aren't just abstract political debates—they have tangible effects on businesses and workers. Several small business owners in the thread shared how tariffs have disrupted their supply chains, raised costs, and led to layoffs.



One business owner in the solar industry said <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/03/44269301/trumps-25-tariffs-on-steel-and-aluminum-imports-take-effect-eu-retaliates-us-steel-nucor-century-aluminum-and-other-domestic-stocks-cheer">tariffs on aluminum and steel</a> have made <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/partner/tech/25/02/43943892/from-tariffs-to-funding-freezes-solar-installs-are-getting-pricier-save-up-to-4000-with-monalee-befo">solar panel installations significantly more expensive</a>. &#8220;The average residential system now costs an extra $2,000,&#8221; they wrote. &#8220;Tried to explain it to [my manager], and he argued that customers shouldn't be paying the price for tariffs. Don't really have much of a choice when our material prices go up 20%+.&#8221;



Another commenter shared that their company had to lay off nearly half its staff due to declining sales and uncertainty caused by tariffs. &#8220;Our domestic sales have <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/02/43949339/consumer-confidence-plummets-in-february-sharp-decline-marks-third-consecutive-monthly-drop">fallen off a cliff</a> since the third quarter. At least 65% month to month. International sales are far worse.&#8221;



See Also: Hasbro, MGM Resorts, and Sketchers Use this Pre-IO AI Marketing Firm — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/rad-intel">and You Can Own a Piece of it From $0.55/Share</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Misinformation and Frustration</h2>



A recurring theme in the discussion was frustration over how tariffs are portrayed in politics and the media. Many commenters blamed politicians for spreading misinformation about who actually pays tariffs.



&#8220;The number of people who couldn't even be bothered to Google ‘How do tariffs work?' in the fall is astounding,&#8221; one user commented.



Another pointed out that even high-ranking officials seem confused about tariffs. &#8220;My own congresswoman does not understand how tariffs work, which is ridiculous.&#8221;



Some argued that the confusion isn't accidental. &#8220;Almost all the politicians understand. They just know it's better for them to play dumb,&#8221; one commenter suggested.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Lesson in Economics</h2>



For the small business owner who started the discussion, the experience has been eye-opening—but also exhausting. &#8220;I'm sick of explaining tariffs and wish that people were better at doing their own research,&#8221; he admitted.



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News

'Wait, Tariffs Are Just A Tax On Us?'—Employee Shocked As Small Business Owner Cuts His Hours 'Because Of The Tariffs'

Mark Cuban wants to hire former U.S. Digital Service employees for his <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/03/44211144/mark-cuban-reveals-the-thing-he-respects-most-about-elon-musk-what-hes-been-able-to-accomplish-is-insane-its-incredible">upcoming business venture</a>.



What Happened: Cuban is currently reviewing business proposals&nbsp;from former and current employees&nbsp;of&nbsp;the General Services Administration (GSA)&nbsp;and the White House. 



The goal is to back potential companies and help their workforce leverage the skills they gained while serving as federal government contractors, <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2025/03/12/mark-cuban-doge-technology-services-00227218">reports</a> Politico.



The new venture by Cuban aims to hire ex-members of the U.S. Digital Service, a federal agency&#8217;s internal IT consulting group, which was renamed as the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) by an executive order from President Donald Trump and placed under the control of Elon Musk. On February, 21 Digital Service employees chose to resign instead of aiding DOGE in cutting down federal expenditures, including through widespread layoffs.



"I think it's possible to out-Elon Elon, because the people he will bring in don't know what they don't know," Cuban told the outlet.



"A couple have a real chance to turn into small companies that can leverage their expertise," Cuban added, referring to some of the workers.



Cuban also intends to bring on board former employees of the 18F unit within the GSA, a unit tasked with updating and creating crucial tech services for the government. This unit was disbanded on March 1.



Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/43245984/cuban-on-musk-i-have-no-problem-throwing-elon-under-the-bus-but-ill-save-it-for-when-its-truly-deser" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cuban on Musk: ‘I Have No Problem Throwing Elon Under the Bus, but I'll Save It for When It's Truly Deserved'</a>



Despite the financial hurdles previously encountered by 18F, Cuban is confident that his new firm will need to generate income from the private sector, along with federal funding. Until a more supportive federal government is established, the company may&nbsp;have to rely on state&nbsp;and local contracts, as suggested by a former 18F employee.



Thomas Shedd, a former Tesla engineer now leading Technology Transformation Services, told staff that 18F "was not and has not been fully cost coverable."



"Despite the losses the team was incurring, 18F with their recent hourly prices were on the very high end of the technology consulting market," Shedd said.



Why It Matters: Cuban&#8217;s move to hire former Tesla and government employees underlines the value of their unique skill sets, honed in both private and public sectors. 



This venture could potentially bridge the gap between government and private sector technology initiatives, fostering innovation and efficiency. 



The focus on generating private sector revenue also indicates a strategic approach to maintaining financial stability, even amidst changing government policies.



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Politics

TSLA

Mark Cuban Wants to 'Out-Elon' Musk by Hiring US Digital Service Veterans

It was a busy week for Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) with a series of events that kept the tech giant in the spotlight. From a secretive court hearing in the UK to the launch of a Metallica concert experience for its Vision Pro headset, Apple made headlines for various reasons. Let&#8217;s dive into the major stories.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Apple&#8217;s Secret Court Hearing In The UK</h3>



On Friday, a private court hearing believed to be an appeal by Apple against a UK government demand for backdoor access to its encrypted cloud systems took place in London. The public and media were not allowed to attend the hearing, which reportedly centered on a controversial &#8220;technical capability notice&#8221; issued to Apple by the British government.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/25/03/44344993/apple-reportedly-fights-uk-governments-unacceptable-encryption-order-behind-closed-doors-no-press-or-public-allowed">Read the full article here.</a>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Metallica Concert Experience On Vision Pro</h3>



Apple is hoping to rekindle interest in its struggling Vision Pro headset with a virtual concert featuring Metallica. The immersive 25-minute concert, filmed with 14 ultra-high-resolution 180-degree cameras and powered by Spatial Audio, will be available to Vision Pro users.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44270009/apple-doubles-down-on-vision-pro-with-metallica-concert-experience-but-can-rock-legends-save-a-3499-headset-thats-already-being-scaled-back">Read the full article here.</a>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">iPhone 16e Outperforms iPhone SE</h3>



The newly released iPhone 16e has seen strong initial sales, outperforming the third-generation iPhone SE by 60% in its first three days. However, analysts predict that this won&#8217;t be enough to counterbalance Apple&#8217;s declining sales in China this year.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44345384/apples-new-iphone-16e-outsells-iphone-se-by-60-but-analysts-say-it-wont-stop-china-sales-from-sliding-in-2025">Read the full article here.</a>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Apple Stock Under Pressure</h3>



Apple&#8217;s stock is facing significant selling pressure, with shares down 10.85% year-to-date, 8.22% in the past month, and 1.56% on Friday alone.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/03/44284821/apple-stock-takes-a-bite-out-of-investors-as-siri-fumbles-ai-race">Read the full article here.</a>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Major Overhaul For iPhones After iOS 19</h3>



Apple is reportedly planning one of the most dramatic software overhauls in its history. The upcoming iOS 19 is expected to transform the iPhone&#8217;s interface, featuring significant updates in icons, menus, apps, system buttons, and windows. The design is said to be loosely based on the Vision Pro's visionOS interface.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/03/44240980/iphones-after-ios-19-will-feature-a-very-different-look-heres-whats-apple-might-change">Read the full article here.</a>



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Photo courtesy: Shutterstock



This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

Tech

AAPL

Apple's Secretive UK Court Hearing, Metallica Concert On Vision Pro, iPhone 16e, And Major Overhaul In Store: This Week In Appleverse

The week was a rollercoaster ride in the world of cryptocurrency. From a trader&#8217;s devastating $5 million loss in meme coins to the nearing conclusion of the Ripple-SEC lawsuit, the crypto space was buzzing with activity. The introduction of the Bitcoin Act of 2025 in the House of Representatives and Binance CEO&#8217;s optimism about pro-crypto policies also made headlines. Let&#8217;s dive into the details.



