Marc Ross Daily | March 6
Marc Ross Daily is geopolitical business news + intelligence for senior executives + comms pros.
Geopolitics is disrupting every business and industry. I am here to help.
Always Be Communicating.
Happy Thursday.
Here’s today’s Marc Ross Daily:
*** Ross Rant ***
Straight Talk Podcast | "Lost in Translation"
I'm sharing a recording from the Straight Talk podcast I did back on February 20th—a compelling conversation led by students with experts on Indo-Pacific affairs. Despite the dust devil of geopolitical events since then, the conversation remains timely and provides an accessible overview of today's geopolitical environment and its historical and geographical complexities.
In this episode, "Lost in Translation," I discussed the evolving nature of global power dynamics. For example, the Indo-Pacific is no longer a simple bipolar structure; as smaller nation-states are stepping up to shape policy and new global commercial players emerge, the US is navigating a new environment.
America's influence in crucial regions like the Taiwan Strait is increasingly contested. To respond, America employs strategic alliances like AUKUS to expand cultural soft-power influences like the NBA.
My goal in this pod is to provide an understanding so business leaders and communications pros can maintain sway in this pivotal region.
Listen on Spotify here.
Enjoy the ride + plan accordingly.
-Marc
*** Globalization + Geopolitics ***
Ten things you should know about Trump’s tariffs but were afraid to ask: No, Mr President, they are not going to make America rich, great or popular. Chris Giles
Trump’s tariff turbulence is worse than anyone imagined: Even his concessions are less generous than expected. Economist
Trump to delay Canada, Mexico auto tariffs for one month: Bloomberg reports President Donald Trump is exempting automakers from newly imposed tariffs on Mexico and Canada for one month, the White House said Wednesday, as a temporary reprieve following pleas from industry leaders.
Trump agrees to one-month tariff reprieve aimed at helping US automakers. WP reports but the president said more tariffs are coming April 2.
White House grants one-month tariff exemption for automakers: WSJ reports the reprieve applies to cars from Mexico and Canada that comply with a free-trade pact with those nations.
Canada and Mexico rally around their flags and punch back on tariffs: WSJ reports Trump’s move leaves their trade-dependent economies vulnerable, as Canadians cancel US vacations and Mexico plans retaliatory tariffs.
Toronto Star: TRUMP TARIFF FIGHT
Ontario’s nice rhetoric is over. Its ad campaign touting friendship isn’t. WSJ reports commercials promoting the province as an ally to the US will continue, despite strong words for President Trump from its premier.
Ontario canceled a $68 million Starlink contract over US tariffs.
Canada’s Liberals were heading into a crushing defeat. Then came Trump. WP reports after President Donald Trump ramped up his attacks, Liberals reversed a 20-point polling deficit and are neck-and-neck with the Conservatives.
Toronto Star: King Charles dons Canadian military honours amid annexation threats from Donald Trump
+ ‘If war is what the US wants, be it a tariff war, a trade war or any other type of war, we’re ready to fight till the end.’ -- The Chinese embassy in Washington’s statement following Trump’s tariff announcement.
China’s National People’s Congress is convening from March 5 to 11, giving leaders a chance to set the economic direction of the country and lay out their spending plans for the year ahead.
China’s leaders reveal their plan to cope with 2025: Beating trade wars and deflation and boosting science are priorities. Economist
Trump’s tariffs push Xi to overhaul China’s ailing growth model: A more decisive shift toward domestic consumption is needed to meet the country’s long-term goals. Bloomberg
China is secretly worried Trump will win on trade: In seeking accord with US, Beijing wants to avoid becoming isolated like the Soviet Union during the Cold War. WSJ
Beijing ramps up efforts for tech independence: The country aims to develop a system of open-source models. WSJ
Reuters: DeepSeek's progress shows rise of China's AI companies, says Chinese official
South Korea, Japan join global moves to add guardrails on AI use: Bloomberg reports South Korea and Japan are the latest major economies to move forward with AI regulations that could apply to some US companies, even as the Trump administration steps back from domestic rules around the technology.
+ South Korea’s new AI Basic Act takes effect next year in one of the world’s 15 largest economies.
+ Last week, Japan put in place a draft law that would allow the government to assess AI misuse.
In Northeast Asia, US allies are on alert: Le Monde reports Japan and South Korea are adopting a cautious wait-and-see policy in the wake of geopolitical upheavals caused by the Trump administration. However, Tokyo and Seoul know, unlike Europe, that they remain indispensable allies of the US.
JD Vance’s forgotten wars: Maybe next time don’t insult stalwart allies during a TV interview. WSJ - Editorial
‘Shadow fleets’ and subaquatic sabotage: are Europe’s undersea internet cables under attack? Europe is on high alert after a series of outages to cables and pipelines. This visual guide explains what happened and what’s being done. Guardian
The Polish Space Agency remains offline after a cyberattack this weekend.
US cuts off intelligence sharing with Ukraine: FT reports fresh blow to embattled government in Kyiv as Trump administration shifts on conflict.
+ The US has reportedly blocked the UK from passing on any US-sourced intelligence to Kyiv.
More people will die after US cuts, says Ukraine MP: The Times reports warning as Trump severs intelligence link.
