Forget Nvidia - This Odd Tariff Play Is Now Going Viral

As President Trump slaps China with new tariffs, the Fed is boxed in--and gold is skyrocketing just like it did during Trump's first term. JPMorgan just grabbed $4 Billion in gold bars... should you? Discover a "Tariff Assistance Loophole" to move funds from your IRA & 401(k) into gold--tax-free!

Kentucky bourbon makers fear becoming 'collateral damage' in Trump's trade war

BRUCE SCHREINER and DYLAN LOVAN
March 11, 2025

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) -- With a new distillery set to open soon, the makers of Brough Brothers bourbon in Kentucky were ready to put their business plan into action. They were looking to ramp up whiskey production to break into lucrative new markets in Canada and Europe.

Now the on-again, off-again threat of tariffs has disrupted those plans.

Efforts by the Black-owned distiller to gain a foothold in Canada are on hold, as are plans to break into Germany and France, said Brough Brothers Distillery CEO Victor Yarbrough. That's because the iconic American spirit's widening global appeal is caught in the crossfire of trade conflicts instigated by President Donald Trump.

"It's extremely frustrating," said Yarbrough, who started the Louisville distilling company with his brothers, Bryson and Chris. "We are collateral damage."

For distillers looking to sell to consumers of all political stripes, talking politics can be as distasteful as discussing Prohibition. But along with the turmoil and uncertainty over tariffs, bourbon makers and other U.S. firms trying to do business in Canada are confronting public relations challenges still reverberating from the president's blunt-force "America First" approach to international relations.

With Canadian hockey fans booing the U.S. national anthem and some liquor stores north of the border clearing American spirits from their shelves even before there's clarity over tariffs, businesses like Brough Brothers are watching to see how the trade conflict plays out.

In the building being converted into the new distillery near the Ohio River, drywall dust covers the floor of the project that the brothers hope will raise the company's profile in the ultra-competitive bourbon world.

"I believe there's going to be some type of repair of the relationships that needs to happen," said Yarbrough, who was hoping, before the trade war erupted, to introduce his bourbon in New Brunswick and later expand to Ontario and other parts of Canada. "So I think some type of media blitz, PR blitz is definitely going to have to take place."

An expanding market hampered by uncertainty

The trade wars pose an immediate threat to an American-made success story, built on the growing worldwide taste for bourbon, Tennessee whiskey and other products.

Kentucky Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear said the president's zig-zagging tariff policy is hurting the American economy and will lead to higher consumer prices while disrupting business.

"It's not just the imposition of tariffs, it's this month-to-month, 'I may do it to you at any moment' policy," said Beshear, a potential presidential candidate in 2028. "You can't create stability."

Trump on Thursday postponed 25% tariffs on some imports from Canada for a month amid fears of the economic fallout from a broader trade war. Yarbrough said his company's expansion plans are still in limbo.

"It doesn't change our situation," he said. "Just as quickly as it changed to a reprieve, it could just as quickly turn into next month that we're back on."

For an industry that has to plan well into the future, based on aging its whiskey products, such angst is widespread in Kentucky, which produces 95% of the world's bourbon supply. At this point even a delay in tariffs wouldn't alleviate the practical problems confronting U.S. whiskey makers.

"The issue for us is long-term planning, and a postponement does nothing for us in long-term planning except leaves it still up in the air," said Judy Hollis Jones, president and CEO of Buzzard's Roost in Louisville, which sells to two provinces in Canada and has been looking to expand.

"Maybe other people adapt to it easier than I do, but I tend to like some certainty," Jones said.

The Kentucky Distillers' Association says the newest trade conflicts feel like deja vu. The industry group has long sounded the alarm that tariffs and retaliatory levies would wreak havoc on the spirits industry. Along with the North American trade dispute, the European Union is set to reinstate a tariff by April 1 on American whiskey if nothing is done to head it off.

That trans-Atlantic dispute is a reprise of Trump's first-term tariffs on European steel and aluminum. The EU's retaliatory tariff caused American whiskey exports to the EU to plunge 20%, costing distillers more than $100 million in revenue from 2018 to 2021, the Distilled Spirits Council says. Once the tariff was suspended, EU sales rebounded for American distillers.

Threat of 'irreparable harm' to distillers

Now, Europe's infatuation with Kentucky bourbon and other U.S. spirits is threatened by the potential 50% tariff -- double the previous levy -- that would inflict "irreparable harm to distillers large and small," said Chris Swonger, the council's CEO.