Trader&#8217;s $5 Million Loss In Meme Coins



A trader, known only as 0xforeverblind, turned nothing into a whopping $5 million during the crypto bull run, only to lose it all in meme coins. Despite his initial success, the trader&#8217;s investments in meme coins like Popcat, Gigachad, Mumu The Bull, and Retardio collapsed by 90-95%, leading to his massive loss.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44260478/i-lost-everything-trader-turns-0-into-5-million-loses-it-all-with-meme-coins-that-were-supposed-to-become-the-next-dogecoin-shiba-inu">Read the full article here.</a>



See Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42735744/pharma-bro-martin-shkreli-predicts-doom-for-michael-saylors-microstrategy-as-stock-dips-below-300-in-after-hours-trading" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44267582/us-house-committee-favors-stablecoin-regulation-to-strenthen-dollar-advocates-against-cbdc" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">House Committee Favors Stablecoin Regulation To ‘Strengthen' Dollar: Majority Whip Says CBDCs Against ‘American Values'</a>



Ripple-SEC Lawsuit Nears Conclusion



The long-standing legal battle between the SEC and&nbsp;Ripple Labs&nbsp;over the alleged $1.3 billion unregistered XRP sale may soon come to an end. The key point of contention is whether XRP's utility and trading status align more with a commodity, like Ethereum, rather than a security.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44314642/ripple-sec-lawsuit-nears-end-will-xrp-be-classified-as-commodity-like-ethereum">Read the full article here.</a>



Bitcoin Act of 2025 Introduced



U.S. Congressman Nick Begich introduced the Bitcoin Act of 2025 in the House. The bill proposes acquiring 1 million BTC over five years, with a 20-year holding period, without taxpayer funding. The bill acknowledges Senator Cynthia Lummis for her advocacy of Bitcoin and financial innovation.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44261690/bitcoin-act-of-2025-introduced-in-the-house-of-representatives">Read the full article here.</a>



Binance CEO Optimistic About Pro-Crypto Policies



Binance CEO Richard Teng expressed optimism about the pro-cryptocurrency policies introduced by U.S. President Donald Trump. Teng believes this shift marks a turning point for the industry, which faced significant challenges during Joe Biden&#8217;s tenure.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44300120/binance-ceo-richard-teng-hails-donald-trumps-bitcoin-reserve-xrp-ethereum-solana-digital-asset-stockpile">Read the full article here.</a>



Strategy Files For $21B To Fund Bitcoin Acquisition



Strategy Inc. announced that it has filed to offer up to $21 billion in preferred stock to raise funds for Bitcoin purchases. The sales agreement involves issuing 8.00% Series A perpetual strike preferred stock with a par value of $0.001 per share.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44220378/strategy-files-for-21b-in-preferred-stock-to-fund-bitcoin-acquisition">Read the full article here.</a>



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This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/ananya-gairola" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ananya Gairola</a>

Cryptocurrency

Media

MSTR

Crypto Trader's $5 Million Loss, Ripple-SEC Lawsuit, Bitcoin Act Of 2025: This Week In Crypto

The past week was a rollercoaster ride for the markets, with recession fears, record gold prices, and escalating trade wars dominating headlines. The Nasdaq and S&amp;P 500 hit six-month lows, while gold soared to new heights.



Meanwhile, China imposed tariffs on its largest U.S. import, soybeans, and other agricultural products, causing a stir in the market. Amidst all this, there was a glimmer of hope as tech stocks and Bitcoin rebounded following Ukraine&#8217;s acceptance of a U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal with Russia.