Ukrainians fear beginning of 'a frightening period' after Trump suspends US military aid: Le Monde reports on the front line as well as in the rear, Ukrainians oscillate between anguish, stupor and resignation after the Trump administration's announcement, which will weaken the country's defense.
The dangerous tension in Europe’s response to Trump: By trying to stop the rift, Europe may hasten it. Economist
UK told to prepare for US halting help with Trident nuclear missiles: The Times reports after tensions over a failed test last year, experts say the White House withdrawing assistance would cost billions.
Macron proposes French nuclear extension, Ukraine troop deployment: Le Monde reports in a televised address to the French on Wednesday, the French president described Russia as a 'threat to France and Europe,' and said he wanted to confer with European allies on using France's nuclear deterrent to protect Europe.
France to open talks to extend nuclear shield for Europe: Bloomberg reports: “Our nuclear deterrent protects us,” Macron said in a televised address Wednesday. “I have decided to open the strategic debate on the protection, through our deterrent, of our allies on the European continent.”
The 'American umbrella': Why European defense is dependent on the US: The military protection the US has historically provided its allies – mainly European countries – is becoming increasingly uncertain under the Trump administration. French President Macron on Wednesday said he wanted to discuss extending France's nuclear deterrence to the rest of Europe. Le Monde
Europe must trim its welfare state to build a warfare state: There is no way of defending the continent without cuts to social spending. Janan Ganesh
Reuters: UK drops antitrust probe into Microsoft and OpenAI tie-up
Reuters: Google reports scale of complaints about AI deepfake terrorism content to Australian regulator
Is this the most powerful woman in the world? Mexico’s first female president, Claudia Sheinbaum, has a whopping 85% approval rating. And you bet she’s using it to fight the trade war. Jessica Karl
*** US Politics + Elections ***
During Trump’s rowdy speech to Congress, the quiet moments said the most: NYT reports President Trump’s comments on tariffs and Social Security sent something of a chill through the House chamber.
Trump uses old tricks to sell a new agenda: Long a provocateur, the president is now presenting himself as an ideologue. John Harris
Trump delivered a rally speech to Congress, but the reckoning is ahead: WP reports the president’s true test will come as he has to move past executive orders.
Donald Trump’s Washington reaches a new partisan peak: His address to Congress showed that Republicans will follow their leader anywhere, and that Democrats don’t have one. Economist
Democratic response to Trump shows a party divided on how to resist him: NYT reports party leaders opted for a sober, centrist counter to President Trump’s speech, but the overriding image of Democratic pushback came from a liberal congressman.
The 2025 'resistance' against Trump is a fragmented phenomenon: Just about every day, protests are taking place against the brutality of the Trump administration's executive orders, a movement born on the fringes of the Democratic Party, or even at odds with its establishment. Corine Lesnes
America’s Supreme Court voted 5-4 to deny Trump’s bid to freeze nearly $2bn in foreign-aid spending.
Tariff whiplash spooks consumers: WSJ reports uncertainty around Trump’s trade war is weighing on Americans and causing some to hold back on purchases.
Stagflation: The two-headed monster stalking the economy: WSJ reports tariffs have stoked fears of a dreary combination of weak growth and inflation.
US Sovereign Wealth Fund is set to be financed by tariffs imposed on foreign countries, Reuters reports, citing two unidentified people familiar with the matter.
Trump speech provides ppening for lawyers challenging Musk’s DOGE authority: WSJ reports President Trump touted Elon Musk’s leadership in his congressional address, while government lawyers tell judges that the tech mogul has no power.
Draft of Trump executive order aims to eliminate Education Department: WSJ reports Secretary Linda McMahon would be directed to ‘take all necessary steps to facilitate the closure.’
Reuters: Trump wants to kill $52.7 billion semiconductor chips subsidy law
Bloomberg: Trump set to meet with technology leaders early next week
Michigan resident Pete Buttigieg sidesteps question about political office. What he said Detroit Free Press
GA-GOV: Rep. Lucy McBath (D-GA) took the first step towards a gubernatorial run today as she formally
*** Distribution + Innovation ***
Latest Turing Award winners again warn of AI dangers: The creators of a foundational AI training method are concerned that companies are motivated by profit, not safety. The Verge
Turing Award winners warn over unsafe deployment of AI models: Two pioneers of reinforcement learning have won the $1mn prize from the Association for Computing Machinery. FT
Turing Award goes to 2 pioneers of artificial intelligence: Andrew Barto and Richard Sutton developed reinforcement learning, a technique vital to chatbots like ChatGPT. NYT
Reuters: Judge denies Musk's bid to halt OpenAI's for-profit shift, fast tracks trial
CNBC: Judge denies Musk’s attempt to block OpenAI from becoming for-profit entity
FT: Judge denies Elon Musk’s attempt to immediately block OpenAI’s conversion to for-profit entity
Reuters: Digg to make comeback as co-founder Rose, Reddit's Ohanian bet on AI-driven revival
TC: Kevin Rose, Alexis Ohanian acquire Digg
McDonald’s gives its restaurants an AI makeover: WSJ reports the fast-food giant’s new initiative uses artificial intelligence to target order accuracy and help restaurants detect equipment issues before they fail.
