Hurt People, Hurt People
Wednesday, March 5th, 2025
World Events — Most Extreme Tariff Thus Far
The Economists
President Donald Trump has implemented his most extreme tariffs yet, targeting America's three largest trading partners: Canada, Mexico, and China. As of March 4, 2025, imports from Canada and Mexico are now subject to a 25% tariff, while Chinese goods face an additional 10% tariff on top of existing duties. This move marks a significant escalation in Trump's protectionist policies, potentially disrupting long-established trade relationships and supply chains. The tariffs are expected to impact a wide range of products, from automobiles to agricultural goods, leading to concerns about rising consumer prices and economic instability. Trump's decision has already prompted retaliatory measures from China and Canada, with Mexico expected to follow suit, raising fears of a full-blown trade war. Despite the president's claims that tariffs strengthen the American economy, many economists and business leaders warn of potential negative consequences, including disrupted supply chains, increased costs for consumers, and possible economic slowdown.
Tech — Is China’s Tech Crackdown Over?
The Economists
Following a period of intense regulatory scrutiny that began in 2020, Beijing is signaling a renewed embrace of its private technology sector, highlighted by President Xi Jinping's recent meeting with leading Chinese entrepreneurs. This shift comes as China faces economic challenges like youth unemployment and a struggling property sector, with the government recognizing the importance of technology companies as drivers of growth. While the crackdown led to significant losses for companies like Alibaba and Tencent, and a retreat from public life for some tech billionaires, Beijing now seeks to leverage the sector's potential in strategically important areas like AI and semiconductors, particularly amid geopolitical tensions with the US. However, the government is unlikely to return to the pre-2020 laissez-faire approach, maintaining oversight to ensure social stability, prevent excessive competition, and align technological advancements with national priorities, including data security and "common prosperity."
Business — Crowdstroke
CNBC
CrowdStrike shares plummeted 9% in after-hours trading following a disappointing earnings forecast, despite exceeding revenue expectations with $1.06 billion versus the anticipated $1.03 billion. The cybersecurity firm projected full-year earnings per share between $3.33 and $3.45, significantly below the LSEG estimate of $4.42, and first-quarter earnings between 64 cents and 66 cents per share, compared to the expected 95 cents. While CrowdStrike reported a 25% revenue increase year-over-year and achieved $4.24 billion in annual recurring revenue, the weaker-than-expected guidance overshadowed these successes, particularly in light of CEO George Kurtz's emphasis on the growing importance of AI in cybersecurity.
Health — High Functioning Anxiety Disorder
Verywell Mind
High-functioning anxiety describes individuals who experience anxiety while maintaining a seemingly successful and functional life, though it is not a recognized mental health diagnosis. These individuals often appear calm, organized, and high-achieving, excelling in their careers and personal lives, and can be described as Type A personalities. However, beneath the surface, they grapple with constant worry, fear of failure, and a need for perfection. Outwardly, they may be punctual, proactive, and helpful, but internally they might struggle with overthinking, insomnia, and a constant need for reassurance, often masking their true feelings from others. Those with high-functioning anxiety are often people-pleasers, and may struggle with nervous habits, rumination, and an inability to say "no," potentially leading to burnout or unhealthy coping mechanisms. While their achievements might be objectively true, driven by nervous energy and fear, the internal struggle and limitations imposed by their anxiety often go unnoticed by others, and they might avoid seeking help due to concerns about losing the perceived positive influence of anxiety on their achievements.
Baking — Mango Chiffron Cake
With its soft chiffon cake, layers of whipped cream, and fresh mangoes, this mango chiffon cake offers a superb flavor combination and is a top choice for chiffon cake lovers.
Song Rec — The Grudge (Olivio Rodrigo)
Quote of the Day
"But whatever came, she had resolved never again to belong to another than herself."- Kate Chopin, The Awakening