Recession Fears Drive Markets Lower



The Nasdaq 100 and S&amp;P 500, tracked by SPDR S&amp;P 500, saw significant declines this week, with tech giants like Tesla, Inc. and Palantir Technologies, Inc. leading the downward trend. President Donald Trump&#8217;s acknowledgment of a potential U.S. recession in a Fox News interview added to the market&#8217;s concerns.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/market-summary/25/03/44227856/nasdaq-sp-500-hit-6-month-lows-as-recession-fears-grow-whats-driving-markets-monday">Read the full article here.</a>



Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44195821/taiwan-semiconductor-chief-says-us-expansion-driven-by-ai-and-smartphone-boom-warns-of-supply-shortage" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Taiwan Semiconductor Chief Says US Expansion Not Driven By Political Pressure, But AI Boom, Warns of Supply Shortage</a>



Gold Hits Record Highs Amid Trade War Fears



Gold continued its strong rise, hitting a fresh record as investors sought safe havens amidst mounting trade tensions and economic uncertainty. Spot gold, tracked by the SPDR Gold Trust, traded at $2,969 per ounce, marking its third consecutive session of gains.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/03/44308014/gold-hits-record-highs-as-trade-war-fears-fuel-safe-haven-demand-mining-stocks-soar">Read the full article here.</a>



China Imposes Tariffs On Major US Agricultural Imports



In retaliation to President Donald Trump&#8217;s additional 10% levy on Chinese imports, China imposed tariffs on major U.S. agricultural imports, including soybeans. This move is likely to impact many agricultural product manufacturers, suppliers, and related businesses, such as Bunge Global and Archer-Daniels Midland.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44217379/china-hits-soybeans-with-tariffs-its-largest-us-import-along-with-other-agri-products-here-a-list-of-stocks-and-etfs-that-could-be-impacted">Read the full article here.</a>



Markets Bounce Back As Ukraine Accepts Ceasefire Proposal



Markets rebounded as Ukraine signaled its readiness to accept a U.S.-backed proposal for a 30-day ceasefire with Russia. This development was seen as a step towards de-escalation, triggering a relief rally in riskier assets like stocks and cryptocurrencies.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44260839/tech-stocks-bitcoin-strongly-rebound-as-ukraine-backs-us-proposal-for-30-day-ceasefire-with-russia">Read the full article here.</a>



Warren Buffett&#8217;s Take On Tariffs



Legendary investor Warren Buffett characterized tariffs as "an act of war" and a consumer tax. His comments came amidst market turmoil following President Donald Trump&#8217;s implementation of 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/03/44070257/warren-buffett-calls-tariffs-an-act-of-war-warns-they-function-as-a-tax-on-goods-amid-market-turmoil">Read the full article here.</a>



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This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/ananya-gairola" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ananya Gairola</a>

Economics

Recession Fears, Gold Records, And Trade Wars: This Week In Economics

As the week drew to a close, the business world was buzzing with a series of impactful stories. From Elon Musk&#8217;s concerns over tariffs to escalating trade tensions and the looming threat of a government shutdown, there was no shortage of headlines to keep investors on their toes.



Tesla, SpaceX Raise Tariff Concerns



Both Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) and SpaceX, led by Elon Musk, have voiced concerns over tariffs. They warn that retaliatory measures could negatively impact their respective industries. In letters to U.S. Trade Representative Jamison Greer, the companies urged for a consideration of the broader economic impacts when shaping trade strategies.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/03/44342569/tesla-spacex-warn-tariffs-could-harm-us-innovation-and-industry">Read the full article here.</a>



Canada&#8217;s Retaliatory Tariffs Draw Criticism



Canada&#8217;s introduction of retaliatory tariffs against the U.S. has drawn criticism from Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. The move comes in response to the Trump administration&#8217;s recent trade measures targeting Canadian exports. Lutnick expressed dissatisfaction with Canada&#8217;s approach in an interview ahead of a meeting with Canadian officials.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44344906/canadas-retaliatory-tariffs-against-us-draw-commerce-secretary-howard-lutnicks-ire-who-thinks-they-are-tone-deaf-the-british-didnt-respond-the-m">Read the full article here.</a>