Reuters: Amazon's AWS forms new group focused on agentic AI
$30 billion: The amount that Safe Superintelligence, the startup by former OpenAI top researcher Ilya Sutskever, is worth, making it one of the most valuable AI startups in the world, the Wall Street Journal reported.
Corporate US clean energy purchases near 120 GW, driven by AI datacenter boom: The rise of AI has caused expectations for datacenter electricity demand — and by extension, overall power demand — to skyrocket since the unveiling of ChatGPT in the fall of 2022, prompting a rush toward clean energy purchases. Corporations in the US have contracted nearly 48 GW of additional clean energy capacity in the 12 months since our February 2024 update, with Big Tech driving most of the activity. S&P Global
Klarna Bank AB is seeking to raise at least $1 billion in a US initial public offering and is set to file publicly as soon as next week, according to people familiar with the matter.
Jeff Bezos injects tough Amazon culture into rocket maker Blue Origin: Billionaire’s new focus has led to job cuts and longer hours for workers at company that aims to rival Elon Musk’s SpaceX. FT
Reuters: Abercrombie & Fitch forecasts tepid sales growth, shares drop
Detroit Free Press: New electric Cadillac Escalade priced at $132,000 to start
*** Culture ***
Meghan Markle’s new Netflix show is out of touch with the times: In it she positions herself as an elite Martha Stewart. Economist
WP: ‘Hamilton’ cancels Kennedy Center shows after Trump takeover
I make millions from AI art — but the law has to be fair: Refik Anadol supports the Make It Fair campaign to protect copyright law from the likes of his former employer Google. The Times
*** Sport ***
Can Trump get Pete Rose into the Hall of Fame? The president wants to see the disgraced baseball legend enshrined in Cooperstown. It turns out he could be closer than ever to getting his wish. WSJ
The Times: UK to launch bid for 2035 Women’s World Cup — and men’s could follow
Enjoy the ride + plan accordingly.
-Marc
Marc A. Ross | Chief Communications Strategist @ Caracal
Marc Ross Daily | March 5
Marc Ross Daily | March 5
Marc Ross Daily is geopolitical business news + intelligence for senior executives + comms pros.
Geopolitics is disrupting every business and industry. I am here to help.
Always Be Communicating.
Happy Wednesday.
Here’s today’s Marc Ross Daily:
*** Ross Rant ***
Trump to #GlobalGreatLakes: Drop Dead
+ "The trouble with tariffs, to be succinct, is that they raise prices, slow economic growth, cut profits, increase unemployment, worsen inequality, diminish productivity, and increase global tensions. Other than that, they’re fine." -- David Kelly, Chief Global Strategist @ JP Morgan Asset Management
In today's interconnected global economy, the promise of protection through isolation is more a mirage than salvation. Sure, a policy of protectionism is good politics, but it is poor economics.
President Trump's push toward aggressive tariff policies signals troubling times ahead for those living and working in the Global Great Lakes region—where economic prosperity depends on seamless cross-border collaboration.
The economic ecosystem spanning the US-Canadian border isn't just about trade statistics; it's about real communities whose livelihoods depend on manufacturing supply chains that crisscross international boundaries. Our region has flourished precisely because of the symbiotic relationship between manufacturing, agriculture, and global trade.
History has repeatedly shown that trade partners rarely absorb tariffs passively. Nations defending their economic sovereignty respond with countermeasures, creating a cascade effect that amplifies economic downsides far beyond feel-good talk and political talking points that Trump administration staffers spout to friendly media outlets.
Trump's economic policies threaten the Global Great Lakes region.
These policies aren't abstract. These policies translate directly to:
- Higher costs for manufacturers who rely on imported components
- Restricted market access for agricultural exports
- Disrupted supply chains that took decades to optimize
- Diminished competitiveness in global markets
Because of Trump's tariffs, businesses, entrepreneurs, and consumers now face increased friction and economic hardship instead of the promised protection. The policies that Trump administration staffers claim will revitalize manufacturing will now stifle growth and undermine the financial security of those living and working in this interconnected region.
The Global Great Lakes economy wasn't built on isolation but on collaboration. The region's strength comes from leveraging comparative advantages across borders, not erecting barriers between partners.
Business and civic leaders must advocate for commonsense trade policies recognizing regional economic realities.
The future of communities in the Global Great Lakes depends not on divisive economic nationalism but on recommitting to the cooperative approach that made our region an economic powerhouse in the first place.
Enjoy the ride + plan accordingly.
-Marc
*** Globalization + Geopolitics ***
Toronto Star: THIS MEANS (TRADE) WAR
G+M: ‘We’re going to fight, we’re going to win,’ Trudeau says
AFP: 'Renewed nationalism each time Trump makes a move against Canada'
Elbows up, Canada! In the face of Trump tariffs, call to arms hits social media: Calgary Herald reports Canadians called to mobilize and wield power of their wallets in response to across-the-board tariffs imposed by United States.
Justin Trudeau slams Donald Trump’s ‘totally false’ justification for tariffs: Toronto Star reports Trudeau says Canada will retaliate in a "trade war" that Trump launched using border security as a "pretext" to ruin this country's economy.