Tariffs amount to a tax, which whiskey producers can either absorb in reduced profits or pass along to customers through higher prices -- and risk losing market share in highly competitive markets. In 2024, the EU was by far the largest export market for U.S. distilled spirits, followed by Canada, the council said.

Trump maintains that open trade has cost the U.S. millions of factory jobs and that tariffs are the path to American-made prosperity.

Large distillers possess the capital and market reach to ride out disruptions caused by tariffs -- built-in luxuries that most small producers don't have.

Canada accounts for just 1% of total sales for Brown-Forman Corp., the maker of Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey, and the Louisville-based company could withstand disruptions there, said its CEO, Lawson Whiting.

But Whiting said the decision by Canadian provinces to take American products off store shelves is "worse than a tariff because it's literally taking your sales away." He called it "a very disproportionate response to a 25% tariff."

The threat of a prolonged trade war has Brough Brothers exploring other options. They could lean harder into domestic sales or look for other markets overseas -- but again, it's hard to plan.

"Talking about this is starting to make my head hurt," Yarbrough said.

For Tom Bard, another Kentucky craft distiller, the risk is that all his hard work to gain a foothold in Canada could evaporate due to the cross-border trade conflict.

Bard and his wife, Kim, own The Bard Distillery in Muhlenberg County in western Kentucky. Their products had penetrated British Columbia and Alberta, but a new purchase order for north of the border is on hold amid Trump's ever-changing trade war.

"That hurts," Bard said. "For a small distillery like us, where every single pallet that goes out the door makes a huge difference, that's huge for us."

Bard said his team invested heavily to break into Canada, where business grew so quickly that he had hoped it would account for at least 25% of his overall sales this year.

"We'd love to ship as much of it as we can to Canada," Bard said. "We just expanded our distillery to take advantage of all the global demand for our products. What we hate is that once we get this equipment online this year, that we won't be able to run it full throttle because we'll be afraid to put too much inventory away not knowing what's going to happen."

The dispute needs to be resolved before Canadian distributors will risk accepting shipments of American spirits, he said.

Bard plans to ramp up domestic distribution to try to make up for lost sales in Canada.

"We're small-business Americans, so we're going to make it work," he said. "But it would be nice to not have these roadblocks."

___

Associated Press writer Paul Harloff in New York contributed to this report.

Continue Reading...

Popular

Intel again pushes back expected opening for semiconductor plant in central Ohio

Intel Corp. has once again pushed back the expected opening for its semiconductor project in central Ohio.

North Carolina Republicans seek to force top Democrats to fall in line with Trump agenda

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — North Carolina Republicans who are resolved to promote President Donald Trump’s agenda now seek to compel the recently elected Democratic governor to aid the president's immigration crackdown and stop the new Democratic attorney general from fighting Trump in court.

March 20th: The NEXT 50X Nvidia Call - Ad

In 2016 Louis Navellier made a big prediction regarding Nvidia's GPUs... Its stock price was a split-adjusted $1 and went up more than 7,000% at its peak. Don't miss Louis NEXT BIG Nvidia call. (Plus 6 stocks you need to own before March 20th.)

Trudeau slams Trump's tariffs, says US is appeasing Putin while launching a trade war against Canada

TORONTO (AP) — Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called “very dumb” and said that U.S. President Donald Trump is appeasing Russia while launching a trade war against Canada.

Mark Cuban Shares Two Things He'd Do At 12 To Succeed - And They Work For Everyone

Billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban encouraged young individuals to concentrate on reading and comprehending artificial intelligence (AI) as a means to secure their future success.

Trump's Economic Plan Is Driving a "Golden Anomaly" in Tiny Gold Miners - Ad

Trump's plan to revalue gold and decrease the US debt burden is causing a major dislocation in four small gold miners. Some 30 million ounces of gold have left London for the US. If you want to know why - and why four little-known gold miners are up 136% in just the last 12 months while major gold ETFs have barely moved...

Mexico to impose retaliatory tariffs on US following China and Canada as trade war heats up

MEXICO CITY (AP) — Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum said Tuesday that Mexico will respond to with its own retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods.

Massive Losses For Crypto Traders As MELANIA Memecoin Plummets

A crypto trader has reportedly suffered a staggering loss of $15.68 million after trading the official memecoin of First Lady Melania Trump.

Gold's About to Go Parabolic? (Trump's First Term Sent It Soaring) - Ad

During President Trump's first term, tariffs & rate cuts sent gold soaring 57%. Now, Trump is using the same playbook. Are you expecting different results? Hint: Gold is now surging, and experts predict gold could hit $4,000... even $10,000! Move funds from your IRA & 401(k) into gold--TAX & PENALTY-FREE--while you still can!

