Trump hints at new tariffs on semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, US futures slide

• Trump targets tariffs on semiconductors, pharmaceuticals
• Automotive sector gains momentum with possible postponement
• US futures fall on trade tensions

US stock futures fell on Tuesday (15) after statements by President Donald Trump about possible tariff changes, including the implementation of new taxes on semiconductors and pharmaceutical products.

The market reacted cautiously to the updates, with Dow Jones Industrial Average futures falling 0,3%, the same percentage drop seen in S&P 500 futures contracts, which traded at 5,430.00 points. The Nasdaq index, which concentrates technology stocks, showed a slight drop of 0,2%.

The day before, markets had closed higher after news that tariffs on consumer electronics would be treated separately from the levies targeted at specific countries, with the possibility of being applied later. In addition, the president mentioned exemptions for automakers, favoring stocks in the automotive sector.

Despite this, the signal that there will be continuity in plans to impose tariffs on strategic sectors, such as pharmaceuticals and semiconductors, maintained uncertainty among investors. “We are looking at semiconductors and the entire electronics supply chain in the upcoming investigations into national security tariffs,” Trump said.

Asian stocks reacted positively to the possible postponement of auto tariffs. Japan led the gains, boosted by the perception of a temporary easing of trade tensions, especially after the US decision to postpone taxes on consumer technologies.

Amid the volatile business environment, one move caught the attention of the financial market. Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan Chase, sold 133.639 shares of the bank, totaling approximately US$31,5 million. This is only the second time Dimon has sold shares of the company since taking office in 2005.

Attention remains focused on upcoming White House decisions, especially regarding tariffs on sensitive imports. Investors are closely monitoring potential temporary exemptions and the sectors most susceptible to trade developments.