WP: Trade war escalates as China, Mexico, Canada retaliate
+ @JustinTrudeau: Today, the United States launched a trade war against Canada: their closest partner and ally — their closest friend. Canadians are reasonable, but we will not back down from a fight. Not when our country is at stake.
+ "The trouble with tariffs, to be succinct, is that they raise prices, slow economic growth, cut profits, increase unemployment, worsen inequality, diminish productivity and increase global tensions. Other than that, they’re fine." -- David Kelly, Chief Global Strategist @ JP Morgan Asset Management
Bloomberg: Trump’s goal in trade war is to annex Canada, Trudeau says
+ Canada discussing non-tariff measures against US, PM says
+ US claims about Canada drug trafficking are ‘bogus’: Trudeau
+ A new YouGov survey found that 82 percent of US residents viewed Canada as a friend or ally, with six per cent considering it as unfriendly, or an enemy.
Justin Trudeau channels an insulted Canada’s anger with Donald Trump Susan Delacourt
Donald Trump is trying to destroy Canada: The US’s tariffs are meant to break us. The only thing that they’ve certainly broken is the trust between historically close neighbours - maybe forever. Andrew Coyne
Trump wants to go back to 1913. Canadians and Americans will suffer the consequences: Turning back the clock would be neither easy nor painless. Aaron Wherry
Canada and Mexico gambled on a free trade future. The bet is turning sour. US tariffs imposed Tuesday mark the end of a decadeslong era in North America. WSJ
Xi just got the chance he’s been waiting for: Beijing is positioning itself as the global grown-up, while the US disrupts decades of stable foreign policy. Karishma Vaswani
China retaliates against Trump tariffs as superpower trade war escalates: NYT reports Beijing imposed broad tariffs on imports of American food and said that 15 US companies could no longer buy from China without special permission.
Never mind Trump’s tariffs. The Chinese Communist Party is defiant. Chinese leaders are gathering in Beijing for their annual confab and, despite the slowing economy and an escalating trade war, they are projecting confidence. WP
Trump’s trade war could be his biggest economic gamble: President Trump has offered a confusing mix of reasons for upending global trade relations, leaving America’s biggest trading partners baffled and angry. NYT
No one wins a trade war: Protective tariffs risk triggering a cycle of escalation that ends well for no one. William J. Bernstein
+ "The test of policy is how it ends, not how it begins." -- Henry Kissinger
The economic costs of Trump’s assault on the global order: America is trying to undo the very system of open trade that it created. Martin Wolf
WP: Tariff compromise with allies will ‘probably’ come soon, Lutnick says
Global News: Trump may meet Canada, Mexico ‘in the middle’ on tariffs Wednesday: Lutnick
AP: Howard Lutnick says Trump will reach a tariff compromise with Canada, Mexico
+ @l_stone: #BREAKING: Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick called Premier Doug Ford today after his press conference - call described as "tough" and "aggressive" with Lutnick telling Ford to stand down. Premier said no and that if anything, he'll go harder, acc to 2 senior govt sources #onpoli
Reuters: Italy farm lobby worried about US tariffs' impact on Prosecco and Parma ham
Reuters: EU debates support for Europe's steel industry as US tariffs loom
The art of the peace deal: Can talks between the US and Russia reach a lasting settlement over Ukraine? So far, argues historian Margaret MacMillan, the signs are not looking good. FT
Vance ignites outrage in Britain with ‘random country’ comment: NYT reports the vice president denied that he was talking about Britain and France when he downplayed “20,000 troops from some random country” protecting Ukraine. No other countries have pledged troops.
Europe reacts with outrage to Vance insult: Semafor reports the vice president dismissed European nations’ offers to send peacekeeping forces to Ukraine in a Fox News interview Tuesday.
The Times: JD Vance ‘disrespected war dead’ with troops remark, say veterans
Vance ignites outrage in Britain with ‘random country’ comment: NYT reports the vice president denied that he was talking about Britain and France when he downplayed “20,000 troops from some random country” protecting Ukraine. No other countries have pledged troops.
+ @afneil: JD Vance dismissing Britain as ‘some random country’ which hasn’t ’fought a war for 30/40 years’ is beneath contempt. British forces fought alongside US troops in Iraq (twice) and Afghanistan. In recent years. Is he stupid? Or just ignorant?
Volodymyr Zelensky expressed regret that his meeting with Donald Trump ‘did not go the way it was supposed to.’
Zelensky offers terms to stop fighting, assuring US that Ukraine wants peace: NYT reports: “We are working on all possible scenarios to protect Ukraine,” said President Volodymyr Zelensky, whose country was looking to European allies for support.
The lesson from Trump’s Ukrainian weapons freeze: And the grim choice facing Volodymyr Zelensky. Economist
Russia sends warship into Channel to escort suspected arms shipment: The Times reports a sanctioned cargo vessel was given armed protection to transport military hardware from Syria for possible use on the front line in Ukraine.
EU floats $158 billion fund to boost military spending after US halts Ukraine aid: WSJ reports the package allowing higher military spending marks a sea change in the bloc’s approach to defense.
Germany will set up a €500 billion ($528 billion) fund as part of a sweeping policy overhaul to tackle urgently needed investments in defense and infrastructure, according to chancellor-in-waiting Friedrich Merz.
