eternal sunshine
Monday, April 14th, 2025
World Events — Trump Changed His Mind Twice This Weekend
Bloomberg
President Donald Trump has reaffirmed his commitment to imposing tariffs on phones, computers, and consumer electronics, despite a temporary exemption announced last Friday. The exemption, which shields these products from the 125% tariff on China and a 10% global rate, is part of a broader plan to implement sector-specific levies targeting semiconductors and the entire electronics supply chain. Trump emphasized that the reprieve is temporary, with new tariffs expected in the coming months. While the semiconductor tariffs are anticipated to be lower than the 125% rate on China, they may exceed the 10% rate applied to other countries. This maneuver provides a brief window for companies and lobbyists to advocate for exclusions or adjustments before the new tariffs take effect. The administration's actions signal its focus on reshoring critical industries like semiconductors while maintaining pressure on China through existing levies, including a separate 20% duty aimed at combating fentanyl shipments.
Tech — Toshiba Portable Vinyl Player
The Verge
Toshiba’s new Aurex AX-RP10 portable record player offers vinyl enthusiasts a compact and wireless way to enjoy their music collections on the go. Powered by a built-in 2,000mAh rechargeable battery, it delivers up to 10 hours of playback and supports both 33 1/3 and 45 rpm records. While its design is not as small as the Audio-Technica Sound Burger, the AX-RP10 is portable enough to carry in an included shoulder bag and accommodates full-sized 12-inch records. It features Bluetooth connectivity for use with wireless headphones or speakers, though this digital compression may not appeal to audiophiles. Additionally, the device includes a stereo mini audio jack for wired connections. Expected to ship in April 2025, pricing details for the AX-RP10 remain unannounced.
Macro — Flight From the Dollar
The Economists
The U.S. faces mounting economic risks as the dollar's decline and rising bond yields threaten its financial stability, a phenomenon reminiscent of Japan’s "triple yasu" crisis in the 1990s. Since April 1st, the dollar has fallen over 4% against major currencies, while yields on ten-year Treasury bonds have risen by 0.3 percentage points, signaling investor concerns about America's economic health. The erosion of the dollar’s "exorbitant privilege," which has enabled high deficits and debt levels, now jeopardizes the federal budget, with net debts equaling 100% of GDP and interest payments exceeding defense spending. President Trump’s unpredictable tariff policies exacerbate this instability, while his administration’s actions—such as defunding critics and undermining institutional norms—further alarm investors. Coupled with inflation concerns and ambitious tax cut plans that could add $5.8 trillion to deficits over a decade, the U.S. risks a financial crisis akin to Britain’s turmoil under Liz Truss in 2022, potentially undermining the global financial system built on dollar dominance.
Health — What is VO2 Max
Healthine
VO₂ max is a measure of the maximum amount of oxygen your body can use during intense exercise, reflecting aerobic fitness and cardiovascular efficiency. It is calculated as milliliters of oxygen consumed per kilogram of body weight per minute (ml/kg/min) and serves as a key indicator of endurance, longevity, and overall health. VO₂ max can be measured through lab tests involving treadmills or cycling while monitoring oxygen intake, or through simpler field tests like the Cooper 1.5-mile run. A higher VO₂ max is associated with improved athletic performance, reduced cardiovascular disease risk, and better quality of life. Typical VO₂ max values vary by age and gender, with elite athletes often exceeding 90 ml/kg/min. Improving VO₂ max enhances stamina, reduces fatigue in daily activities, and boosts immune function, making it a valuable benchmark for tracking fitness progress and maintaining cardiovascular health.
Baking — Brownie
If you are craving some sweet brownies, try out this recipe!
Love and Lemons
Song Rec — eternal sunshine (arinna grande)
Quote of the Day
“The supreme happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved; loved for ourselves—say rather, loved in spite of ourselves.” ― Victor Hugo , Les Misérables