Business Outlook: Barbie Returns Amid Ongoing Trade Challenges

May 16, 2025 - 21:37

In the coming week, key events in business and finance will capture attention, ranging from a significant G7 meeting in Canada to ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions.

The G7 finance ministers and central bank governors will convene in Canada starting May 20, where the atmosphere is expected to be tense. President Donald Trump’s tariff policies and suggestions of U.S. isolationism will loom large over discussions. Additionally, currency fluctuations may arise as nations navigate trade negotiations, potentially leading to a deliberate tolerance of stronger currencies against the dollar.

On a brighter note, the holiday season may not be as grim for Barbie fans. Following a 90-day tariff truce, China has resumed the flow of rare earth materials and eased some non-tariff barriers affecting U.S. companies. With the U.S. government retracting certain duties on small packages, fast-fashion brands like Shein are poised for relief, alleviating concerns about inflated Barbie prices this Christmas.

Retail earnings reports from major U.S. companies such as Home Depot and Target will also be closely monitored, particularly after Walmart’s warning about impending price increases due to tariffs. Investors are eager to glean insights into how these tariffs might impact consumer spending.

Lastly, a UK-EU summit on May 19 could signal a potential trade reset, as UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer aims to dismantle trade barriers to invigorate the sluggish British economy. Upcoming purchasing managers’ indices and consumer price data will provide further context on economic conditions, particularly as inflation remains a concern for the Bank of England.