Trump Optimistic About Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire



President Donald Trump expressed optimism that Russia and Ukraine could soon reach a ceasefire agreement. However, concerns remain on both sides about the proposed ceasefire.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/03/44333033/trump-boasts-very-good-chance-of-russia-ukraine-ceasefire-but-zelenskyy-says-putin-broke-deals-25-times-before">Read the full article here.</a>



Schumer Warns of Government Shutdown Impact



Senate Democratic Leader Sen. Chuck Schumer expressed concerns about a potential government shutdown. He warned that such an event could significantly empower Donald Trump and suggested that Elon Musk supports a shutdown to dismantle essential government programs.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44320221/chuck-schumer-says-a-government-shutdown-will-give-trump-the-keys-to-the-city-state-and-country-and-elon-musk-the-chance-to-destroy-government-services">Read the full article here.</a>



AOC Responds to Shutdown Debate



Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) responded to House Speaker Mike Johnson&#8217;s claim that Democrats were responsible for the looming government shutdown. She countered by emphasizing that Republicans control the House, Senate, and White House and stated that if Republicans need Democrats, they need to negotiate with Democrats.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44293219/aoc-claps-back-at-mike-johnson-as-senate-moves-closer-to-government-shutdown-if-you-need-democrats-then-you-need-to-negotiate">Read the full article here.</a>



Read Next:



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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44345022/ray-dalio-has-a-chilling-warning-for-president-trump-debt-crisis-is-imminent-and-an-issue-of-paramount-importance">Ray Dalio Has A Chilling Warning For President Trump: Debt Crisis Is Imminent, And An Issue Of &#8216;Paramount Importance&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>



Photo courtesy: Shutterstock



This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

Elon Musk's Tariff Concerns For Tesla And Space, Trade Tensions, And Government Shutdown Threats: This Week In Politics

Wall Street wrapped up its fourth consecutive week in the red, a losing streak not seen since May 2022, and the S&amp;P 500 index officially entered correction territory after sliding 10% <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/03/44317410/sp-500-enters-technical-correction-as-trade-war-fears-rattle-markets">from its February highs.</a>



Investor anxiety remains high, fueled by the looming impact of trade tariffs touted by President Donald Trump and deep, abrupt spending cuts spearheaded by the DOGE office under Elon Musk.



February's inflation data brought positive news, reinforcing expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts this year. The Consumer Price Index rose 2.8% year-over-year, easing from 3% in January and coming in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/03/44274165/inflation-cools-more-than-expected-in-february-strengthens-the-case-for-fed-rate-cuts">below economist forecasts of 2.9%.</a> Similarly, wholesale inflation remained unchanged on a monthly basis, marking a stark slowdown from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/03/44300810/us-producer-inflation-stalls-in-february-as-services-costs-drop-eggs-price-skyrockets">January's 0.6% surge.</a>



Yet, even these cooled-than-expected inflation prints failed to reignite risk appetite, as markets remained firmly focused on policy developments from the White House.



On Thursday, President Donald Trump threatened to impose a 200% tariff on European wines and alcoholic beverages unless the European Union removes its 50% <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/03/44301835/trump-threatens-200-tariff-on-european-wine-alcohol-stocks-react">duty on American whiskey.</a>



Earlier in the week, the White House also announced tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum will double to 50%, with a warning that auto tariffs could surge if Canada does not roll back its retaliatory duties. Trump further reaffirmed his commitment to reciprocal tariffs on global trade partners, set to take effect on April 2.



Consumer sentiment is reflecting the economic turbulence of a regime shift.



