ASA Podcast: From Gold to GDP Numbers - The Tariff Ripple Effect

In Season 5, Episode 23 of Keeping it Real with Dr. Kuehl, ASA Chief Economist Dr. Chris Kuehl dives into the surprising and often puzzling world of tariffs—this time focusing on the unexpected tariff on gold imports. At just over eight minutes, the episode packs in an analysis of why this move caught many off guard, what it means for the “gold thinkers” in the market, and how it might (or might not) touch everyday businesses.
 

Dr. Kuehl also unpacks why Switzerland, of all countries, is showing the highest tariff numbers, the scale of their trade surplus, and the ripple effects on other nations. India’s situation earns special attention as he explains how the country has been blindsided by high tariffs and what that could mean for their economic stability.
 

From there, Dr. Kuehl broadens the discussion to explore the lack of consistent motivation behind global tariffs—something he points out is not unusual, but still disruptive. He touches on the possibility of the U.S. influencing other nations to reduce purchases from Russia, raising questions about how much sway countries truly have over each other’s trade behavior.
 

Finally, he turns to the bigger economic picture, including what the Third Quarter GDP numbers might reveal, whether recession fears are still looming, and how the American business community is bracing for what’s ahead. As always, he reminds listeners that change is a constant in the economy—but understanding and adjusting to it remains a formidable challenge.

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Ask Dr. Kuehl a Question!
Have a question or topic for Chris Kuehl that you would like answered on this podcast or on his monthly ASA members-only webinar? Email it to Bri Baresel at bbaresel@asa.net.