Branson Predicted the Fallout: Trump’s Tariffs and the Economic Blowback

This source presents a future reflection from Richard Branson in 2025 on the consequences of former President Trump's tariff policies initiated in April 2024. Branson recalls a period of strong economic growth abruptly halted by these import taxes, which disrupted global trade and negatively impacted his Virgin Group businesses. He foresaw inflationary pressures arising from the tariffs, hindering potential interest rate cuts. Furthermore, Branson expressed concern over the geopolitical implications of alienating trade partners and the insular nature of the policy's decision-making. The article concludes by noting that even a later pause on tariff escalation couldn't erase the economic damage, serving as a warning about policy unpredictability.