FT: Germany’s Merz strikes ‘game-changing’ deal to boost defence spending
Reuters: Pope Francis battles pneumonia - and rumours of resignation
‘Malaparte’ review: Soldier, diplomat, writer, enigma: Curzio Malaparte was an Italian war hero and an envoy for Mussolini. His bracing, strange writing survives. David Mason
Record number of Americans apply for UK citizenship: FT reports the election of Donald Trump and British tax changes are believed to be behind 40% rise in applications.
Denmark to ban mobile phones in schools and after-school clubs: Guardian reports government accepts advice of commission that also says children under 13 should not have their own smartphone.
TST: French Navy aircraft carrier visits Singapore as part of 5-month mission in region
Taiwan says 'impossible' for US to abandon Indo-Pacific: DW reports Taiwan says it will increase its defense spending and help its semiconductor industry expand to the US — both issues that Trump had complained about.
‘Chips on the table’: Taiwan pushes for closer US ties as China threat looms: Trump-Zelenskyy clash crystallises fears about whether a more volatile White House will back Taipei. FT
Egypt unveils $53 billion plan to rebuild Gaza as alternative to Trump's proposal: Le Monde reports the reconstruction plan places Gaza under Palestinian Authority control while sidelining Hamas, with security forces trained in Egypt and Jordan to maintain order.
Trump says he is open to a trade deal with Argentina: BAT reports US President Donald Trump responds positively to question speculating over likelihood of US-Argentina free-trade deal.
The ‘hustling expert’ behind Argentina’s $250 million crypto scandal: Hayden Davis had a string of short-lived business ventures when he met Javier Milei. Together they pumped a crypto token that’s shaking Milei’s presidency. WSJ
Foxconn’s planned mega-AI server plant near Guadalajara, Mexico, will complete construction in a year despite the threat of new tariffs from President Donald Trump, according to Jalisco Governor Pablo Lemus Navarro.
Track one car part’s journey through the US, Canada, and Mexico—before tariffs: No sector is as exposed to possible Trump tariffs as the auto industry. WSJ
How Donald Trump’s tariffs threaten an iconic US pick-up truck: Chevrolet Silverado’s complex supply chain leaves it particularly vulnerable to a looming trade war. FT
How Trump’s tariffs will crush American carmakers: They must hope the levies do not endure. Economist
At the Windsor-Detroit border, truckers feel blunt impact of trade war: Busy truck stops in the border town were empty on Tuesday as tariffs took effect, but residents in the area were divided on Trump’s trade escalation. G+M
Global News: Trump tariffs mean auto sector ‘will shut down within 10 days’: Doug Ford
Trump tariffs set to raise US auto industry's costs by $61bn: Nikkei reports duties on Mexico, Canada could slash new-vehicle demand by 12% this year.
Experts: Auto industry can only tolerate Trump tariffs on Mexico, Canada for a few weeks Detroit Free Press
AFP: 'We will endure': Mexican truckers stoic in face of Trump tariffs
Australia, with no auto industry to protect, is awash with Chinese EVs: The United States has effectively banned Chinese electric vehicles over concerns about unfair trading practices and national security. Not so in Australia. WP
*** US Politics + Elections ***
NYT: Trump tells Congress that he is ‘just getting started’
+ Says US is ‘reclaiming’ Panama Canal and will ‘get’ Greenland
+ President Trump assailed Biden-era policies and mocked Democrats. Some Democrats turned their backs on him, wearing T-shirts with the word “Resist.”
WP: Trump ‘appreciates’ Zelensky overture in foreign policy remarks
+ President touts actions as cheers, heckling greet first speech of second term
WSJ: Trump touts early actions, says he’s ‘just getting started’
+ In his speech to Congress, the president stood behind his tariffs and cheered Musk’s DOGE moves
Wondering how America got here? COVID is a big part of the story. David Wallace-Wells
Trump is walking into danger on his tariffs: The president’s tariffs on Canada and Mexico are due to start Tuesday, but the polling and economic dynamics point to political peril. Aaron Blake
WSJ: Trump’s tariffs spark retaliation, whipsawing stock markets
Fortune: Target CEO joins swarm of Fortune 500 executives warning of bigger bills as Trump’s tariff fallout hits the grocery aisle
+ Target shoppers can expect to see price increases on produce “over the next couple of days,” boss Brian Cornell said on Tuesday.
Donald Trump’s tariffs will bring ‘nothing but pain’ to rural America, farmers say: FT reports the agriculture industry warns customers are looking elsewhere for key commodities.
Detroit Free Press: Michigan Democrats pounce on tariffs, say Trump move could hurt state badly
Republican mayor braces for tariffs: 'We didn't budget for this': Mayor Bryan Barnett of Rochester Hills, Michigan, says Trump’s Mexico and Canada tariffs will cause a hit to his city’s coffers — and its auto industry. Bloomberg
America vs. the World: Trump shows how far he is willing to take ‘America First.’ President Trump has frayed alliances across the globe with his words and actions. NYT
Congressional Republicans bristle at Trump’s tariffs: Semafor reports: “What does the stock market think of them?” one senator responded. “That tells you something.”
