From tariffs to government layoffs and significant stock market fluctuations, uncertainty surrounds the economy during President Donald Trumps second term.

On his third day in office, Trump announced his economic intentions at the World Economic Forum, a declaration that has since shaped the landscape of the economy during his first 100 days.

If you dont make your product in America, which is your prerogative, then very simply you will have to pay a tariff, President Trump said.

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Public confidence is faltering, with a University of Michigan survey released in mid-April indicating that Americans inflation expectations are at their highest level since 1981. This comes as on-again-off-again tariffs impact steel, aluminum, automobiles, and numerous products from the European Union and China.

Local brewers are feeling the pinch. Its hard to pass along price increases to consumers, but sometimes we dont have a choice, said Brian Dunn of Great Divide Brewing in Denver. Dunn noted that the aluminum tariffs would add $1.65 to each case of beer, squeezing margins and raising costs for consumers.

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Market concerns are evident, with the DOW, S&P, and NASDAQ all falling approximately 10% since the beginning of the year, and the U.S. dollar reaching a three-year low.

Despite declining confidence, reports suggest a steady economy. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, inflation has eased, unemployment remains stable, and job creation continues to exceed estimates, presenting a confusing scenario filled with fear amid signs of stability.

President Donald Trump has indicated he may pause his administrations recently implemented 25% tariffs on imported vehicles and parts, which took effect earlier this month. This potential halt has propelled global stock markets upward this week, but leaves automakers in a challenging position as they adapt to these changes.

The auto market is driven by reliability, safety, and affordability, but the presidents tariffs are prompting manufacturers to rethink their strategies to capture consumer interest and spending.

I think what were seeing out of the gate here is a lot of the domestics want to establish themselves as very good value, said Tyson Jominy, vice president of data and analytics at J.D. Power.

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In a rush to beat the tariffs, American consumers flocked to dealerships prior to their implementation. Ford reported a 5% sales increase in its first-quarter report, with a remarkable 19% surge in March alone. Meanwhile, Cox Automotive noted a 27% rise in visits to Kelley Blue Book, and Dealer.com reported a 54% spike in users searching for the best deals on new vehicles.

As consumer behavior shifts, manufacturers are working to differentiate their brands.

Certainly the tariffs are yet another challenge for automakers to stand out and alter their brand perception in consumers minds, Jominy explained.

A recent Cox Automotive analysis revealed that the 25% tariff will affect nearly 80% of vehicles priced under $30,000, including popular models like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Chevy Trailblazer, and Nissan Sentra.

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In response to the tariffs, some automakers have already launched sales discounts and price assurance programs. Ford announced employee pricing for all U.S. customers through June 2, while companies like Mitsubishi and Volvo are cutting back on incentives as they brace for potential financial strain from the tariffs.

Jominy warns that if the tariffs are not repealed, they could have long-lasting effects on the automotive industry.

We may see some brands have to leave the U.S., resulting in fewer options for consumers and possibly changing market dynamics, he said.

This story was initially reported by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Jason and Sammy Diniz are eagerly preparing to welcome their first child, a journey filled with excitement and questions primarily about the financial impact of adding another member to their family.

Ive been like two weeks ahead this whole time, so I feel like Im ready now. Lets do it, Sammy said with a laugh.

As the couple anticipates the arrival, they are acutely aware of the responsibilities that come with parenthood, especially the financial ones.

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I remember when she told me, Hey, were pregnant. Its a really exciting moment, and then youre like, OK, nine months, Jason explained. You know, number figures. We want a nest egg; we want an emergency fund. Now that we have a kid, where do we feel comfortable with that getting to?

A recent study by LendingTree has brought new light to these concerns. The study revealed that the annual cost of raising a child has increased 35% since 2023, with the total cost heavily influenced by geographic location. In the most expensive states Hawaii, Massachusetts and Washington raising a single child can cost families between $32,000 and $36,000 per year. In contrast, families in Mississippi, South Carolina and Alabama face much lower expenses, with costs ranging from $16,000 to $18,000 annually.

The study also identified childcare as the largest contributor to the rising costs, adding an average of $6,000 to family expenses each year.

If you have two earners and youre only getting to a middle-class income by having two earners, then youve got to have childcare in your cost calculations, said Isabelle Sawhill, a senior fellow emeritus with the Brookings Institution.

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Sawhill noted that rising costs play a significant role in declining birth rates, which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report are at historic lows. Birth rates have decreased by 2% annually from 2014 to 2020, with a notable 3% decline in 2022.

Despite the financial concerns facing many prospective parents, Jason and Sammy are excited to welcome a baby.

Its not perfect, right? I dont think youre ever going to feel like youre checking every single box, but you kind of get to a spot where youre like, Alright, I dont think were going to fail, so lets move forward, Jason said.

According to research from the Pew Research Center, the rising costs of children especially childcare are prompting more families to consider having a stay-at-home parent. The findings also reveal that 62% of Americans believe being a parent is somewhat harder than expected.

This story was initially reported by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.