The Headline
US-China talks yield tariff pause framework, markets rally
The discussions are going really well and we expect to wrap up soon, but officials will be present if needed.
US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick
We're doing well with China. China's not easy. I'm only getting good reports from my team in London.
President Donald Trump
Key Facts
- US-China trade talks began in London focusing on rare earth minerals and AI semiconductor export controls amid ongoing tariff tensions.
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- Both sides agreed to a 90-day tariff pause following a tentative agreement reached in Geneva last month, aiming to de-escalate the trade war.
- US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick joined the talks, emphasizing the centrality of export controls and describing the discussions as fruitful and going well.
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- Trade talks extended into a second day in London with officials working late to resolve technical issues, signaling commitment to reach a deal.
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- US stock markets responded positively to the trade talks, with the S&P 500 rising 0.5% and Nasdaq gaining 0.6%, both nearing record highs amid growing optimism.
- Oil prices rose for the fourth consecutive day, with Brent crude above $67 a barrel and WTI topping $65, reflecting investor confidence in trade talk progress and market tightness.
- The US and China reached a framework to implement the Geneva consensus, signaling a potential de-escalation of trade tensions and a step toward resolving disputes.
Key Stats at a Glance
Duration of tariff pause agreed by US and China
90 days
S&P 500 increase
0.5%
Dow Jones Industrial Average increase
100 points
Nasdaq increase
0.6%
Brent crude oil price
$67 a barrel
West Texas Intermediate crude oil price
$65 a barrel