Trump seeks to put 443 federal properties up for sale: Bloomberg reports the government’s list of “non-core” assets totals almost 80 million square feet of commercial space across 47 states, Washington DC and Puerto Rico.
Veterans, who make up a disproportionate share of federal employees, are feeling the brunt of the Trump administration’s rapid push to downsize the workforce, generating discord in a reliable political base for Republicans.
This DOGE staffer’s GitHub posts might help us understand how Elon Musk wants to bring AI into the government: Jordan Wick’s GitHub posts reveal tools for analyzing federal employees and their digital histories, raising questions about how Musk’s government efficiency group wants to wield AI. Wired
How Elon Musk could spark a government shutdown Ed Kilgore
Tesla charging stations torched in apparent arson near Boston, latest attack on Elon Musk company: NBC News reports this could be the latest in a string of fires intentionally targeting the electric vehicle company owned by the billionaire Trump adviser.
AFP: Tesla shares fall on weak China auto sales
Tesla is down $207 a share since the middle of December.
Commerce to overhaul ‘Internet for all’ plan, expanding Starlink funding prospects: WSJ reports agency plans changes that will make Elon Musk’s satellite-internet service eligible for more rural broadband funding.
Reuters: US CHIPS Act office lays off about a third of its staff, sources say
Trump’s rollback of AI guardrails leaves US workers ‘at real risk’, labor experts warn: Measures issued by Joe Biden were swiftly repealed, leaving employees vulnerable to downgraded jobs. Guardian
People are paying millions to dine with Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago: Business leaders are paying as much as $5 million to meet one-on-one with the president at his Florida compound, sources tell Wired, while others are paying $1 million apiece to dine with him in a group setting.
AL-SEN: Sen. Tuberville (R-AL) is telling associates and other senators that he wants to run for governor in 2026 instead of seeking reelection to the Senate.
A Michigan Senate race is wide open … again: Republicans look for a 21st-century Senate win. Nat Journal
Google is urging officials at President Donald Trump’s Justice Department to back away from a push to break up the search engine company, citing national security concerns, according to people familiar with the discussions.
*** Distribution + Innovation ***
The mysterious billionaire behind the world’s most popular vapes: Geekvape, Lost Mary, Elf Bar, and other top disposable brands all trace back to one man in Shenzhen. Bloomberg
China races to govern the country with DeepSeek -- but at what risk? Worries over AI 'hallucinations' and data security take a back seat to FOMO. Nikkei
Reuters: Big Tech opposes YouTube exemption from Australia's ban on social media for children
Reuters: Apple launches new iPad Air with AI features to stoke demand
Bloomberg: Tencent’s AI bot passes DeepSeek as China’s favorite on iPhones
AI massage startup raises $83 million, brings robots to Equinox: Bloomberg reports massage startup Aescape is raising money from investors including Valor Equity Partners and basketball player Kevin Love.
UM set to use AI to 'benefit society' in consortium of 15 universities working with OpenAI: Detroit News reports the University of Michigan is among a consortium of 15 universities and institutions that will work to accelerate research breakthroughs with artificial intelligence in collaboration with OpenAI, a non-profit research company that created ChatGPT.
GM hires first-ever artificial intelligence chief: Detroit Free Press reports Barak Turovsky is the company's first ever artificial intelligence chief. Turovsky, 49, has more than 25 years of artificial intelligence experience, GM said, most recently serving as vice president of AI at Cisco. He previously held leadership roles at Google as head of product for languages artificial intelligence. He will work out of GM's Mountain View Technical Center in California, which opened last year.
*** Culture ***
Here’s why Zelensky didn’t wear a suit to the Oval Office: Donald Trump, JD Vance, and conservative commentators took issue with the Ukrainian president’s attire but, as Jeremy Langmead reports, he has his reasons. The Times
Chinese architect Liu Jiakun wins 2025 Pritzker Prize: The Chengdu native is known for his thoughtful approach and his use of salvaged and remade materials. FT
*** Sport ***
The United States is becoming a global sports supervillain Will Leitch
Analytics transformed sports. Has it also made them less entertaining? The “Moneyball” era changed how teams play, coach and are built. But the quest for efficiency is increasingly being blamed for robbing sports of their beauty. WP
AFP: Mavs' Irving ruled out for season with ACL injury - reports
Detroit v Ferrari: Four Cadillac Hypercars lead Motown assault on 2025 Le Mans Detroit News
Enjoy the ride + plan accordingly.
-Marc
Marc A. Ross | Chief Communications Strategist @ Caracal
Marc Ross Daily | March 4
Marc Ross Daily is geopolitical business news + intelligence for senior executives + comms pros.
Geopolitics is disrupting every business and industry. I am here to help.
Always Be Communicating.
Happy Tuesday.
Here’s today’s Marc Ross Daily:
*** Globalization + Geopolitics ***
Ukrainians are weary but determined to end war on just terms: An Oval Office clash has many wondering whether they will have to fight without their most powerful ally. WSJ
US hitting brakes on flow of arms to Ukraine: WSJ reports military financing has been stopped, and officials are meeting to consider suspending another type of assistance.
