Markets Pause for Memorial Day
The New York Stock Exchange remained closed on Monday, May 26, 2025, in observance of Memorial Day. However, market sentiment points to a likely downturn in U.S. stock prices during Tuesday’s opening session, driven primarily by technology stocks. This anticipated decline follows threats from U.S. President Donald Trump to impose tariffs on iPhones manufactured outside the United States, adding pressure to an already volatile market.
Technology Stocks Lead Expected Decline
The projected drop would mark the eighth consecutive session of declines, with the “Magnificent Seven” technology stocks leading the downturn. On Friday, Trump announced plans to impose a 25% tariff on iPhones produced abroad upon entry into the U.S. He emphasized, stating that he had long urged Apple’s CEO, Tim Cook, to ensure iPhones sold in the U.S. are manufactured domestically, warning that non-compliance would result in at least a 25% tariff on Apple’s products.
Trade Tensions Fuel Market Uncertainty
U.S. stocks face ongoing downward pressure due to uncertainty surrounding Trump’s trade policies, particularly his tariff threats. Last Friday, Trump escalated tensions by proposing a 50% tariff on all goods imported from the European Union, effective June 1, citing stalled trade negotiations. In a social media post, he remarked that discussions with the EU were yielding no progress. However, Monday’s market reports brought some relief, indicating Trump’s approval to extend a 50% tariff reduction on European products until July 9, 2025, instead of the original June 1 deadline, offering a temporary reprieve to trade tensions.