On Friday, the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/03/44331170/us-consumer-confidence-plunges-as-inflation-fears-hit-highest-level-since-1993">University of Michigan's latest survey</a> showed a sharp decline in consumer confidence, with future economic expectations sinking to their lowest since July 2022 and long-term inflation expectations soared to their highest level since 1993 — a troubling sign consumers are bracing for persistent price pressures.



Against this backdrop, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/03/44308014/gold-hits-record-highs-as-trade-war-fears-fuel-safe-haven-demand-mining-stocks-soar">gold is once again shining</a> as a safe-haven asset, drawing investors seeking protection. The yellow metal — as tracked by the SPDR Gold Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GLD#NYSE">GLD</a>) — surged to fresh all-time highs of $3,000 per ounce, securing gains for 10 of the past 11 weeks.



At the end of the week, markets rebounded amid confirmation that a government shutdown would be averted and the absence of trade-related headlines from Trump. 



The Federal Reserve is widely expected to hold interest rates steady next week, but fresh economic projections may start to outline a stagflation scenario, characterized by slowing growth and stubbornly high inflation.



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Tariffs Threaten Automakers: Trade uncertainty threatens U.S. automakers, potentially slashing Ford Motor Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/F#NYSE">F</a>) and General Motors Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GM#NYSE">GM</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/econ-s/25/03/44262286/tariff-uncertainty-poses-major-risk-to-us-automakers-how-much-could-ford-gm-earnings-fall">earnings amid tariff concerns.</a>



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Stocks Enter Correction Zone, Tariff Fears Hammer Consumer Confidence, Inflation Worries Hit 32-Year Highs: This Week In Markets

Benzinga examined the prospects for<a href="http://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> many investors' favorite stocks</a> over the last week — here's a look at some of our top stories.



This week, U.S. stock markets tumbled into correction territory, with the S&amp;P 500 dropping over 10% from February highs. Investor fears surged over President Donald Trump's tariff hikes on Canadian steel and aluminum, fueling recession concerns and a potential global slowdown.



Consumer confidence plummeted, with the University of Michigan's index falling 11% to 57.9, its lowest since 2022. Trade tensions, government layoffs, and immigration restrictions stoked worries about reduced spending and a weakening job market.



Despite the turmoil, markets rebounded Friday, with the Dow Jones gaining over 200 points as utilities, tech, and energy stocks rallied. However, consumer staples and financials lagged, underscoring persistent economic uncertainty.



Benzinga provides daily reports on the stocks most popular with investors. Here are a few of this past week's most bullish and bearish posts that are worth another look.



The Bulls



In <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/03/44317205/docusign-q4-earnings-revenue-beat-eps-beat-billings-up-11-shares-move-higher-despite-soft-guidance">"DocuSign Q4 Earnings: Revenue Beat, EPS Beat, Billings Up 11%, Shares Move Higher Despite Soft Guidance"</a>, by Adam Eckert, DocuSign Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DOCU#NASDAQ">DOCU</a>) reports a 9% revenue increase to $776.3 million and adjusted earnings per share of 86 cents, surpassing expectations, with billings up 11%, though shares rose despite soft guidance.



In <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44301722/d-wave-quantum-stock-rallies-on-strong-q4-booking-growth-and-optimistic-outlook">"D-Wave Quantum Stock Gains On Strong Q4 Booking Growth, Optimistic Outlook"</a> by Nabaparna Bhattacharya, D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QBTS#NYSE">QBTS</a>) reports a 502% year-over-year increase in Q4 bookings to $18.3 million and anticipates Q1 2025 revenue to exceed $10 million, driven by the sale of an Advantage quantum computer.



In <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44323837/radius-recycling-lands-merger-deal-at-115-premium-shares-skyrocket">"Radius Recycling Lands Merger Deal At 115% Premium, Stock Skyrockets"</a> by Lekha Gupta, Radius Recycling Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RDUS#NASDAQ">RDUS</a>) agrees to a $1.34 billion acquisition by Toyota Tsusho America, offering $30 per share—a 115% premium—causing Radius shares to surge 109% premarket.