Trump’s embrace of Russia rocks NATO alliance: Administration’s moves to end Moscow’s isolation cast doubt on alliance unity. WSJ
Hegseth orders Pentagon to stop offensive cyberoperations against Russia: The defense secretary’s instructions, which were given before President Trump’s blowup with the Ukrainian president, are apparently part of an effort to draw Russia into talks on the war. NYT
Trump is being played by Putin – Russia will never accept a peace deal: The invasion of Ukraine wrecked Moscow’s finances – but it’s now the Kremlin’s only source of growth. Telegraph
Putin is ready to carve up the world. Trump just handed him the knife. M. Gessen
Trump’s old world order: Does he want deals with Russia and China to carve up the planet? He should tell Americans. WSJ - Editorial
François Hollande: 'Donald Trump is no longer our ally': France's former president says that Trump's new term marks 'a profound break' in international relations, particularly with Europe. Le Monde
UK, France scramble to draft peace plan for Ukraine as US support falters: Semafor reports French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer have positioned themselves as potential intermediaries between the US and Ukraine.
Keir Starmer is all talk on much-vaunted policy — it's growth pledge all over again: Keir Starmer has paused from talking but not delivering on growth to reassure the British people that he's serious about another vital area. Penny Mordaunt
Two small adversaries of Russia and China are swapping notes to survive: Taiwan and the Czech Republic work to boost each other in business and security despite superpower headwinds. WSJ
The real power struggle in Mauritius dwarfing Starmer’s Chagos deal: Suspected military build-up on two tiny islands of Agaléga is at heart of tussle for dominance in the Indian Ocean. The Times
Xi to highlight chaos in the West as he outlines annual strategy: China’s parliament convenes amid turmoil in the western alliance. Xi’s economic goals are modest, but his message to the world is far from subtle. The Times
China learned to embrace what the US forgot: The virtues of creative destruction: In Beijing, competition is in. In Washington, not so much. Tom Orlik
Oct. 7 adds to long history of spies missing the big picture: Intelligence agencies’ apparent ability to sometimes miss the forest for the trees is so common that scholars have a name for it. WSJ
Today: Egypt will host an emergency Arab summit to discuss plans to rebuild the Gaza Strip.
Triumph of Il Duce: Why Italy won’t let go of Mussolini: Despite Giorgia Meloni’s claim to have ‘handed fascism to history’, the dictator’s influence lives on, from right-wing policies and political dynasties to TV and forestry. The Times
Starmer rolls back in AI copyright row: The creative industries are ‘really important’ to Britain, the prime minister said after campaign by artists and media. The Times
US gun companies fight Mexico’s lawsuit at the Supreme Court: WP reports the lawsuit seeks to hold US firearms manufacturers accountable for gun violence in Mexico, saying the companies knowingly market to cartels.
Reuters: Canada PM Trudeau says protecting independence is his priority in talks with King Charles
Reuters: Trump trade threats compound global ocean shipping uncertainty
Ontario will cut off US electricity exports 'with a smile on my face,' Ford says: Toronto Sun reports: "They rely on our energy, they need to feel the pain," Premier Doug Ford said Monday on cutting Ontario electricity exports to US.
+ @spectatorindex: BREAKING: Bloomberg reports that Canada will impose significant energy tariffs on the US if Washington imposes tariffs on Canada
CNN: Dow tumbles 650 points as Trump confirms tariffs on Mexico and Canada will start Tuesday
Trump’s new tariffs are set to be his most extreme ever: America targets its three biggest trading partners: Canada, Mexico, and China. Economist
How tariffs could impact the US economy: The economic fallout of import tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China depends largely on how long they stay in effect. Jeremy Siegel
AP: Trump says 25% tariffs on Mexican and Canadian imports will start Tuesday, with ‘no room’ for delay
Canada's steel industry is bracing for tariff pain. Aluminum? Not so much: The United States is still highly dependent on Canadian aluminum production regardless of cost. CBC
‘How are we going to afford this?’ US companies face tariff reality. Business owners told The Times that President Trump’s tariffs could lead to higher costs and expressed frustration at the sudden uncertainty about policy. NYT
Reuters: Honda to produce next Civic in Indiana, not Mexico, due to US tariffs, sources say
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing intends to invest $100 billion in chip manufacturing plants in the US over the next four years under a plan expected to be announced later Monday by President Trump, according to people familiar with the matter.
In shipbuilding, the US is tiny and rusty: Trump seeks to revive production of boxships and tankers that left America long ago. WSJ
*** US Politics + Elections ***
US Government funding expires in 10 days.
+ The GOP leadership wants to pass a CR until the end of the fiscal year on Sept. 30. Their plan is to keep funding at current levels.
+ Will Democrats bail Republicans out?
+ More than half of senior Hill staffers say their member of Congress believes there will likely be a government shutdown this year, according to Punchbowl News' latest Canvass survey.
Trump has glossed over high prices. Republicans worry it will cost them. President talks more often about federal workers, diversity programs, and foreign policy than price of eggs. WSJ
US manufacturers report fall in orders as growth expectations tumble: FT reports data fuels fears that the economy is losing momentum as tariffs loom.
