New Tariffs Spark Fresh “Sell America” Wave Across Markets

US equity futures declined on Monday as renewed trade policy uncertainty unsettled markets. S&P 500 futures fell 0.5%, while Nasdaq futures dropped 0.6%, after President Donald Trump imposed a new 15% tariff following the Supreme Court’s decision to strike down earlier emergency-based measures.

The rapid policy shift revived elements of the “sell America” narrative, with investors struggling to assess the scope, duration and legal stability of the revised tariff framework. The administration initially proposed a 10% universal tariff before lifting it to 15% over the weekend, adding to market volatility.

Defensive positioning emerged quickly. Gold rose 0.6% to around $5,134 per ounce, while silver advanced 2%. The US dollar weakened against major peers, with USDJPY slipping and EURUSD gaining modestly. Treasury yields edged lower, with the 10-year yield hovering near 4.08%, reflecting mild safe-haven demand.

Read more on how renewed tariff uncertainty and shifting risk sentiment could shape the S&P 500’s next move.