For additional bullish calls of the past week, check out the following:



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/top-stories/25/03/44313558/nvidia-stock-reached-all-time-highs-after-jensen-huangs-ces-keynote-will-next-weeks-gtc-spark-another-surge">Nvidia Stock Reached All-Time Highs After Jensen Huang's CES Keynote — Will Next Week's GTC Spark Another Surge?</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/price-target/25/03/44302205/why-intel-stock-is-surging-thursday">Why Intel Stock Is Surging Thursday</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44317256/bitcoin-to-hit-250k-by-end-of-2025-tim-draper-predicts-will-be-the-dominant-currency-of-the-world">Bitcoin To Hit $250K By End Of 2025 Tim Draper Predicts: ‘Will Be The Dominant Currency Of The World'</a>



The Bears



In <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/25/03/44237691/magnificent-7-sheds-over-750-billion-in-market-cap-in-one-day-is-big-techs-honeymoon-over">"Magnificent 7 Sheds Over $750 Billion In Market Cap In One Day: Is Big Tech's Honeymoon Over?"</a> by Hayden Buckfire, the Magnificent Seven tech companies, including Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>), collectively lost approximately $780 billion in market capitalization on Monday, driven by investor concerns over a potential recession and President Donald Trump's proposed tariff plans.



In <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/03/44286296/trump-media-technology-stock-drops-50-since-inauguration-day">"Trump Media &amp; Technology Stock Drops 50% Since Inauguration Day"</a> by Erica Kollmann, Trump Media &amp; Technology Group Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DJT#NASDAQ">DJT</a>) shares have fallen 50% since President Donald Trump's inauguration, closing at $19.50, amid market volatility and policy uncertainties.



In <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44274151/palantirs-stock-takes-a-hit-but-will-aipcon-defense-deals-be-the-comeback-catalyst">"Palantir's Stock Takes A Hit: Will AIPCon And Defense Deals Be The Comeback Catalyst?"</a> by Surbhi Jain, Palantir Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NASDAQ">PLTR</a>) shares have declined 33.51% over the past month, trading below key moving averages, as investors await potential catalysts from the upcoming AIPCon and recent defense contracts.



For more bearish takes, be sure to see these posts:



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/03/44307671/is-high-flying-ionq-stock-a-disaster-in-the-making-shares-slide-as-short-seller-raises-red-flags">Is High-Flying IonQ Stock A ‘Disaster In The Making'? Shares Slide As Short Seller Raises Red Flags</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/technicals/25/03/44256996/terawulf-stock-tanks-death-cross-spells-trouble-for-bitcoin-miner">TeraWulf Stock Tanks: Death Cross Spells Trouble For Bitcoin Miner</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44229052/oracle-stock-stumbles-into-q3-earnings-will-buyers-step-in-as-it-nears-oversold-territory">Oracle Stock Stumbles Into Q3 Earnings: Will Buyers Step In As It Nears Oversold Territory</a>



Keep up with all the latest breaking news and trading ideas by following <a href="https://twitter.com/Benzinga" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga</a><a href="http://twitter.com/Benzinga" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> on X</a>.



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Benzinga Bulls And Bears: DocuSign, Magnificent 7, Palantir — And Tariffs Keep Roiling Markets

Elon Musk shared a throwback on X, recalling a 2009 lunch where legendary investor Charlie Munger told a table full of people that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/25/02/43531005/elon-musk-recalls-a-lunch-where-charlie-munger-listed-all-the-reasons-tesla-would-fail-made-me-quite-sad-but-i-told-him-i-agreed">Tesla was destined to fail</a>. Musk, always blunt about Tesla's early struggles, admitted at the time that the odds were stacked against the company.&nbsp;



But despite Munger's doubts, Musk pushed forward. Years later, even Munger had to admit that Tesla's success was nothing short of a "minor miracle."



