Tariffs Are Back—But Where’s the Inflation? What Stocks Are Telling Us Before the CPI Hits

by | Jul 14, 2025 | Market News | 0 comments

Introduction

Inflation is back in the headlines, but not (yet) in the numbers. As President Trump reignites the trade war with sweeping tariffs, commodity prices like copper are already surging. Yet, equity markets appear oddly calm ahead of this week’s all-important June Consumer Price Index (CPI) report. Investors are now asking: Is the market underestimating the inflation ripple effect—and how should we position before it hits?

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With rising geopolitical risks and inflation volatility, European brokers such as DEGIRO and Interactive Brokers have become increasingly popular for diversified plays. These platforms offer access to inflation-protected securities, commodity ETFs, and U.S. earnings plays—key tools to navigate what could be a volatile second half of the year.

Financial Performance

The S&P 500 and Nasdaq remain near record highs despite signs of brewing inflation. Meanwhile, commodity markets are sending a very different message:

  • Copper (HG00): Up sharply in July, signaling supply chain pressure
  • Coffee futures: Quietly rising, hinting at broader consumer price creep
  • Earnings Calls: Companies in logistics, retail, and manufacturing are beginning to cite tariffs and material costs again

The disconnect between equities and commodity-driven inflation may not last long.

Key Highlights

  • Trump’s tariffs are back—adding inflationary pressure via supply chains
  • Stocks remain calm, but commodities are flashing early warning signs
  • CPI report for June is a key inflection point for sentiment and positioning
  • Earnings season could reveal embedded pricing pressure
  • Consumer discretionary and retail sectors most vulnerable

Profitability and Valuation

With inflation potentially reigniting, valuation compression could hit high-multiple growth names if CPI surprises to the upside. Meanwhile, pricing power becomes critical—companies able to pass on costs (energy, food, logistics) will likely outperform. Watch for earnings margin guidance over headline EPS.

Debt and Leverage

A surprise inflation spike would increase expectations for tighter monetary policy—raising financing costs for highly leveraged firms. Companies in sectors like real estate, high-growth tech, or speculative biotech may come under renewed pressure if bond yields rise on inflation fears.

Growth Prospects

If inflation forces central banks into a more hawkish stance, growth expectations could recalibrate. On the flip side, if CPI remains contained, equity bulls may double down. That said, the real risk is sticky inflation—just high enough to spook markets, not high enough to trigger emergency action.

Technical Analysis

S&P 500 (SPX):

  • Support: 5,440
  • Resistance: 5,630
  • Target (1–3 months): 5,700 if CPI is soft; drop to 5,350 on surprise inflation

Copper Futures (HG00):

  • Short-Term Target: $4.90
  • Mid-Term Target: $5.20
  • Stop Loss: $4.50

Consumer Discretionary ETF (XLY):

  • Downside Risk: 3–6% if CPI surprises on the upside

Potential Catalysts

  • June CPI report (this Tuesday)
  • Trump tariff updates and potential Chinese retaliation
  • Q2 earnings season kickoff—watch for inflation commentary
  • Commodities (copper, oil, wheat) reacting to supply chain stress
  • Bond yield breakout past 5% on long end if inflation takes hold

Leadership and Strategic Direction

President Trump’s aggressive tariff policy is once again shaping inflation expectations. The administration’s goal: protect U.S. manufacturing and national security. The consequence: upward pricing pressure just as the Fed tries to balance soft landing hopes with inflation control. Markets are pricing in uncertainty, not panic—for now.

Impact of Macroeconomic Factors

  • Tariffs: Input costs rising; effect will lag in CPI, but show in earnings
  • Energy Prices: Volatile but trending higher—another inflation driver
  • Wage Growth: Still elevated, especially in service sectors
  • Supply Chains: Bottlenecks reappearing in electronics and agriculture

Total Addressable Market (TAM)

The macro-sensitive equity universe—commodities, materials, TIPS, and infrastructure—now looks increasingly attractive. If inflation expectations reset, these sectors could outperform tech-heavy growth benchmarks over the next 6–12 months.

Market Sentiment and Engagement

Retail and institutional sentiment is split. While stock markets remain buoyant, Google Trends show a spike in searches for “tariff impact on prices” and “inflation hedge stocks.” This divergence suggests FOMO is clashing with fear—classic late-cycle behavior.

Conclusions, Target Price Objectives, and Stop Losses

We’re at a pivot point. Markets may be underestimating the lagged impact of tariffs on inflation data. With CPI on deck and earnings season beginning, the next two weeks will likely define positioning into Q3.

Target Ranges:

  • SPX (1 month): 5,350–5,700
  • Copper (3 months): $4.90–$5.20
  • Inflation-sensitive stocks: +8% upside / –5% downside depending on CPI

Stop Loss Levels:

  • SPX below 5,350
  • HG00 below $4.50
  • 10Y Treasury yields over 5.10% = caution on rate-sensitive stocks

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For more insights into analyzing value and growth stocks poised for sustainable growth, consider this expert guide. It provides valuable strategies for identifying high-potential value and growth stocks.

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This analysis serves as information only and should not be interpreted as investment advice. Conduct your own research or consult with a financial advisor before making investment decisions.

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