Squawk Pod

As Wall Street stumbles on fears of a trade war, National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett discusses the U.S. economy and the uncertainties that are shaking investors. Tariff concerns extend to small businesses, too; Mezcalum co-founders (and Real Housewives of New York stars) Erin and Abe Lichy share how they’re absorbing raised costs in their supply chain for mezcal from Mexico. CNBC’s Eamon Javers reports on President Trump’s latest comments from Washington, including a shift away from the stock market as a barometer for success. Plus, Tesla stock is experiencing its longest losing streak since going public. Eamon Javers - Kevin Hassett - 26:29Erin and Abe Lichy - 41:17 In this episode:Erin Lichy, @ErindlichyEamon Javers, @EamonJaversBecky Quick, @BeckyQuickJoe Kernen, @JoeSquawkAndrew Ross Sorkin, @andrewrsorkinKatie Kramer, @Kramer_Katie Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Scott Bessent, Treasury Secretary, shares insights from his time navigating financial strategies during significant geopolitical events. He dives into the Trump administration's tariffs and the effects on international trade, particularly with Ukraine. Bessent highlights the resilience of the U.S. dollar and the market's necessary 'detox' from prior excessive spending. The conversation shifts to the U.S. strategic bitcoin reserve and its implications, with expert MacKenzie Sigalos exploring bitcoin's evolving role in global finance.

As the United States and Canada spar over tariffs, Karina Gould, a candidate for Canadian Prime Minister and former Canadian government House leader, explains Canada’s retaliation against the Trump administration’s tariffs and the Canadian frustration at the current relationship between neighbors. Then, pollster and political strategist Frank Luntz provides insights into swing voters 6 weeks into President Trump’s second term. Luntz discusses the public’s opinion on Elon Musk's influence in Washington and the economic messaging from the White House. Plus, some Senate Republicans push to codify DOGE cuts after meeting with Elon Musk, and automakers have one month’s reprieve from tariffs on autos coming into the U.S. from Mexico and Canada.  Karina Gould - 14:02Frank Luntz - 25:44 In this episode:Frank Luntz, @frankluntzJoe Kernen, @JoeSquawkAndrew Ross Sorkin, @andrewrsorkinCameron Costa, @CameronCostaNY Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Wednesday marks day two of President Trump’s 25% levies on Mexico and Canada. In his joint address to Congress, the President warned about “a little disturbance” as American industries and neighbors digest his administration’s tariffs. CNBC’s Eamon Javers reports on the rest of the news out of Tuesday’s address, and Phil LeBeau reports that the administration may consider a delay on tariffs for autos. Former US Ambassador to Canada Bruce Heyman explains the toll tariffs may take on the longstanding relationship between neighbors, including social and economic ties. The friction between the U.S. and Canada extends to the ice; National Hockey League Commissioner Gary Bettman discusses the cross border relationships in sport and in finance.  Eamon Javers - 9:48Bruce Heyman - 19:32Gary Bettman - 29:12Phil LeBeau - 37:12 In this episode:Phil LeBeau, @LebeaucarnewsEamon Javers, @EamonJaversRobert Frank, @robtfrankMichael Santoli, @michaelsantoliBecky Quick, @BeckyQuickKatie Kramer, @Kramer_Katie Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

President Trump’s tariffs on Mexico and Canada take effect today. Target CEO Brian Cornell sits down with Becky Quick to discuss the impact they’ll have on his business and on price tags for consumers; Cornell warns, costs at checkout will likely go up, and soon. While U.S. stocks and investors waver on the new trade rules, U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick explains the long term vision for “fair” trade, as well as the price the Trump administration is willing to pay to curb fentanyl’s flow into the country and bring more manufacturing stateside. Plus, President Trump has paused all U.S. military aid to Ukraine.  Brian Cornell - 14:50Howard Lutnick - 31:48 In this episode:Becky Quick, @BeckyQuickJoe Kernen, @JoeSquawkCameron Costa, @CameronCostaNY Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The markets ended February on a low note as investors digest global and domestic uncertainty and prepare for tariffs set to take effect on Tuesday. Cryptocurrency, however, has rallied on President Trump’s announcement of a strategic crypto reserve. In the aftermath of the heated discussion between President Trump and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, author, editor, and international affairs professor Nina Khrushcheva examines the U.S. agenda and next steps for Russian President Putin. Hayman Capital Management founder Kyle Bass considers Ukraine’s geopolitical position and the shift in war sentiment among conservatives in the United States. Plus, Anora took home 5 awards from Sunday’s Oscars. Puck founding partner Matt Belloni discusses the other winners, the surprises, and the streaming factor in this year’s Academy Awards.  Megan Cassella - 07:23Nina Khrushcheva - 12:57Kyle Bass - 21:11Matt Belloni - 31:45 In this episode:Matt Belloni, @MattBelloniKyle Bass, @JkylebassMegan Cassella, @mmcassellaMelissa Lee, @MelissaLeeCNBCJoe Kernen, @JoeSquawkCameron Costa, @CameronCostaNY Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cynthia Littleton, Co-editor at Variety, shares her insights on the upcoming Oscars and predicts potential winners, sparking a lively discussion about the competitive landscape in Hollywood. The conversation touches on standout performances and the cultural narratives behind nominees. Additionally, health expert Dr. Scott Gottlieb discusses the alarming measles outbreak in Texas, emphasizing the impact of vaccination rates on public health. The episode also covers economic turmoil influenced by tariffs and recent developments in AI technology.

Join John Collison, CEO of Stripe, a $91.5 billion payments powerhouse, as he discusses the company's remarkable growth through AI innovations. In an insightful conversation with Andrew Ross Sorkin, they explore how AI, including over 700 agents, has transformed Stripe's operations and customer service. Collison explains why Stripe remains private despite its immense value and highlights the firm's collaborations with giants like TikTok. He also delves into the future of stablecoins and the evolving landscape of financial technology.

Eamon Javers, a CNBC reporter, provides insights on the impending tariffs from the White House regarding Mexico and Canada. He highlights the economic uncertainties impacting various industries. Tony James, former COO of Blackstone and now Chairman of Costco, shares his views on the U.S. economy's slowdown and Costco's steadfast commitment to equity amid DEI rollbacks. The conversation also touches on Nvidia's earnings surpassing analyst expectations, a measles outbreak in Texas, and the potential implications of Elon Musk's government interactions.

Rep. Ro Khanna, the progressive U.S. Representative for California’s Silicon Valley, discusses the recent budget plan passed by the Republican-controlled House, criticizing the implications for working-class Americans. He shares insights on how Trump’s tax cuts disproportionately benefit the wealthy. The conversation also touches on immigration reforms, including a controversial 'green card plus' proposal, and the geopolitical impact of U.S. relations with Ukraine, especially regarding rare earth minerals.