Yet, for all his skepticism about Tesla, Munger wasn't against all electric vehicles. In fact, he was one of the biggest advocates for BYD, a Chinese EV and battery manufacturer that Berkshire Hathaway backed. Munger raved about BYD's achievements, calling it his "best investment" shortly before his death in 2023.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Genius Who Overestimates Himself</h2>



Munger's views on Musk were always a mix of admiration and caution. At the 2014 Daily Journal shareholders meeting, he acknowledged Musk's intelligence but also pointed out his tendency to push the limits of reality.



"He's a genius, and I don't use that word lightly," Munger said. "He's also one of the boldest men who ever came down the pike. So put me down as saying I've always been afraid of the guy whose IQ is 190 and he thinks it's 250." He elaborated,&nbsp; "I like to think there's a little of that risk with Elon. He is a certified genius."



By 2020, Munger hadn't changed his stance much. At the Daily Journal shareholders meeting that year, he made it clear that while he wouldn't bet against Musk, he wasn't buying Tesla stock either. "My thoughts are two," Munger said. "I would never buy [Tesla], and I would never sell it short."



Trending: The secret weapon in billionaire investor portfolios that you almost certainly don't own yet. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/masterworks">See which asset class has outpaced the S&amp;P 500 (1995-2024) – and with near-zero correlation.</a>



Then came his now-famous warning: "Never underestimate the man who overestimates himself."



Munger acknowledged that Musk's confidence bordered on delusion—but sometimes, those delusional thinkers change the world.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Munger Loved BYD but Snubbed Tesla</h2>



If Munger was so skeptical of Tesla, why was he all-in on BYD? In short, he saw BYD as a company with strong fundamentals, disciplined leadership, and a clear business strategy.&nbsp;



At the <a href="https://buffett.cnbc.com/video/2009/05/02/afternoon-session---2009-berkshire-hathaway-annual-meeting.html">2009 Berkshire Hathaway annual meeting</a>—the same year as his notorious lunch with Musk—Munger marveled at BYD's rapid ascent, labeling it "unbelievable."



"They went into the automobile business with zero experience, very little capital, and they still created the best-selling model in China. This is not normal. This is a damn miracle," he said.



Munger saw BYD as a disciplined company that methodically built itself up, while Tesla, in his eyes, was fueled by Musk's relentless overconfidence.



See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/elon-musk-told-the-u-n-if-they-could-show-a-plan-for-ending-world-hunger-hed-donate-6-billion-i-will-sell-tesla-stock-right-now-and-do-it">Elon Musk Told The U.N. If They Could Show A Plan For Ending World Hunger He'd Donate $6 Billion – ‘I Will Sell Tesla Stock Right Now And Do It'</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Legacy of Munger's Tesla Criticism</h2>



Tesla has had its ups and downs since that 2009 lunch. It defied the odds to become a global powerhouse, but in 2025, it's facing a sharp decline. Tesla's stock has dropped nearly 50% since mid-December, with analysts pointing to a mix of factors, including Musk's divisive political stances, declining global sales, and increased competition in the EV market. Some investors, like Ross Gerber, believe the company could face further struggles, while others see long-term opportunities in Tesla's robotaxi ambitions and AI-driven projects.



Munger remained consistent in his skepticism of Tesla throughout his life. His stance wasn't necessarily about Tesla's technology—it was <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/42976301/charlie-munger-said-his-family-only-owns-3-stocks-damn-right-theyre-rich-because-diversification-is-for-know-nothing-investors">about his investment philosophy</a>, which prioritized stable, disciplined companies over high-risk ventures led by larger-than-life personalities.



While <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44266805/trump-turns-white-house-into-tesla-showroom-says-elon-musk-was-treated-very-unfairly-heres-the-car-he-picked-for-himself">Tesla's future</a> remains uncertain, Munger's perspective on Musk—a genius who overestimates himself—continues to be a defining lens through which many view the billionaire today.



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Charlie Munger Called Elon Musk a 'Certified Genius' Who Exaggerates His IQ—But Warned: 'Never Underestimate the Man Who Overestimates Himself'

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