In this episode of The Decisive Podcast, S&P Global Market Intelligence's team of Purchasing Managers' Index economists decodes inflation, highlighting the stark differences between the US and Eurozone.

Join host Paul Smith and fellow economists Andrew Harker and Phil Smith as they explore the underlying factors driving these trends, including tariffs and exchange rate movements. The team analyzes the latest PMI numbers from Germany and discuss how inflation expectations shape price pressures and client behavior, using Ghana as a compelling case study.

The economists also look for clues into what firms worldwide are planning for the upcoming year in our Business Outlook data. The discussion features special questions regarding the impact of tariffs, focusing on Germany, the US, and Ireland, where these effects are expected to be significant. As they wrap up, they consider investment and employment strategies amid an uncertain economic landscape.

Tune in for a comprehensive look at the forces shaping our global economy and what they mean for businesses moving forward.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• Strong currency appreciation opens door to interest rate cuts in Ghana
• Global economic outlook: June 2025
• Trade and tariffs insights and news

Credits:

• Host: Paul Smith
• Guests: Andrew Harker, Phil Smith
• Produced By: Sophie Carr
• Edited By: Marz Marcello
• Published With Assistance From: Feranmi Adeoshun

In this episode of The Decisive Podcast, host Kristen Hallam is joined by S&P Global Market Intelligence experts Chris Rogers and John Raines to unpack the latest developments in U.S. tariffs and trade policy as of July 9.

With the U.S. administration's approach to leveraging tariffs as a negotiation tool, the experts assess recent agreements with countries like Vietnam, the U.K., and China, and the complexities surrounding ongoing negotiations.

The team also examines the implications of transshipment practices, particularly in Southeast Asia, and the legal challenges currently facing tariff implementations. As the administration aims to revitalize U.S. manufacturing while navigating intricate international relationships, this episode provides critical insights into the future of trade relations and the potential economic impacts on both domestic and global markets.

Listen now to an engaging discussion of the evolving landscape of tariffs and trade.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• Tariff Uncertainty Is Likely to Continue Through Late 2025
• Implications of the India-UK Free-Trade Agreement
• Trade and tariffs insights and news

Credits:

• Host: Kristen Hallam
• Guests: Chris Rogers, John Raines
• Produced By: Kristen Hallam
• Edited By: Kristen Hallam
• Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun

How do you identify which markets present the best opportunity for growth, and which are especially vulnerable to fluctuating trade and tariff policies?

In this episode of The Decisive podcast, host Kristen Hallam uncovers the origin stories behind two tools created to address these key questions: the Strategic Opportunity Index (SOI) and the Trade and Tariff Vulnerability Index (TTV). Joining Kristen for this discussion are expert guests Cassandra Pagan, Justin Valentino, and Natasha McSwiggan.

The discussion begins with an exploration of the SOI, designed to provide clarity in a complex geopolitical and trade landscape by evaluating market attractiveness through five key pillars: market potential, policy favorability, institutional quality, logistics efficiency, and resource availability. The guests share insights on how momentum scoring within the SOI helps identify expanding market opportunities, emphasizing the importance of understanding market trajectories rather than just current standings.

The conversation also highlights the origin stories behind both indices, showcasing the collaborative efforts of the team to create tools that can guide strategic decision-making for businesses navigating global trade dynamics. The experts discuss how the TTV assesses the vulnerability of economies to tariffs, providing valuable insights for businesses to adapt and strategize in the face of evolving U.S. trade policies.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how these indices can inform economic decisions, identify potential risks, and uncover opportunities in the global marketplace. Join us for an engaging discussion that combines analytical rigor with practical applications, perfect for anyone interested in the intersection of economics and global trade.

More S&P Global Market Intelligence Content:

• The Strategic Opportunity Index
• Uncertain US Tariff Policy Raises Risks for Trading Partners
• Country Risk Month Ahead: July 2025

Credits:

• Host: Kristen Hallam
• Guests: Cassandra Pagan, Justin Valentino, Natasha McSwiggan
• Produced By: Kristen Hallam
• Edited By: Marz Marcello
• Published With Assistance From: Sophie Carr, Feranmi Adeoshun