America is at risk of a Trumpian economic slowdown: Protectionist threats and erratic policies are combining to hurt growth. Economist
Angry voters keep confronting Republicans back home Nia Prater
AP: The Trump administration may exclude government spending from GDP, obscuring the impact of DOGE cuts
Today: President Donald Trump’s speaks to a joint session of Congress.
WSJ: Linda McMahon is confirmed as education secretary
RFK Jr. and his allies target Trump’s beloved soda: Within the Trump administration, the push to strip soda from state food-aid programs is getting personal. WSJ
Top HHS spokesperson quits abruptly: Politico reports Thomas Corry left after two weeks in the senior post.
America’s cultural revolution: What Trump’s takeover of the Kennedy Center really means. Stephen Marche
Trump’s funding cuts threaten America’s AI competitiveness: A key federal agency for artificial intelligence research has been hit by layoffs and faces looming budget cuts. Bloomberg
Texas Republican focuses on rebrand of ‘New York strip’ steak to ‘Texas strip’ amid outbreak: Guardian reports as state grapples with worst measles outbreak in decades, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick homes in on resolution to ‘better market Texas beef’
California lawmaker relaunches AI safety bill after national Big Tech pushback: State Sen. Scott Wiener had previously won support from Elon Musk but faced a fierce pushback from fellow Democrats and the AI industry over his prior attempt. Politico
Amazon loses fight to exempt data center from energy regulation: WP reports the company asked to skip permitting rules for 250 diesel generators at a proposed facility in Becker, Minnesota.
AI unleashes a weird new genre of political communication: Donald Trump’s Gaza video offers a taste of what is to come. Economist
*** Distribution + Innovation ***
AI chatbots can be tricked into misbehaving. Can scientists stop it?
Researchers are investigating safety concerns of generative AI. Science News
AI will upend a basic assumption about how companies are organized: The economy is built on the idea that expertise is scarce and expensive. AI is about to make it abundant and practically free. Bloomberg
Embracing AI: Are you a doomer, gloomer, zoomer, or bloomer? LinkedIn co-founder Reid Hoffman recently spoke at Wharton about the four ways people relate to AI, and why everyone will need to participate in our AI-powered future. Angie Basiouny
AI is putting the magic of human artistry at stake: Jimmy Page, the musician and producer, calls for policies that protect artists, ensuring that their work isn’t siphoned off into the void of machine learning. Jimmy Page
The schools reviving shop class offer a hedge against the AI future: Hands-on skills are staging a comeback at leading-edge districts, driven by high college costs and demand for more career choices. WSJ
MIT harnesses AI to accelerate startup ambitions: Budding entrepreneurs can develop a fleshed-out business plan drawing on market research in a few days. Bloomberg
AI companies race to use ‘distillation’ to produce cheaper models: DeepSeek used technique to create smaller powerful models based on the technology of competitors such as Meta. FT
Anthropic’s valuation triples to $61.5bn in bumper AI funding round: FT reports the start-up raises $3.5bn from Silicon Valley venture firms in race against OpenAI and DeepSeek.
‘The Technological Republic’ review: Power in a silicon world: As dizzyingly complex technologies occupy the center of the global economic, political and military order, one entrepreneur thinks it’s time to talk philosophy. WSJ
Forget McDonald’s. This Chinese fast-food chain is now the world’s biggest. Mixue lures cost-conscious customers with ice cream and drinks under $1 during China’s economic slump. WSJ
Tesla sales plunged in Scandinavia and France in February from a year ago, eroding its market share, as the electric vehicle maker faced a brand loyalty test amid CEO Elon Musk's role in US President Donald Trump's administration.
Tesla for sale: Buyer’s remorse sinks in for Elon Musk’s EV-owning critics: NYT reports the backlash against the electric vehicle company has intensified as the billionaire ally of President Trump exerts his power over the federal government.
What Tesla’s tarnish tells us about America Inc: Elon Musk’s company, like the US itself, seems like a sell. Rana Foroohar
*** Culture ***
Scottish painter Jack Vettriano dies Sky News
Independent films dominate Oscars wins: Semafor reports the Academy has recently expanded to include more foreign members, many of whom are less interested in awarding Hollywood blockbuster hits.
*** Sport ***
Gulf countries race to attract motorsports fans beyond F1: Semafor reports Saudi Arabia has announced plans for a Mercedes F1 experience center to rival Abu Dhabi’s Ferrari World, built in 2010.
MLB plots a new TV model after striking out with ESPN: WSJ reports the big sports network is walking away from the national pastime, accelerating baseball’s need to cope with the demise of the TV economy that fueled its growth for decades.
The rowdy rebirth of Rick Pitino and St. John’s basketball: The peripatetic 72-year-old coach keeps reviving his reputation in the Big Apple. The NCAA tournament beckons. Jason Gay
US superstar Ilona Maher and her impact in England: ‘She wants to lift the whole sport with her’ TA
Tennis legend Serena Williams joining ownership group of WNBA’s Toronto Tempo: G+M reports Williams said in a release that women’s sports are an ‘incredible investment opportunity’ and she is looking forward to being part of the WNBA’s first Canadian team.
Enjoy the ride + plan accordingly.
-Marc
Marc A. Ross | Chief Communications Strategist @ Caracal