Oracle's Q3 Falls Short, But AI Demand Keep Long-Term Outlook Strong Say Analysts

Oracle shares are down after disappointing Q3 results. Analysts maintain ratings, but lower price targets and highlight strong AI growth.

Wall Street Pioneer's AI Warning: "I thought we had more time..." - Ad

A radical new AI development is about to blindside millions of Americans. This early pioneer just issued an urgent warning explaining everything.

Albania shuts down TikTok for a year amid concerns over violence among children

TIRANA, Albania (AP) — The Albanian Cabinet decided on Thursday to shut down for 12 months, blaming the popular video-sharing platform for inciting violence and bullying, especially among children.

Cathie Wood Stands By 'Deflationary Boom' Call As Gene Munster Compares Market Turmoil To Dot-Com Bubble

Ark Funds CEO Cathie Wood forecasts a "deflationary boom" as markets tumbled on Monday, with the Magnificent Seven tech stocks shedding approximately $780 billion in market capitalization.

The DOGE Shock: Nine Stocks to Buy - Ad

They say that DOGE's real agenda could shock the entire stock market in the coming days - sending a handful of widely unknown stocks soaring. And they've compiled the definitive investment playbook for anyone who wants the opportunity to capitalize.

What's Going On With IonQ Stock Today?

IonQ shares are down amid broader tech sector weakness, despite recent breakthroughs in quantum computing and participation at SXSW.

Stock market today: Asian shares rebound after Trump pullback on some tariffs cheers investors

BANGKOK (AP) — Asian shares were mostly higher Thursday, tracking a rebound on Wall Street after pulled back on some of his tariffs hikes.

Claim the "No.1 Coin of 2025" Before March 24th - Ad

After spotting 44 different coins that have returned over 100%...Chris Rowe is now exposing the details behind the "Superpower Coin"... that's partnered with 19 of the largest companies from some of the world's largest superpower nations... A little-known 3-cent coin that is poised to outperform Bitcoin in 2025... starting on March 24th.

Salesforce Is Trading Below 200-DMA, But Goldman Sachs Sees Huge Stock Upside After Agentforce 2dx Unveil

Goldman Sachs analyst reiterates Buy on Salesforce with $400 PT. Positive on AI roadmap and growth potential, could yield early AI monetization.

Facing competition from Big Tech, states dangle incentives and loosen laws to attract power plants

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Facing projections of spiking energy demand, U.S. states are pressing for ways to build new power plants faster as policymakers increasingly worry about protecting their residents and economies from rising electric bills, power outages and other consequences of falling behind Big Tech in a race for electricity.

Millionaire Trader: "My No. 1 Stock of the Decade" (Revealed Free) - Ad

The stock revealed right here just may be millionaire trader Jeff Clark's favorite stock ever. Because this one stock alone has been responsible for some of the biggest gains he's ever handed my readers... 195% in under a month... 85% in 14 days... 176% in 5 weeks... 120% in under 3 months... 55% in two days... 138% in 8 days... And even 222% in 8 days.

US inflation may have slowed slightly last month but tariffs threaten reversal

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. inflation may have cooled a bit last month but it could be a short reprieve as President Donald Trump's are widely expected to keep prices elevated in the coming months.

Argentine retirees and soccer fans clash with police during protests against austerity measures

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina (AP) — Argentine retirees and fans of several soccer teams clashed with police Wednesday during a protest in front of Congress in the capital, Buenos Aires, against the economic policies implemented by the government of .

The $240M AI Disruptor - Ad

This Nasdaq-listed company is redefining AI in the $124 billion smart glass market. From cockpit shading systems to energy-efficient building glass, their technology powers global leaders like Boeing, Mercedes-Benz, and National Geographic. Their projected $240M revenue from aerospace positions them as an AI-driven market disruptor you can't ignore.

Freshpet Is Not Out Of The Woods On Consumption Trends, Analyst Says

JP Morgan analyst cuts Freshpet price forecast to $102 while maintaining a Neutral rating. Concerns over changing consumption trends and accuracy of estimates, but strong revenue growth and long-term potential. EBITDA and revenue growth estimates revised.

A staff office for the US nuclear waste repository will no longer face DOGE cuts

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Federal officials have backtracked on plans to cancel a lease for office space in New Mexico where dozens of U.S. Department of Energy employees who oversee the nation’s only underground nuclear waste repository are based.

The $20 Trillion Secret of Room 3330 - Ad

Developed by the U.S. military 79 years ago, this controversial technology is about to change American life forever: Elon Musk has already funneled $6 billion to resurrect this covert project -- and the companies involved are minting 10,000 millionaires every week [Goldman Sachs].

Explainer: What's a recession and why is rising anxiety about it roiling markets?

WASHINGTON (AP) — Stock markets , consumers and businesses have started to , and economists are marking down their estimates for growth this year, with some even seeing rising odds of a recession.

Apple Delays Next-Gen Siri: 'It's Going To Take Us Longer Than We Thought' To Deliver AI Upgrades

Apple has delayed its next-gen Siri upgrade, citing the need for more development time, while internal reports suggest significant issues could push the AI-powered features back until iOS 20 or later.

Trump's Secret Plan to Reboot the Dollar Leaked? - Ad

Steve Bannon let slip 3 shocking words--and Wall Street panicked. According to Bannon, President Trump is poised to restore the gold standard, reset the dollar, and send gold soaring. Position yourself before it's too late! Claim your free 2025 Gold Guide and discover the Trump Loophole to move funds from your IRA & 401(k) into gold--tax-free!

NASCAR countersues 23XI and Front Row, as well as Michael Jordan's agent, in dispute over charters

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — NASCAR on Wednesday filed a counterclaim against Michael Jordan-owned 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports alleging they “willfully” violated antitrust laws by orchestrating anticompetitive collective conduct in connection with the most recent charter agreements.

Microsoft Dodges UK Competition Crackdown Over OpenAI Deal, Watchdog Director Says Partnership Doesn't Get 'A Clean Bill Of Health'

Microsoft's $13 billion investment in OpenAI has escaped a formal merger investigation by the U.K.'s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), but regulators warn that the partnership still raises potential competition concerns.

What should you be doing to "AI-Proof" your retirement? - Ad

AI is creeping into every aspect of our daily lives... According to billion-dollar fund manager Louis Navellier, it's never been more important to AI-proof your wealth. He lays out three simple steps to take ASAP in his new video.

Google Co-Founder Larry Page's New AI Startup Could Change How Humans Make Things Forever: Report

Larry Page is reportedly launching Dynatomics, a stealth AI startup focused on revolutionizing product manufacturing by automating highly optimized design processes for factories.

Kenya-based content moderators mourn Nigerian colleague who 'was desperate to go home'

NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — Technology workers in Kenya held a vigil Tuesday for a colleague who died in unclear circumstances after she was unable to travel to her home in Nigeria for two years.

Just Released: Huge New A.I. Trade - Ad

While everyone's distracted by Nvidia, PLTR & Bitcoin, billionaires have been quietly loading up on this stock. And 99% of Americans have no clue. It could help make a fortune for fast-moving investors, who make their move before May 13th.

Trump's Crypto Reserve Plan Sparks Controversy, Schiff Questions XRP Inclusion, Polymarket CEO Invited To White House: This Week In Crypto

The crypto world was shaken as Trump's announcement of a U.S. cryptocurrency reserve sparked backlash from tech allies, criticism from economist Peter Schiff, and calls for a Congressional investigation into potential insider trading and market manipulation.

3 ETFs With Super Micro Computers Exposure, Enjoy AI Surge

Super Micro (NASDAQ: SMCI) is a top player in AI infrastructure with growing demand and potential for investors. ETFs like SMH, BOTZ and IGV can benefit from its growth.

The "Second Wave" of 2025 Crashes (Could Be Worst in Us History) - Ad

According to the man who predicted 2008, 2020, and 2022... A new wave of crashes are coming to the US stock market. But these will be different. The moment they hit, they could kick off the worst (and longest) financial crisis in American history.

China imposes retaliatory tariffs on Canadian farm and food products

BEIJING (AP) — China on Saturday announced retaliatory tariffs on some Canadian farm and food imports, after Canada imposed duties in October on Chinese-made electric vehicles and steel and aluminum products.

Trending Now

Information, charts or examples are for illustration and educational purposes only and not for individualized investment management This message contains commercial elements, such as advertising. We only send these offers to those who have opted in to our newsletter. Past performance is not indicative of future results. For these reasons we strongly suggest trading in a DEMO/Simulated account. The information provided by us is for educational and informational purposes only. We make no representations or warranties concerning the products, practices or procedures of any company or entity mentioned or recommended and have not determined if the statements and opinions of the advertiser are accurate, correct or truthful. If you use, act upon or make decisions in reliance on information contained or any external source linked within it, you do so at your own peril and agree to hold us, our officers, directors, shareholders, affiliates and agents without fault.

Copyright technicaltrading.org
Privacy Policy | Terms of Service